In the UK, we’re lucky to be (literally) surrounded by amazing coastline and loads of beaches, which are fun for us and our canine pals.
Now unfortunately, not every beach is dog friendly, so before you go anywhere make sure you’ve researched the area first to make sure there are no restrictions in place. To make your work a bit easier, we’ve listed out our 10 favourites from around the country.
Before we get started, don’t forget to read our article on beach safety and remember to take lots of poo bags wherever you go and always clean up after your pooch.
1. Par Sands
Where? St Austell, Cornwall
Par Sands is a lovely sandy beach surrounded by sand dunes and even has a little lake/pond! It’s ideal for playing and walking with your dog and having a paddle in the sea. If you do go walking away from the beach, you might want to keep your dog on the lead in case of wildlife.
Any restrictions? No restrictions – it’s dog friendly all year round!
2. Woolacombe
Where? Devon
Woolacombe is a large beach on the north coast of Devon. It’s a popular beach for families and surfers, so do keep in mind it can get a little busy. Next to the beach is Woolacombe village, where there are lots of dog friendly places to eat and stay if you’re planning a getaway!
Any restrictions? Yes – the beach is split into three zones (there should be signs up to tell you exactly where these are). In zone A (from the north end of the beach to the stream) dogs are banned from Good Friday or April 1 (whichever is first) until the first Monday in November. In zone B (the stream to Mill Rock) dogs must be kept on the lead on these dates. South of Mill Rock, you can exercise your dog off the lead all year round.
3. Durdle Door
Where? West Lulworth, Dorset
You might recognise Durdle Door – after all, it is one of the most photographed landmarks in Dorset! It’s part of the Jurassic Coast, so not only is it great for scenic beach walkies but it’s also ideal for taking a picture or two. On a good day you can paddle in sea with your canine pal, too.
Any restrictions? No restrictions – dogs are welcome all year round!
4. Weston-super-Mare
Where? North Somerset
Weston-super-Mare is an iconic seaside town with an extensive beach. It makes for an ideal family day out with plenty to do even with your dog! Along with the beach, there are parks and loads of dog friendly places to eat. On a clear day, you can look out across the Bay to Wales.
Any restrictions? Dogs are not allowed on the area of the beach between the Grand Pier and Royal Sands from the start of May to the end of September, but are free to go on the rest of the beach.
5. Holkham
Where? Norfolk
Set near Hollkham National Nature Reserve, this beach is a beautiful stretch of unspoiled and sandy scenery perfect for a day out with your canine pal. Once you’ve had a walk and paddle along the shore, why not have a look around the nature reserve or take your dog to Holkham Hall for a wall around the grounds (remember to keep your dog on the lead in the nature reserve and the grounds of the hall).
Any restrictions? No restrictions – dogs are welcome all year round!
6. Bamburgh Beach
Where? Near Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland
Bamburgh is a long sandy beach near the castle. With the castle so close, it makes the perfect backdrop to photos (if your dog is a willing model, of course!). It’s the perfect place for long walks and a bit of paddling if you’re brave. Afterwards, you can take your dog for a walk around the castle grounds.
Any restrictions? No restrictions – dogs are welcome all year round!
7. St Bees
Where? Whitehaven, Cumbria
St Bees is a shingle and sand beach which is perfect at low tide for long walks. At the north end of the beach is St Bees Head, an RSPB nature reserve, where you can find England’s only cliff-nesting seabird colony (so great if you want to do a spot of bird watching).
Any restrictions? No restrictions – dogs are welcome all year round!
8. Monkstone Beach
Where? Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Between Tenby and Saundersfoot, Monkstone is a sandy beach perfect for a play and paddle with the dog. At low tide, you might even be able to go on a long walk from Monkstone to Saundersfoot along the shore. It’s also a great area for going on long walks with your dog along the clifftops.
Any restrictions? No restrictions – dogs are welcome all year round!
9. Lunan Bay
Where? Angus, Scotland
Lunan Bay is a beautiful beach backed by sand dunes. There’s lots to explore here including a cave and ruined castle (do be careful if you go exploring, though). The beach is also popular with surfers and horse riders. The area around the bay is ideal for long walks with your dog.
Any restrictions? No restrictions – dogs are welcome all year round!
10. Ballycastle Beach
Where? Ballycastle, Northern Ireland
Ballycastle is a sandy beach perfect for swimming and surfing. At the one end there is a promenade which is within walking distance of the town. For fans of Game of Thrones, you might even find some of the filming locations near the beach – keep an eye out!
Any restrictions? From 1 June – 15 September there are some restrictions, so keep an eye out for signs if you visit.
