Eddie PhilipsFinding the perfect dog-friendly beach in the UK can be time-consuming, especially with seasonal rules and varying council restrictions. This guide lists 50 of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK, complete with descriptions, travel notes, and tips.
Top Best 50 Dog Friendly Beaches In The UK
1. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Holkham Beach is one of the UK’s most iconic dog-friendly beaches, offering vast golden sands, shallow tidal pools, and a peaceful nature reserve setting. Ideal for dogs that love running freely, it provides endless space and beautiful scenery. The pine forest nearby adds shaded walking routes, making this destination perfect for all seasons.
2. Rhossili Bay, Swansea
Often featured in global beach rankings, Rhossili Bay is a dream location for dog walkers. With sweeping cliffs, three miles of golden sand, and dramatic ocean views, dogs have endless room to roam. The walking trails along Worm’s Head make this a unique spot for energetic pets.
3. Camber Sands, East Sussex
Camber Sands offers one of the UK’s few dune systems, making it a captivating playground for dogs. The stretch of soft sand runs for miles, and although seasonal restrictions apply in some zones, large areas remain dog-friendly all year.
4. Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland
This beach combines historical charm with dog-friendly freedom. Dogs can explore the expansive sands under the shadow of Bamburgh Castle, and its year-round access makes it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
5. Formby Beach, Merseyside
Formby Beach features enchanting sand dunes, long coastal stretches, and nearby pinewoods where red squirrels are often spotted. Dogs love exploring both the beach and woodland trails, making it one of the most versatile dog-walking spots in England.
6. Perranporth Beach, Cornwall
Perranporth Beach welcomes dogs throughout the year, with only minor restrictions during peak season. Its long sandy stretches, rock pools, and dog-friendly beach bar make it a top destination for pet owners exploring Cornwall.
7. Saunton Sands, Devon
With three miles of uninterrupted coastline, Saunton Sands is ideal for off-lead fun. The beach is backed by the UNESCO-protected Braunton Burrows dune system, offering additional walking routes.
8. West Wittering Beach, West Sussex
Known for its soft sands and shallow waters, West Wittering offers beautiful dog-walking routes—especially around East Head, which is dog-friendly all year. The circular walk around the dunes is a favourite among owners.
9. St Bees Beach, Cumbria
St Bees is a peaceful coastal gem with a long promenade, dramatic cliffs, and dog-friendly access. Its clean waters and picturesque setting make it perfect for relaxed seaside strolls.
10. Talacre Beach, North Wales
Famous for its lighthouse, Talacre Beach is wide, sandy, and perfect for off-leash play. The dunes offer additional adventure, making it a top spot for energetic dogs.
11. Wells-next-the-Sea Beach, Norfolk
With colourful beach huts and a designated dog-friendly zone, this beach is loved by families and dog owners. The surrounding pine forest provides beautiful shaded walks.
12. Sandymouth Beach, Cornwall
This National Trust-managed beach features stunning cliffs, rock pools, and rugged scenery. Dogs are welcome year-round, and the beach is ideal for long, scenic hikes.
13. Whitby West Beach, North Yorkshire
Whitby West Beach is dog-friendly in several areas and sits close to numerous cafés and coastal shops that welcome pets. Its sandy shoreline is perfect for relaxed walking.
14. Saltburn Beach, North Yorkshire
Saltburn combines Victorian charm with a dog-friendly beach that stretches for miles. The long promenade is great for comfortable, accessible dog walks.
15. Berrow Beach, Somerset
One of Somerset’s longest beaches, Berrow is backed by dunes and features the iconic Nornen shipwreck. Dogs have plenty of space to run, making it one of the most popular pet-friendly beaches in the region.
16. Embleton Bay, Northumberland
Embleton Bay is peaceful, quiet, and naturally stunning. Dogs can enjoy long walks with views of Dunstanburgh Castle in the distance—perfect for photography lovers.
17. Barmouth Beach, North Wales
Barmouth is a lively seaside destination with generous dog-friendly zones. The combination of sandy shores and mountain views creates a breathtaking backdrop.
18. Westward Ho!, Devon
This famous Blue Flag beach offers miles of sandy coastline open to dogs in specific areas. The pebble ridge behind the beach adds variety to your walking route.
19. Cleethorpes Beach, Lincolnshire
Cleethorpes provides dog-friendly zones, a long promenade, and shallow tidal areas that dogs enjoy paddling in. It’s an ideal location for relaxed family outings.
20. Crantock Beach, Cornwall
A quieter alternative to nearby Newquay beaches, Crantock features dunes, calm waters, and the River Gannel—perfect for swimming dogs.
21. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris
Luskentyre is world famous for its turquoise waters and white sands. Dogs love the wide-open space, and the peaceful setting makes it one of the most magical dog-friendly beaches in Scotland.
