The Isle of Mull is a top Scottish destination for dog lovers, offering wild beaches, scenic hikes, and plenty of places to eat, stay, and explore with your four-legged friend. This guide covers everything you need to know for a safe and memorable trip.
Why Mull is Perfect for Dogs
- Quiet, uncrowded beaches, moorlands, and trails
- Active outdoor lifestyle: walks, swims, hikes
- Friendly locals and dog-welcoming businesses
- Cafés, pubs, and accommodation actively cater to dog owners
Getting to Mull with Your Dog
Ferry with CalMac (Oban–Craignure or Lochaline–Fishnish):
- Dogs travel free
- Allowed on outside decks and some inside pet areas (varies by vessel)
- Check vessel-specific policies before booking
- Prep: Exercise dog before crossing, avoid feeding just prior, bring water and waste bags
Where to Stay with Your Dog
Mull has dog-friendly accommodation across all types:
Hotels and B&Bs
- Examples: Glenelg (Tobermory), St Columba (Iona), Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa (Craignure), The Bellachroy (Dervaig)
- Often allow 1–2 dogs per room, with charges (around £25 per night)
- Not always “dog-proof”—check policies before booking
Cottages and Apartments
- Examples: Driftwood Cottage (Craignure), Harbourside Apartment (Tobermory), Callachally House (Salen)
- Ideal for longer stays with enclosed spaces
- Check if located on a working farm due to livestock risks
Glamping Pods
- Options: Port nan Gael Pods, The Hideouts (Pennyghael)
- Cosy, natural setting—confirm pet policies in advance
Tip: Always check the property’s detailed pet policy for charges or lead requirements.
Top Dog-Friendly Walks and Beaches
| Walk or Beach | Key Info | Lead Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aros Park (Tobermory) | Woodland and waterfall trails | Off-lead friendly areas |
| Calgary Bay | Beautiful beach and sculpture trail | Mostly off-lead |
| Scallastle Forest | Circular walk with coastal views | Off-lead okay on trails |
| Ardalanish Beach | Remote beach, fenced livestock | Great off-lead spot |
| Ben More | Challenging Munro hike | On-lead near livestock |
| Isle of Ulva | Remote walks and dog-friendly café | On-lead required |
| Knockvologan & Erraid | Tidal walks with white sand beaches | Check tides, on-lead recommended |
| Eas Fors Waterfalls | Short walk with dramatic falls | On-lead near cliffs |
| MacKinnon’s Cave | Boggy track and rocky cave | Extendable lead advised |
| Isle of Iona | Trails and beaches, Abbey not dog-friendly | On-lead near livestock |
Boat Trips with Dogs
- Staffa Tours and Mull Charters allow well-behaved dogs
- Turus Mara: No dogs to Treshnish Isles from April to September (breeding season)
- Nature Scotland: No dogs allowed
- Consider dog-sitting if going on a long boat or wildlife tour
Dog-Friendly Places to Eat
| Establishment | Location | Dog-Friendly |
|---|---|---|
| Macgochans | Tobermory | Bar area |
| The Boathouse | Ulva | Yes |
| The Bellachroy | Dervaig | Bar area and rooms |
| Lazy Cow Café | Fionnphort | Yes |
| Calgary Café | Near Calgary Bay | Likely, confirm first |
| The Keel Row | Fionnphort | Listed as dog-friendly |
| Croft 3 | Near Knockvologan | Listed as dog-friendly |
| The Coffee Pot | Salen | Outside seating (confirm) |
| The Glass Barn | Isle of Mull Cheese | Confirm directly |
| An Tobar | Tobermory | Confirm directly |
Tip: Always confirm pet policies in advance, especially for indoor seating.
Responsible Dog Ownership on Mull
Livestock and Wildlife
- Keep dogs on leads near sheep, cows, horses, and poultry
- From March 1 to July 31, dogs must be on a lead under 2m on Open Access land
- RSPB reserves require leads from April 1 to August 15
- Avoid disturbing nesting birds and beware of adders in long grass
Upgraded Lockable Hook: Dog Leash for medium dogs design 360° swivel and locked clasp with high grade zinc alloy, ultra strong and lightweight, to make sure that the clasp of the rope leash is secure and will not open unexpectedly, and allows 360° rotate at any time, your dogs will be able to move happily and safely around you without getting all tangled up.
Legal and Safety Reminders
- Dogs must have a visible ID tag and be microchipped
- Pick up dog waste or risk a fine (£80–£100)
- Do not allow dogs to swim in wildlife-sensitive water bodies
- Persistent barking is a civil matter, not a council issue
Always keep dog on a lead when around livestock.
Veterinary and Pet Supplies
- Mull & Iona Vets – 24/7 emergency care: 01688 500139
- Email: contactmullandionavets@gmail.com
- Medicine pickup points: Pitcorthie, Aldersyde (Salen), Brown’s Shop (Tobermory)
- Brown’s Ironmongers in Tobermory stocks leads, toys, food, and more
- Bring any special diet food with you
Transport on Mull with Dogs
Bus Travel
- West Coast Motors buses on Mull allow dogs on leads
- Citylink buses (e.g., Glasgow–Oban) only allow assistance dogs and small caged pets
- Always check if your bus is Citylink-operated
Taxis
- Services like Mull Taxi Service operate across the island
- Always call ahead to confirm dog-friendliness
Final Tips for a Great Trip
- Bring an ID tag, extendable lead, waste bags, towels, bowls, and water
- Do daily tick checks and be mindful of midges
- Respect nature, follow trail signs, and stay on paths
- Check dog policies ahead of time, especially for ferries and restaurants
- Leave no trace and always clean up after your dog
With stunning landscapes, welcoming communities, and thoughtful pet infrastructure, the Isle of Mull is a paradise for responsible dog owners. Plan ahead, explore freely, and enjoy every moment with your four-legged friend.
