With fluctuating travel restrictions and no promise of a foreign holiday this year, Brits across the country are flocking to book their perfect staycation.

The Inn Collection has analysed Google Search trends to reveal that searches to key Teesside locations have increased dramatically since the easing of restrictions. They even show improved popularity when compared to results in 2019. Searches for Sandsend increased by 123 per cent in July 2020 when compared to the same month the previous year, while 91,000 more people searched for Whitby.

The latter of the two is renowned as the famous setting for Bram Stoker’s Dracula, but you’re more likely to catch the sun rather than any ghouls.

Teesside is home to numerous beaches, stunning hilly landscapes, and various historical landmarks and wildlife to be discovered. It’s the perfect place to get away from the woes of lockdown and restrictions.

While you might be rather disappointed that your holiday to the south of Spain has been put on hold for the foreseeable, a staycation offers the best of Britain, as well as an opportunity to go away with your beloved canine.

There’re few things worse in life than the heartbroken look in your pooch’s eyes as you drop them off at the kennel before your holiday after all.

Well, now you don’t have to! We’re going to provide you with some of the best places to take your furry friend when you’re holidaying in the north of England to ensure you both have a time to fur-member.

The best beaches

The areas of Northumberland and Tyne and Wear are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. But often overlooked are areas in Teesside that parade idyllic sand and shingle stretches along the east coast of North Yorkshire.

Whitby is situated between Middlesbrough and Scarborough. This coastal town prides its Blue Flag status, championing its sustainable landscape and environmentally friendly tourism operators, with beaches on both sides of the River Esk. Plus, the beach is open to dogs all year round!

People also enjoy tours on the Old Lifeboat and visiting the Museum of Victorian Science, both of which are five-star rated on TripAdvisor.

Another popular Teesside beach spot is Staithes. Located along the coast of North Yorkshire, with characteristic cottages and classical cobbled streets, this seafront town is a perfect place to escape modern suburbia. The town was once one of the largest fishing ports in the North East. It now remains as a popular spot for tourists exploring cliff edges and discovering amazing sea life in the rockpools. A small, isolated beach is also perfect for the family.

Walking treks in Teesside

One thing you won’t be short of in the north of England is a place to walk that incorporates breath-taking views. Teesside does little to disappoint in this respect. Home to the North York Moors National Park, you’ll never be short of walking routes in this county.

The North York Moors National Park is the perfect place to explore and get a true taste of the North. Featuring a variety of moorland villages, unspoiled woodland, and ancient landmarks, the area is also increasing its popularity every year and proving itself as the ideal getaway from the reality of lockdowns and restrictions. The landscape has been searched on Google 41 per cent more in 2020 than in 2019. The park also homes Hemsley Castle, a 900-year-old medieval fortress, which is an interesting site for historical sightseers.

Yarm also features the amazing Preston Park Museum and Grounds, home to the Quarry Woods Nature Reserve. Your dog is also welcome. The park has a tropical rainforest hothouse for multiple butterfly species and other reptiles. Who would have thought that you could find heat and adventure in Teesside?

Drinks and food – for you and your pooch!

No good holiday is complete without indulging in a well-cooked meal and a perfectly poured pint — two things that the north of England offers in abundance.

Located near Hemsley Castle, The King’s Head Inn at the heart of Newton under Roseberry is one of the most popular dog-friendly bars in North Yorkshire. A host of local real ales are on offer, or if you’re after something a bit sweeter then perhaps a scrumptious English cider will tickle your fancy — savour every sip in the summer garden while your dog can take the opportunity to rehydrate too. If you’re after Newton under Roseberry accommodation too, look no further than the Inn, which also welcomes your pooch to stay!

The Cleveland Bay, a pub in Yarm, boasts its heritage as the ‘world’s first purpose-built railway pub’ dating back to 1825. It features a classic pub interior and isn’t shy to invite dogs into the building. Your hound can have a splash of water while you lick up one of the four award-winning real ales that they serve. An obvious and handy fact to point out is that it is by the rail station, so finding your way there and home should be easy — even after a few.

If you haven’t explored the north of England and ventured into Teesside, then now is the time. With the number of places on offer to take your dog, you’d be a fool not too!