The Foresters Arms in Fordingbridge has been named Britain’s most dog-friendly pub after a nationwide assessment by pet-care site Rover.com.
Rover’s Public House Officer, Luke James, conducted a “Great British Pub Crawl,” visiting more than 110 pubs across the country this summer and assessing venues on booking systems, pup accessibility, atmosphere, staff communication, canine facilities, pet safety and the overall experience for dogs. The Foresters Arms topped the list for its dedicated doggy menu, plentiful fresh water bowls, beds, blankets, treats and a secure garden for pets to use.
Maddy Daniels, landlady at the Foresters Arms, said the team was "over the moon to be named the most dog-friendly pub in the UK," adding that dogs were "such a big part of our community" and that staff worked to make every guest "on two legs or four" feel at home. Luke James said the pub stood out because "pups were not just welcomed, but truly celebrated, with thoughtful touches that made everyone feel at home. It's the kind of place we'd happily return to again and again – and our Yoshii absolutely loved it."
Rover.com also published regional winners. The list includes Jam Garden in Loughborough for the East Midlands, The Tinsmith in Dundee for Scotland, The Blaina Wharf in Newport for Wales, the Ferry Boat Inn in North Fambridge for the East of England, Tom O’The Wood in Warwick for the West Midlands, The Fox & Hounds in West Witton for Yorkshire, George and Dragon in Yarm for the North East, The White Hart in Bishopstone for the South West, The Fairhaven in Lytham St Annes for the North West, and Prince of Wales in Elephant and Castle for London.
The ranking comes alongside survey findings published by Rover.com that indicate a significant proportion of dog owners place value on pet-inclusive hospitality. The survey reported that 30% of dog owners would be willing to spend more at venues that welcome their dogs, 34% said their pet enjoys trips to the pub as much as they do, and 65% of respondents expressed a preference for canine company over children at pub outings. The survey also found that almost one in three dog owners said it was difficult to find pubs that welcome dogs.
Rover’s evaluation combined observed on-site features with communications and booking arrangements to produce a list intended to highlight venues that accommodate canine needs while providing a welcoming atmosphere for owners. The Foresters Arms, a family-run inn, was cited by Rover for the range of practical amenities it offers to dogs and owners alike, including multiple water stations, bedding and a secure outdoor space.
Operators and staff at pubs that scored highly were credited for proactive pet policies, clear booking guidance for patrons with dogs, and physical facilities geared to animal safety and comfort. Industry observers say such offerings can attract local customers and appeal to a subset of visitors for whom dog-friendliness is a deciding factor when choosing a venue.
Rover.com’s list is likely to serve as a resource for dog owners planning outings and for pub operators considering changes to attract pet-owning customers. The Foresters Arms and the regional winners are expected to see increased interest from dog owners seeking venues that combine traditional pub hospitality with thoughtful canine amenities.