Planning a Dog Friendly Wedding in Berkshire

Weddings With A Paw-friendly Philosophy

For many couples, the idea of getting married without their four-legged friend present simply doesn’t feel right.

Pups are part of the family — part of everyday life, shared routines, and the moments that matter most.

At the Elephant Hotel in Pangbourne, we have a paw-friendly philosophy that is built into the way weddings are hosted — relaxed, thoughtful, and designed to include every member of the family, paws included.

Can I Really Bring My Dog To My Wedding?

Yes — and you won’t need to compromise!

Dogs are genuinely welcome to weddings at the Elephant Hotel, not just accepted.

There are so many venues where “pet-friendly” comes with caveats, rules, and exclusions. At the Elephant Hotel, dogs are part of everyday life — which means you can plan your dream wedding with the same confidence you have in your dog being a 'good boy' (or girl)!

Your pooch can be by your side for all the key moments of the day - the star guest at your wedding ceremony, hosting a 'meet and greet' in the gardens during the drinks reception, front row in the photographs, and can stay overnight.

Pro Wedding Tip: If finding the best dog friendly wedding venues in the UK is a priority for you, it's good to be start out with a conversation about exactly what 'dog-friendly' means - both to you, and to your venue. Here at the Elephant Hotel the answer is simple: anything goes.

Why The Elephant Hotel Is A Great Dog Friendly Wedding Venue In Berkshire

Set in the riverside village of Pangbourne, the Elephant Hotel combines boutique character with a relaxed, countryside feel — it's an ideal setting for pet friendly weddings in Berkshire.

Dogs are welcome across all the hotel’s key spaces, including:

Babar

This is our relaxed bar area, where dogs can join you for dinner the night before your wedding, pre-ceremony drinks, or a celebratory toast.

The gardens

Our gardens are perfect for photographs, fresh air, and moments of calm. Furthermore, many of our pet-friendly bedrooms have direct access.

Does your perfect wedding feature a ceremony outdoors? We can help with that!

Dog-friendly bedrooms

We have a selection of dog-friendly bedrooms - many with garden access - so your four-legged guest can be by your side throughout your wedding stay.

Lounges and events suite

You can choose relax and enjoy your wedding breakfast with your fur baby at the top table, if that makes your tail wag!

In short, the Elephant Hotel is a dog-friendly wedding venue where dogs can take centre stage. 

Creative Ways To Include Your Dog In Your Wedding Day

One of the joys of planning a dog-friendly wedding is thinking about all the fun ways your dog can be involved. At the Elephant Hotel, we’ve seen everything from subtle cameos to starring roles.

Popular dog-friendly wedding ideas include:

Walking down the aisle just before that special "I do" moment.

Greeting guests as they arrive - who doesn't love welcome dogs?!

Ring bearer or “ring-on-collar” moments, often with a trusted chaperone to lend a hand.

Photographs in the gardens - dogs are great smile-makers!

The sky is the limit really! You can also include your dog in so many personal, behind-the-scenes kind of ways, too:

Joining the morning preparations - how about a calm companion while you get ready?

Appearing in signage, stationery, and more - from illustrated place cards to welcome boards and cake toppers, your furry friend can set the tone for your day!

Doggy dress code - subtly match your pooch to your wedding aesthetic with a floral collar or bow tie.

Being part of the proposal! Who could say no to this?

Being part of a private moment - the 'first look' before the ceremony of your intimate wedding doesn't just need to be for humans!

For some couples, simply knowing their dog is nearby — settled, cared for, and included — is what matters most. At the Elephant Hotel, our flexibility allows dogs to be part of the day in a way that feels natural, never forced.

Where Dogs Are Welcome Onsite

Understanding where dogs can and can’t go is an important part of planning a smooth wedding day.

At the Elephant Hotel, dogs are welcome in:

• Barbar, where guests often gather before and after ceremonies.
• Outdoor areas and gardens, ideal for mingling and photography.
• Selected bedrooms, allowing dogs to stay overnight in luxurious accommodation.

This flexibility means dogs can be part of your wedding throughout, and can easily curl up for a nap when needed.

Our wedding team will always help you plan timings and logistics so that your dog’s presence enhances the day — rather than becoming something to manage or worry about.

Keeping Your Dog Happy On The Big Day: Practical Tips

Weddings are exciting, busy environments — and while many dogs thrive on attention, it’s important to plan with their comfort in mind.

If you are planning to bring your dog to your wedding, these tips will help you enjoy the day:

Assign a dog guardian for the day — a trusted friend, family member, or professional dog sitter who offers a chaperone service.

Pack familiar comforts — we provide dog beds when you stay, but you may wish to pack their own for familiarity!

Plan quiet breaks - especially if your dog will be present during key moments.

Consider timing - invite your dog to join the celebration for the parts that suit them best - ceremony and drinks reception might be a firm yes, but the wedding breakfast might be nap time!

Photo list - let your photographer know if you would like your dog to be in certain photos, so that any waiting. 

Plan special treats for your pup - we can help with dog-friendly cakes and will greet you with a 'Hound Bag' when you check-in - complete with treats, tennis ball, and more!

At the Elephant Hotel, we are always happy to talk these details through in advance, helping you create an unforgettable day that works for everyone — paws included.

Real Experiences: Dogs At The Elephant

From relaxed countryside stays to milestone celebrations, dogs are a familiar and welcome sight at the Elephant Hotel — and weddings are no exception. Over the years, we’ve welcomed countless four-legged guests to ceremonies, receptions, and post-wedding breakfasts, each bringing their own personality (and waggy-tail charm) to the day.

The photographs below capture just a couple of beautiful moments from Juliette and Jack’s wedding at the Elephant Hotel — with both of their much-loved dogs very much part of the day.

If you're searching for a wedding venue where you can have your dog at your wedding, experience matters. Dogs aren't about novelty; knowing your dog will feel truly welcome will give you the kind of peace of mind you'll cherish.

Dog-friendly Wedding Suppliers

Including your dog in your wedding often means working with suppliers who are comfortable and experienced with animals. You may like to think about:

• Professional dog-sitting for weddings - making a bespoke request on Rover could be a great option for this.
• Photographers experienced with pets, ensuring relaxed, natural images
• Dog accessories, such as floral collars or bow ties, chosen with comfort in mind - check-out Etsy for a really wide range!

If you have any questions about local wedding suppliers for any aspect of your special day, our wedding coordinators can often make great recommendations!

A 'Best-in-Show' Pawsome Wedding Venue

At the Elephant Hotel, dog-friendly weddings in Berkshire aren’t treated as a novelty. They’re simply part of how our venue operates — warmly, thoughtfully, and with genuine care - for you, and your pets!

If you want to celebrate your special day with your four-legged friend there to share the joy - ring bearing or just tail wagging - the Elephant Hotel offers a setting where that dream feels not just possible, but effortless!

Planning your dog-friendly wedding in Pangbourne?

Book a tour to explore our spaces, speak to the team about our wedding packages, and discover how your four-legged family member can be part of your celebration from start to finish!