If you’re looking for a way to spoil or pamper your pooch then why not peruse these eco-friendly offerings? From dog toys made from recycled materials to eco dog beds, many companies are trying their hand at being more sustainable, with some wow-worthy products up for grabs.
Fetch
Do you want to hear something that’s so fetch? ‘Course you do! Well, let us introduce you to Fetch, an epic dog brand who sell all sorts of eco-friendly bits and bobs, from degradable poo bags (which are mint scented, might we add), to a super cute Green & Wilds Olive the Octopus Dog Toy. Woof woof! Olive is made from natural, renewable and recycled materials with an added crinkler bottle to give it that extra crunch. It’s going straight into our basket!
Fetch.co.uk
Aardvark
Yes, you could buy Aardvark’s kibble for its super cool packaging, but you could also buy it for many other wonderful reasons. First of all, it’s sustainable! Yes, the crunchy , grain free kibble made from sustainable insect meal and a delicious blend of sweet potato, pulses, fruits and herbs with all the essential proteins, nutrients, vitamins and minerals that your dog needs. The planet-friendly product also comes with a purse-friendly price tag, so it’s a win, win! Grab yourself a bag and put a smile on the face of your pooch.
Aardvark.store
Project Blu
It doesn’t get more planet-friendly than Project Blu. From eco dog beds and poo bag holders to a range of covetable dog collars, there’s so much to choose from for your furry pal. The eco dog beds have to be our top pick; they look super cosy and they’re made from durable quality recycled polyester fabric and they’re super easy to clean – always a bonus!
Projectblu.co
Paws and Planet
Paws and Planet have a sweet range of goodies which are perfect for your pooch. Make your furry friends fur feel fabulous with the Little Fox Soapery soap bar. The product uses Neem Oil which acts as a natural flea repellent, and it’ll have your dog smelling wonderful in no time. There’s also nourishing nose balm and a cruelty free pet gift box to get your hands on.
Pawsandplanet.co.uk
The Natural Pet Store
Pick up an eco ball from The Natural Pet Store and your pooch will be kept entertained for hours. The nifty toy is amongst many planet-friendly picks which you can get at the store, including bones, pulleys, grooming products and bedding. The dental dog chews are a must, with no artificial ingredients but packed with flavour.
Any true Marylebone native is undoubtedly familiar with the wild and colourful history of Home House. The iconic members club combines 18th century splendour with 21st century style and has been home to some of London’s most opulent parties for centuries.
From the outside looking in, Home House may seemingly blend in with the other handsome Georgian townhouses on Portman Square, but step inside and you’ll quickly be enveloped in the eccentric atmosphere of this historic space.
This gem was originally built by King George III’s architect in the 18th century. Throughout the years, Home House became known as a vibrant melting pot for the cultural elite and bohemian crowd. Today, Home House still hosts many wild nights for its members, whether that be in the notorious Vaults or its beautiful garden.
We were invited to sample the menu at the newly-reopened Garden at Home House, which after a brief COVID-19 hiatus, is welcoming the al fresco season in true style. The lavish garden space has become the place to be and be seen in Marylebone.
The entrance features a striking floral array, perfect for spring, and reflective of the colourful and wonderfully British food (and cocktails) on offer. An extravagant Raj Tent sits at the centre of the space, which offers the perfect refuge for those who dared to dine al fresco and embrace the bipolar nature of British springtime.
We started our culinary escapade with an aperitif and the Tanqueray and Northern Blossom Honey, and Yuzu blended ‘Honey Trap’ certainly didn’t disappoint. For starters, the Dexter Beef Carpaccio offered delicate flavours and textures and is served with delicious roasted artichokes too.
Moving onto mains, we sampled the wonderfully hearty Swaledale Lamb Cutlets, cooked to tender perfection, and seasoned with intent. The lamb is perfectly complemented by a smattering of aubergines, artichokes, bulgur wheat and pistachios – and is both good for the palate and the soul.
To finish it off, we tried an assortment of sorbets, with the coconut sorbet in particular serving as a subtly-sweet palate cleanser that perfectly bookended our meal.
While Homehouse may be a private members club, non-members can also enjoy the Home House garden by booking an overnight stay at one of its 23-individually designed bedrooms and suites. And after a truly fabulous and flamboyant evening at Home House, one thing is for sure, I certainly know what London staycation I’m booking once 17 May comes rolling around.
