I recently grabbed my dog Buck to search for the truth when it comes to dog friendliness on the Biltmore Estate. We knew that dogs were welcome on the grounds. So we assumed we’d be walking down some trails, wandering through some gardens, and we’d make it home. ON THE CONTRARY… We were allowed to walk everywhere and we all had a great time.
I always park at the Arboretum and then walk up the stairs to the estate. I love this landscaped area that leads to my favorite lookout from where I see our beloved blue hills. It’s right above the wisteria that leads to the house. Dogs are not allowed inside the house much to the annoyance of my dog. He reminded me that since the Biltmore had been home to St. Bernards, Russian Wolfdogs, and Sheepdogs, he was sure the pets of the past wouldn’t mind. Eventually he understood that we all must do our part to preserve such a relic. And risky would be to allow pets within the walls of the famous house.
As we frolicked in the front garden we ran into some traveling pooches, a lovely cocker spaniel and two mini dachshunds. With a bit of a scramble and tangling of leashes, introductions were made and the consensus of the dogs was that they were having a wonderful day. So we keep jogging. After a wonderful walk around the grounds and a stop at Bass Pond, we jumped in the car and headed to Cedric’s, the pub in Antler Village named after the infamous Vanderbilt dog. We were looking forward to having lunch at the Biltmore’s dog friendly restaurant and of course it was outdoors. The staff were lovely and treated Buck with genuine Biltmore hospitality.
We were anxious to find out everything we could about Cedric. It appears that George Vanderbilt’s trusty Saint Bernard was the first pet at the Biltmore. No one is sure how George came to own Cedric, but they do know that he brought him to Biltmore from Pointe d’Acadie, his summer home in Bar Harbor, Maine, sometime around Biltmore House’s opening in 1895. They went on to state the obvious and that life was good for a Vanderbilt pet. Not only did Cedric have free reign of at least the first floor of Biltmore House, which he often spent lounging in the library or billiard room or sunbathing in the Lodge, but he also frequently accompanied his master and other members of the family on excursions throughout its vast territory. estate.
With our bellies full, we headed to Biltmore Farm, which was just a hop, skip and a hop. The staff assistant couldn’t have been nicer encouraging us to take fun photos of our beloved Buckaroo wearing an old car and straw hats as props. We end our day with a ride (trying to burn off our delicious fish and chips) around the bike trail overlooking the Swannanoa River.
If you choose to receive at the house the same day as your visit to the grounds, please note that there are some kennels. You must ask the doormen upon entering and they will direct you to them. You are the lock and key master if you are lucky enough to get an empty kennel. Pets must be on a leash at all times for the safety and comfort of all guests. Dogs are not allowed in the main house, but we were welcomed in several of the other buildings. Of course, we ask permission and behave as best we can.
The Biltmore is a must see and is really more fun with your dog in tow.