If you’ve got pets, then you’ll understand the turmoil holiday time causes. Because it’s decision time… Do you get an obliging family member or friend to animal sit? Put your beloved pet in a ‘pet hotel’ for the duration? Or do you take them with you? And in many cases, taking the dog (or cat, or ferret, or whatever your particular furry friend might be) along with you is the best option.
Thankfully, hoteliers are coming to terms with the fact that many of us simply want our four legged buddies with us, wherever we may travel. And to this end it’s now much easier to find establishments that accept pets. Sure, they might well charge a supplement, but to be honest, that’s okay if it means we don’t have to leave our pets behind and worry about them the whole time we’re away.
There are some great ways to search for a pet friendly hotel online. Booking agents such as booking.com, trivago and hotels.com all have an option where you can search for hotels that accept pets. Another good website is Dog Friendly, who only list pet-welcome accommodation.
Being animal lovers and owners ourselves, we know how vital it is that the place you stay really does enjoy having animals. So we’ve come up with our own list of 5 great hotels in London that not only accept pets, but with owners that love them too. And in addition to that, they’re pretty cool places to stay as well…
The Milestone Hotel
The 5 star, Grade II listed, Milestone Hotel boasts a delightful location in upmarket Kensington. Not only is this the perfect place for exploring the Capital, but the hotel also has an inimitable way of catering for their four-legged guests as well. And to this end, they offer a special pet services package.
Your pet will be well and truly pampered with special bedding, cushion duvets and floor mats. In addition, the hotel offers a special pet menu, and there’s dog sitting, walking and grooming services on offer. And, as you’d naturally expect in a hotel of this calibre, the turndown service is also extended to the furry members of your party as well…
And for the humans? Well, the hotel overlooks Kensington Palace, is only a few minutes from the Royal Albert Hall and offers easy access to London’s West End.
The Montague on the Gardens
Located close to the British Museum in Bloomsbury, the four star, Montague on the Gardens Hotel prides itself on offering an exemplary pet service plan. On arrival your pet will be presented with a goody bag, and pet beds of various sizes can be provided in your room.
Again, the hotel offers a dog sitting and walking service, and even better, there’s a garden at the rear of the hotel that offers a peaceful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of outside. Perfect for the pet who’s not so used to city life.
And you certainly won’t be slumming it yourself in this hotel. The Montague offers 88 deluxe rooms, 11 luxury suites and one apartment suite, so there’s something for everyone. There’s also a choice of restaurants, plus you can take advantage of the hotel’s scrumptious Afternoon Tea – a very British tradition.
B+B Belgravia
If you’re looking for something a little less costly, then the 4 star boutique B+B Belgravia might just hit the spot. Located in a Grade II Georgian townhouse, rooms start from just £89 per night.
There are two options: self-contained studio style accommodation or bed and full English breakfast. And of course, your pets are welcome too.
Belgravia is one of the smartest areas of London, close to Sloane Square and The Saatchi Gallery to name but a couple of nearby attractions. And the rest of London is all within a few minutes by Tube or London Bus.
Hotel 41
Back to 5 star luxury, Hotel 41 prides itself on being an ‘intimate private hideaway in the heart of London.’ And indeed it is, offering 30 rooms and suites, personal butlers and staff outnumbering guests two to one. And in such a decadent environment, you can be sure that your furry friend will also receive movie star treatment as well.
When you check in your pet will receive a welcome hamper and a “41” tag, as well as a welcome letter that details all the special services on offer. A dedicated pet concierge will be on hand to provide everything you need, including a map of nearby parks and walks, pet bathrobes and even the organization of a birthday celebration if your visit coincides with a pet anniversary.
Hotel 41 is located opposite Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews, and constantly receives great reviews on Trip Advisor.
South Place Hotel
A luxury hotel in the City, the South Place Hotel is perhaps one of the best places to stay in this vibrant area of London. Here, nothing is too much trouble for guests, and the décor is comfortable, stylish and most definitely luxurious. And naturally, your pet will be made as welcome as you are, whatever length of stay you choose.
The hotel boasts two restaurants and three bars, and is the only independent, luxury hotel in the City of London. Located within walking distance of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Tate Modern and Tower Bridge, this really is a fantastic location to stay if you’re wanting to make the most of exploring the city.
Wherever you choose to stay in London, taking your pet with you is a wonderful experience for all concerned. Be sure to look up a list of veterinary surgeries close to where you might be staying, just in case. And most of all, enjoy… Because we have our pets in our lives for a reason – and that’s to share it. So taking them away with you makes perfect sense, in our humble opinion…
