Meet the winner: Best Pub for Dogs sponsored by Rover.com – the Bellflower, Garstang, Lancashire

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Puppy love: the Bellflower is dedicated to ensuring its canine customers are welcomed

The impact from Heather Brandwood and the Bellflower team taking a dog-friendly approach has been felt not only within the pub but throughout the Marston’s group, providing a blueprint for other pubs in the company to follow.

The Bellflower – situated on the busy A6 through the Lancashire town of Garstang –  has gone all out to make it a welcoming venue for dogs and their owners, whether those from the local community or staycationers residing temporarily at one of the numerous holiday home parks nearby.

Novel options

It’s a fun destination for furry friends, with a wide selection of premium “dog doo-dah” treats, bowls and blankets, a choice of water from “ale” and “lager” barrels in the garden, and toys and balls. The last of these are sold to raise money for a local animal charity.

The A La Barke menu has a range of price tiers to suit different sizes – and dare we say classes – of doggy visitor, from the £3.50 Tea-Cup Canine burger, sausage and gravy offer, to the doubled-up Great Dane portion, which also throws in extra chicken beast, and costs £9.

Canine commitment

Social media channels feature a Dog of the Week, with the winner being treated to a free dog meal.

But aside from the all the dog-related fun, the Bellflower takes its commitment to the canine market seriously, undertaking risk assessments and special staff training to make dog visits safe and comfortable for all its customers.

Inside, dogs are restricted to two dog-friendly areas spacious areas with wipe clean floors should any accidents occur, so those that want a dog-free experience still feel welcome.

The Bellflower is more than just a great pub for dogs; it’s a great pub for everyone, with a family-led approach and a focus on inclusivity that appeals to a wide community base.