Dog-Friendly Hexham

Dog-Friendly Hexham: Pubs, Walks, Cafes and More

Hexham is one of the most welcoming towns in the North East for dog owners. With a riverside country park on its doorstep, ancient woodland within a short drive, and a good spread of pubs and cafes that greet four-legged visitors with water bowls and treats, it's well worth exploring with your dog in tow.

Dog-Friendly Pubs

The Tannery, Gilesgate

Consistently voted the top dog-friendly pub in Hexham by locals, The Tannery on Gilesgate goes the extra mile for canine visitors. Expect water bowls, dog treats, dog beer, and staff who genuinely love dogs. The pub is a warm, traditional place with cask ales, great pizzas, and a cracking beer garden. Dogs are welcome both inside and out.

The Heart of Northumberland

A handsome Grade II listed pub right in the heart of Hexham, The Heart of Northumberland is a beautiful setting for a post-walk pint. Dog-friendly and known for good food and friendly service.

Dipton Mill Inn

A few miles south of town along Dipton Mill Road, the Dipton Mill Inn is a proper country pub with a lovely beer garden and its own microbrewery. Dogs are welcome, though the bar area is fairly cosy so the garden is the best option on busy days.

The Rat Inn, Anick

Perched above the Tyne Valley in the hamlet of Anick, The Rat Inn is an award-winning country pub with outstanding views and serious food. Dogs are welcome — call ahead on 01434 602814 as the cosy interior means outdoor seating is the primary option for dog owners during busy services.

Dog Walks

Sele Park

Right in the heart of Hexham, Sele Park is a well-maintained green space adjacent to Hexham Abbey that's popular with local dog walkers. A good spot for a leg-stretch before or after exploring the town.

Tyne Green Country Park

Just off the A69 on the edge of town, Tyne Green Country Park is Hexham's best free dog walk. There's a large free car park, open grassland, and a riverside path alongside the River Tyne. Dogs can run off lead across much of the open grass (avoid the golf course section). Allow an hour for a comfortable out-and-back.

Riverside Walk to Corbridge

From Tyne Green you can follow the river east along quiet paths towards Corbridge — around three miles one way on a gentle, largely flat route. Corbridge has its own dog-friendly cafes and pubs to reward you at the far end.

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

About fifteen minutes' drive south-west of Hexham, Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is a National Trust woodland that ranks among the finest dog walks in Northumberland. Ancient oak woodland clings to the sides of the River Allen gorge, and trails of varying lengths are available. Dogs should be kept on lead in parts of the gorge where paths are steep and narrow.

Dog-Friendly Cafes

Bunters Coffee Shop on Hallgate is a well-loved option in the town centre, with a warm welcome for dogs and cosy, traditional surroundings. Small World Cafe is another locally recommended spot where dogs are made welcome — good for a coffee break mid-walk around town.

Vets in Hexham

Should anything go wrong on your visit, Orchard House Veterinary Centre at 48 Priestpopple (NE46 1PQ) is the main veterinary practice in Hexham, trusted by around 9,000 local families. Opening hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm and Saturday 9am-1pm.

Tips

• Always carry water for your dog, especially on longer walks in summer
• Tyne Green car park is free and the best base for riverside walking
• For Allen Banks, check the National Trust website for any seasonal restrictions during ground-nesting bird season
• Hexham is a compact town and most of the centre is easily walkable with a dog on a lead