After many months of being grounded at home, intrepid doggy journalist TeamCocopup and I once again dusted off our travelling boots and set out to explore the best dog-friendly destinations the UK has to offer.
The first leg of our post-COVID adventure begins in the sleepy coastal town of Winterton-on-Sea, where we ticked off our very first dog-friendly staycation of 2021 at the wonderfully charming April Cottage.
April Cottage is coastal cosiness at its finest, and part of the Winterton Cottages portfolio. Winterton Cottages offers an incredibly wide range of self-catering accommodation in Winterton-on-Sea which boasts easy access to the breathtaking Norfolk Coast. All the cottages are also just a short drive away from all the tourist attractions of Great Yarmouth.
Great Yarmouth is just a short drive away and is once again beginning to welcome tourists this summer. You can explore all of the picturesque beaches of Norfolk’s east coast on one of Great Yarmouth’s open-topped buses (also known as ‘open toppers’). Later this summer, you can get lost in an artisan street food fair at the seafront’s historic Edwardian ‘Empire’ building, or have some family fun at the funfair in Pleasure Beach which has just introduced a new ‘Supreme Waltzer’ ride. Adrenalin junkies can also embark on a ‘Slingshot Ride’ or take in the view of Great Yarmouth’s ‘Golden Mile’ in a London Eye-style Big Wheel.
What April Cottage may lack in size; it certainly makes up for in comfort. This beautifully furnished home sits right in the heart of the town and is overflowing with character. Inside, the decor is shabby chic with a contemporary twist. Downstairs, there is a cosy living room with a TV and woodburning stove. A separate dining room leads to a small kitchen, equipped with everything you need to serve up a hearty meal. We were greeted with a delightful welcome package that comprised of posh dog-treats, snacks and of course, a bottle of pink fizz.
Upstairs, there are two bedrooms which each feature tastefully selected neutral interiors and can comfortably sleep four guests. The generous bathroom has a free-standing bath, while the second bedroom houses the shower. Not to mention, there is a small, enclosed courtyard, which is a bonus if you are travelling with your pups.
One of the cottage’s best features is how close it is to the Winterton Beach and the dunes, which are a short five-minute stroll from your door. The dunes offer plenty of incredible wildlife to look out for including skylarks and the rare Natterjack Toad. While we sadly missed them during our daily run through the dunes, we were told that in certain times of year, you can even see grey seals sunbathing on the shore.
TeamCocopup Charlie comes alive at the beach, and luckily Winterton Beach is very dog-friendly. It is the perfect spot to spend a quiet and energising afternoon under the sun, minus all the crowds of more popular beaches in the UK. You can also enjoy the sea air while watching happy dogs frolick along the shore and go for swims on the break.
While a lot of the beloved pubs and restaurants were closed during our visit, we ventured, just a short 15 minute drive away to the Boathouse at Ormesby, which boasted plenty of outdoor space to dine while enjoying the view of the Norfolk Broads. The Boathouse offered delicious pub grub, exceedingly friendly service, and a colourful array of birds to entertain you during your meal.
Walking enthusiasts (of both human and dog variety) have plenty to explore in Winterton-on-Sea with several coastal walks to choose from. Here, you can explore East Somerton and even see a ruined church hidden in the trees. On the beach, there are the Winterton Dunes, and in town, there are plenty of historical sites and quirky thatched cottages to marvel at too.
There are certainly plenty of beautiful and wonderful things to see at Winterton-on-Sea, and while COVID-19 may have meant that we couldn’t fully enjoy everything this beautiful seaside town had to offer, TeamCocopup Charlie and I certainly cannot wait to return when things gain a sense of normalcy again. Back to Winterton-on-Sea, a town suspended in time and brimming with character.
With staycations steadily on the rise and freedom on the horizon, we’re looking to maximise the best of what the UK has to offer this summer travel season. With so many fabulous coaching inns, townhouse properties, and beachfront rentals on offer – we’ve curated some of our favourite new UK openings to add some newness to your summer travel plans.
