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Discovering beautiful coastal spots where your furry friend can adventure freely is a joy for any dog owner. Whether you're seeking long stretches of sand for endless games of fetch or mystery coves for peaceful walks, you'll find a variety of options that will inspire you to book a beach break with your canine companion.
We have chosen our top ten dog friendly beaches in the UK and have listed them below:
- West Shore Beach – Llandudno
- Anstey’s Cove – Torquay
- Woolacombe – North Devon
- Freshwater West – Pembrokeshire
- Whitsand Bay – Cornwall
- Tenby South Beach – Tenby
- West Shore Beach – Llandudno
- Rhossili Bay – Swansea
- Camber Sands - East Sussex
- Perranporth Beach – Cornwall
West Shore Beach – Llandudno
Dog Friendly: Dog Restrictions from 1st May – 30th September
Postcode: LL30 2AG
West Shore Beach is located on the West coast of town by the Great Orme! If you love a walk with your pup this is the perfect place for a quiet stroll. The beach is a five-ten-minute walk to the town centre! Pop into our Llandudno store for some great Saltrock goodies and doggy treats.
There are parts of the beach from 1st May – 30th September that hold a dog ban, but there is plenty of space in the surrounding areas that are a perfect fit for your pooch. Outside the ban, your dog is allowed to roam freely!
Anstey’s Cove – Torquay
Dog Friendly: All year round
Postcode: TQ1 2JE
Anstey’s Cove sits between Torquay and Babbacombe beach and is a dog-friendly gem! Anstey’s cove is a shingle beach great for dogs as your furry friends can swim in the crystal-clear waters and take a walk with you on the coastal path leading up to Babbacombe Beach. The beach is great for dog lovers who enjoy fishing, swimming/bathing, rock pooling and even canoeing.
The beach also has a café and kayak hire to keep hunger at bay and the fun times going. It is important to note that the beach is not lifeguarded so check the Torquay tide times before visiting!
Woolacombe – North Devon
Dog Friendly: Zone B (dogs on leads) and Zone C (Dogs without leads) from May – October.
Postcode: EX34 7DN
A popular destination for van life enthusiasts and their pups! Woolacombe is a beautiful sandy beach 150 metres away from Putsborough Sands and is perfect to visit all year round for your dog! The beach is absolutely buzzing in summer months yet lovely and quiet in the off seasons perfect for dog walking.
This 3-mile stretch of beach is segmented into 3 zones for dogs, each with different rules: Zone A (no dogs), Zone B (dogs on leads), Zone C (Dogs without leads, allowing them to run for the ball or doggy paddle in the waves). Woolacombe beach is also lifeguarded in the busy periods making this beach safe for all the family.
Freshwater West – Pembrokeshire
Dog Friendly: All year round
Postcode: SA71 5HW
If you’re looking for a surfing trip with your furry friend, Freshwater West in the South of Wales is the perfect hotspot for surfers! Sitting at the front of a row of dunes, this is a sandy beach that’s ideal for dog-walking because there are absolutely no dog restrictions!
The beach is very famous as it has been featured in films such as Harry Potter and Robin Hood! The beach is even lifeguarded during summer months, so you really can relax and enjoy the swell.
H2: Whitsand Bay – Cornwall
Dog Friendly: All year round
Postcode: PL10 1JT
Whitsand Bay beach stretches over three miles from Rame Head to Portwrinkle and are regarded one of Cornwall's hidden jewels. With stunning clifftop views and miles of sand, this beach is the ideal destination for dog lovers and people who love nature.
Between July and August, certain areas of the beach require your dog to be on a leash. Outside of these months, your pooch can roam freely! There are also paw-friendly cafes and pubs, such as The Canteen at Maker Heights, which offers great outdoor seating, and the Devonport Inn, which even provides a dog menu!
Tenby South Beach – Tenby
Dog Friendly: Summer Restrictions
Postcode: SA70 7EG
South Beach is the most dog-friendly beach in Tenby. Tenby South Beach is a great vast space for dogs to do their zoomies! The beach is a mile and a half long allowing you to have a peaceful coastal walk with your furry friend.
During the summer, there are restrictions on some areas to the left of the beach. Your pooch can roam freely in other areas of the beach.
