Somerset is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the dramatic cliffs of Cheddar Gorge and the iconic Glastonbury Tor. But the region isn’t just a paradise for humans — it’s a dream destination for dogs too.
At Montigo Resorts Somerset, located at the historic Charlton House in Shepton Mallet, guests with four legs receive the royal treatment. This 4-star hotel has taken pet hospitality to a new level with its in-house KD Pet Spa, run by Kelly Davis, winner of the BBC’s dog makeover show, Pooch Perfect. Dogs can indulge in full professional grooming, paw and nail trims, ear cleaning, and even dry shampoo services for feline guests.
The hotel boasts 28 individually designed luxury bedrooms alongside a spa for human guests, creating the perfect retreat for both pets and their owners. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it offers abundant opportunities for long scenic walks before your furry friends enjoy their spa treatments.
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Jenny Green, a pet owner who recently stayed with her dogs Ernie and Stan, shared her experience with The Mirror. Between blueberry facials, pedicures, and full pampering sessions at the KD Pet Spa, her dogs enjoyed truly first-class care. The hotel welcomed the pooches with beds, bowls, treats, and continuous affection during their stay.
Somerset often gets overshadowed by nearby Devon and Dorset, but in terms of dog-friendly destinations, it shines. One highlight is Clarks Village in Street, voted the UK’s most pet-friendly shopping centre at the 2024 DogFriendly awards. Here, with over 90 brand outlets and accessible, dog-welcoming spaces, shoppers and their pets can enjoy a relaxing and affordable retail experience. The wide, paved paths even made it easy to maneuver injury recovery dog Ernie’s buggy.
A local celebrity, Canine Executive Officer Dudley — a three-legged Hungarian Vizsla — guided the dogs to treats like Puppuccino Pops and nearby water stations, making the shopping visit extra special.
Near Glastonbury, the iconic Tor offers stunning views after a rewarding hike, although pushing a buggy can be challenging. Fortunately, nearby Glastonbury Brewing Co welcomes dogs warmly, offering biscuits and dog-themed merchandise while owners sample local ciders and ales.
Emma’s Orchard in Hornblotton provides a secure 3.2-acre dog field soon to compete for British Dog Field of the Year 2025. It’s ideal for letting dogs run free safely, especially those less accustomed to the countryside.
At Montacute House, an Elizabethan National Trust estate, dogs can enjoy pet-friendly trails around the garden and parkland, with access to cafés that welcome pooches indoors and outdoors.
After busy days exploring, Montigo Resorts’ Garden Lodge offers a cozy retreat with a kitchenette, sitting area, and direct access to the grounds—perfect for pets to relax and observe the world through French doors. While dogs can’t enter the main restaurant, Bobo’s Bistro, adjacent to it, invites them in along with their owners and serves a delicious local menu. Weekend barbecues at Tiigo’s courtyard garden are a canine favorite and well worth a return visit.
For dog owners seeking a blend of luxury, comfort, and dog-focused amenities amid Somerset’s stunning landscapes, Montigo Resorts Somerset is truly a top-tier choice.