Located amidst the charming villages and market towns of Wiltshire, the soon-to-be opened Bradley Hare promises to be the UK’s cosiest new country inn. The Bradley Hare is located in the Duke of Somerset’s Estate and offers 12 uniquely and welcoming bedrooms and elevated pub food. The Bradley Hare is the brainchild of ex-European Design Director for Soho House James Thurstan Waterworth and F&B Entrepreneur Andrew Kelly and offers a friendly and welcoming ‘dine anywhere’ atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Weekend rates will start from £130 per room per night including breakfast. For more information visitthebradleyhare.co.uk.
Tucked away on the southside of a beautiful 40 acre beechwood forest, Beacon Hill’s minimalist Treehouse is certainly a cabin with a difference. This beautiful property is clad in burnt Siberian larch and sits high on Corten steel columns. It also has a small balcony perfect for a morning coffee surrounded by nature. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise the breath-taking natural surroundings. Perfect for getting lost in the wild.
A three night stay for two guests in the treehouse is £750, fully inclusive of everything Beacon Hill has to offer. For more information visitwww.premiercottages.co.uk.
While not exactly a ‘new’ opening, the (wonderfully dog-friendly) Pheasant Inn is welcoming three new bedrooms this May and it is certainly worth shouting about. The Pheasant Inn boasts a 450 year-rich history in hospitality and today, under the helm of hotelier Jack Greenall, the Inn offers cosy, yet luxurious accommodation truncated with a flavoursome food offering too.
Rooms at the Pheasant Inn start from £105 per night. For more information visit www.thepheasant-inn.co.uk.
The Sun Street Hotel is the newest property in the Bespoke Hotels portfolio and is set to take over the City of London this August. The property spans six Georgian townhouses and five floors, designed by 19th century architect George Dance the Younger. The hotel will offer 41 bedrooms including seven suites designed by Bowler James Brindley. It will also offer a stylish new restaurant, bar and private member’s club, and is shaping up to be one of the City’s most sought-after staycation destinations.
Nightly rates at Sun Street Hotel start from £275 on a bed & breakfast basis. For reservations and information visit www.sunstreethotel.com
With international travel still akin to playing a game of quarantine whack-a-mole, we’re looking to fill our summer weekends with endless UK getaways. If you, like many others during lockdown, have welcomed a new four-legged friend to your family, then we’ve rounded up some of the best dog-friendly staycations in the UK so you can plan all your summer holidays, #TeamCocopup style.
April Cottage is perfect for those looking for the ideal #cottagecore break. The cosy cottage is part of the Winterton Cottages portfolio and is just a five-minute walk away from the dog-friendly Winterton Beach. The April cottage sleeps four and is full of character, stay tuned for our full review soon!
Looking for a staycation idea that’s a bit different? Then book one of the Shepherd’s Huts at the Merry Harrier’s in Surrey. Located in deep, rural England, the Merry Harriers is a de Savary property that combines rustic charm with contemporary luxury. It also offers llama treks, which are brilliant fun to do with your pooch.
Kernock Cottages is a group of five dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall that each come with a private hot tub and gazebo. We love the contemporary cottage aesthetic and also the fact that the property offers charming welcome doggy hampers too!
The Grove is a five-star luxury property set in 300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside. This ultimate luxury retreat (which was once the home of the Earls of Clarendon) offers an award-winning spa, championship golf course and a number of award-winning restaurants. Oh – and did we mention it was dog-friendly too?
There’s plenty to love at Linthwaithe House, which is located in Lake Windermere and features endless dog-walking routes and plenty of breath-taking views to take in. Dogs and doting dog parents can explore the hotel’s 14-acre grounds or stay in one of the three-luxury dog-friendly rooms at the property.
Just like you, we cannot wait to once again set out on the road and start travelling again. With international travel still on the rocks, we’re looking at all the wonderful destinations in the UK to pre-pre-pre-plan our summer staycations this year.
Here’s all of the dreamy destinations we’re booking as soon as lockdown is lifted, so that you can satiate your wanderlust just in time for a summer of travel (we hope).
A MGallery Hotel Collection property, the Francis Hotel Bath is set in the heart of Bath and is one of the city’s most impressive hotels. The luxury 98-room boutique townhouse hotel offers plenty of style and also a beautiful outdoor terrace for socially-distanced dining. Not to mention, eclectic Mediterranean restaurant Boho Marche recently opened at the hotel bringing sumptuous Moroccan flavours to Bath.
