The UK boasts vast coastlines and beautiful beaches, perfect for a staycation or day trip with your dog. But, planning ahead is essential to ensure your pup is welcomed with open arms, and you can make the most of your day.

Some beaches are dog-friendly all year round, however, others operate under seasonal restrictions in the summer months.

These are our top picks for dog friendly beaches across the UK!

Holkham Beach, Norfolk

Where the countryside meets the coast.

Holkham Beach in Norfolk boasts a vast stretch of golden sand, nestled within Holkham National Nature Reserve.

Dogs are permitted all year round, however, there are some areas where dogs must be kept on leads between 1st April – 31st August. This is to protect the ground-nesting birds during their breeding season.

If you love wildlife, tranquil waters, and unspoiled natural beauty – Holkham is an excellent choice.

Learn more and plan your visit to Holkham National Nature Reserve and Beach.

Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

Have you ever seen a castle on a beach? Bamburgh Castle sits against the backdrop of the smooth white sand and rolling sand dunes of Bamburgh Beach.

Bamburgh Beach is also completely free of restrictions for dogs, all-year round. No seasonal bans or lead requirements, meaning you can enjoy a visit with your pup to this beautiful Northern coastline, any day of the year.

It is however recommended to be cautious with your dogs around sand dunes and watch out for nesting birds or wildlife.

Whitstable, Kent

Whitstable is a popular destination for dog owners – offering a quaint town centre, famous oyster bars, and plenty of dog-friendly locations.

The beach is mainly made up of flint pebbles and shingle, so you don’t need to worry about your car being covered in sand on the way home! Dog-friendly pubs and seafood restaurants are dotted along the seafront so you can grab a drink or a bite to eat whilst watching the waves roll in.

Be aware that some areas do have seasonal restrictions in central sections of the beach between May and September.

Camber Sands, East Sussex

Home to the only sand dunes in East Sussex, Camber Sands offers beautiful scenery, and long stretches of untouched sandy beach.

It is dog-friendly but with seasonal restrictions and dedicated zones in the summer months. For easy access to the dog-friendly zone, the Western Car Park is recommended.

Best beaches in Cornwall for dogs

Fistral Beach, Cornwall

If you’re a keen surfer and a dog owner, Fistral Beach should be top of your list this summer.

Penned as the ‘home of British surfing’, its legendary waves reach heights of over 30-feet.

As well as being a UK surfing hotspot, it’s dog-friendly all year round with a large car park and an accessible ramp. Most of the cafes and restaurants along this beach welcome well-behaved dogs on leads too!

Perranporth

Perranporth Beach is a popular spot with swimmers, surfers and dog owners alike!

Dogs are allowed on Perranporth Beach all year round so you’re guaranteed a perfect family day out.

Plus, it’s home to the only UK beach with a bar directly on the beach! Enjoy live music, great food and local beverages – and dogs are welcome too.

Dog-friendly beaches in Dorset

If you’re exploring the Jurassic Coast this summer, England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are plenty of dog-friendly, must-see spots to visit in Dorset.

Durdle Door

An iconic landmark well worth a visit! Durdle Door allows dogs all year-round. Just be aware that there are lots of steps down to the beach, so make sure your dog is up for the challenge!

Portland Bill

Home of the historic Portland Bill lighthouse, this beach is a beautiful spot to spend the day.

If sitting on the beach isn’t your thing, you can walk the loop of the South West Coast Path that wraps around the point of the Jurassic Coast, home to Portland Bill. The perfect way to spend a day with your dog.

Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is the ideal family and dog-friendly location for a UK summer holiday.

Monmouth Beach, East Cliff Beach and Church Cliff Beach allow dogs all year round.

The main town and beach front does have some restrictions from May to September so be sure to check this when planning your trip.

What should I know before taking my dog to the beach?

As you probably already know, a day out to the beach or a staycation with your dog requires preparation!

You want to ensure they’re comfortable, stay cool, and have everything they need to enjoy the day as much as you.

Always consider if it’s safe to take your dog to the beach – extremely high temperatures can make it dangerous for them to be out in the sun all day.

Things to consider:

  • Hot sand – In high temperatures, the sand can get very hot just like the pavements and may burn dogs’ paws. 
  • Sea water – Don’t let your dog drink too much sea water as this can be dangerous and cause sickness, diarrhoea and dehydration. 
  • Eating sand – If your dog swallows too much sand, it can cause a fatal intestinal blockage so be careful when your dog is playing with toys or digging in the sand. 

If your dog does become unwell at the beach, move them to a quiet, cool location and contact your vet. 

If you plan on taking your pet away with you this summer, it’s worth checking what your pet insurance policy covers. The type of policy you have will depend on whether any required treatment will be covered.

What to pack:

  • Portable dog bowl and fresh water – to keep them hydrated
  • Dog towel – if your dog likes a dip in the sea
  • Poo bags – respect other holiday makers and clean up after your dog
  • Toys/ball – to keep them entertained throughout the day
  • First-aid kit – just in case!

For extra caution and sun protection, you could bring a pop-up tent or parasol to provide them with some shade.

Pets can get sunburnt too, especially if they have light or thin fur. Do not use your own sunscreen on them as it can be toxic if ingested. Instead, purchase pet-safe suncream ahead of your beach trip.

Check out the beach guide https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/ for more information on beaches across the UK and whether they’re dog-friendly.

Have fun and stay-safe!

*Vetsure is not currently affiliated with any of the businesses or beaches mentioned in this post and cannot be held liable for your individual experiences when visiting these places.