TRAVEL-GUIDES
Best Dog Friendly Beaches in the UK
15th May 2025
Most dogs absolutely love the beach, but unfortunately the feeling isn’t always mutual.
Many beaches in the UK don’t allow dogs, or restrict them to certain times of the year. If there are no clear signs it can be hard to know the rules - and there’s nothing more embarrassing than an officious passer-by giving you a telling off for bringing your dog to the wrong spot.
We love dogs at Coolstays and we’ve got hundreds of amazing dog friendly holiday properties available.
To help you plan the ultimate British seaside holiday with your furry friend, we’ve selected some of the very best dog friendly beaches around the country, some popular and well-known, others a little more off the beaten track. These are just a few of our favourites.
From sandy Cornish coves, to wild Atlantic stretches in the north of Scotland, these beaches are sure to set tails wagging.
Many beaches in the UK don’t allow dogs, or restrict them to certain times of the year. If there are no clear signs it can be hard to know the rules - and there’s nothing more embarrassing than an officious passer-by giving you a telling off for bringing your dog to the wrong spot.
We love dogs at Coolstays and we’ve got hundreds of amazing dog friendly holiday properties available.
To help you plan the ultimate British seaside holiday with your furry friend, we’ve selected some of the very best dog friendly beaches around the country, some popular and well-known, others a little more off the beaten track. These are just a few of our favourites.
From sandy Cornish coves, to wild Atlantic stretches in the north of Scotland, these beaches are sure to set tails wagging.
Watergate Bay on Cornwall's Atlantic coast. Image courtesy of the Watergate Bay Hotel
Watergate Bay, Cornwall
Cornwall’s best beach? Well obviously there’s some competition for that title, but Watergate is definitely up there.
It’s an iconic two-mile stretch of golden sand on the Atlantic coast famous for surfing and sunsets. Come at low tide to make the most of the vast sands. It's well-equipped for visitors, you’ll find parking, toilets, surf shops and places to eat and drink. It can get busy, but that’s because it’s absolutely stunning - luckily it’s also huge, so you can head off towards the farthest ends to avoid the crowds. The wild Atlantic swell makes it a great surfing spot - but take care if your pup likes to swim.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
It’s an iconic two-mile stretch of golden sand on the Atlantic coast famous for surfing and sunsets. Come at low tide to make the most of the vast sands. It's well-equipped for visitors, you’ll find parking, toilets, surf shops and places to eat and drink. It can get busy, but that’s because it’s absolutely stunning - luckily it’s also huge, so you can head off towards the farthest ends to avoid the crowds. The wild Atlantic swell makes it a great surfing spot - but take care if your pup likes to swim.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Watergate Beach**
- Iconic Cornish coastline: A breathtaking two-mile stretch of golden sand framed by rugged cliffs and the rolling Atlantic surf.
- Surfing paradise: Renowned for its consistent waves, it’s a favourite with both seasoned surfers and beginners.
- Perfect for sunsets: The west-facing beach offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in Cornwall.
- Dog-friendly year-round: No seasonal restrictions mean your four-legged friend can enjoy the beach any time of year.
- Spacious and scenic: Even in busy months, there’s plenty of space to find your own peaceful patch of sand.
- Great facilities: You’ll find ample parking, toilets, surf shops, and plenty of places to eat and drink nearby.
- Low-tide adventures: Visit at low tide for vast stretches of sand perfect for walking, running, or exploring rock pools.
**How to get to Watergate Beach**
- By car: Located just 3 miles north of Newquay off the B3276; follow signs to Watergate Bay. There’s paid parking close to the beach.
- By train: The nearest station is Newquay, with connections from Par and the main Cornish line. From the station, it’s a short taxi or bus ride.
- By bus: Regular services run from Newquay town centre to Watergate Bay — check local timetables for the latest routes.
- By foot or bike: The South West Coast Path passes directly above the bay, offering stunning cliff-top views and scenic access on foot or by bike.
Lantic Bay on Cornwall's southern coast. Image by Nilfanion under Creative Commons Licence.
