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Best Beaches in the UK for Dog Lovers

It’s natural for dog lovers to take their pets with them wherever they may go. Unfortunately, some places, such as national parks and beaches, would not allow the entry of canines. One of the reasons behind this is to keep the environment protected.  

Luckily, here in the UK, there are several dog-friendly beaches where you can take your furry friends. These beaches are the perfect places to relax and spend quality time with your four-legged friends. Take note that even though these beaches will give your pets the freedom to roam around, as a pet owner, you are responsible to keep control of your dog and clean up after them.

Whether your pooch loves to dig in the sand or leap through the waves, here are the best beaches in the UK for dog lovers. 

1. Bude 

Bude is known for its dramatic coastline, glittering seascapes, and soft sands, making it one of the ultimate destinations for beach lovers in the UK. There are several beaches that you can visit in Bude. Some of the best ones are Millook Beach, Black Rock Beach, Sandymouth Bay, Summerleaze Beach, and Widemouth Bay Beach. Most of these beaches are allowing the entry of pets. The only exception is in Summerleaze Beach where dogs must be on leads. 

The best part about taking your pets to Bude is that it boasts a variety of trails and footpaths where you can walk and play with your furry friends. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the 2-mile path by the Bude Canal or take your pooch to venture into the rugged Southwest Coast Path that connects Bude to the nearby beaches. One day may not be enough to enjoy all these beautiful beaches, so consider spending a few nights in a dog-friendly accommodation in Bude. 

2. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a magical city that’s well worth discovering, especially with your furry friends in tow. The city is packed with regional parks and coastlines where your pets can play and sniff around and have a good time. It’s worth pointing out that there is plenty of dog friendly and alternative accommodation in Edinburgh to find. Some of the best places to take your dogs in Edinburg are in the Hawes Pier in South Queensferry, Harlaw Reservoir, and Colinton Tunnel.

If you’re heading to the beach, then Edinburgh will not disappoint. The city has several dog-friendly beaches where your dogs can roam freely. One of these is Portobello Beach. When heading to Portobello, don’t forget to check out the dog bakery called “Harry’s Treats”, which sells toys and gourmet nibbles for your furry friends. Portobello’s seafront promenade is also a great place to walk your dogs. This 2.2-mile scenic route draws crowds of pet owners, especially during good weather.

3. Ballycastle

Ballycastle is one of the most dog-friendly towns in the UK.  This small seaside town is located on Antrim’s Causeway Coast Route, not far from the Giant’s Causeway and Rathlin. Ballycastle is home to a fine stretch of sandy beach, which allows pets of all kinds. The beach runs from the marina towards Pans Rocks. Here, your four-legged best friends can play around and get their much-needed exercise.

At the end of the beach, there’s the Margy River, which flows directly into the sea. Take your dogs to cross this river via the stone bridge that leads towards the seafront promenade. Although there’s no lifeguard in the area, the beach is generally safe for swimming and surfing. If you plan on spending a few nights in Ballycastle, consider staying in a dog-friendly vacation rental. 

4. Skegness 

Lincolnshire’s sandy beaches are one of the UK’s best-kept secrets. With a coastline spanning more than 50 miles, you will often have the beach to yourself, allowing your dogs to play around without bothering anyone. Lincolnshire is also home to Skegness, a beautiful seaside town with a dog-friendly beach.

On the southern part of the Skegness Central Beach, called the South Bracing, dogs of all sizes are allowed. This area is a section off South Parade, close to the Festival Car Park. It is very popular with dog walkers, especially the path leading to Gibraltar Point. Just avoid the area between the Pier and the lifeguard station since dogs are not allowed here and those that will be caught breaking the rules will be fined up to £1,000. Also, remember to put your pooch on the lead especially when you venture into the nature reserve.

If your dogs are well-behaved, take them to the Natureland Seal Sanctuary in Skegness. Here, they can meet seals, alpacas, meerkats, and a wide variety of insects and animals. You can also take them to The Pier, one of the largest Entertainment centres on the East Coast of Lincolnshire.

5. Poole 

The famous sandy beaches of Poole in Dorset are some of the best places in the UK for dog lovers. But take note that dogs are prohibited on the main beaches from May to September. However, dogs are allowed all year round at the Branksome Dene Chine as well as in those areas at the western end of Sandbanks Beach. At Studland, Shell Bay and South Beach will allow the entry of pets for as long as they are on a lead. The other beaches where dogs are allowed are Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, and Kimmeridge Beaches.

Aside from the beaches, there are several other places that you and your pets can visit in Dorset. Take your pooch to explore the stunning Exbury Gardens and marvel at the world-famous displays of colourful flowers. The Lulworth Castle and Park is also a great place for walking your dogs. Here, you can hang out with your pooch on the spacious grounds before wandering through the woodlands. 

If you’re staying for a few days, make sure you book dog-friendly accommodations with Independent Cottages. Thankfully, there are now plenty of accommodations in Dorset that cater to guests with pets. Some of these accommodations are set in the rolling countryside with gorgeous views and there are also beachfront vacation rentals close to the dog-friendly beaches in Poole. Given the many options, looking for a comfortable place to stay in Dorset with your dogs should be easy.