West Shore Beach – Llandudno
Dog Friendly: Dog Restrictions from 1st May – 30th September
Postcode: LL30 2AG
West Shore Beach is located on the West coast of town by the Great Orme! If you love a walk with your pup this is the perfect place for a quiet stroll. The beach is a five-ten-minute walk to the town centre! Pop into our Llandudno store for some great Saltrock goodies and doggy treats.
There are parts of the beach from 1st May – 30th September that hold a dog ban, but there is plenty of space in the surrounding areas that are a perfect fit for your pooch. Outside the ban, your dog is allowed to roam freely!
Rhossili Bay - Swansea
Dog friendly: All year round
Postcode: SA3 1PP
Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula in Swansea is a dream come true for dog lovers! This stunning beach, with its three miles of golden sand, is perfect for letting your furry friend run free and enjoy the seaside. Whether you're in the mood for a brisk stroll or a laid-back day on the sand, Rhossili Bay is the perfect place for some quality time with your pup.
Dogs are welcome all year round, so you can visit any time. The gorgeous coastal views and the iconic Worm's Head make for an amazing backdrop during your walks.
Camber Sands - East Sussex
Dog friendly: Designated areas in the summer months
Postcode: TN31 7RH
Camber Sands is renowned long sandy beach and rolling sand dunes. Located in East Sussex, this beach is a hit with dogs and their owners! The dunes provide excellent opportunities for exploration and play, making it a fun environment for dogs to explore.
Dogs are allowed on the beach all year, but there are designated zones where they need to be on a leash during the summer months.
Perranporth Beach - Cornwall
Dog friendly: Leash restrictions in the summer months
Postcode: TR6 0EY
Whether it's a game of fetch in the surf or a relaxing walk along the shoreline, Perranporth has it all. Perranporth Beach in Cornwall is a dog owner’s dream. This beach allows dogs all year round, though there are some leash restrictions during the peak summer months.
Perranporth offers miles of golden sand, rock pools, and even a dog-friendly pub, The Watering Hole, located right on the beach. We have just opened our new store in Perranporth! Come down and say hello to the team!
Can I Take My Dog to The Beach?
Absolutely! Taking your dog to the beach can be a wonderful experience for both you and your furry friend. Before heading out, it's essential to check local regulations and guidelines regarding dogs on the beach to ensure a hassle-free visit.
Many beaches have designated dog-friendly areas where your pet can roam and play freely. Additionally, consider the weather and time of day to ensure your dog stays comfortable and safe during your beach outing. With proper preparation and adherence to beach rules, you and your canine companion can enjoy a memorable day by the shore.
Tips for a Great Day Out with Your Dog
Check Local Regulations: Always check the specific dog policies for the beach you plan to visit, as restrictions can vary, especially during peak seasons.
Bring Essentials: Pack plenty of water, a bowl, and waste bags to keep your visit enjoyable and clean.
Safety First: Be aware of tide times and weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your dog.
Respect Wildlife: Many beaches are home to wildlife and nesting birds, so keep your dog under control to avoid disturbances.
What To Bring for Your Dog on the Beach
- Lead: Ensure you have a sturdy adjustable lead for the beaches that require your dog to be on a leash.
- Collar/Harness Use a well-fitted collar or harness to keep your dog under control when needed.
- Weather Protection: Keep your pup protected from the elements with kit such as a water resistant padded dog jacket.
- Towel or Blanket: Give your dog a comfortable place to rest by bringing a towel or blanket for them to relax on between play sessions.
- Poop Bags: Always clean up after your dog to keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone. Don't forget to pack plenty of poop bags!
- Toys: Bring along your dog's favourite toys for some beachside fun. Balls, frisbees, and floating toys are great choices for water-loving pups.
- First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries by packing a basic first aid kit for your dog. Include items like antiseptic wipes, bandages, and tweezers for removing ticks or splinters.
- Shade or Shelter: If you're spending an extended period on the beach, consider bringing a pop up beach tent or umbrella to provide shade for your dog to cool off in.
- Identification Tags: Ensure your dog has up-to-date identification tags with your contact information in case they wander off.
- Water Bottle: Essential to take a easy drinking dog water bottle with you to keep your pup hydrated.
Looking for more packing essentials? We have created The Ultimate Beach Family Packing List great for this summer!
Exploring these dog-friendly beaches in the UK is a fantastic way to spend quality time with your pet while enjoying some of the most beautiful coastal scenery the country has to offer. So, pack your bags, grab your leash, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!