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As we move into 2025, the UK travel landscape is shifting. The days of jetting abroad for short breaks are gradually giving way to a new and meaningful trend dog friendly holidays in England.
A growing number of pet owners are opting for scenic, local adventures, embracing the outdoors while ensuring their canine companions are part of the journey.
This shift aligns with a broader cultural movement toward sustainability, mental well-being, and connection with nature.
In response, accommodation providers, coastal towns, and local councils across England are making it easier than ever to enjoy a seamless holiday experience with your dog complete with pet-friendly facilities, walking trails, and dedicated beach zones.
In this guide, we explore 10 of the UK’s most stunning dog friendly beaches, each paired with accommodation options that cater specifically to dog owners. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full-on summer holiday, these destinations provide the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for both humans and hounds.
Could This Be England’s Most Dog-Loving Beachfront?
Perranporth Beach – Perranporth, Cornwall
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Located on Cornwall’s dramatic Atlantic coast, Perranporth Beach is a vast expanse of golden sand, framed by rugged cliffs and gentle dunes.
This beach is a true paradise for dogs, offering ample space for off-lead runs, beach games, and shallow water paddles.
The local vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of dog-friendly pubs and cafes lining the nearby streets.
For accommodation, choose from seafront lodges, rustic cottages, or dog-welcoming hotels. Most provide enclosed gardens, outdoor rinse stations, and cosy dog beds. The beach also hosts annual dog events and has waste stations for responsible pet travel.
- Average Price Range: £90–£160 per night
- Dog Policy: Off-lead allowed year-round; excellent facilities and signage
Is This Norfolk’s Ultimate Hideaway for You and Your Dog?
Holkham Bay – Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
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Holkham Bay is one of the UK’s most pristine natural beaches. Its seemingly endless stretch of sand, backed by pinewood forests and a nature reserve, creates a magical setting for dog owners seeking peace and space.
The area’s dog-friendly ethos is evident in the many countryside retreats and barn conversions on offer.
These often include fully fenced gardens, wood-burning stoves, and walking trails accessible from your doorstep.
Dogs must be on lead in nature reserve areas, but the wide-open beach is a dream for off-lead exploration.
- Average Price Range: £85–£140 per night
- Dog Policy: Dogs welcome all year; lead required in protected areas
Could This South Coast Gem Be the Perfect Pup Retreat?
West Wittering – Chichester, West Sussex
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This Blue Flag beach is famous for its clean waters and well-maintained environment. While sections of West Wittering Beach have seasonal dog restrictions, there are designated dog zones available year-round making it a family favourite even for those travelling with pets.
The surrounding area boasts stylish beach cottages, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels designed with dog-owners in mind. Expect extras like dog treats on arrival, enclosed patios, and scenic access to the Salterns Way footpath.
A perfect mix of countryside and coast, it offers dogs freedom and stimulation, with owners enjoying panoramic views of Chichester Harbour.
- Average Price Range: £100–£180 per night
- Dog Policy: Seasonal restrictions apply; dog zones available year-round
Could This Be Wales’ Top Coastal Adventure for Dogs?
Rhossili Bay – Swansea, Wales
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Located on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, Rhossili Bay is not only one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, but also among the most dog-friendly.
With miles of golden sand and low tide flats, it offers the perfect setting for fetch, splashing, and wide-open roaming.
Stay options include converted farmhouses and B&Bs with pet amenities like welcome hampers, towels, and outdoor washing stations. Many also provide dog-friendly maps for nearby trails, including the iconic Rhossili Down and Worm’s Head walks.
Average Price Range: £75–£130 per night
Dog Policy: Dogs welcome year-round; off-lead permitted
Is Northumberland Home to the UK’s Most Dog-Welcoming Sands?
Bamburgh Beach – Bamburgh, Northumberland
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Bamburgh Beach is not just visually breathtaking with its iconic castle backdrop and vast stretch of golden coastline but also one of the most welcoming for dog owners. It’s rarely crowded, making it perfect for off-lead play and uninterrupted walks.
