The George Inn, Norton St Philip

The George Inn is a wonderfully atmospheric historic coaching inn in the village of Norton St Philip, a few miles south of Bath, and it makes a memorable, genuinely dog-friendly base for exploring Somerset. Dating back centuries, it is the kind of characterful old inn, all beams and history, where dogs are a normal and welcome part of the scene rather than an afterthought, and guests travelling with dogs consistently come away charmed.

Dog owners praise the warm, friendly welcome and the easy, relaxed atmosphere throughout. The inn is a genuinely dog-friendly place to eat and stay, so you can enjoy the well-regarded restaurant and the historic bar with your dog alongside you rather than having to leave them upstairs. The lovingly restored rooms, the food and the village setting all draw high praise, and several guests return again and again.

One practical thing to be aware of, given the age of the building, is the staircase. The old stairs up to the rooms are steep and can be slippery underfoot, which one guest found awkward after knee surgery and noted unsettled their dog, whose paws struggled for grip. If your dog is elderly, nervous or not sure-footed, it is worth bearing in mind and asking about room access when you book. Because the inn is so popular with dog owners, it can also get busy with dogs at peak times, which most love but is worth knowing if your dog prefers quiet.

Set in a pretty village yet within easy reach of Bath and the wider Somerset countryside, The George Inn suits dog owners who want character, history and a proper dog-welcoming inn over a modern hotel. It is a lovely choice for a dog-friendly break. The listing does not spell out a pet fee, so confirm any charge and room suitability directly when you book.