This week we are headed to dog friendly Dalston and Hackney for the next My Dog Friendly London – London by London Dogs feature with the very lovely Lyra the Malinois.
Please introduce yourself:
I’m Lyra (aka The Lovely Lyra on Insta), I’m about 3 years old (mum thinks) and I live in Dalston, East London.
What’s your favourite London Park and why?
Walthamstow Marshes (behind Lea Valley Ice Rink), because the wild meadows, woods and marshes are fun to explore and there is so much space to run around and meet dogs of all shapes and sizes. There are big furry cows to watch in summer, and plenty of splashy mud in winter.
My squirrel and football obsession means this is a better bet than the adjoining Hackney Marshes.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m a lively Battersea rescue dog, and my human says my training is an ongoing project but what she doesn’t realise is that it’s me teaching the humans. Let’s just say I know exactly what I want AND how to get it.
Even though I didn’t have the best start in life, nothing phases me and I love all dogs and people alike (my best friend George is a chihuahua).
My Dog Friendly London by Lyra | Dog Friendly Dalston and Hackney Tip #1
Name: Allpress Roastery & Cafe
Address: 55 Dalston Ln, London E8 2NG | Website
Why do you like the Allpress Roastery & Cafe / what makes it special as a dog friendly venue?
Not to mention that the human says the coffee here is off-the-chart amazing, this beautifully designed cafe and outdoor space is fully dog friendly throughout. I try to wait patiently for remains of soft-boiled egg and buttery sourdough soldiers to fall my way whilst enjoying a lounge on the ultra-smooth cool wooden floor (or on the seats).
Any top tips for the venue?
They roast the coffee here and it always smells fabulous. And there’s more seating in the front garden with different textures to walk on and flower beds to check out.
My Dog Friendly London by Lyra | Dog Friendly Dalston and Hackney Tip #2
Name: Dalston Eastern Curve Garden
Address: 13 Dalston Ln, London E8 3DF | Website
Why do you like the Dalston Eastern Curve Garden / what makes it special as a dog friendly venue?
From the famous Hackney Peace Mural outside, to the leafy oasis of beautiful trees, artwork and jumbles of nature friendly planting that you’ll find inside the gates, there is lots here for humans and dogs alike.
I love it because there are so many things to smell and explore. Main draws for humans are the beautiful surroundings, craft beer, natural ice lollies (I really like these too) and pizza cooked in a wood-fired clay oven, all enjoyed al fresco. For cold wet days there’s a covered area and a heated greenhouse to sit in.
Any top tips for the venue?
The garden is totally enclosed and us dogs can be off-lead providing they are under control and it’s not too busy.
About 11am, soon after opening, is the quietest time, and if your dog isn’t into free-range little humans, come in the evenings where it’s mainly big humans.
You can bring your own food and don’t have to buy anything, but please do, as all profits are put straight back in to this volunteer-run community garden. And watch out for the regular art and music events too.
My Dog Friendly London by Lyra | Dog Friendly Dalston and Hackney Tip #3
Name: The White Heart, Stoke Newington
Address: 69 Stoke Newington High St, Stoke Newington, London N16 8EL | Website
Why do you like The White Heart / what makes it special as a dog friendly venue?
This traditional boozer with its grassy and fully enclosed back garden is perfect for dogs as there is lots of space to spread out, free dog treats and a hecking good welcome from the friendly staff.
Pubs with quality outdoor space are increasingly rare in this part of London and that’s what gets this pub a big woof of approval from me.
Any top tips for the venue?
My Dog Friendly London by Lyra | Dog Friendly Dalston and Hackney Tip #4
Name: Beaucatcher Hair Salon
Address: 44 Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington, London N16 0LU | Website
Why do you like Beaucatcher’s / what makes it special as a dog friendly venue?
Very much a groomer for humans, specialising in beautiful haircuts and creative colour that keeps hair healthy. My human nearly fell off her chair when she was casually told to bring her dog next time. And she was suitably impressed upon arrival that I was offered a drink before her when she did.
Any top tips for the venue?
My top tip would be to start with a lovely walk in nearby Abney Park Cemetery or Clissold Park, and bring whatever your dog needs to stay happy and relaxed while you have your cut otherwise Beaucatcher’s may need to restock on combs.
Thank you Lyra for sharing your top tips in your My Dog Friendly London by Lyra guide to dog friendly Dalston and Hackney. We loved your choice of dog friendly London places and now we know where we can get a dog friendly haircut which is a bonus!
Keep up with what the very lovely Lyra gets up to on Insta (with occasional guest appearances by her best mate George the Chi).
Before You Go…
Catch up with the last episode My Dog Friendly London by Amber the Cav in case you missed it.
Give us a bark (or get your human to send an email) if you would like to feature in a future My Dog Friendly London mini-guide!
