Meet Woof About: Championing Dog-Friendly London One Paw at a Time
In a city of eight million people, sometimes it takes a wagging tail to bring strangers together and to give them the confidence to talk to each other. If you and your canine companion call London home, you've likely found yourself Googling "dog-friendly London" more times than you can count. But there's one local platform that goes beyond mere lists of pubs and parks: Woof About, a vibrant celebration of London's dog-loving scene, led by the unstoppable Gaynor Jackson.
From tail-wagging pop-up events to championing the small businesses that make London a dog-friendly paradise, Woof About has become the go-to hub for dogs and their humans. But what's the story behind this growing community, and what makes Woof About so special? As someone who has known Gaynor for years (through Theo, long before I started my photography business), let me tell you more.
Photo taken by me. Featuring Archie & Nacho at Chelsea Dog Day.
Pubs, Cafés, and Restaurants That Welcome pups
From trendy cafés in Hackney to cosy pubs in Clapham, London's hospitality scene has gone to the dogs, and I mean that in the best possible way. More venues than ever are rolling out water bowls, dedicated doggy menus, and treats at the bar, recognizing that a dog-friendly policy often means loyal human customers too.
This is where Woof About truly shines. While the city hosts everything from dog-friendly markets to themed brunches, Woof About's events add a personal touch, giving dogs and their owners meaningful opportunities to get out, mingle, and celebrate being part of the capital's vibrant dog scene.
Meet Gaynor Jackson: The Woman Behind Woof About
Every brilliant community starts with someone who loves what they do — Gaynor Jackson embodies this perfectly.
Gaynor's journey wasn't mapped out with a business plan or investor pitch. It started with something much simpler: her beloved dog, Archie.
"People were generally friendlier when I had him with me — even people on the Tube would smile!" she recalls. Realizing there were probably thousands of other dog owners looking to connect, Gaynor hosted her very first Woof About event in January 2019. She hasn’t stopped since!
Why She Launched Woof About to Celebrate Dog-Friendly London
Gaynor saw the potential for a real community hub for dog lovers. Not just another directory or listing site. Woof About became her platform to spotlight the venues, brands, and fellow dog owners that make London uniquely welcoming to our four-legged best friends.
How Woof About Puts Local Businesses and Events in the Spotlight
From independent treat brands to dog-friendly pubs tucked away on side streets, Woof About focuses on showcasing quality small businesses that genuinely love dogs. While also making it easier for owners to discover those hidden gems that might otherwise remain undiscovered. Whether you're new to the city, just brought home a new puppy or a seasoned dog parent, Woof About offers all the inside scoop you need to find special places to have fun together.
Woof About specializes in uncovering places you might never expect to welcome dogs. From boutique flower markets to chic restaurants where dogs are treated like VIP guests. These aren't just places that "tolerate" dogs; they're venues that celebrate and welcome them.
Photo taken by me at a Woof About event.
Tips for Exploring London with Your Dog
Want to navigate London like a pro dog owner? Gaynor's top advice is refreshingly simple: ask.
“I wish they knew just how many places love dogs - sometimes you just have to be brave and ask and you might be surprised that some of the fanciest places will welcome you and your pooch.”
Inside Woof About's Tail-Wagging Events
At its heart, Woof About is about connection. Whether it's sharing heartwarming stories from owners who've made lifelong friends at events, or collaborating with local brands to make each event extra special, community always comes first in Gaynor's vision.
The real magic of Woof About comes to life at its special events. Where dogs and humans mingle, shop, snack, and play in some of London's most interesting venues.
Every event is carefully curated, blending fabulous locations, and handpicked brands, to ensure both dogs and owners have the best possible experience. From Halloween "pawties" to summer socials, these gatherings have become the ultimate pup-friendly day out in London's social calendar.
It's not just about fun days out. These events build lasting friendships and inspire others. "When I hear someone say they made friends for life thanks to our events, that's when I know we've done something really special," says Gaynor with pride.
My relationship with Gaynor & Woof About
I first met Gaynor seven years ago, at a Christmas party for dogs. It was my first year with Theo, my MinPin, and the party was just down the road from me in Clapham Junction.
After being introduced, two things struck me about Gaynor: she was very funny, and she loved her dogs more than anything.
Since then, we have remained good friends throughout my own journey creating my pet photography business.
Gaynor has introduced me to countless opportunities and allowed me to photograph her events playing “puparazzi” (my take on event documentary-style photography) as well as creating collaborations within some of London’s most prestigious dog-friendly venues, such as Giorgio Armani, for my studio photography pop-up taster sessions.
I am thankful to call her a friend and forever grateful for her support.
Q&A with Gaynor Jackson: The Heart Behind Woof About
To truly capture what makes Woof About tick, I went straight to the source and asked her to fill you in herself:
London is full of dog lovers — what makes its dog community so special to you?
I love it for the same reason I love living in London - the diversity! You will find every breed and owners from all walks of life.
What's been your proudest moment since launching Woof About?
“When I hear someone say they made friends for life thanks to our events.”
Hosting dog-friendly events in London is no small task — what’s been the most unexpected challenge?
The logistics can be a nightmare in London - our vendors getting access to the site and parking are always a challenge.
What’s the funniest or most heartwarming moment you’ve experienced at a Woof About event?
“The sheer amount of love I received when we lost Archie was the most heartwarming. When it comes to funny, I am a sucker for a mischievous dog so any food stealing will always make me laugh.”
How do you choose venues and brands to collaborate with?
“Venues have to be spacious with places for humans to eat and drink, they have to have natural footfall. When it comes to brands, we carefully select brands based on their quality of product and we try to vary what is on offer for event attendees.”
If you could plan your absolute dream Woof About event, what would it look like?
“I'd love to take over a London hotel for the day. Where dogs and humans can dine, enjoy a spa treatment and spend the night.”
What's next for Woof About?
”We are introducing a new event to the calendar in April in Chiswick which is a collab with Chiswick Flower Market. The Big Woof and Chelsea Dog Day are also confirmed for 2025.”
Following Woof About for Insider Tips & Upcoming Events
Want to be first in line for the next big dog party? Make sure you follow @woofaboutuk on Instagram and keep an eye on the website for all the latest updates on venues, events, and dog-friendly tips.
London's dog community isn't just friendly — it's connected. And at the heart of it all, you'll find Gaynor and Woof About, proving that life with dogs is better when you've got a pack to share it with.
Whether you're looking for your next dog-friendly brunch spot or want to join a fabulous community event, Woof About has become the definitive guide to all things dog-friendly in London.
👉 Explore more at woofabout.uk
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