Why this Suffolk town is paw-fect place for dogs

A Suffolk town which goes “the extra mile” for its precious pooches has been crowned the most dog-friendly destination in the country.

Bury St Edmunds came out on top at this year’s Dog Friendly Awards after the public voted it the most accommodating town for dog owners.

The ceremony, held in London, recognised and celebrated the locations and pet businesses considered the best for canines and their owners.

Mark Cordell, chief executive of Our Bury St Edmunds BID business group, said it was "fantastic".

The victory comes a year after the town made the final but just missed out, so what is it about Bury St Edmunds now that makes it "top dog"?

The town says its success has a lot to do with a scheme it has developed to help people identify where their four-legged friends are welcome.

About 140 shops, eateries, pubs, places to stay, attractions and more have signed up to the initiative meaning they can display a blue paw print logo sticker and water bowl.

It was started by Jon Kay, from Camp Tails Doggy Daycare, with help from Bury St Edmunds Town Council, Our Bury St Edmunds BID, and Bury St Edmunds and Beyond.

He said: “I was so proud to receive the award on behalf of local businesses and a passionate group behind the scenes going over and above to make our canine chums welcome.

“It was an amazing day although we had our fingers and paws crossed right up until the announcement."

Mr Cordell thanked those who had voted for the town.

"With Bury St Edmunds welcoming dogs in many of our businesses, there are a lot that go the extra mile offering items on their menus, free snacks for dogs and more,” he added.

“It means residents and visitors know they can stay longer in town and don’t have to leave their four-legged member of their family at home.

“In addition, this last year the town's tour guides have started to offer dog-friendly tours.

"St Edmundsbury Cathedral is also dog-friendly - it has even published a Dogs of the Cathedral calendar for 2025, so there are even more reasons for waggy tails all round."

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