Lantic Bay, Cornwall
Leave the Cornish crowds behind at this secluded hidden gem. With its green hillsides and deep, turquoise-coloured water Lantic Bay on Cornwall’s south coast looks more like the Mediterranean than England.
National Trust owned, it's ideal for a proper leg-stretch, with a pretty steep 20 minute scramble down from the car park to the beach. The walk and the lack of any facilities means you might well be the only person/pooch here, which makes this little cove feel even more magical.
National Trust owned, it's ideal for a proper leg-stretch, with a pretty steep 20 minute scramble down from the car park to the beach. The walk and the lack of any facilities means you might well be the only person/pooch here, which makes this little cove feel even more magical.
**Why you should visit Lantic Bay**
- Secluded paradise: A hidden gem far from the Cornish crowds, offering peace, quiet, and breathtaking views.
- Mediterranean feel: With turquoise waters and lush green hillsides, it looks more like southern Europe than the UK.
- Unspoilt natural beauty: Owned by the National Trust, the bay remains wild and undeveloped.
- Perfect for walkers: The steep path down is part of the adventure — ideal for those who love a scenic hike with a reward at the end.
- Tranquil escape: With no facilities or nearby shops, you’ll often have the beach almost to yourself.
- Dog-friendly haven: A great spot for adventurous dogs and owners who enjoy exploring off the beaten track.
**How to get to Lantic Bay**
- By car: Located between Polperro and Fowey on Cornwall’s south coast. Follow signs for the National Trust Lantic Bay car park (PL23 1NP). From there, it’s around a 20-minute steep walk down to the beach.
- By train: The nearest stations are Looe and Par, both around a 30–40 minute drive away.
- By bus: Local bus services run to nearby villages, but reaching the beach itself requires walking from the National Trust car park.
- On foot: The South West Coast Path passes close to the bay — a beautiful route for hikers approaching from Polperro or Fowey.
Saunton Sands in Devon. Image courtesy of The Chalet Saunton
Saunton Sands, Devon
An epic three-mile stretch of flat sand backed by gentle dunes on Devon’s north coast. It’s popular, but the enormous scale of Saunton Sands means there’s ample room for zoomies, digging a hole or having a swim. The entrance, along with cafes and toilets, is at the northern end and the further south you walk the emptier it gets. There's also a rather nice beachside restaurant where dogs are welcome.
Behind the beach itself you'll find Bruton Burrows, a UNESCO-protected nature reserve of sand dunes crisscrossed with winding paths perfect for dog walks.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
Behind the beach itself you'll find Bruton Burrows, a UNESCO-protected nature reserve of sand dunes crisscrossed with winding paths perfect for dog walks.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Saunton Sands**
- Epic scale: A stunning three-mile stretch of golden sand backed by gentle dunes, offering space for everyone.
- Dog-friendly all year: No restrictions mean pups can enjoy the beach in every season.
- Perfect for activities: Ideal for walking, running, swimming, and endless games of fetch.
- Beautiful surroundings: Overlooked by dunes and the UNESCO-protected Braunton Burrows, a haven for wildlife and walkers.
- Great facilities: Cafés, toilets, and parking are conveniently located at the northern end of the beach.
- Peaceful escapes: Head south along the sands for quieter spots and uninterrupted views.
- Seaside dining: Enjoy a meal at the dog-friendly beachside restaurant with sea views.
**How to get to Saunton Sands**
- By car: Located near Braunton on Devon’s north coast. Follow signs for Saunton Sands via the B3231; there’s a large pay-and-display car park near the entrance.
- By train: The nearest station is Barnstaple, around 5 miles away. From there, take a taxi or local bus to Braunton and walk or ride the final stretch.
- By bus: Regular services run from Barnstaple and Ilfracombe to Braunton; check local timetables for routes to Saunton.
- On foot or by bike: The Tarka Trail offers a scenic route through North Devon’s countryside to the coast.
West Wittering in West Sussex. Image courtesy of The Thatched Cottage West Wittering
West Wittering, West Sussex
A glorious swathe of golden sand - unusual on the south coast, which is mostly rather painful pebbles. West Wittering gets busy during peak season, but the beach is large enough that you can usually escape the throng and when the tide’s out it feels like the beach goes on forever. There’s a carpark, toilets and a dog-friendly cafe.
