One of the things many dog owners have to think about when they go away on holiday is what to do with their dogs. Some people simply pay for them to be looked after in kennels, others may ask a friend or relative to care for them.
A lot of dog owners would actually prefer to take their pets with them on holiday but some worry about pet behavioural issues. The trouble has always been where to find a suitable holiday destination that both owners and their pets would enjoy.
In the summer months, one idea for a holiday is to spend it somewhere near a beach. So we’ve come up with some locations of dog friendly beaches and accommodation for you to consider for your next summer holiday.
Hengistbury West Beach, Dorset
Dorset’s coast is adorned with golden beaches, many of which have dog restrictions. But Hengistbury West, a less popular but equally stunning beach, welcomes dogs throughout the year. This beach is a mix of pebbles and shingles, surrounded by the cliffs of Hengistbury Head. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and walkers. Plus, it’s close to a nature reserve and a popular beach-front café.
Nearby Accommodation: Bournemouth East Cliff Hotel
Milford-on-Sea Beach, Hampshire
Located at the southern tip of New Forest National Park, this pebble beach is a favorite among dog lovers. It offers stunning views of the Isle of Wight and a family-friendly walk to Hurst Castle.
Nearby Accommodation: The Mayflower Hotel in Lymington
West Wittering, West Sussex
This sandy beach is a rarity in an area known for pebbly beaches. Dogs are allowed in most areas throughout the year, making it a favorite among dog owners.
Nearby Accommodation: Goodwood Hotel
Perranporth Beach, Cornwall
One of the most dog friendly beaches in the UK, Perranporth Beach in Cornwall offers miles of golden sands and bathing for dogs. This location is also family friendly, and if you’re feeling adventurous you could even go surfing too!
Accommodation can be had from places such as the Reen Cross Barn in Goonhavern, which is a small village 2 miles east of Perranporth.
Nearby Accommodation: Lewinnick Lodge
Watcombe Beach, Torquay
Surrounded by wooded hillsides and cliffs, Watcombe Beach is an idyllic spot to have a wander. There is a steep path that leads down to the beach, which passes through woodland and opens to reveal a cove with magnificent scenery.
If you feel like splashing out (with money that is, not sea water!) then you might like to stay at the luxurious 5 star Pilgrims Rest luxury cottages, which are only a mile away from the beach.
Nearby Accommodation: The Trecarn Hotel
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
One of the most unspoilt beaches you’re likely to ever come across, Holkham beach boasts some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the country. The beach is managed by Natural England, and is home to many rare species of flora and fauna.
The nearby Victoria Hotel is only a 15-minute walk from the beach, and offers a multitude of benefits (apart from being dog friendly of course) such as the vast choice of meals in their restaurant which use fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, tastefully decorated bedrooms, and much more.
Nearby Accommodation: The Victoria Inn
Allonby Beach, Cumbria
The small village of Allonby in Cumbria, once an important centre for herring fishing, is in a designated area of outstanding beauty. Its long and sandy beach, which is a cleanliness and safety winner, has superb views across the Solway Estuary right up to the mountains of southern Scotland. The village also has a long history of being a sea-bathing resort, dating back to the 18th century, and has retained much of its Georgian and Victorian charm.
Nearby, the Dickinson Place Holiday Cottages offer luxury, dog-friendly accommodation. Their cottages are set in a tranquil courtyard in the centre of the village, and feature safe, off-road parking, and peace and quiet. They have been awarded 4 stars by Visit Britain, and when you see the unique, carefully converted and preserved cottages, it is easy to see why.
Nearby Accommodation: The Embleton Spa Hotel in Cockermouth
Whitstable West Beach, Whitstable, Kent
Whitstable’s west beach is a stretch of shingle where dogs have unrestricted access. It’s a traditional beach with huts, cottages, and fishing boats.
Nearby Accommodation: The Pebbles
Southwold Pier, Suffolk
This pebble beach at Southwold is backed by a promenade and offers numerous activities ranging from fishing to swimming. It’s also home to the famous Southwold Pier.
Nearby Accommodation: Hognsorting Villa
Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland
Bamburgh Beach was voted the UK’s best seaside destination in 2021. Your canine friend will love running on its fine sands and meeting new friends.
Cayton Bay, Yorkshire
Known as one of Yorkshire’s best surfing locations, this sandy beach is backed by cliffs. It’s popular among bird watchers and fossil hunters.
Nearby Accommodation: Bike & Boot
Sand Bay Beach, Somerset
This sandy beach offers brilliant views across the Bristol Channel and is dog-friendly throughout the year.
Conwy Morfa Beach, Flintshire, Wales
This beach is a part of the beaches and mussel banks of Conwy Bay and is great for fishing. Dogs are welcome all year round with no restrictions.
Nearby Accommodation: The Groes Inn
Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Peninsula
This stunning beach is one of the most photographed beaches in Britain. It’s known for its sand dunes and three iconic cliffs.
Nearby Accommodation: The Old Dairy
Happy beaching with your furry friend!
