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Our Five Favourite Dog Friendly Pubs With Proper Walks

Our Five Favourite Dog-friendly Pubs with ‘Proper’ Walks

From Claire & Darren, hosts at Symonds Yat Rock Lodge

We have lived and worked in the Forest of Dean for 16 years and loved exploring these borderlands with our working cocker Daisy.

Starting from our self-catering apartments (or joining in from car parks as identified on the walks) we have written a series of wonderful circular walks through the forest, Wye Valley and glorious Gloucestershire and Welsh countryside.

Woman with cup of tea and Australian shepherd type dog sitting on wall in front of modern building with grey cladding. Enjoying the view from Symonds Yat Rock Lodge.

1. The Punch House, Monmouth and Wye Valley Walk

This is a long one, but well worth it! Through the forest down to the River Wye, then follow the Wye Valley Walk to the lovely market town of Monmouth and back along the Peregrine Path. The Punch House was recently voted Wales’ most dog-friendly pub and is the ideal spot for people-watching, set in the middle of Monmouth, and serves a good pint and pub food using Welsh ingredients.

Approx. 15 miles

2. The Dog and Muffler and Joyford Walk

Through green lanes and ancient farmland, with amazing views out to the Welsh hills. The Dog and Muffler has a lovely garden and serves hearty food and local brews.

Approx. 5 miles

3. The White Horse and Staunton Walk

Mailscot Woods in Forest of Dean. Sun filtering through the trees and view along a forest track. The start of many of the walks from Symonds Yat Rock Lodge.

A proper Forest walk ending in a lovely village with a walk past the old stone sheep pound (where the village fete is now held). The White Horse is a real country inn with friendly host-dog and you often find yourself sitting near the farmer who raised your dinner!

Approx. 8 miles

4. The Saracens Head and River Wye Walk

A forest walk down to the Wye, this takes in the famous Symonds Yat Rock view. If you opt for the longer route you get to try out ‘Ye anciente hand ferrie’. The Saracens Head is a gastro-pub right on the riverbank.

Approx. 5 or 7 miles depending on which route you chose.

5. River Wye Viewpoints Walk

The Saracens Head Inn, Symonds Yat East, with 'Ducks Crossing' sign. A 16th Century half-timbered pub next to the River Wye with an ancient hand ferry crossing.

This forest walk takes in some of the best views over the River Wye. Okay, no pub so this is a bit of a cheat, but you can order your picnic from Forest Deli and chose your perfect spot to stop or halt at the Log Cabin which serves great coffee and cakes plus light lunches.

Approx. 4 miles

There are plenty more great places to eat out locally, and things to do, including many dog-friendly ones (perhaps, take your furry pal canoeing?)

And if you are tempted to stay in our dog-friendly accommodation, do get in touch

Enjoy! Claire and Darren