Dog are welcome but there are some restrictions: from the 1st May to mid-September dogs are not allowed in the area in front of the beach huts.
Dog are welcome but there are some restrictions: from the 1st May to mid-September dogs are not allowed in the area in front of the beach huts.
**Why you should visit West Wittering Beach**
- Golden sands on the south coast: A rare sandy beach in a region known for pebbles — perfect for sunbathing and sandcastles.
- Expansive shoreline: At low tide, the beach stretches for miles, offering space to relax, walk, or play.
- Beautiful setting: Backed by grassy dunes and views across Chichester Harbour and the Solent.
- Family and dog-friendly: Great facilities and gentle shallows make it ideal for families and pups.
- Convenient amenities: There’s a large car park, toilets, and a dog-friendly café right by the beach.
- Ideal for walkers and photographers: Vast skies, shifting sands, and sunsets create a spectacular coastal backdrop.
**How to get to West Wittering Beach**
- By car: Located near Chichester, follow the A286 and signs for West Wittering Beach; there’s a large pay-and-display car park beside the beach.
- By train: The nearest station is Chichester, around 7 miles away. From there, take a taxi or local bus (route 52 or 53) to the beach.
- By bus: Regular bus services connect Chichester with West Wittering village, a short walk from the beach entrance.
- On foot or by bike: The flat coastal roads and nearby paths make it easy to cycle or walk from East Wittering or Itchenor.
Holkham Beach in North Norfolk. Image courtesy of Peterstone Lodge
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
A walk along boardwalks and through pine woods takes you down to Holkham Beach in North Norfolk, a vast area of seemingly endless sand. Even on busy days it’s easy to find your own space and the huge, open sands are just made for epic games of fetch.
Dogs are allowed all year round, however from 1st April to 31st August they must be kept on the lead until you pass the dunes in order to protect ground-nesting birds - but don’t worry that still leaves about 70% of the beach available for miles of off lead fun.
Dogs are allowed all year round, however from 1st April to 31st August they must be kept on the lead until you pass the dunes in order to protect ground-nesting birds - but don’t worry that still leaves about 70% of the beach available for miles of off lead fun.
**Why you should visit Holkham Beach**
- Vast and unspoilt: One of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, with miles of golden sand that seem to go on forever.
- Peace and space: Even on the busiest summer days, there’s always room to find your own quiet patch.
- Scenic approach: A lovely walk through pine woods and along boardwalks leads to the open sands, adding to the sense of discovery.
- Perfect for dogs: The wide, open beach is ideal for off-lead walks, games of fetch, and splashing in the shallows.
- Wild and natural beauty: Backed by dunes, pine forests, and nature reserves — a haven for photographers and nature lovers.
- Film-famous: Featured in several films, including Shakespeare in Love, thanks to its cinematic scenery.
**How to get to Holkham Beach**
- By car: Located near Wells-next-the-Sea on the North Norfolk coast. Follow signs for Holkham Beach Car Park (postcode NR23 1RG), managed by the Holkham Estate.
- By train: The nearest stations are Sheringham and King’s Lynn. From either, take a connecting bus or taxi to Holkham or Wells-next-the-Sea.
- By bus: The Coasthopper (CH1) service runs regularly between coastal towns, stopping at Holkham.
- On foot or by bike: The Norfolk Coast Path passes directly behind the beach, offering stunning routes from Wells or Burnham Overy Staithe.
Barafundle Beach on the Pembrokeshire coast. Image by JKMMX under Creative Commons Licence.
Barafundle Beach, Pembrokeshire
Pristine and fairly remote, Barafundle on the West Wales coast may only be small but it’s an absolute jewel. With its fine sand and blue water you could almost be in the Caribbean.
The steep-ish half-mile walk down from the car park is a good bit of cardio but it’s worth it - Barafundle is absolutely stunning. Wooded hillsides slope down to the sand, and at low tide there are cliffs and little caves to explore.
Dogs are allowed all year round with no restrictions.
