Edinburgh with a dog: a guide to traveling with your four-legged friend
Is Edinburgh a dog-friendly city?
Organizingholidays in Edinburghwith your dog is absolutely possible. Scotland is one of the most pet-friendly countries in Europe: dogs are allowed on public transport, in many pubs, and at numerous outdoor attractions. However, there are rules to follow (leash, waste collection) and some restrictions (indoor museums, castles). This guide explains everything.
Transport with a dog
Buses and trams
Lothian Buses:dogs allowed for free, on a leash. Maximum 2 dogs per passenger. They must stay on the floor (not on the seats). Peak times (8:00-9:30 and 17:00-18:30) may be uncomfortable.
Edinburgh Trams:same rules. There is space for large dogs near the doors.
Trains (ScotRail):dogs free, on a leash. Maximum 2 per passenger. They cannot occupy a seat.
Taxis (black cab):dogs are allowed at no extra charge. Inform the driver before getting in (some have allergies).
Uber:depends on the driver. Select the "Uber Pet" option (surcharge of £2-3).
Pet-friendly hotels and accommodations
Most 3-4 star hotels accept dogs, often with a surcharge (£10-20 per night). Some recommendations:
Motel One Edinburgh-Royal:accepts small dogs (surcharge £15). Small but clean rooms.
The Balmoral:luxury, accepts dogs of any size (supplement £30). They provide a bowl, bed, and snacks.
Premier Inn:many locations accept dogs (check the website). Supplement £10.
Airbnb:filter for "pets allowed". Many apartments in Leith and Stockbridge accept dogs with no extra charge.
Tip:book directly with the hotel (not through agencies) and inform them that you are bringing a dog. Some rooms are "pet-friendly" but limited.
Parks to let your dog run
Holyrood Park (including Arthur's Seat)
Dogs allowed off-leash (but under voice control). Caution: there are sheep (rare) and wild rabbits. Avoid climbing Arthur's Seat if your dog is elderly or has joint issues.
The Meadows
Large flat meadow, very popular with dog owners. Off-leash allowed (but keep an eye on them). Dog water fountains.
Inverleith Park (next to the Botanic Garden)
Large, with a pond where dogs can swim (freshwater). Many open spaces. Off-leash.
Calton Hill
Dogs must be on a leash (there are cars and fragile monuments). Short walk, good for older dogs.
Portobello Beach (beach)
From October to April, dogs are allowed all over the beach. From May to September, only in designated sections (read the signs). Cold water but many dogs love to swim.
Pubs and restaurants that accept dogs
Most traditional pubs accept dogs on a leash (usually in the bar area, not in the formal restaurant). Excellent:
The Sheep Heid Inn (Duddingston):pub from 1360, dogs welcome. Free water bowls and biscuits.
The Royal Oak (folk pub):dogs allowed, but it's small. Your dog must be calm (not barking).
The Banshee Labyrinth:dogs allowed (even in the cellars). Free water.
The Scottish Cafe (National Gallery):dogs allowed on the terrace (not inside).
To avoid:fancy restaurants (The Witchery, The Kitchin) and fast food chains (no dogs).
Tourist attractions with dogs
Outdoors (yes)
Edinburgh Castle (only outdoor courtyards, not the indoor rooms. Ask at the ticket office)
Palace of Holyroodhouse (only gardens, not the interior)
Calton Hill, Arthur's Seat, Princes Street Gardens
Royal Botanic Garden (dogs on a leash, not in the greenhouses)
Indoors (no, except for guide dogs)
National Museum of Scotland
Scottish National Gallery
Camera Obscura
Real Mary King's Close
Alternative:if you are traveling as a couple, one of you can visit while the other waits with the dog in a nearby pub or park.
What to bring for the dog
Short leash (not flexible) for public transport.
Foldable bowl and water.
Poop bags (they are required by law, fine up to £80).
Mat (for pub floors).
Muzzle (only if your dog is aggressive – not required by law).
Blanket (for the hotel, if the dog sleeps on the bed).
Rules to remember
Dog waste:always pick up. Bins are frequent.
Leash required:in the city center streets, in parks with signs, near monuments.
Hours:dogs are not allowed in children's playgrounds.
Veterinarian:in case of emergency, the University of Edinburgh Royal Dick Vet School (24 hours) is the best. Address: Easter Bush, Midlothian (taxi £30 from the center). Phone 0131 650 7650.
FAQ
Can I take my dog on the bus if it's large (like a Labrador)?
Yes, no problem. It must stay on the floor, not in the aisle. Avoid peak hours.
Which parks allow dogs to run free?
The Meadows, Inverleith Park, Holyrood Park (away from the roads).
Are dogs allowed in the castle?
Yes, in the outdoor areas (courtyards, terraces). Not in the indoor rooms (jewels, prisons). Can you leave the dog in custody? No.
What happens if the dog barks in a pub?
The bartender will ask you to leave or to calm it down. Bring the dog only if it is used to being calm in crowded environments.
Are there areas where dogs cannot enter?
Yes, grocery stores (Tesco, Sainsbury's), indoor museums, churches (some yes, ask).
Can I leave the dog alone in the hotel?
Usually no (risk of damage or barking). If you need to go out, ask for dog sitting (some hotels offer it, £15/hour).
What is the best time to travel with a dog?
Spring and autumn (mild temperatures). Avoid August (too crowded, stressful for the dog).
A city that welcomes animals
Thevacation in Edinburghwith your dog is not only possible but enjoyable, thanks to a city that naturally welcomes animals. The parks are green and spacious, the pubs will offer you a bowl of water, and public transport will not make a fuss. The only real limitation is indoor museums, but you can alternate visits with your human companion. With a bit of planning (pet-friendly hotels, transport, parks), your four-legged friend will be as happy as you.
For a complete overview of periods, itineraries, budget, and transport in the Scottish capital, check out our complete guide to vacations in Edinburgh.
Revision date:March 21, 2026