22. Ayr Beach, Ayrshire
Ayr Beach is long, flat, and ideal for dogs that enjoy running or playing fetch. The promenade offers accessible walking paths and scenic views.
23. Lossiemouth East Beach, Moray
This quiet, scenic beach is known for its soft sands, dunes, and dog-welcoming atmosphere. The coastal views are spectacular.
24. Long Sands Beach, Tynemouth
Long Sands is a favourite for surfers and dog walkers alike. While some restrictions apply in summer, it’s mainly dog-friendly and offers great walking conditions.
25. Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk
Known for its unique red cliffs, Hunstanton offers dog-friendly zones and shallow waters. The sunsets here are some of the best in the UK.
26. Aberdeen Beach, Scotland
Aberdeen Beach is spacious, sandy, and ideal for dogs who enjoy long fast-paced runs. The promenade offers cafés and amenities for owners.
27. Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire
This historic cove offers dog-friendly access all year. With rock pools, cliffs, and a charming old village, it’s a favourite among adventurous walkers.
28. St Ives Harbour Beach, Cornwall
Although seasonal rules apply, dogs are welcome during off-peak hours. The harbour setting makes it picturesque and relaxing.
29. Seaton Beach, Devon
A long pebble beach with calm waters and a generous promenade. Dogs enjoy the open coastline and fresh sea breeze.
30. Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex
This beach offers golden sands, a large pier, and generous dog-friendly areas. It’s excellent for families travelling with pets.
31. Durdle Door Beach, Dorset
One of the most iconic natural landmarks in the UK, Durdle Door Beach welcomes dogs all year. The dramatic limestone arch creates a spectacular backdrop.
32. Studland Beach, Dorset
A National Trust-managed beach with dog-friendly zones and scenic dune-backed trails. Ideal for long, peaceful coastal walks.
33. Whitmore Bay, Barry Island
Dogs are welcome in designated areas. With a lively seaside atmosphere, this beach offers a fun and energetic outing.
34. Dunwich Beach, Suffolk
A quiet shingle beach with all-year dog access, perfect for calm, peaceful walks. The surrounding heath makes it especially scenic.
35. Anderby Creek, Lincolnshire
One of Lincolnshire’s quietest beaches, Anderby Creek is peaceful and spacious. Dogs enjoy the soft sands and gentle waves.
36. Shanklin Beach, Isle of Wight
While some seasonal restrictions occur, Shanklin still offers plenty of dog-friendly stretches. The promenade is perfect for relaxing seaside walks.
37. Loch Morlich Beach, Cairngorms
This unique freshwater beach is surrounded by woodlands and mountain scenery. Dogs love the cool waters and soft sandy shoreline.
38. Filey Beach, North Yorkshire
Filey’s five-mile stretch offers dog-friendly areas and sweeping coastal beauty. It’s quieter than nearby Scarborough and Whitby.
39. Cromer Beach, Norfolk
Cromer offers stunning views, a historic pier, and areas where dogs can enjoy year-round beach access.
40. Prestwick Beach, Ayrshire
Prestwick Beach is peaceful, spacious, and perfect for dogs that love open areas. The panoramic views add to the experience.
41. Lepe Beach, Hampshire
Located near the New Forest, Lepe offers dog-friendly areas and a scenic coastal path overlooking the Isle of Wight.
42. Freshwater East, Pembrokeshire
A beautiful sandy bay with dunes and surrounding cliffs. Dogs are welcome throughout the year and love the gentle waves.
43. Scarborough South Bay (Dog Zones)
Though busy in summer, South Bay has dog-friendly areas and a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
44. Beadnell Bay, Northumberland
A calm, sandy bay perfect for dog swimming and long walks. Its quiet charm makes it a favourite among locals.
45. Aberffraw Beach, Anglesey
This remote beach is peaceful, scenic, and ideal for dogs that love solitude and nature.
46. Polzeath Beach, Cornwall
Known for surfing, Polzeath allows dogs in certain zones and is especially beautiful during early mornings and sunsets.
47. Tresaith Beach, Ceredigion
A small, charming bay with a natural waterfall. Dogs enjoy paddling in its calm, shallow waters.
48. Croyde Beach, Devon
Croyde has some of the most breathtaking scenery in North Devon. Dogs are allowed in off-peak months and love the surrounding cliff paths.
49. West Kirby Beach, Wirral
With views of North Wales, West Kirby is peaceful and spacious. Dogs enjoy long walks along the shore.
50. Kessock Beach, Inverness
This Scottish beach offers tranquillity, clean sands, and year-round dog access. It’s perfect for quiet, scenic strolls.
Conclusion
These top 50 dog-friendly beaches offer some of the UK’s most beautiful and accommodating coastal experiences. Whether you’re planning a summer holiday or a winter escape, each destination provides ample space, stunning scenery, and unforgettable adventures for both you and your dog.