The steep-ish half-mile walk down from the car park is a good bit of cardio but it’s worth it - Barafundle is absolutely stunning. Wooded hillsides slope down to the sand, and at low tide there are cliffs and little caves to explore.
Dogs are allowed all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Barafundle Bay**
- Caribbean vibes in Wales: With golden sand and turquoise water, Barafundle looks like a tropical paradise.
- Unspoilt and peaceful: Remote and pristine, it’s one of Wales’ most beautiful and tranquil beaches.
- Scenic adventure: The half-mile walk down through rolling dunes and woodland adds to the sense of discovery.
- Perfect for explorers: At low tide, you can wander among cliffs and small caves along the shoreline.
- Great for dogs: With no restrictions, it’s a dream spot for pups to run, dig, and paddle freely.
- Ideal for photography: Its natural beauty and crystal-clear water make for unforgettable coastal views.
**How to get to Barafundle Bay**
- By car: Located near Stackpole on the Pembrokeshire coast. Park at the Stackpole Quay National Trust car park (postcode SA71 5LS); from there it’s a steep half-mile walk to the beach.
- By train: The nearest station is Pembroke, about 6 miles away. From there, take a taxi to Stackpole Quay.
- By bus: Local buses run to Stackpole Village, but access to the beach itself requires walking from the car park.
- On foot: The Pembrokeshire Coast Path passes nearby, offering stunning views and a great way to approach Barafundle on foot.
Rhossili Bay on the Gower. Image courtesy of Lower Mill
Rhossili, Gower
No round-up of dog friendly beaches could be complete without Rhossili. Often cropping up in lists of the best beaches in the world, and named the UK’s no.1 dog friendly beach by The Times, it’s an iconic location.
This breathtaking beach on the Gower Peninsula is reached down a steep path - you can find loos, a cafe and the carpark at the top. The views are just fabulous. The beach itself forms a sweeping curve of firm, clean sand, perfect for fabulous dog walks.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
This breathtaking beach on the Gower Peninsula is reached down a steep path - you can find loos, a cafe and the carpark at the top. The views are just fabulous. The beach itself forms a sweeping curve of firm, clean sand, perfect for fabulous dog walks.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Rhossili Bay**
- World-famous beauty: Regularly ranked among the best beaches on the planet and named the UK’s No.1 dog-friendly beach by The Times.
- Spectacular views: Overlooked by dramatic cliffs and the iconic Worm’s Head, offering breathtaking panoramas.
- Vast golden sands: A sweeping three-mile stretch of firm sand — perfect for long walks, games of fetch, and paddling.
- Peace and freedom: Its size means it never feels crowded, even in peak season.
- Great facilities nearby: Toilets, a café, and a car park are located at the top of the cliff with easy access to the path down.
- Photographer’s dream: Stunning sunsets and dramatic coastal scenery make it one of the UK’s most photogenic beaches.
**How to get to Rhossili Bay**
- By car: Located on the Gower Peninsula, around 18 miles from Swansea. Follow signs for Rhossili village; there’s a National Trust car park at the top of the cliffs (postcode SA3 1PR).
- By train: The nearest station is Swansea. From there, take a taxi or bus to Rhossili (approx. 45 minutes by road).
- By bus: Regular services run from Swansea to Rhossili Village — check local timetables for current routes.
- On foot: The Wales Coast Path passes through Rhossili, offering stunning coastal walks to and from the beach.
Fraisthorpe Beach in the East Riding of Yorkshire. Image by Renn69 under Creative Commons Licence.
Fraisthorpe Beach, Yorkshire
Welcome to miles of flat golden sand stretching off in both directions. Fraisthorpe is in Yorkshire’s East Riding just outside Bridlington. It’s much-loved by dog walkers, with a car park at the top of the cliffs and a cute dog-friendly cafe for a brew. You can walk to Bridlington down the beach when the tide’s out, a nice stroll of about an hour.
Dogs are allowed all year round with no restrictions.
Dogs are allowed all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Fraisthorpe Beach**
- Endless golden sands: A vast, flat stretch of beach perfect for long walks, games of fetch, and splashing in the waves.
- Dog-walker’s favourite: Popular with locals and visitors alike — there’s plenty of space for pups to run free.