Castle Windsor is undeniably one of Windsor’s finest boutique properties. The 108-room hotel opened in 1528 and is steeped in history and is another jewel in the MGallery portfolio. The hotel is located across Windsor Castle and a short walk from the idyllic views of the Long Walk, Windsor Great Park, Savill Garden and the River Thames. Fun fact: One of the hotel’s most famous guests was the Duke of Wellington, who graced its halls after his victory at the Battle of Waterloo.
Glenapp Castle is a stunning 17-bedroom castle property nestled in the picturesque Ayrshire coast in South-west Scotland. The hotel has added a list of wellness and outdoor activities including forest bathing, digital detox and yoga which join the signature ‘Hebridean Sea Safari, which gives guests the opportunity to discover the wildlife of the Scottish Isles. Not to mention, the hotel has just introduced a new Penthouse Suite called ‘The Endeavour’ which is the epitome of luxury and perfect for a splash-out staycation this summer.
If you’re looking to add some adventure to your next staycation, adventure travel company Wild Frontiers has just launched its first-ever UK Itinerary which begins in the Highlands of Inverness and invites would-be adventurers to discover the northern island groups of Orkney and Shetland. Guests can visit historic sites going back to Neolithic times up amd hike a nature reserve on the most northerly point of the United Kingdom.
The Grove is a five-star hotel in Hertfordshire, set in 300 acres of picturesque countryside. The hotel was once the home of the Earls of Clarendon and is just 18 miles north of London — perfect for a last-minute retreat away from the city. The Grove is also home to an award-winning spa and championship golf course. Oh and did we mention that it was dog-friendly too?
If you’re looking for a staycation that’s more of the self-catered variety, Latitude 50 offers a suite of luxury self-catering accommodation in the North of Cornwall that are perfect for families both big and small. Latitude 50’s cottages are spread across Rock, Daymer Bay, Polzeath and Port Isaac, combining Cornwall’s breathtaking coastal landscapes with the ultimate in self-catering luxury.
Part of the Premier Cottages portfolio, Enfield House is a 13th-century thatched luxury cottage surrounded by rolling green hills and river valleys. Exmoor National Park is nearby, and the Devon coastline is just a short drive away, giving guests plenty to explore during their stay. With contemporary décor, and an enclosed lawn garden, Enfield House is the perfect cosy retreat to book with your close pals to celebrate the end of lockdown 3.
Another Premier Cottages property, Wallops Wood Cottages is just an hour and forty minutes away from London and is a great self-catering cottage option for families. Wallops Wood comprises a selection of generously-sized cottages with stunning countryside views and plenty of amenities including underfloor heating, wood burners, indoor heated pool, hot tubs, and pet-friendly gardens too.
Overlooking Lake Windermere, The Samling is truly a special property in the Lake District. The Samling is a striking gabled Georgian house that balances the house’s timeless style with contemporary luxury amenities. The Samling is the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of the Lake District and offers plenty of space to enjoy some much-needed calm. It also offers an exceptional fine dining menu, including one of the finest wine lists in the UK.
Jersey is slowly becoming a favourite UK staycation destination and is second only to Cornwall, in terms of most searched UK holiday destinations in the UK. If you’re looking for a charming bolthole to enjoy the beautiful seaside views of Jersey, then definitely book a stay at the lovely Samarès Manor.
Samarès Manor are a group of self-catering cottages, located alongside Jersey’s famous Botanic Gardens. It is ideally situated in close proximity to all of Jersey’s main tourist attractions which include the Elizabeth Castle, Durell Wildlife Camp at Jersey Zoo, Barge Aground and Radio Tower. If you’re not feeling like checking out the sites, then Samarès Manor is certainly a treat in and of itself – and offer a great self-catering accommodation to fit the whole family too.
To avoid puppy dog eyes (quite literally) this Christmas, stock up on some adorable little gifts for your preferred pooch, from quirky dog-themed books, to coveted collars and candles that’ll mask a whiff!
Adventures in Meowtown, from £16.99
While most people would think it barking mad for a cat and dog to be hanging out, Yappy, who create sensational personalised gifts for pets, are more than happy to partner the two up.
