7 of the best Suffolk walks with a dog friendly pub pit stop

Taking your dog for a walk in Suffolk does not mean you have to stay outside in the brisk weather the whole time. 

Here are seven of the best walks in Suffolk with a cosy pub pit stop for you and your pooch.

1. The Cock Inn

Where: The Green, Polstead, CO6 5AL

The pub has doggie treats and water bowls (Image: Google)The village of Polstead is rich in wildlife habitat and contains several areas of woodlands for long walks. 

Dollops Wood, known for its bluebells, has public footpaths and The Cock Inn nearby can be a good pit stop or sit down at the end of your walk. 

With roaring log fires in winter, the pub offers regional cask ales and food menus which change seasonally.

2. The King's Head

Where: Front Street, Orford, IP12 2LW

The King's Head dates back to the 13th Century (Image: Google)Four-legged friends can enjoy a drink and a meal at this pub in Orford. 

It's an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding areas of history and it is an easy walk down to the coastline of the River Alde.

The pub even has its own walk which is highly recommended by Benji the pub dog.

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3. The Bell Inn

Where: Ferry Road, Walberswick, IP18 6TN

The pub also has six bedrooms to stay in (Image: James Bass)

Standing on the village green the 600-year-old pub is just a stone's throw away from the sand dunes. 

If you're looking for a challenge then complete the Walberswick to Blythborough loop, a walk just over 8 miles along the Suffolk Coast and Heaths. 

Well-behaved dogs are welcome in The Bell Inn to enjoy freshly prepared and home-cooked meals. 

4. Bristol Arms

Where: Bristol Hill, Shotley Gate, IP9 1QP

The Bristol Arms is located on the river (Image: Newsquest)There are two walks you can do from this pub overlooking Shotley Marina.

The 5-mile 'Two Rivers Walk' passes by the River Stour and the River Orwell while the 'Shotley Point Stroll' takes you in a circle around Shotley Gate. 

The Bristol Arms serves a range of classic pub grub or simply use it as a pit stop for a deserved pint after a long walk. 

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5. The Weeping Willow

Where: 39 Bury Road, Barrow Hill, Barrow, IP29 5AB

The Weeping Willow is a restored 16th century country pub (Image: Google)Barrow is located in the picturesque Suffolk countryside with many walks nearby, including Lackford Lakes in the area. 

The pub has its own walking route called the Willow Wander, which is a short walk to enjoy before tucking into seasonal dishes. 

There are special areas for dogs including the bar, snug, raspberry room, and the garden, and the team is on hand with treats and tips for the best dog walks in the area.

6. The Cross Keys

Where: The Street, Redgrave, IP22 1RW

The Cross Keys opened under new management in 2023 (Image: Jamie Honeywood)There are six circular walks are starting and ending at the pub for you and your dog to go on. 

With varying lengths, you can choose a simple stroll around the Glebe Cottage loop or choose a six mile hike around Redgrave and Lopham Fen. 

The Cross Keys has a welcoming log fire in the winter months to cosy up next to with an award winning ale. 

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7. The Bildeston Crown

Where: High Street, Bildeston, IP7 7EB

The Bildeston Crown is a former coaching inn (Image: Charlotte Bond)Spend a cold January day by meandering through Kings Pightle Nature Reserve with meadows, reedbeds and copses. 

A short walk away is The Bildeston Crown, a family and dog friendly pub owned and managed by Nedging Hall Estate. 

Dogs are welcome in the terrace, garden area, and the bar which has a roaring open fire and cosy armchairs.