Cowley Manor Experimental: A Design-Led Dog Friendly Hotel in the Cotswolds

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For dog owners seeking an exceptional countryside escape, Cowley Manor Experimental offers something rare: a luxury hotel in the Cotswolds that’s not only dog friendly, but design-forward, indulgent, and full of character.

Tucked into 55 acres of gardens, lakes, and woodland, Cowley Manor is located just outside Cheltenham, and welcomes dogs with the same flair and thoughtfulness it offers every guest. While many hotels offer pet-friendly rooms as an afterthought, at Cowley, it’s built into the guest experience.

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Dogs Welcome, Not Just Tolerated

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From the moment you arrive, your dog is treated as a VIP (Very Important Pooch). Select rooms are dog-friendly and include direct garden access, tiled floors, and ample space. Upon check-in, furry guests are greeted with a comfy dog bed, bowls, and treats, making the transition to country life effortless.

While dogs are not allowed in the main restaurant, they are welcome in the lounges, bar, and on the terrace—all of which offer service from the hotel’s kitchen and cocktail club. This allows guests to dine and unwind in style without ever needing to leave their pet behind.

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An Estate Designed for Exploring

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With 55 private acres to roam, Cowley Manor is a paradise for dogs who love to explore. The estate features sweeping lawns, shaded woodlands, and winding paths—ideal for morning strolls or extended hikes. The surrounding Cotswold countryside also provides easy access to classic villages like Bibury and Painswick, where dog-friendly pubs and antique shops abound.

Staff at Cowley are also happy to recommend local walking routes or arrange dog-sitting services should you wish to visit nearby attractions that are not pet accessible.

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Style Meets Comfort

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Cowley Manor Experimental has been reimagined by the Experimental Group with interiors inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Think bold colour palettes, sculptural furniture, checkerboard floors, and a dash of British eccentricity. The 36 rooms and suites vary in size and layout, but all combine modern amenities with period charm—many offering views over the grounds or private terraces.

Several of these are designated dog-friendly rooms, with surfaces and finishes chosen for practicality and elegance.

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C-Side Spa: Wellness for the Humans

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While dogs enjoy nature, their humans can unwind at the award-winning C-Side Spa, which includes indoor and outdoor heated pools, a sauna, and a range of treatments using natural, British-made products. It’s a key part of Cowley’s appeal: a destination for holistic wellbeing, whether on two legs or four paws.

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Culinary Delights and a Cocktail

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Chef Consultant Jackson Boxer has crafted a seasonal menu rooted in the best of the Cotswolds' produce, with modern French influences. At the bar, the Experimental Cocktail Club delivers inventive drinks in a playful, relaxed setting.

If you're dining with your dog, you can do so in the bar or lounge, where the full menu is available, ensuring you don’t miss a single culinary highlight.

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Why Cowley Manor Stands Out Among Dog Friendly Hotels in the Cotswolds

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Most dog-friendly hotels offer convenience. Cowley Manor offers experience. With its fusion of artful design, pet-friendly policies, estate-scale gardens, and culinary excellence, it redefines what it means to travel with your dog. It's not just a place to stay, it's a place to immerse yourself in the countryside, unwind in style, and make your dog part of the journey.

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