The company has created an amazing book named ‘Where’s [Insert Dog Name]’ which you can personalise for your pooch! The book explores your dog’s adventures in Meowtown, allowing your pooch to be found, Where’s Wally-like, in 12 ‘clawsome’ scenes. The pages are beautiful and illustrated by Rod Hunt. Plus, the book, £16.99, which comes in hard or softcover, makes for something a little out of the ordinary for your pooch.
yappy.com
YR Candles Because The Dog Farted, £9.99
Although we love our animals, there are times when they don’t exactly have the best of manners. Oops! Which is why the Because The Dog Farted candle is just the tongue-in-cheek gift you need this 25th of December! The humorous little buy can be found on Etsy for £9.99, and the website alerts us it’s a bestseller which unfortunately means there are a lot of pong-y pooches out there! Luckily, the candle is very aesthetically pleasing and you can select the colour which takes your fancy.
yrstudio.co.uk
Wilmot Dog Jumpers, £40
There are a number of gorgeous dog jumpers on the Lish website, all in different shades. They stand out from the crowd as they’re such adorable cosy knits which take influence from the 1930s menswear cable jumper. The amazing little buy is also hand-knitted, showerproof for light rain and well, simply wooftastic! You can select your colour, all at £40.
philomenalondon.com
William Walker Poop Bag Dispenser, £35.50
For those feeling a little boujee, and know that when their dog has to go they simply have to go, then why not try a William Walker Poop Bag Dispenser? This gorgeous little pocket pal features a magnetic closer, keeping the poo bags safe, and its sky blue appearance makes it truly one of the most attractive poo bag holders there is.
aurorapets.co.uk
Herringbone Dog Bed, £85
When it comes to luxurious doggy must-haves you simply have to check out Cox & Cox and, if you do, there’s no doubt the Herringbone Dog Bed will catch your eye. Crafted from pure wool in a subtle shade of blush pink, this beautiful bed is handwoven and, if sumptuous fibre is anything to go by, it’s perhaps the cosiest dog bed going!
fetch.co.uk
Pass The Pugs, £9.99
If there’s one game which is bound to give you endless amusement, it’s Pass the Pugs. The funny little offering recently launched on Amazon, and it’s the follow up to much-adored Pass the Pigs game, which has been a family favourite for over 50 years.
While it would take us quite some time to explain the tactics and target, to sum it up you roll the dogs like dice and how they land will determine what you score. One for the pug lovers, that’s for sure!
amazon.co.uk
The aDoraBle Pooch Co Harness, £23
We can’t take our eyes off the gorgeous harnesses from The aDoraBle Pooch Co. These guys are raved about on social media and rightly so, as they produce some of the most eye-popping, aesthetically pleasing doggy accessories. And the adjustable harnesses are quite the catch, coming in shades of Berry Kiss, Oatally Tangerine, Crisp Pines and more. Just head to their website, pick yours out and be the talk of the town in no time. Paw-fect!
theadorablepoochcomapny.co.uk
Woof Frills Gingerbread Set, £38.98
It’s safe to say we’re utterly obsessed with the Christmas sets Woof Frills have on offer. This adorable company, who swear by the mantra ‘life’s too short, spoil your dog’ have produced some fabulously festive doggy sets, from a winter bear to a Christmas tree collection but, quite frankly, it’s the gingerbread one which has blown us away. Handmade from 100 per cent cotton, the set features a collar with matching bow tie or bandana. You can also choose size and hardware.
wooffrills.com
Personalised Pet Storage Canvas Rope Basket, £28
This adorable canvas basket is perfect for keeping your pet’s essentials neat and tidy. Made from all cotton, it also boasts heavy duty rope handles and it can be personalised with your dog’s name – cute! Instagram won’t know what’s hit it!
preciouslittleplum.com
Ink and Doodle Brass Oh Bugger I’m Lost Tag, £9.25
Ink and Doodle create the most rustic and pleasing pet ID tags, and we’re simply obsessed with the brass Oh Bugger I’m Lost option. Attractive features include the fact that it’s hand stamped the old fashioned way, one character at a time, and buying one of these is a great way to support an independent business who clearly put so much love and care into everything they do!
sweetwilliamdesigns.com
Dog Walker notebook, £19.99
You’re bound to be busy if you’re a dog owner, so why not pick yourself up a sweet pooch-themed notebook to keep on top of everything.