- Peaceful and uncrowded: Quieter than nearby resorts, offering a relaxed coastal escape.
- Lovely seaside café: Enjoy a coffee or snack at the charming dog-friendly café near the car park.
- Scenic coastal walks: When the tide’s out, stroll along the beach all the way to Bridlington — about an hour’s walk.
- Expansive views: Wide horizons and sea breezes make it a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers.
**How to get to Fraisthorpe Beach**
- By car: Located just south of Bridlington in Yorkshire’s East Riding. Follow signs for Fraisthorpe and park at the top of the cliffs (postcode YO15 3QU).
- By train: The nearest station is Bridlington, around 3 miles away. From there, take a taxi or enjoy a beach walk if the tide allows.
- By bus: Local bus services run to Bridlington, but you’ll need a short taxi ride or walk to reach Fraisthorpe.
- On foot: You can walk along the sand from Bridlington at low tide — a scenic and peaceful coastal route.
Bamburgh Castle overlooking the beach
Bamburgh, Northumberland
Voted the best beach in the UK by Which? several years in a row, Bamburgh on the Northumberland coast doesn’t disappoint.
It’s all about the huge open sands, overlooked by the imposing castle - and as a bonus there’s the quaint village behind, where you can find a post-walk coffee and a bite to eat.
It’s generally fairly uncrowded, making it a great spot for a mad run-around or tennis ball games, followed by a cool-off in the North Sea.
Bamburgh is dog friendly all year round with no restrictions.
It’s all about the huge open sands, overlooked by the imposing castle - and as a bonus there’s the quaint village behind, where you can find a post-walk coffee and a bite to eat.
It’s generally fairly uncrowded, making it a great spot for a mad run-around or tennis ball games, followed by a cool-off in the North Sea.
Bamburgh is dog friendly all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Bamburgh Beach**
- Award-winning beauty: Consistently voted the best beach in the UK by Which? — and it’s easy to see why.
- Iconic scenery: Vast open sands framed by the dramatic backdrop of Bamburgh Castle, one of England’s most photogenic coastlines.
- Peaceful and uncrowded: Even in summer, there’s plenty of space for relaxed walks or energetic games with your dog.
- Charming village nearby: Stroll into Bamburgh village for a coffee, pub lunch, or ice cream after your beach walk.
- Perfect for dog adventures: Miles of soft sand for running, playing fetch, or splashing in the surf.
- Photographer’s dream: The mix of beach, castle, and sea views makes for truly stunning shots at any time of day.
**How to get to Bamburgh Beach**
- By car: Located on the Northumberland coast, follow the B1342 to Bamburgh village (postcode NE69 7DF). There’s parking near the castle and short footpaths down to the beach.
- By train: The nearest stations are Chathill (limited service) and Alnmouth (regular mainline services). From either, take a taxi or bus to Bamburgh.
- By bus: Regular bus routes connect Alnwick, Seahouses, and Berwick-upon-Tweed with Bamburgh village.
- On foot or by bike: The Northumberland Coast Path and Coast & Castles Cycle Route both pass through Bamburgh, offering scenic access.
Westport Beach on the Mull of Kintyre
Westport Beach, Argyll
A gorgeous swathe of sugar sand that stretches for miles along the Mull of Kintyre’s Atlantic coast. There’s not a whole lot except the ocean between Westport and Newfoundland.
It’s a bracing spot, with long Atlantic breakers rolling in and a west facing location which makes it a magical location to watch the sunset. The surfing is amazing but be careful of the rip currents. It’s a stunning place for a dog walk with acres to run around and sand dunes and rockpools to nose about in.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
It’s a bracing spot, with long Atlantic breakers rolling in and a west facing location which makes it a magical location to watch the sunset. The surfing is amazing but be careful of the rip currents. It’s a stunning place for a dog walk with acres to run around and sand dunes and rockpools to nose about in.
Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Westport Beach**
- Wild Atlantic beauty: A spectacular stretch of sugar-white sand running for miles along the Mull of Kintyre coast.
- Endless horizons: With nothing but the Atlantic between you and Newfoundland, it feels wonderfully remote and untamed.
