On a recent business event to the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel at the NEC, I was amused and then delighted to learn that the Hilton is a pet friendly establishment. It amused me that I hadn’t brought my little 3 year old Pomeranian Kiara with me as she prefers to accompany me wherever I go. And then I remembered the words I’d said to her (as I often do when I look into her doting eyes, hoping to reassure her when I can’t take her with me): ‘Mommy will be back soon’ or ‘have a lovely nap. I’ll leave the radio on for you’.

It made me think about the guilt I often feel when I tell her to ‘STAY’, when all I want to do is to gather that 2 and a half kg parcel of energy and fluff, bundle her up in my arms and take her with me. Of course, it’s not always possible, or convenient to do that.

On my first encounter with the Metropol, I didn’t really intend to take Kiara with me as I was only due to be away for the evening. However, in December we had a change of plan which meant we were at a loss regarding what to do on the lead up to New Years Eve. As a family, we decided to book a short stay. With it being the Christmas/New Year season, trying to find a pet sitter, even for a tiny Pomeranian at the last minute wasn’t going to be an option.

A quick search for pet friendly hotels in the location we wanted came up with the Hilton Double Tree! The reviews were fantastic and we packed our bags (water bowl and a few pouches of our Adored Pet Meals) and we were off! It was as simple as that!

It was a huge sense of relief that as a family, we were able to find a beautiful hotel and spa that was more than welcoming to every member of our family, including our pet.

Turns out, we didn’t need Kiara’s water bowl, or even poo bags for that matter as these were provided by the Hilton. We were glad to see their good behaviour policy for pets and were welcomed with smiles and love from staff and other patrons. It’s worth mentioning that we didn’t even need a bed as a huge dog bed was provided for Kiara too. She was so well behaved and well rested that it made our stay a fantastic last minute get away.

Of course, no stay would be complete without a little indulgence! We brought along a couple of our delicious pet cupcakes for Kiara, and she absolutely adored them. There’s nothing quite like seeing her enjoying the decadent treats we put so much love and care into creating.

We had a great family getaway at the Hilton Double Tree. Here is a list of Pet friendly hotels and eateries to help you have a great getaway too.

Happy travels.

Pet Friendly Establishments

• Hilton Metropole Hotel, at the NEC in Birmingham: 0121 780 4242

A stylish and modern hotel conveniently located next to the NEC, offering pet-friendly rooms (as we found out, unfortunately too late!)

• Warwickshire Park Hotel by Belvilla in Kenilworth, Coventry: 020 3807 7684

A peaceful retreat set in the Warwickshire countryside, this hotel welcomes pets and offers plenty of open space for walks.

• Marriott Bonvoy DoubleTree by Hilton in Nottingham

A comfortable and welcoming hotel offering pet-friendly accommodation, great dining options, and nearby green spaces.

• Quinto Lounge in Sutton Coldfield: 0121 354 6486

Located in the heart of Sutton Coldfield, this relaxed and stylish café-bar is the perfect spot to grab a coffee, brunch, or evening meal with your furry friend by your side.

• Verdo Lounge in Sutton Coldfield: 0121 373 4832

A quaint spot located in Wylde Green, perfect for a quick coffee or a leisurely brunch with your best friend.

• Fossato Lounge in Kenilworth: 01926 290755

A vibrant and pet-friendly café-bar in the heart of Kenilworth, offering delicious food and drinks in a cozy setting.

• Pavilion Cafe in The Meadows, Edinburgh

A charming café located within The Meadows, serving fresh food and great coffee.

• The Green Man Pub in Cambridge: 01223 844903

A traditional countryside pub with a warm atmosphere and hearty food to allow both you and your pup to relax after a walk through the scenic surroundings.

• The Cotswold House Hotel & Spa in Gloucestershire: 01386 840330

A boutique hotel offering pet-friendly rooms, dog-sitting services, and doggy treats upon arrival.

• Clissold Park Café in London: 07931 375632

A cozy café next to the beautiful Clissold Park in London, offering a quick bite to eat after a nice walk with your furry friend.

• The Seaview Hotel on the Isle of Wight: 01983 612711

A boutique hotel in the picturesque fishing village of Seaview, offering a fine dining menu, and of course, a wonderful view of the sea.

• National Trust Properties, Nationwide: 0344 800 1895

For a relaxing day out, the National Trust has a huge number of properties and cafés that you and your pet can enjoy.

• Watergate Bay Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall: 01637 860877

A beautiful, pet-friendly hotel situated next to the beach, perfect for a relaxed getaway with your furry friend.

• The Anchor Country Pub & Restaurant in Surrey: 01932 342507

A homely country pub, conveniently located next to a scenic canal path offering delicious food and drinks.

• The Early Bird Bakery in King’s Heath, Birmingham

A bakery serving up freshly made pastries, cakes, coffee and brunch in a relaxed, recently declared dog-friendly environment

Do you know of another great venue that caters to our Adored Pets? Please let us know by leaving a comment or contacting us and we’ll add it to the list!