Papier do a gorgeous one in a dusky pink which you can buy with lined pages, dotty pages or blank. Its sweet cover is intricately illustrated and features lots of cute dogs (total plus!)
papier.com
Squeaky Gin Pet Toy, £3
Raise a toast to your furry friend with this cute squeaky gin can toy. While enjoying a tipple, your pooch can enjoy their tipple-themed toy, leaving everyone happy! You can pick one up from Marks & Spencer for a purse-friendly £3.
marksandspencer.com
Create your own hamper, prices vary
There’s nothing better than a hamper at Christmas, and you can get your pooch one if you opt for epic service Pet Hamper. The process is simple, meaning Fido will receive his or her treats speedily, right in time for the big day. Choose your packaging, then your contents and finally, your delivery method, et voila! A hamper positively brimming with toys, treats, grooming supplies and more. Now that’s a very merry Christmas.
I don’t know about you all, but nothing is better at sparking joy during this dreary lockdown winter than spending time (and lots of it) with your pup. This is exactly why, TeamCocopup Charlie and doting dog-mum Hannah, have put together the swankiest set of gifts to reward your four-legged pals this holiday season. Because while we’ll probably never be able to repay the joy our doggies bring to our lives — we sure as hell can try.
Charlie absolutely loves his matching collar and lead set from Vegan pet wear brand Buddy & Bone. Not only do they come in bright and colourful designs, they’re also made with 100% high-grade vegan leather. Oh – and did we mention that they come in adorable packaging that’s perfect for doggy-holiday gifting too?
2. Icy Mint Vegan Leather Dog Lead by Buddy & Bone available at https://buddyandbone.com/
We are also huge fans of Mungo & Maud’s charming dog-toys and clothing. Barbour’s dog-range also offers plenty of things to love – particularly this handsome luxury dog bed. Also, Cath Kidston’s latest doggy capsule ‘London People’ has a fantastic selection of doggy products perfect for the quintessential London-pooch.
You know that a treat is good, if your dog won’t stop barking about it. This is exactly the case with Lily’s Kitchen’s ‘Christmas Spectacular’ doggy range. The limited-edition line is spectacularly festive, natural and healthy, and clearly irresistible for dogs. Charlie gives Lily’s Kitchen top marks for flavour – the only problem you’ll have is you won’t have enough.
As more and more of us have left the office to work from home – some for the foreseeable future and others permanently – many have swapped their human colleagues for a four-legged furry one. If we didn’t have a pet dog before, the fact we are now in the house all day has meant that those of us that want one, have been able to get one.
They are wonderful company and lovely to have around but, if you have a needy pooch or a young pup, then you may be finding it difficult to get anything done.
Perhaps your dog barks in the background while you are on important calls which leaves you red faced and feeling mortified? Maybe they whine at your feet until you show them some attention, so you end up typing with one hand while fussing them with the other – and as a result tasks take double the time they should.
Sound familiar? Then here’s how to work from home with your dog, so they help relieve stress rather than causing it.
Go for a morning walk
A brisk walk and fresh air will be beneficial for both you and your dog. It’ll give you a chance to stretch your legs before sitting at your desk and staring at a screen all day. Importantly, it will also give your pooch the opportunity to go to the toilet and tire themselves out, so they – hopefully – nap as you start your day.
Seperate your spaces
Separate where you work and where your dog plays or snoozes – this will be beneficial for all dogs but especially if you have a particularly needy one. This can be done simply by using a gate to keep them in a separate room while still enabling them to see you. They will quickly get used to spending their time here but, to help, make sure they have everything they need including bed, toys and water.
Provide mental stimulation
Choose toys that will mentally stimulate your dog. If your dog is bored they could become destructive and you might have to keep stopping work to tell them off and avoid your furniture being destroyed. Mentally stimulating toys will keep them occupied for hours. Take a kong which can be filled with treats and give it to them just before you go on that important call. They’ll be too busy trying to get it out to disturb you or cause any chaos in the background while you are chatting.
