Oulton Hall have just launched their ‘pooch package’ which allows dog owners to bring their pets away with them. Victoria Pratt took her pooch Audrey for an indulgent getaway in the four-star 18th century former family mansion…
I like to take Audrey (my dog) everywhere I go.
She comes into work with me everyday, and goes with me when I travel. She is an important part of my daily life, as she demands fresh air, which I in turn get and she softens most people and situations. It is often difficult for me when she can’t go somewhere that I need to be, or if I want to go on holiday or just away somewhere for the night. You often have to compromise on accommodation.
Last week we were invited to stay at Oulton Hall for a night and dinner to experience the hotel as a dog friendly venue.
It’s not often you get to stay somewhere so beautiful and high end when you have a furry guest. The interior is really ornate and it did feel strange that Audrey could walk through the grand foyer, the champagne bar and out onto the immaculate grounds. Audrey however did not sense any of this. In fact she cuddled up to everyone she met on route and made herself well at home on the grass outside.
The staff were super friendly and made a real fuss of Audrey which was nice. The room had a little bed and dog biscuits prepared for her, although she mainly enjoyed the comfy king size bed.
We spent most of the evening sitting on the terrace enjoying the green space and relaxing with a drink whilst we could just let Audrey off the lead to wander around.
We were offered different options for dinner, eating in the room, or down by the restaurant in the lounge which was impressive. Audrey was tired by the time we went for dinner and we were able to leave her in the room, which is not something every hotel will let you do. We enjoyed a romantic steak dinner for two in the candlelit restaurant.
Its really nice to see a dog friendly alternative that isn’t a country pub or B&B. I would definitely recommend Oulton Hall for guests visiting Leeds, especially their “Pooch Package” for dog owners, great grounds for walking, relaxed and serene environment and not far from Leeds Centre.