Dog’s Day Out in Stockport
Stockport isn't just a great day out for people, turns out there’s a decent amount to do if you’re a dog too. Rather than leave your four-legged friend at home if you’re heading into town for the day, here's a selection of pet-friendly places and spaces you can enjoy together.
Whilst you might not immediately think of Stockport as the ultimate doggy destination, there's definitely enough going on to make a day of it. So with the help of Juno, I went off to explore just how well Stockport delivers on a dog’s day out, including off-lead runs, independent pet shops, speciality coffee (sort of), and a wall of fame for four-legged locals.
Goyt Hall Dog Paddock
Goyt Hall, Romiley, Stockport SK6 3LH
Book an early hour in at Goyt Hall Dog Paddock to give them the kind of run that means they'll be on their best behaviour for the rest of the day. It's a fully enclosed, privately owned space just outside Stockport where they can run around without bother of any strangers' dogs charging in unexpectedly. Just a big open field to properly let them go for it.
Book in advance and arrive ready to watch your dog chase balls and attempt obstacle courses. Juno won't be entering Crufts any time soon, but she gave it a good go and clearly had the time of her life.
Worth noting that there are no human facilities on site, so you may want to bring a mini picnic and a thermos flask along.
Shampoochie Dog Grooming
92 Lower Hillgate, Stockport SK1 3AL
If you’re all a bit muddy after the run around the farm, then you can book your dog in for a full pamper treatment afterwards at Shampoochie. You’ll need to book ahead, but then you can drop them off, go and do some shopping and collect a noticeably cleaner dog on your way into town.
Coffee Block
59 St Petersgate, Stockport SK1 1DH
After all that energy expenditure, we all deserved a treat. We headed back into Stockport centre for a well-needed coffee break at Coffee Block where Juno also very much enjoyed her puppicino. It's a popular spot where the staff love dogs even more than they love people (their words!) and they'll happily sort your dog out with a little cup of dog-friendly froth while you caffeinate
The Pet Grocer, Market Hall
Market Hall, Stockport SK1
Stockport Market Hall is worth a wander at any point, but if you're in with your dog, make The Pet Grocer your destination. It's a little independent pet shop tucked inside the Market Hall, stocking a delightful selection of natural and high-quality treats, toys and supplies meaning that we left with a very happy Juno.
Take the opportunity to pick up something for the walk home or stock up on a few bits. The staff LOVE dogs and know their products well.
Bakers Vaults
Market Place, Stockport SK1 1ES
Our final stop, and who doesn’t love a pub dog? Or whose dog doesn’t love a pub? Juno is certainly the latter and so we headed across the cobbles to Bakers Vaults for a human pint leaving Juno to contemplate how her good behaviour might earn her a spot on the Pub’s Dog Wall of Fame. This central Stockport pub has a charming collection of local dog portraits on display made up of the best boys and girls. Juno is still an aspiring model but it’s something we’re working on…
Bakers Vaults is a great dog-friendly pub serving up real ale and a lively atmosphere, with regular entertainment and pizzas at the weekend.
And then there’s the parks...
Stockport is well covered when it comes to green spaces, and all of the below are worth a visit if your dog still has energy to burn.
Vernon Park is the most central option, just a short walk from town. Good paths, wide open space for ball-chasing and close enough to incorporate into the day without much of a detour.
Torkington Park in Hazel Grove is well-maintained, spacious and great for dogs who like room to roam. Quieter than the more central options and worth making the short trip.
Chadkirk Country Estate is the one to save for when you want a proper outing. With river walks, woodland and open fields, it feels like you're deep into the countryside despite being a couple of miles from the centre of town,
A few things to know before you go:
For Goyt Hall Farm pre-booking is a requirement. Check availability before you plan around it
Coffee Block can get busy on weekends; aim for mid-morning if you want a seat
The Market Hall has its own opening hours, so worth checking before you go
Stockport may not immediately jump to mind for a dog’s day out but Juno confirmed it can be a dog-friendly destination. With green spaces to run, independent businesses that not only welcome dogs but in some cases prefer them to humans…and a pub wall with your furry friend’s name on it, there is always the option to make a proper day of it with your pet.
Photos 📸 by: Maxine Riley
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