Play on your lunch break
Take a break from your screen and spend about 20 minutes of your lunch break playing with your pup. This is a good break for you and they’ll appreciate this time with you. They will also get used to this routine and so shouldn’t pester you throughout the day. If it’s sunny, get out in the garden for some fresh air.
Don’t give in to whining
If your dog is whining, barking or nudging at you then it can be hard to ignore but try not to give in to it. If you do, they will think this is how to get your attention and will continue to do it. If you ignore it, however, they will start to realise this won’t work and will eventually give up – especially once they realise they have your attention, in the morning, middle of the day and evening.
Try an anti-bark collar
If your dog really won’t stop barking and it’s disturbing your concentration and interrupting calls, then try an anti-bark collar. This can be used while you are training your dog not to bark – even when you aren’t around. They won’t need to wear this permanently, you’ll soon find they stop barking without it once they develop a good habit.
Make a few changes and you’ll find your furry colleague a joy to work alongside – and not someone you wish you could complain to HR about.
TeamCocopup Charlie and doting dog mum Hannah Tan-Gillies are getting cosy and hunkering down at the Higher Wiscombecottages in East Devon for a luxury doggy staycation that won’t get damped by bad weather.
We arrived in Higher Wiscombe late on Friday evening and right on the cusp of Storm Freya’s arrival. After almost four hours of driving through rain and harsh winds — with large chunks spent on the M25 no less — our arrival at the warm and undoubtedly charming Thatched Barn could not have been more perfectly timed.
Higher Wiscombe is a cluster of three, generously-sized, luxury self-catering cottages in the heart of East Devon. It is part of Premier Cottages collection, which features 1,000 four and five-star self-catering cottages all over the UK, from intimate boltholes, to large family-friendly estates, including a wide selection of pet-friendly properties.
Surrounded by rolling hills and just short drive away from the Jurassic Coast, Higher Wiscombe is the perfect spot to hunker down, get cosy, and wait out a storm.
We stayed in the Thatched Barn, which is a sprawling barn conversion for six with three ensuite bathrooms, heated floors, a fully stocked kitchen, outdoor terrace and oodles of charm. The Thatched Barn offers a wealth of contemporary amenities, but unlike other luxury properties, does not sacrifice character in pursuit of modernity. Each room follows a distinctive colour palette with the master suite also equipped with a handsome four poster bed and roll top bath.
On the kitchen counter, we were greeted with a welcome basket filled with a selection of locally-sourced products. TeamCocopup Charlie was greeted with a welcome package of his own, which included a Dicky bag, bio poo bags, and also some treats.
Alistair and Lorna, owners and custodians of Higher Wiscombe, live right next door and will go out of their way to make you feel right at home. They offered us plenty of recommendations on nearby restaurants and dog-friendly things to do – of which there are an abundance. The property is near many supermarkets, and you can even have your groceries delivered straight to your door before arrival.
As storm Freya raged on throughout our stay, we were unable to take a dip in the property’s heated outdoor pool. We did, however, get a private tour of The Winery. The spectacular cottage can sleep up to twenty and is the perfect spot to bring family and friends together for a relaxed weekend getaway or a big celebration. As with many other businesses ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, Higher Wiscombe has had to adapt, temporarily halving the Winery to abide by the all-encompassing Rule of Six.
Outside of your cottage, Higher Wiscombe offers 52 acres of private rolling Devon countryside, perfect for long walkies, even in the rain. You can also drive to the nearby coastal towns of Sidmouth and walk along the Jurassic Coast, the quaint mining town of Beer, or take a short drive to Lyme Regis.
Walkie enthusiasts can even access the East Devon Way directly from the property, which leads to a number of picturesque National Trust properties too. And finally, after you and your pooch have spent the day discovering everything that East Devon has to offer and more – there is simply nothing better than returning to the Thatched Barn, putting a log on the burner, and enjoying a nice cuppa. Because as we discovered, a stay at the Higher Wiscombe is truly a wonder, even in the middle of a storm.
A week’s stay in Higher Wiscombe’s Thatched Barn for up to six starts from £895. To book go to www.premiercottages.co.uk or call the owner on 01404 871360. Premier Cottages offers the widest range of accessible properties in the UK with many offering on-site facilities like swimming pools, gyms, spas, indoor games rooms and children’s play areas.
