Looking for the best dog-friendly places in East Belfast? We’ve got you covered! Our team has put together the ultimate East Belfast guide for you and your pup! Whether your dog loves curling up under a café table while you sip a coffee or prefers stretching out in the fresh air, there are plenty of spots to explore in East Belfast. We’ve personally visited and gathered some of the best dog friendly Belfast locations—approved by both two-legged and four-legged visitors alike.
Dog-Friendly Coffee Shops & Cafés
Whether you’re in the mood for a strong flat white or a flaky pastry, these cafes welcome dogs with open arms.
Assemble Bakery
Nestled in the heart of East Belfast, Assemble Bakery is a go-to for sourdough lovers. The smell of fresh bread hits you as soon as you walk in, and the cinnamon buns? Worth getting up early for, as they usually sell out by mid day.
It’s a small space, but dogs are more than welcome, and there’s a real sense of community among regulars. Perfect for grabbing a coffee and a pastry before a walk
Plus, they share the space with First Press Vinyl, a cool record shop specialising in original pressings and new releases, so you can enjoy freshly baked goods while browsing through a curated selection of music.
Opening hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM (9:00 AM start on Fridays & Saturdays)
Halt
Just next door, situated at 373 Beersbridge Road, Halt Café offers excellent coffee and delicious food. Dogs are welcome inside, and the friendly staff often provide water bowls and treats. A fantastic dog friendly Belfast café, perfect for a morning coffee or light lunch.Owned by a talented chef who previously worked at The Merchant, the food is top-quality, and their matcha is a must-try.
Check out this review on Best Bark:
“Just dropped by Halt on the Beersbridge Road and was thoroughly impressed! I opted for the scrambled eggs on Icelandic potato bread – absolutely stunning! The peanut rayu added a unique kick, and the homemade ketchup was delicious. I also had the iced strawberry matcha, and honestly, it was the nicest matcha I’ve ever had! We brought down our pup Vito, and the staff were so accommodating—they even let us order a sausage for him! Definitely a hidden gem in East Belfast. Highly recommend for anyone looking for brunch with their pup! 10/10”
Belvedere Café Restaurant
Situated at 69 Cregagh Road, Belvedere Café Restaurant is a go-to spot for dog owners. Their breakfast portions are generous, and the staff genuinely enjoy having dogs around. Great spot for a quiet coffee or a catch-up over a meal. And a great stop on your dog friendly places East Belfast list.
Lazy Claire Patisserie
A little taste of France in East Belfast, on the Castlereagh Road. This patisserie offers a delicious selection of sweet treats, made fresh everyday. If you’re visiting with your dog, the outdoor seating is ideal. Just be prepared to guard your croissant, as the smell alone will have your pup begging for a bite.
Terracotta
With its relaxed vibe and friendly staff, Terracotta is a fantastic spot for fresh bakes and coffee. Dogs are warmly welcomed, and the outdoor seating makes it an ideal place to enjoy a break with your pup.
Tom’s Café
Located at 173 Ardenlee Avenue, a neighbourhood favourite, Tom’s Café is a great shout for a casual coffee or a bite to eat. The best part? Dogs are welcome both inside and at the hatch, so whether you’re sitting in or grabbing something to go, your pup can stay by your side.
Open: Monday–Saturday, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM | Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Stereo
Awarded Best Casual Dining in Ulster 2023, Stereo at 18d Cregagh Road offers artisan pastries, specialty coffee, and delicious breakfast and lunch options. Dogs are welcome, and the lively, family-friendly vibe makes it a great place to start the day.
Open: Daily, 9:00 AM–3:30 PM
General Merchants
Located at 481 Upper Newtownards Road.
If brunch is your thing, General Merchants won’t disappoint. A favourite among locals, their menu is packed with creative options, and they’ve got outdoor seating where dogs can happily chill while you eat.
Lamppost Café
A quirky, Narnia-themed café with a welcoming feel.
Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or sweet treats in this quaint venue complete with ragtime music and vintage crockery. Bring your pup, then head to the nearby CS Lewis Square for walkies.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Pubs
After a day of exploring, these establishments offer the perfect setting to unwind with your pup.
Bullhouse East
For craft beer enthusiasts, Bullhouse East at 442-446 Newtownards Road is a must-visit. Belfast’s first permanent taproom offers 20 craft beers on tap and wood-fired pizzas in the beer garden. Dogs are welcome inside and can enjoy treats and water bowls.
Check out this review on Best Bark:
“We go to Bullhouse East regularly to meet up with friends and what’s great is the fact it’s dog friendly so we don’t have to ever leave our dog Meatball at home. They provide dog bowls and there is lots of space for dogs to chill beside you. There is always a great selection of different beers available that they let you sample! Good vibes and great atmosphere.”
Boundary Taproom
A laid back spot on Seymour Street, Boundary Taproom has plenty of room and is ideal for catching up over a drink with your dog .The vibe is relaxed, and there’s always something new to try on the craft beer menu.
Oliver’s
On Ballyhackamore’s High Street, Oliver’s is a friendly, dog-welcoming pub with great food. The outdoor seating is a big plus if you’re stopping by with your pup.
Dog-Friendly Pet Shops
Spoil your dog with a visit to these pet-friendly stores.
Murphy & Bailey
If your dog deserves a little treat (and let’s be honest, they always do), Murphy & Bailey is worth a visit. This small, female-owned business shop is stocked with high-quality pet products that are equally as adorable as they are high-quality. They also have a small café at the back where you can sit with your pup. The staff are brilliant and super knowledgeable so if you need help picking out the perfect doggie gift, they will happily guide you in the right direction.
Dog-Friendly Parks & Walks
East Belfast has several parks where your dog can go for walkies.
- Victoria Park – Opened in 1906, Victoria Park features a large lake that attracts various water birds, including swans, geese, ducks, and herons. The park offers two walking trails around the lake, providing scenic routes for you and your dog. Visit
- Greenville Park -Greenville Park offers several pathways that cross the Loop River into the Orangefield area, providing pleasant walking experiences for you and your dog. The park is easily accessible via Grand Parade and is popular among local dog walkers. Visit
- Connswater Park- The Connswater Community Greenway is a 9km linear park that connects various open and green spaces throughout East Belfast. Following the course of the Connswater, Knock, and Loop Rivers, it offers vibrant, attractive, safe, and accessible parkland for leisure and recreation. It’s a great place to explore with your dog, providing a variety of walking routes. Visit
🚨 Reminder: Keep dogs on a lead where required and always clean up after them to keep these spaces enjoyable for everyone.
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Tried any of these dog friendly places in East Belfast?
We’d love to hear about your experiences! Tag @BestBark on social media to share your favourite dog-friendly places in Belfast. Got a hidden gem to recommend? Let us know, and we’ll add it to our list. Let’s make Northern Ireland the best place for dogs and their humans.
