From scoops of doggy ice-cream to cappawccino and doggalattes, there’s no shortage of premium treats by the sea for furry friends. However, the real tail-wagging excitement comes from the freedom to play, swim and paddle without a care in the world.
Ruby enjoys a game of fetch on the golden sands of Sandbanks Beach, Dorset.
Cudmore Grove Country Park, Mersea Island, Essex, offers a great sandy beach, grasslands, meadows and stunning views. While your pooch scampers along the shore, take in historic features like the WWII pillboxes, come here for creeks, boardwalks, sailing as well as the famous oysters.
Warm up with a casual drink or relaxed lunch at The Victory pub in West Mersea village, which offers views out to moored fishing boats. For those who can’t tear themselves away, there are plenty of dog-friendly places to stay in Strood, Cocum Hills or Little Ditch guest rooms.
Heading to Devon? The space and scenery around Dartmouth are a huge draw for dog lovers. Beyond the allure of the South West Coast Path, the Dart Valley Trail is a beautiful route beside the Dart River. A series of heritage walks offer the chance to explore the history of this charming town while little paws stretch legs. Jubilee Walk offers a circular route with views of the harbour and Britannia Naval College from the hills above town.
This decidedly dog-friendly town features dozens of cafes, pubs and restaurants with welcoming water bowl on the pavement outside and free treats at the bar. And for a glow-up after a muddy walk, you’ll find a dog wash and pet parlour in the town centre – because even pups deserve a pup-grade pampering!.
Best beaches? Just a 20-minute walkie away are Castle Cove and Sugary Cove – small but secluded – and, best of all, canine friends are welcome year round. The nearby three-mile stretch at Slapton Sands offers a freshwater lake and is also open throughout the year; indulge in pet-friendly ice-cream at its Beach Hut. Blackpool Sands is another great option, but this Blue Flag hotspot is a magnet for families so it’s best to head there out of season.
The sandy beaches of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate provide the perfect playground for four-legged pals to let off steam. Most are open year-round but restrictions apply (as elsewhere) between 1 May and 30 September. Dog beach by-laws are also in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
The stunning cliffs of Broadstairs provide a breathtaking backdrop for scenic dog walks.
Margate is fast becoming the UK’s top dog-friendly destination. At Doghouse Margate, they roll out the red carpet and offer a bespoke open-paws approach, tailored menus created by master chef Pupcakes and Pooches, dog-sitting services and much more for canine companions’ delight.
With more than 20 miles of coastline, 30 walking routes and 200 open spaces, White Cliffs Country in Kent has dog-friendly stamped all over it. Exploring the famous landmark is a must; start at the White Cliffs Visitor Centre and walk two miles to South Foreland Lighthouse for astounding coast views. If your hound prefers a full-on hike, strike out on the 10-mile Three Castles Walk from Dover to Deal. You’ll finish at Deal Pier after taking in Walmer and Deal Castles.
Alternatively, follow the newly created six-mile Deal to Sandwich King Charles III England Coast Path stretch. It passes the world-famous Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club and ends in medieval Sandwich. Three miles up the road, Sandwich Bay is dog-friendly year-round, just be sure to time a visit for when the tide’s out.
However, if looking for a country park, check out Samphire Hoe nestled underneath the White Cliffs, created by Eurotunnel in 1997. The Hoe sits on 45 hectares of land reclaimed from the sea and now offers spectacular views across the Channel and miles of peaceful walks – just keep your pal on a lead!
Keeping things lively on Margate Beach, paws in the sand and tail in the air.
For a restorative pint, drop into The Zetland Arms in Kingsdown near Deal, The Kings Head on Deal seafront (which also offers dog-friendly rooms), or Deal Pier Kitchen at the end of the Pier.
Fifteen miles of sandy beaches, acres of gardens and green spaces and outdoorsy eateries galore, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole love dogs! From 1 October to 30 April you’re welcome to bring your pup anytime but, like most beaches, there are fierce penalties if you don’t clean up.
From 1 May to 30 September dogs are not permitted on any Blue Flag or Seaside Award beaches and must be kept on a lead on proms, piers and zigzags. However, there are 11 beaches across the three resorts open to dogs year round, including Middle Chine to Durley Chine and Hengistbury Head in Bournemouth; Mudeford Sandbank and Gundimore Beach in Christchurch, and Hamworthy and the western end of Sandbanks beach in Poole.
Fig is having fun at Stone Bay Beach, Broadstairs, making the most of the sun, sand, and sea
For a green space, Upton Country Park offers acres of parkland, woodlands and meadows. Two secure fenced spaces are ideal for puppy training and there’s a dog wash in the car park before you head home. St Catherine’s Hill Nature Reserve boasts 35 hectares of heathland and coniferous forest with great views to the Isle of Wight – don’t miss the Bunker Café for a menu of doggy treats.
Looking for some pampering time for pooch? Look no further than Ribby Hall Village near Blackpool. Go barking mad for the North West’s only five-star holiday village with pawfect, stress-free breaks for everyone. Enjoy woodland trails, bark park and spacious accommodation, including one that’s dog-friendly with a hot tub.
Head over to the nearby Ribby Hall Spa Hotel for a day of treatments; detoxify and relax before returning to cuddle up with your furry friend.
Restrictions on beaches apply in summer months but there’s a huge choice of dog-friendly strands on the Lancashire coast including Bispham Beach, Blackpool North, St Anne’s and Fleetwood.
