Bristol is a great city for both walking and pub-going (just ask your dog), but what about the two in combination? You’re in luck. We’ve got round to choosing 10 of the best dog-friendly pubs in and around Bristol. From the city centre to the countryside, they all pack a good atmosphere, serve good drinks, good food, and welcome you and your dog with open arms.
1. The Rising Sun, Frampton Cotterell
Address: Ryecroft Road, Frampton Cotterell, Bristol BS36 2HN
The Rising Sun is an independent family-run pub and is owned by Hop Union Brewery. Serving traditional pub grub, craft beer and real ale, it offers a great combination of village pub charm with a modern twist. Dogs are welcome inside and in the garden. It also has skittle alley, a beer garden and a real community feel about it. This dog-friendly pub is a real hidden gem outside the city.
2. Hop Union Brewery Taproom, Brislington
Address: 20 Bonville Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5QH
Situated down a lane in a light industrial estate, you could be forgiven for missing Hop Union’s brewery taproom. The airy, rustic space has a rotating selection of cask ales and modern craft beers brewed on site. There are benches for drinking with friends, occasional music events, and a brewery tour if you fancy one. Dogs are more than welcome at Hop Union, and water bowls are available.
3. The Lazy Dog, Ashley Down
Address: 112 Ashley Down Road, Bristol BS7 9JR
This is one of our favourite neighbourhood pubs, popular with local dog owners. With a large beer garden, a great range of craft and cask ales and a bar team who love dogs, it’s a great spot to visit for a relaxed afternoon out with your pooch. There’s also a jar of treats on the bar if your pup could do with a little snack.
4. Sidney & Eden, Gloucester Road
Address: 198 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NU
Craft beer drinkers will love Sidney & Eden. With about 20 beers on tap at any one time, you can expect everything from punchy IPAs to fruited sours. Dogs are more than welcome in this lively venue, which often has live music, comedy nights, and indie film screenings too.
5. The Spotted Cow, Southville
Address: 139 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1EZ
A laid-back, well-loved gastropub with a cracking garden. The Spotted Cow is perfect for a sunny afternoon or a cosy evening with your dog. Seasonal food, local ales, and a super dog-friendly vibe.
6. White Lion, Frenchay
Address: Frenchay Common, Frenchay, Bristol BS16 1LZ
Perched in a tranquil village at the edge of Bristol, the White Lion has panoramic views, a huge beer garden, and classic pub grub to match. Perfect after a riverside walk and with areas for dogs both indoors and out.
7. The Kensington Arms, Redland
Address: 35-37 Stanley Road, Redland, Bristol BS6 6NP
The “Kenny” is a fashionable pub, combining top-notch food with a more laid-back pub environment. Dogs are more than welcome in the bar and on the front terrace. The bar team always offer a bowl of water and a scratch behind the ears!
8. The Millhouse, Emersons Green
Address: Emerson Way, Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7AE
Friendly and modern, The Millhouse is a popular pub in the east of Bristol. It has a large beer garden, a classic British menu and has space for dogs both indoors and in the beer garden. The perfect spot for a post-walk drink or meal with your pup.
9. The Volunteer Tavern, St Jude’s
Address: 9 New Street, St Jude’s, Bristol BS2 9DX
Hidden behind Cabot Circus is a 17th-century pub with a large enclosed beer garden. They have a rotating range of real ales, ciders, and craft beers. It’s a wonderfully dog-friendly venue. Bring along your pooch and expect water bowls and ear ruffles as standard.
10. The Ostrich, Wapping Wharf
Address: Lower Guinea Street, Bristol BS1 6TJ
Dog-friendly and on the riverfront, The Ostrich has a large outdoor space, live music, and a cracking menu of Butcombe beers and BBQ food. Dogs are welcome indoors and on the terrace, making it a great stop after a stroll along the harbourside trails.
Tips for Visiting Dog-Friendly Pubs
- Pack the basics: Bring along a water bowl, treats and poo bags.
- Time your visit: These pubs can get busy so visit outside peak times if your dog isn’t comfortable in crowded spaces.
- Be polite: Keep dogs on leads and considerate of other customers and dogs.
- Give them a call: All of these pubs welcome dogs but give them a ring in advance if you’re planning on dining.
Final Thoughts
Bristol’s pub scene is brimming with character, community and great beer, and a lot of them are as dog-friendly as they are people-friendly. Whether you’re more into cosy traditional pubs, sleek taprooms or beer gardens with a view, there’s a spot for every tail-wagging adventure.
