7 of the best dog friendly beaches in the UK
Yes, a far flung beach, lined with palm trees, in the middle of a perfectly warm, exotic sea somewhere is the ultimate holiday dream, but there is definitely one major downside: you can't take your dog.
Dubbed the Summer of the Staycation, this year, many of us have been forced to get our shoreline fix closer to home and have been pleasantly surprised by the azure waters and shimmering sands that can be found just up the motorway. But best of all, it's meant that our four-legged friends can enjoy the beach life with us.
Dog-lovers and owners will know that there is nothing better than watching a pet frolic in the sea, chase the waves and roll in the sand — in fact, it's a toss up as to which family member is enjoying it more: the children or the dog.
However, when planning your trip, it's important to bear in mind that not all beaches allow dogs. Lots of beaches will tolerate your pooch in the winter months or during high-season evenings and early mornings, but for this list of the best dog friendly beaches in the UK we’ve stuck to those that allow all-year, all-day access.
7 of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK
Porthkidney Beach, Cornwall
The wide, flat field of sand below the dunes are barely dotted with other holidaymakers even in the height of summer. This dog-walking dream is made possible by a lack of nearby parking and a steep walk down past the golf club from St Uny Church in Lelant. After you’ve made the most of its mile-long span follow the coast for another three miles to enjoy the cafés and go window-shopping in the galleries of St Ives.
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Four miles across, Holkham Beach invites you to stay from dawn to dusk, where you'll experience an extra mile of sand at low tide as well as an enchanting sunset. Its sense of peaceful seclusion is reinforced by the pine woods behind and the nature reserve alongside and a five mile walk to the equally lovely Wells-next-the-Sea, means that even the most boisterous of dogs will be tired out by the end of the day.
Balnakeil Beach, Scottish Highlands
Situated near the extreme north western tip of mainland Scotland is Balnakeil beach, an expansive crescent of near white sand backed by grassy dunes. The beach forms one side of a narrow neck of land that stretches out to the rocky headland of Faraid Head.
Rhossili Bay, Swansea
It only sounds crazy that this stretch on the Gower Peninsula is mentioned in the same breath as Hawaii and Thailand until you’ve been here. The views are spectacular from every angle (if you can hold your dog back, try to take in the panorama from the cliffs above), and there’s plenty to do, including crossing to the low-tide-only outcrop of Worms Head.
Eype Beach, Dorset
Dogs can be taken to the famed Lulworth Cove and the picturesque Durdle Door arch, but you’ll have to weave through the crowds and traffic. If that's not your bag — or your dog can't contain itself around picnics — then head to Eype instead, where the magic of the Jurassic Coast is every bit as strong but there’s also room to roam.
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire
Sticking out of the south-western edge of Wales, this dramatic beach coasts volcanic rock formations and a seemingly endless outlook over Skokholm Island to the Atlantic. And the drama starts before you even hit the sands with the walk down the beach — half a mile from the carpark — down the high cliffs to the series of small bays that make up Marloes Sands. Your four-legged friend will enjoy the rock pools and exploring Gateholm, a tidal island with the remains of an ancient settlement, while you soak up the elemental powers.
Saunton Sands, Devon
Set within the UNESCO North Devon Biosphere Reserve around Braunton Burrows sand dunes, this three-mile stretch of sand means that your dog will never run out of space. Plus, the sheer scale also has another upside as it means that even during high season, you’ll be able to find your own bliss.
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