✅ How to book your XL Escape

All bookings for Hawthorn Boarding Kennels are managed directly through their own system. For up-to-date prices, availability, and booking details, please head straight to 👉 https://www.hawthornkennels.co.uk and select “Make a Booking” to submit your details. They’ll email an acknowledgement and then contact you to take the non-refundable deposit to secure your booking.

Kim & Chris Ewen

We are SO excited to welcome you to our home! As the founders of XL Escapes, we pour our hearts into creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories.

With two rescue dogs—Holly from Bosnia and Buddy from All Bullie Rescue—and Nala, our beautiful ginger cat (and undisputed Queen of the house), we understand how important it is to feel not just at home, but truly content and relaxed—especially when traveling with your furry companions.

Our goal is to offer more than just a holiday; we want to provide a home away from home where you can escape daily pressures, have a laugh, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a cosy night in, exploring the local area, or simply making time for yourself, we’re here to make your stay special.

If you have any requests—big or small—just let us know. We’re always happy to help (and we love an excuse to bring a smile to your face, drink in hand, of course!).

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change, and we’ve designed our cancellation policy to be as fair and transparent as possible.

If You Need to Cancel

More than 5 weeks before arrival: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit.
5 weeks or less before arrival:
- 5 weeks or less: 30% of the booking is charged.
- 4 weeks or less: 40% of the booking is charged.
- 3 weeks or less: 60% of the booking is charged.
- 2 weeks or less: 85% of the booking is charged.
- 1 week or less: 100% of the booking is charged.

How Refunds Work

If you’re entitled to a refund, it will be processed promptly and returned via the same method of payment.

Need Assistance?

If you have any concerns or extenuating circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and will always try to find a solution that works for you.

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Payment Details
At XL Escapes, we strive to make the booking process as straightforward and secure as possible. Here’s how it works:
Deposits

A 20% deposit is required within 7 days of booking to secure your stay.

XL Escapes Booking Fee

We charge a small 5% booking fee, which is significantly lower than other major platforms.

Remaining Balance

The remaining balance, including any refundable breakage deposit (if applicable), must be paid 4 weeks before your check-in date.

Secure Payments with Stripe
All payments are processed through Stripe Connect, a trusted and secure platform. Your funds are safely held with Stripe until after your check-out date. This extra layer of protection ensures peace of mind for both guests and hosts. Your payment details are always handled securely, so you can book with confidence.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in: 4 PM
Check-out: 10 AM
We can’t guarantee early check-ins or late check-outs, but our housekeeping team will update us on their progress. If the property is ready early, you can let yourself in. Similarly, if no one is arriving immediately after, a later check-out might be possible—just message us on the day to check availability.

Pets

Dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome. 🐾
The garden is fully enclosed to keep your furry friends safe.

Hot Tub

The hot tub is for your exclusive use. It will be freshly cleaned and ready when you arrive. Please follow the usage guidelines provided in the welcome book to ensure it remains in top condition.

Parking

Parking is strictly on the driveway only.
Do not park on the grass or the private road, which is also used by neighbours.

Gatherings and Events

Small, private gatherings are welcome, but parties are not allowed.
Be respectful of the property and neighbours during your stay.

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What’s included in the booking?

We provide:

Fresh bedding and towels
Tea, coffee, sugar, sweetener, and coffee pods
A raw doggy hamper (treat your furry friends!) 🐾
Dog-friendly essentials like bowls, poo bags, and towels
A welcome hamper to make you feel right at home
Access to the luxury hot tub

What amenities are nearby?

Owl and Otter Gastro Pub and Restaurant: A 10-minute walk away. Dog-friendly with great food, cocktails, and a beer garden boasting stunning views of the Derwentside Valley.
Boutique cafes: Two charming cafes just a short walk from The Chase.
Local shops: Two within walking distance and larger supermarkets only a 10-minute drive away.

What are some recommended activities nearby?

Beamish Open-Air Museum: A dog-friendly, fantastic day out for all ages. Explore history, meet animals, and enjoy a unique experience.
More local attractions: Ask us for our Local Recommendations Guide before booking to discover even more options in the area.

Can I book The Chase for special events?

Yes! If you’re planning a small celebration or gathering, let us know so we can help accommodate your plans. Please note that large parties are not allowed.

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Meet Your Hosts

The team at Hawthorn are experienced animal lovers who have dedicated years to caring for dogs and cats. Many have worked with animals for over five years and have their own pets at home. They’re proud of their long-standing reputation, glowing reviews, industry awards, and the trust local owners place in them. Their focus is always on welfare, enrichment, and making every stay as happy and stress-free as possible.

XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise

Cancellation Policy

Home Rules & Useful Information

Hawthorn Boarding Kennels – 5* Boarding with Fields, Fun & Nature Walks

⚲ Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear

Boarding kennels & cattery · Overnight & day boarding for dogs · 2-acre private field · Secure agility compound & all-weather dog run · 2 walks per day included · Heated kennels & cat rooms · Grooming wash & blow dry · All breeds welcomed · XL Bully friendly · 5⭐ licensed & award-winning

Hawthorn Boarding Kennels offers award-winning boarding and day care for dogs (and cats too) just behind Newcastle Airport. With heated kennels, a huge private field, secure agility areas, and walks in the nearby nature reserve, it’s a brilliant choice for active dogs, XL Bullies, seniors, and cuddly couch potatoes alike – all cared for by a dedicated, experienced team.

