Clarks Village in Street has been crowned the UK’s most dog-friendly shopping centre, winning the prestigious Dog-Friendly Shopping Centre Award at the DogFriendly Awards 2024.
The Somerset outlet, known for its outdoor spaces and welcoming atmosphere, took the top spot after receiving a five-paw rating from the public and securing the award at a ceremony at the Kennel Club’s Head Office in London.
The DogFriendly Awards celebrate businesses and venues that go above and beyond for the UK’s 12.5 million dogs and their owners. Clarks Village earned high praise for its spacious walkways, green landscaped gardens, and pet-friendly facilities, making it a perfect destination for a day out with four-legged friends.
Many of the outlet’s shops and eateries, including Barbour, French Connection, and Rituals, welcome well-behaved dogs, while dining options like Caffe Nero, Costa, and Wagamama allow dogs in their outdoor areas. The soon-to-open Bill’s restaurant will even feature a special doggie menu.
Adding to the appeal is Clarks Village’s own canine ambassador, Dudley, a three-legged Hungarian Vizsla who holds the title of Canine Executive Officer. Dudley won his role during the outlet’s 2024 dog-friendly Pawsome Pooch event, where he was chosen by public vote after a professional pup photo shoot and competition.
Dudley’s owner, Kareen Higgins, praised the shopping centre, saying: “Clarks Village deserves this recognition. It should stand as a blueprint for how to safely welcome all members of the family, including the four (and three) legged ones. Dudley would like all his furry friends to bring their hoomans along to enjoy the bargains, great food, and Puppachinos.”
Chris Davis, Centre Director of Clarks Village, expressed his delight at the award: “We’re incredibly proud to have won the UK’s Dog-Friendly Shopping Centre Award. It’s even more special that the award was voted for by the public. We’d like to thank guests for their support and know they’ll continue to enjoy visiting Clarks Village with their dogs as much as we enjoy having them.”