- Amazing sunsets: The west-facing location makes it one of Scotland’s most magical spots to watch the sun dip into the ocean.
- Fantastic surfing: A favourite with surfers thanks to its rolling Atlantic swells — though caution is advised due to rip currents.
- Perfect for dogs: Acres of sand, dunes, and rockpools to explore — ideal for adventurous pups and long, windswept walks.
- Peaceful and uncrowded: Far from the crowds, offering pure tranquillity and breathtaking coastal scenery.
**How to get to Westport Beach**
- By car: Located on the A83 between Campbeltown and Tarbert on the Mull of Kintyre. There’s a small car park beside the beach near Westport Holiday Park (postcode PA28 6QS).
- By train: The nearest stations are Oban and Arrochar & Tarbet, both several hours away — driving is the most convenient option.
- By bus: Local services run along the A83 from Campbeltown or Tarbert, with stops near Westport.
- On foot or by bike: The Kintyre Way passes close to the beach, offering scenic coastal routes for walkers and cyclists.
Balnakeil Beach on the Sutherland coast. Image by Paul Herman under Creative Commons Licence.
Balnakiel Beach, Sutherland
On Scotland’s wild north west coast, Balnakiel is secluded and spectacular.
This wide cove of white sand is great for padding as the coast shelves off gently and the water can be surprisingly warm if the sun’s shining - the wind can still be pretty fresh though. It’s backed by sand dunes and overlooked by the rather stern Balnakeil House and the picturesque ruins of a church.
You won’t find any facilities, but there is a freshwater stream which meets the coast if your dog is thirsty. Be aware there are also some free ranging cows which sometimes like to sunbathe here.
Dogs are allowed all year round with no restrictions.
This wide cove of white sand is great for padding as the coast shelves off gently and the water can be surprisingly warm if the sun’s shining - the wind can still be pretty fresh though. It’s backed by sand dunes and overlooked by the rather stern Balnakeil House and the picturesque ruins of a church.
You won’t find any facilities, but there is a freshwater stream which meets the coast if your dog is thirsty. Be aware there are also some free ranging cows which sometimes like to sunbathe here.
Dogs are allowed all year round with no restrictions.
**Why you should visit Balnakiel Beach**
- Remote and breathtaking: A secluded white-sand bay on Scotland’s wild north-west coast — peaceful, dramatic, and utterly unspoilt.
- Shallow, gentle waters: The sea shelves gradually, making it perfect for paddling and play, with surprisingly warm water on sunny days.
- Stunning surroundings: Backed by rolling dunes and overlooked by Balnakeil House and the ruins of a historic church.
- Tranquil and uncrowded: Far from the tourist trail, ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
- Perfect for dogs: Endless sand to run on, a freshwater stream for thirsty pups, and no restrictions all year.
- Wild charm: Expect a few free-ranging cows basking on the sand — part of the beach’s unique character.
**How to get to Balnakiel Beach**
- By car: Located near Durness on Scotland’s north-west coast. Follow the A838 to Durness, then take the single-track road to Balnakeil Beach (postcode IV27 4PX). There’s limited parking near the beach.
- By train: The nearest station is Lairg, around 60 miles away. From there, you’ll need to drive or arrange local transport.
- By bus: Limited services run to Durness from Lairg and other northern towns — check local timetables carefully.
- On foot or by bike: The beach lies along the Cape Wrath Trail and North Coast 500, making it a stunning stop for hikers and cyclists exploring the route.
