Guest blog by Hannah – dog mum to Hank the Dachshund

Hi guys and pups!
I’m Hannah, and along with my partner Ben and our cheeky little sausage Hank, we’re on a mission to make life all about dog-friendly living.

We never had a dog before Hank, and wow — did he open our eyes. We dove head-first into hard mode with a Dachshund, and it’s safe to say: we’re hooked. Now, if it’s not dog-friendly, we’re not going.

So when Sarah from Life of Riley Bakery mentioned a new blog about living well with your dog by your side — I couldn’t say no! I already adore their treats (especially their long shelf-life — a lifesaver when your pup has allergies), so it felt like the perfect match.

A Birthday Escape Worth Barking About

To celebrate Hank’s first birthday, we booked a weekend at Blackthorn Retreat — a stunning dog-friendly hideaway in Starston, Norfolk. I stumbled across it on Airbnb last year and instantly saved it. Picture this: a cosy Shepherd’s hut in the middle of a fully enclosed meadow, wood-fired hot tub, pizza oven, and dog-friendly touches in every corner.

It was a dog mum’s dream.
As soon as we pulled in on a sunny Friday afternoon, I knew it was going to be special.

The Welcome: Thoughtful, Personal, Pawfect

We were greeted with a handmade birthday card and banner for Hank — such a heartfelt surprise. Inside the hut was a welcome hamper with fresh bread, homemade brownies (already gone before I could grab a photo), croissants, jam, snacks, juice, and even hot chocolate. There was a ramp for small dogs (ignored by Hank, of course), plus thoughtful touches like eco soaps and vegan shampoo.

Hank? Straight into his 1/3 acre field like a rocket.

We barely used the lead all weekend, and that freedom alone was priceless — especially for a reactive or recall-challenged dog.

Why We Loved It (and Why You Might Too)

Here’s what really stood out:

Truly secure outdoor space – we double-checked the perimeter and felt 100% confident letting Hank off-lead

Eco-friendly everything – from compostable teabags to bamboo loo roll and chemical-free spa water

Amazing outdoor features – hot tub, pizza oven, firepit, and a sheltered dining hut

Genuine dog-centred hospitality – you could feel the love and understanding in every detail

It felt like home, but better — slower, calmer, and dog-first.

How We Travel Dog-Friendly (And What We Pack!)

Planning a weekend with your dog? Here’s what we found helpful:

Lots of treats – ideally familiar ones so no upset tums!

Check the recall situation — enclosed fields are game-changers and means you can truly switch off and relax

Look for real dog-first extras — not just “dogs allowed” but “dogs welcomed”, it makes all the difference

Don’t overpack toys — new spaces are the best enrichment

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly, eco-conscious escape in the UK, we couldn’t recommend Blackthorn Retreat more. We’ve already got our eyes on a return visit — and I think Hank would happily live there full-time!

Here’s a snap of him after playing all day — living his absolute best birthday life.

There is so many of these wonderful places to visit with your dog, don’t hesitate and get it booked, the memories you will make will last far beyond the holiday!

Here is the link to our fab accommodation! Please note I, nor Life Of Riley Bakery have no affiliation to this property.