Church on the Hill, a lively tavern in the heart of Glasgow's Southside, has been named Scotland's most dog friendly pub for 2026. The title was awarded following a nationwide search by Rover, which saw owners and their pups trial a number of taverns across the country.
Dog-Friendly Pub Culture on the Rise
Dog-friendly pubs and bars have never been more popular, with many owners enjoying a pint at their locals with their pooch by their side. However, it's hard to decide who enjoys these outings more, as canines are becoming pub regulars in their own right.
A study by Rover revealed that 47 per cent of owners say their pooch is on first name terms with the staff at their local, while 50 per cent added they don't know the names of other dog owners at the pub but know the names of their mutts. The inclusion of dogs in pubs is very common in Scotland, and according to Dugs N Pubs, there are around 81 dog friendly drinking venues in Glasgow alone.
What Makes Church on the Hill Stand Out
Leading the pack in Scotland, Church on the Hill on 16 Algie Street in Shawlands offers an abundance of amenities for its four-legged guests. Dogs are welcome throughout the spacious venue, with fresh water, treats, beds, blankets, poo bags and dog-friendly drinks all available.
A sheltered outdoor area with a clearly marked dog station and a large, secure space to wander ensures dogs are encouraged to stay as long as their owners. Other named Scottish pubs that were highly praised for their pup-pleasing efforts were The Drovers Inn Inverarnan and Cherrybank Inn Perth, proving pubs across the country are now going above and beyond to give their four-legged regulars a warm welcome.
How Pubs Were Rated
Rover's reviewers rated pubs on a range of factors, including their booking systems, pup accessibility, welcoming atmosphere, staff communication, canine facilities, pet safety, and the overall experience for their pooch – leaving no bone unturned. Rover's expert Tavern Testers and their four-legged pals put 110 UK pubs to the test in a bid to find the best places for dogs and their owners to enjoy together.
Adem Fehmi, Rover's Canine Behaviourist expert, said: "For dogs who are comfortable in social settings, a trip to the pub can be a really positive experience, offering plenty of mental stimulation through new sights, sounds and smells, as well as valuable quality time with their owners. The best dog-friendly venues understand that a warm welcome goes beyond simply allowing dogs through the door - having access to fresh water, enough space to settle and a calm, comfortable environment can all help dogs feel at ease. The winning pubs have clearly thought about the experience from a dog's perspective, while adding plenty of fun touches for owners too."
