What’s the best dog-friendly beach in the UK? Well, some beaches are perfect for swimming, others for digging, and some for long walks along the shore. So, we’ve gathered some of our favourites to help you choose.
Keep in mind that many beaches have local restrictions. Some beaches don’t allow dogs at all, some have seasonal restrictions - usually between April - September when the beaches tend to be the busiest, and some ask that dogs remain on the lead.
WALES
- Rhossili Bay, Swansea - A stunning, dog-friendly beach with wide expanses of sand, perfect for dogs to roam free and splash in the waves. It’s a National Trust site, so you’ll also enjoy some breathtaking views. Seasonal restrictions may apply in certain areas during summer months.
- Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire - A dramatic, rugged beach with powerful waves, making it an excellent spot for adventurous dogs who love the surf. It’s also a great place to explore coastal wildlife. Check for lead-only restrictions during peak times.
- Conwy Morfa Beach, Flintshire - A vast beach with stunning views of Conwy Castle, perfect for dogs to enjoy long walks along the shore. Its quiet location makes it a great spot for those seeking some peace away from the crowds. Some areas may have seasonal restrictions.
- Broad Haven South, Pembrokeshire - A quieter, secluded beach surrounded by cliffs and dunes, ideal for dogs to play in the sand and enjoy a calm day by the sea. Dogs may be required to be on a lead in busy months.
SCOTLAND
- Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris - A remote and tranquil beach in the Outer Hebrides, known for its crystal-clear waters and wide sandy stretches. Dogs can run freely here, with minimal crowds to disturb their play. No significant restrictions, making it ideal for dogs year-round.
- Lunan Bay, Angus - A picturesque spot with sweeping sands and rocky outcrops where dogs can enjoy a good run. It’s also home to a variety of birdlife. Seasonal restrictions may apply during peak summer.
- Seacliff Beach, East Lothian - Nestled near the cliffs of East Lothian, this beach offers dogs the perfect spot to explore the shoreline and chase the waves. With its stunning views of Tantallon Castle, it’s a beautiful place for both dogs and their owners. Check local rules for seasonal restrictions.
- Portobello, Edinburgh - A long, popular stretch of beach just outside Edinburgh, ideal for dogs who enjoy a bustling environment. It’s a lively spot with cafes and restaurants nearby, perfect for a day out with your dog. Dogs must be on a lead during busy summer months.
- Ceannabeinne Beach, Sutherland - A quiet, remote beach with breathtaking views of the Highlands, where dogs can explore to their heart’s content. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some tranquility. No significant restrictions, perfect for year-round visits.
NORTHERN IRELAND
- Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry – A vast sandy beach backed by dunes, great for off-lead adventures. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead from May to September in certain areas.
- Murlough Beach, County Down – A long stretch of golden sand with views of the Mourne Mountains. Dogs are allowed, but there are seasonal restrictions from May to September.
- Benone Beach, County Londonderry – One of the longest beaches in Northern Ireland, perfect for long walks. Dogs are welcome, but some areas may have seasonal lead rules between May and September.
- Cushendun Beach, County Antrim – A tranquil beach perfect for dogs who enjoy peaceful walks by the water. Dogs are allowed off-lead throughout the year.
- Cregagh Bay, County Antrim – A quiet, secluded beach known for its clear waters and dog-friendly atmosphere. Dogs are allowed, but some areas may require them to be kept on a lead during busy months.
- Cranfield Beach, County Down – A sandy beach with beautiful views of the Mourne Mountains and plenty of space for dogs to roam. Dogs are allowed, but there may be seasonal restrictions during peak tourist months.
ENGLAND
WEST
- Woolacombe Beach, Devon - A wide, golden-sand beach where dogs can enjoy long walks along the coast, with plenty of space to roam. Seasonal restrictions on some parts of the beach during the summer.
- Saunton Sands, Devon - Known for its expansive sands, Saunton Sands is perfect for dogs that love to run, chase waves, and dig in the sand. It’s a quiet spot during off-peak months, making it ideal for peaceful walks with your dog. Dogs may be restricted to certain areas in the summer.
- Perranporth Beach, Cornwall - A dog paradise with plenty of room for dogs to run, surf, and explore. The beach is known for its dog-friendly environment, and it’s a great place for social dogs to meet others. Seasonal restrictions may apply during peak months.
NORTH
- Bamburgh Castle Beach, Northumberland - This stunning beach offers dogs a chance to explore vast stretches of sand with a view of the historic Bamburgh Castle. It’s a beautiful location for both active dogs and those who prefer a quieter day. Some areas may have seasonal restrictions during peak summer months.
- St Bees Beach, Cumbria - A charming, quiet beach with dramatic cliffs that provides a perfect spot for dogs to enjoy the sea breeze and explore the pebbled shore. Check for seasonal restrictions during peak tourist season.
- Filey Beach, North Yorkshire - A peaceful, family-friendly beach with plenty of room for dogs to explore. It’s known for its clean sands and quiet atmosphere, making it a perfect place for dogs who enjoy a more relaxed environment. Seasonal restrictions may apply.
EAST
- Holkham Beach, Norfolk - This wide, open beach offers dogs ample space to roam free, with scenic sand dunes and a peaceful atmosphere. With a 10km circular walk back through the woodland overlooking the beach. Dogs are allowed off-lead year-round, but check for restrictions during busy tourist months.
- Brancaster Beach, Norfolk - A quiet, dog-friendly beach where dogs can enjoy the sand and sea. It’s an ideal location for a day of exploration along the coastline. Dogs may need to be on a lead during the summer months.
- Old Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk - A tranquil beach that’s perfect for a quiet day out with your dog, offering plenty of space for them to roam and play. Check for seasonal restrictions during peak months.
SOUTH
- West Wittering Beach, West Sussex - A spacious, dog-friendly beach with plenty of space for dogs to run, paddle, and meet other dogs. Its open space makes it a great option for active dogs. Some areas may have seasonal restrictions during summer months.
- Lepe Beach, Hampshire - A peaceful, dog-friendly spot where dogs can enjoy walks along the coastline, with beautiful views across the Solent. It’s a great choice for dogs that enjoy a bit of quiet time by the sea. Some seasonal restrictions during peak times.
- Saunton Sands, Devon - Another great spot for dogs to enjoy the sand and sea, Saunton Sands is known for its relaxed vibe and welcoming atmosphere for dogs. Check for lead-only restrictions during busy periods.
- Dungeness Beach, Kent - A unique and remote beach where dogs can explore an unusual landscape of shingle and sand. It’s a great place for dogs to enjoy a quiet walk away from crowds. Check for seasonal restrictions.
- Man O’War Beach, Dorset - A stunning, quiet beach with clear waters, perfect for dogs to swim, run, and explore the stunning surroundings. Some areas may have seasonal restrictions during peak times.
