Exeter Rougemont Hotel

The Rougemont is a grand, period Exeter hotel right in the centre of the city, directly opposite the train station and a short walk from the cathedral and the main shopping streets. It's a full-service hotel rather than a self-catering let, and it runs a clear pet policy: dogs are specifically allowed, with pet-friendly rooms you arrange when you book.

Dogs are welcome by arrangement and the hotel sets aside specific pet-friendly rooms, for which an additional fee applies. The booking listing also notes that pets shouldn't be left unattended in the room, and service animals are explicitly welcomed.

Guests travelling with dogs speak warmly about the location and the building's character, and at least one repeat visitor is happy to bring their dog back. It's worth being honest about one caveat, though: a dog owner felt their designated pet room was a step below the hotel's better rooms, with some tired fixtures. If you're particular about the room, it's worth asking what the pet-friendly rooms are like before you commit.

Location is the hotel's strongest card for dog owners. The station sits directly opposite and much of central Exeter is walkable, so you rarely need to drive, and green space at Northernhay Gardens and along the river is within easy reach for walks. Parking on-site is limited, so most guests use the multi-storey car park nearby, and the building has stairs with no lift, which is worth knowing if several flights would be a struggle.

This hotel suits couples or solo travellers who want a central, transport-friendly Exeter base and value bringing a dog to a proper hotel, provided you're comfortable checking the pet-room details in advance.