Some of our favourite dog-friendly beaches in the UK
| Beach | Location | Best For | Features & Facilities | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Watergate Bay | North Cornwall, near Newquay | Surfing, long walks, dog-friendly year-round | Two miles of sand; surf school; cafés & restaurants; toilets; lifeguards (seasonal) | Car park by beach; bus from Newquay; Coast Path access |
| Lantic Bay | South Cornwall, near Polruan/Fowey | Secluded coves; peaceful dog walks | No facilities; clear turquoise waters; National Trust site | Steep 15-min walk from NT car park; Coast Path |
| Saunton Sands | North Devon, near Braunton | Beginner/intermediate surfing; dog-friendly; dunes | Surf hire; cafés/shops; accessible facilities incl. Landeez wheelchair; lifeguards (seasonal) | Large parking; bus from Barnstaple/Braunton; Tarka Trail; Coast Path |
| West Wittering | West Sussex, near Chichester | Windsurfing, families, wide sands | Toilets, showers, café; beach huts; lifeguards (seasonal); dog restrictions in summer zones | Large paid parking; bus from Chichester; flat access |
| Holkham Beach | North Norfolk, near Wells-next-the-Sea | Vast open sands; nature walks; dogs off-lead | Café & toilets near car park; dunes & pinewoods; part of Holkham Estate | Car park ~1 km from beach; boardwalk path; Coast Path |
| Barafundle Bay | Pembrokeshire, near Stackpole | Scenic beauty; remote dog-friendly bay | No facilities; picnic spot; National Trust estate | 0.5 mile walk over cliffs from Stackpole Quay car park |
| Rhossili Bay | Gower Peninsula, South Wales | Long dog walks; surfing; dramatic views | Café & toilets at village; surf schools nearby; year-round dogs | Pay & display at top of cliff; steep path down to beach; Coast Path |
| Fraisthorpe Beach | East Riding of Yorkshire, near Bridlington | Dog walks; quiet sandy expanse | Café (summer), toilets at café; low cliffs; WWII relics | Car park on cliff top with direct access via ramp |
| Bamburgh Beach | Northumberland, near Bamburgh Castle | Castle views; long walks; photography | No beach facilities; village cafés & toilets; year-round dogs | Car parks in Bamburgh village; short walk; Coast Path |
| Westport Beach | Mull of Kintyre, Argyll | Wild, remote walks; birdwatching; dogs | No facilities; dunes & wildlife reserve; camping nearby | Small car park; dunes access; part of Kintyre Way |
| Balnakeil Beach | Near Durness, Sutherland | White sands; remote beauty; dogs welcome | No facilities; art café & toilets in Durness; dunes | Parking by Balnakeil Craft Village; flat access path |
FAQs about dog-friendly beaches in the UK
Can I take my dog to most beaches in the UK?
Not always. Many beaches have seasonal restrictions (often from May to September) where dogs may be banned or must be on a lead. Always check local signage or council websites before visiting to avoid fines.
Which beaches allow dogs all year round with no restrictions?
Several beaches welcome dogs year-round, including Watergate Bay (Cornwall), Saunton Sands (Devon), and Rhossili Bay (Wales). These are highlighted in the Coolstays guide as some of the best all-season dog-friendly beaches.
Why do some beaches restrict dogs in summer?
Restrictions help protect wildlife, reduce conflict with other beachgoers, and maintain cleanliness during busy months. Many councils lift these bans in autumn and winter when visitor numbers drop.
What facilities should I expect at a dog-friendly beach?
Facilities vary by location, but you can often expect parking, toilets, cafés or kiosks, and seasonal lifeguards. Some beaches also offer surf schools, accessible paths, and even dog-washing stations near car parks.
Are there beaches where dogs must be kept on a lead?
Yes. Even on beaches that allow dogs, there may be zones or specific times (especially near nesting areas or during high season) where dogs must stay on a lead for safety and environmental protection.
How can I find out if a specific beach has dog restrictions?
Check local council websites or official beach signage when you arrive. Dog-friendly travel sites and apps also regularly update seasonal rules, so it’s smart to double-check before setting out.
What should I bring when visiting a beach with my dog?
Essentials include: a lead, poop bags, fresh water & bowl, towel, and shade (like a small umbrella). It’s also wise to pack treats, a first-aid kit, and ensure your dog’s recall is reliable if off-lead play is allowed.
Are cliffs or steep paths common access issues at dog-friendly beaches?
Yes. Many of the UK’s most scenic beaches—like Lantic Bay or Barafundle Bay—have steep or uneven paths. Always wear proper footwear and assess whether your dog can handle the climb safely.
Do dog access rules stay the same every year?
Not always. Councils can change seasonal restrictions depending on environmental factors, local feedback, or beach maintenance needs. Always check for current signage or updated guidance before your trip.