Book Now

Full Property Description:

Conveniently tucked away behind Newcastle Airport on Coach Lane, Hawthorn Boarding Kennels & Cattery has been caring for pets for years and has built a reputation they’re genuinely proud of. With a 5⭐ licence, Pet Industry Federation Award finalist status across multiple years, and “Top 3 Boarding Kennels in Newcastle” every year since 2020, owners can feel confident their pets are in safe, knowledgeable hands. Dogs stay in heated kennels, each with an enclosed sleeping area and covered outdoor run, so they can stay snug while still enjoying fresh air. Prices include food (non-prescribed), heating, treats, bedding, insurance against illness or injury while in their care*, daily health checks, and two walks per day. If your dog loves making friends, there are group play sessions; if they’re happier one-to-one, staff provide quieter walks and tailored attention. Cats enjoy modern indoor rooms with heating and enrichment, keeping them relaxed and entertained during their stay. For exercise, Hawthorn has a 2-acre enclosed field, a secure compound with agility equipment, and a new all-weather dog run (around 200m²). They’re also directly opposite Havannah Nature Reserve, so there’s plenty of variety for walks. Dogs can run, explore, and enjoy tunnels, jumps, hoops, weave poles, and lots of ball games and toy time. Day boarding is available Monday–Friday with set drop-off and pick-up times, giving dogs a fun “day out” with walks, social play (if suitable), and lots of fuss while owners work. There’s also a dog wash room, so you can book a wash and blow dry for your dog before collection, plus a small range of toys and treats to take home as a thank-you-for-staying gift. The team at Hawthorn are caring, loyal, and experienced – most have worked with animals for at least five years and have pets of their own. With 24-hour CCTV and the owners living on site, pets are supervised and cared for around the clock. (See their own website for full insurance terms.)

Full Property Description:

Conveniently tucked away behind Newcastle Airport on Coach Lane, Hawthorn Boarding Kennels & Cattery has been caring for pets for years and has built a reputation they’re genuinely proud of. With a 5⭐ licence, Pet Industry Federation Award finalist status across multiple years, and “Top 3 Boarding Kennels in Newcastle” every year since 2020, owners can feel confident their pets are in safe, knowledgeable hands. Dogs stay in heated kennels, each with an enclosed sleeping area and covered outdoor run, so they can stay snug while still enjoying fresh air. Prices include food (non-prescribed), heating, treats, bedding, insurance against illness or injury while in their care*, daily health checks, and two walks per day. If your dog loves making friends, there are group play sessions; if they’re happier one-to-one, staff provide quieter walks and tailored attention. Cats enjoy modern indoor rooms with heating and enrichment, keeping them relaxed and entertained during their stay. For exercise, Hawthorn has a 2-acre enclosed field, a secure compound with agility equipment, and a new all-weather dog run (around 200m²). They’re also directly opposite Havannah Nature Reserve, so there’s plenty of variety for walks. Dogs can run, explore, and enjoy tunnels, jumps, hoops, weave poles, and lots of ball games and toy time. Day boarding is available Monday–Friday with set drop-off and pick-up times, giving dogs a fun “day out” with walks, social play (if suitable), and lots of fuss while owners work. There’s also a dog wash room, so you can book a wash and blow dry for your dog before collection, plus a small range of toys and treats to take home as a thank-you-for-staying gift. The team at Hawthorn are caring, loyal, and experienced – most have worked with animals for at least five years and have pets of their own. With 24-hour CCTV and the owners living on site, pets are supervised and cared for around the clock. (See their own website for full insurance terms.)

Paw of Approval

Photos from real stays, with dogs who gave it their paw of approval.

Got a question about this holiday home?

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Amenities:

Dog-Friendly Details That Matter

- They welcome all breeds of dogs, including XL Bullies and reactive dogs. - Heated kennels with covered outdoor runs - 2 walks per day included for all boarding dogs - 2-acre private field, secure agility compound & all-weather dog run - Walks and play in the Havannah Nature Reserve (where suitable) - Overnight boarding available all year round -Day boarding for dogs (Mon–Fri) - Food, treats, bedding, heating, insurance & daily health checks included in the price - Can administer medication (some types may carry an additional charge) - Boarding also available for cats in renovated, temperature-controlled indoor rooms ⭐ Important Information for XL Bully Owners Hawthorn Boarding Kennels does accept XL Bully dogs for overnight boarding (not day boarding), under clear rules based on current UK legislation and their insurance requirements. In summary: - Only overnight boarding is available for XL Bully–type dogs (no day boarding) - Dogs must meet all legal requirements, including: - DEFRA Certificate of Exemption - Third-party public liability insurance - Dog neutered, microchipped, and kept in a secure place to prevent escape - Always on-lead and muzzled in public, including on business premises - Handled by a responsible person aged 16+ - Muzzles may be removed and leads taken off only in secure, controlled areas (such as their secure compound or dog run) when no other dogs are present and the premises are closed to the public - XL Bullies must be kennelled and exercised separately from non-XL dogs, even from the same household Owners are encouraged to contact Hawthorn directly to discuss their dog and to confirm the latest requirements before booking.

Neighbourhood Overview:

Hawthorn Boarding Kennels is set just behind Newcastle Airport on Coach Lane, making it easy to drop pets off before trips away. With a 2-acre enclosed field, secure exercise areas, and the Havannah Nature Reserve right across the road, dogs enjoy a mix of safe off-lead spaces and scenic walks, all without having to travel far from the city.