The Cardinal's Hat Inn & Hotel

The Cardinal's Hat is Worcester's oldest inn, sitting in the historic heart of Friar Street with the kind of old-building character that feels genuinely earned rather than designed. Dogs are welcome inside, so nobody needs to do the pavement shuffle while someone else nurses a pint by the fire.

The pub serves real ales, craft beers, ciders and freshly-prepared bar snacks, with wood burners, a covered courtyard and a relaxed atmosphere that suits a slower afternoon. Opening hours run from 4pm Monday and Tuesday, noon from Wednesday to Sunday, with later closing on Fridays and Saturdays. Six boutique Georgian rooms are available for those who want to stay over and explore the city properly.

A strong choice for crackling-fire energy and a dog that fully intends to treat the place like its local. The covered courtyard adds useful wet-weather flexibility when paws need a moment outside without getting completely soaked.