The UK has plenty of unofficial traditions, but perhaps the best of them all is the ‘dog walk and country pub’ ritual that we like to indulge in, particularly if it involves a Sunday roast. With a scenic staycation in the Garden of England, every day can involve a long, leisurely walk with lunch at a characterful pub. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best dog-friendly pubs in Folkestone, Hythe, and Sandgate to explore. At the bottom of each section, you’ll also find a suggested walk to enjoy!
Amy HopkinsThe Best Dog-Friendly Pubs in Folkestone
A thriving coastal town with a lively arts scene and picturesque harbour, Folkestone is a wonderful choice for a seaside escape with the dog. The three pubs below blend age-old charm, an inviting atmosphere, and, most importantly, welcome all wagging tails.
The British Lion
Tucked behind the harbour in the historic Bayle area, The British Lion is supposedly Folkestone’s oldest pub and was a rumoured haunt of Charles Dickens himself. Teeming with quaint character, the Lion is what you might call a ‘proper pub’ – expect a warm welcome, hearty home-cooked food, and button-tufted booths atop patterned carpets.
Call 01303 251478 to book.
The Radnor Arms
Recently renovated and winning numerous accolades in 2025 (including a ‘Very Good’ status from The Good Food Guide,) The Radnor Arms is housed within a striking Victorian building in the old Bouverie district. Blending open-plan dining with more intimate corners (including a cosy fireside spot), there’s also a courtyard garden for the warmer months – but dogs are welcome throughout!
The Harbour Inn
Practically perched on the edge of the harbour, the eponymous Harbour Inn is a welcoming dog-friendly Folkestone pub with interiors and a menu that centre around its seafront setting. Dogs aren’t allowed in the dining rooms, but they are welcome in the main pub itself.
Folkestone Harbour Arm
While not really a pub per se, Folkestone Harbour Arm is definitely worthy of a mention as it’s a great open-air option for the summer months and is very dog-friendly – just keep them on a lead and ensure you clean up after them. There is a choice of different eateries and watering holes to explore, which might be more your style if your four-legged friend prefers to be on the go.
If Folkestone sounds like somewhere you and your loyal companion would like to explore, you can browse our lovely holiday cottages in Folkestone, and bookmark this circular walk to enjoy from the scenic downs – alternatively, simply follow the coast for an out-and-back route.
The Best Dog-Friendly Pubs in Hythe
An ancient market town on the edge of Romney Marsh, Hythe is an idyllic and peaceful option for a simple staycation, and is close enough to Folkestone for those in search of some hustle and bustle.
The Butt of Sherry
A classic and quaint English pub, the Butt of Sherry is a welcoming dog-friendly watering hole known for its generous portions of tasty pub grub. With interesting interior features and a glorious time-honoured patina on all wood-panelled areas, this is a charming dog-friendly option with both indoor and outdoor spaces. The pub has an over-21s policy, so it is not suitable for those with little ones in tow.
The Three Mariners
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Royal Military Canal, The Three Mariners is another traditional English pub with an inviting outdoor area. Dog-friendly, the interior of the pub is comfortable and welcoming, and is drinks only – making for a great pitstop if you’re feeling thirsty.
The Walnut Tree, Aldington
A beloved friendly local dating back to the time of Richard II, The Walnut Tree is six miles from the centre of Hythe in the village of Aldington, but is worthy of the detour for any fans of characterful dog-friendly pubs. Expect great food, a scenic setting (opposite the village green), and a warm welcome.
Hythe Civic Society has lots of walks with online guides and maps for you to explore here, but we suggest setting out along the incredibly scenic Royal Military Canal towards West Hythe, where you can cross at the bridge and choose to walk back along the other side of the canal, or along West Hythe Road, where you’ll reach Botolph’s Bridge Inn (another characterful dog-friendly option.) Our Hythe cottages are the perfect place to retreat to and put your feet (& paws) up.
The Best Dog-Friendly Pubs in Sandgate
Just two and a half kilometres of golden coastline between Folkestone and Hythe, Sandgate is a small but perfectly formed town with history reaching as far back as the 13th Century. Backed by steeply wooded slopes and gazing out across the channel towards France, it’s a perfect base for exploring the south coast with your four-legged friend.
The Famous Ship Inn
Set right on Sandgate’s seafront, The Famous Ship Inn is everything a coastal pub should be: relaxed, friendly, and full of character. It’s particularly popular with dog walkers thanks to its outdoor seating that looks straight over the shingle beach, ideal for a post-walk pint while your pup snoozes under the table. You’ll find local ales on tap, excellent Sunday roasts, and a dog treat or two behind the bar.
The Providence Inn
A traditional, family-run pub with heaps of homely charm, The Providence Inn sits in the heart of the village, just moments from the esplanade. It’s well known for its friendly welcome (for humans and dogs alike), hearty British fare, and relaxed, old-school atmosphere. In winter, bag a fireside seat after a windswept beach walk; in summer, head out to the garden terrace for live music and sea breezes.
Call 01303 249511 to book.
The Earl of Clarendon
Perched slightly uphill on Brewer’s Hill, The Earl of Clarendon rewards the short climb with spectacular sea views from its elevated terrace. Inside, it’s full of rustic charm – dogs are welcome throughout. An especially peaceful stop if you prefer a quieter vibe away from the esplanade bustle – The Earl of Clarendon is a definite ‘hidden gem.’
Call 01303 248684 to book.
To earn your pub stop and allow your dog to have some exercise in the great outdoors, we suggest a walk along the esplanade in either direction. Head east and you’ll eventually come to the Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone, while a west turn will take you to Seabrook and its pebbled beach.
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