Suffolk Town Crowned Nation’s Most Dog-Friendly Destination

A Suffolk town, recognized for its exceptional efforts in accommodating dogs, has been named the most dog-friendly destination in the country. Bury St Edmunds secured the top position at this year’s Dog Friendly Awards, following public voting that identified it as the most welcoming town for dog owners. The ceremony, held in London, served to acknowledge and celebrate locations and pet-oriented businesses deemed outstanding for canines and their owners. Mark Cordell, chief executive of the Our Bury St Edmunds BID business group, expressed that it was “fantastic”. This achievement comes one year after the town reached the final but did not win. This prompts an examination of what now distinguishes Bury St Edmunds as the “top dog.” The town attributes much of its success to a program it developed to help individuals identify places where their four-legged companions are welcome. Approximately 140 establishments, including shops, eateries, pubs, accommodations, and attractions, have joined this initiative, enabling them to display a blue paw print logo sticker and provide a water bowl. The program was initiated by Jon Kay, from Camp Tails Doggy Daycare, with assistance from Bury St Edmunds Town Council, Our Bury St Edmunds BID, and Bury St Edmunds and Beyond. He stated: “I was so proud to receive the award on behalf of local businesses and a passionate group behind the scenes going over and above to make our canine chums welcome.“It was an amazing day although we had our fingers and paws crossed right up until the announcement.” Mr. Cordell extended his thanks to those who voted for the town. He further added: “With Bury St Edmunds welcoming dogs in many of our businesses, there are a lot that go the extra mile offering items on their menus, free snacks for dogs and more,” continuing, “It means residents and visitors know they can stay longer in town and don’t have to leave their four-legged member of their family at home.“In addition, this last year the town’s tour guides have started to offer dog-friendly tours. “St Edmundsbury Cathedral is also dog-friendly – it has even published a Dogs of the Cathedral calendar for 2025, so there are even more reasons for waggy tails all round.”