Pet-friendly accommodation here includes elegant country inns and coastal cottages. Many offer dog baskets, food bowls, and designated outdoor areas.
The area is also rich in dog-walking paths and pet-friendly historic sites, offering a great blend of nature and culture.
- Average Price Range: £90–£150 per night
- Dog Policy: Dogs allowed all year; off-lead recommended with supervision
Could Camber Sands Be a Dog’s Dream Playground?
Camber Sands – Rye, East Sussex
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With its sweeping sandy expanse and dune-filled landscape, Camber Sands is one of the South East’s most beloved beaches. It’s perfect for large dogs who love to run, as well as older pets who prefer gentle strolls.
A standout place to stay is The Gallivant, a boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a strong pet policy. Dogs receive their own welcome package and are allowed in public areas, including the garden and terrace.
Other rentals nearby provide private beach access and fully equipped kitchens for self-catering stays.
- Average Price Range: £110–£200 per night
- Dog Policy: Seasonal lead restrictions; off-lead in marked zones
Is Merseyside’s Coastal Stretch the Best-Kept Secret for Dog Walkers?
Formby Beach – Formby, Merseyside
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Formby Beach is a dynamic mix of pinewoods, dunes, and broad sandy stretches that make it ideal for active dogs and nature-loving owners.
It’s also home to protected wildlife, including red squirrels and rare flora, so dogs must stay on lead in some areas.
Accommodation options vary from forest-edge lodges to classic holiday homes with dog-specific services, including beds, bowls, and enclosed gardens.
The National Trust manages the area, ensuring well-maintained trails and dog bins for a clean and comfortable experience.
- Average Price Range: £80–£130 per night
- Dog Policy: Allowed all year; leads required in wildlife zones
Could Devon’s Shores Offer the Best of Beach and Countryside?
Saunton Sands – Braunton, Devon
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This expansive three-mile beach on the North Devon coast is a favourite for surfers and dog walkers alike. The nearby Braunton Burrows Europe’s largest sand dune system offers hours of natural exploration.
The area is home to a wide variety of dog-friendly stays, from family-run inns to modern eco-lodges. Many places provide enclosed patios, outdoor taps, and easy access to pet services. There are also plenty of local pubs and cafes that welcome dogs.
Average Price Range: £95–£160 per night
Dog Policy: Dogs permitted throughout the year
Is Cornwall the Ultimate Destination for Year-Round Dog Fun?
Sandymouth Bay – Bude, Cornwall
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Nestled just north of Bude, Sandymouth Bay offers a quieter, more secluded beach option for those wanting to escape the crowds.
The surrounding cliffs and winding paths give dogs a sense of adventure, while the wide beach offers ample running space.
Staying nearby, you’ll find cosy cliff-top cottages and seaside cabins with secured gardens, BBQ areas, and dog-cleaning stations.
It’s ideal for travellers seeking a more tranquil environment where nature and canine freedom go hand in hand.
Average Price Range: £85–£145 per night
Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on the beach year-round
Could Scotland’s Famed Links Offer a Dog-Friendly Surprise?
St Andrews West Sands – St Andrews, Scotland
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Known globally for its golf, St Andrews is also a paradise for dog owners. West Sands stretches for nearly two miles and is rarely overcrowded, allowing for relaxed playtime and brisk walks with dramatic North Sea views.
The local hospitality scene includes dog-friendly B&Bs, seafront apartments, and luxury hotels that cater to pet travellers. Most provide welcome treats, doggy blankets, and easy access to both the beach and the town’s charming streets.
- Average Price Range: £90–£170 per night
- Dog Policy: Dogs permitted year-round; leash optional depending on beach conditions
Conclusion
As 2025 redefines how we holiday, the growing love for dog friendly holidays in England shows no signs of slowing down.
These ten beaches represent the best the UK has to offerwhere dogs can run, play, and rest alongside their humans in stunning coastal settings.
Whether it’s the windswept drama of Northumberland, the lush dunes of Sussex, or the surfing sands of Devon, England’s beaches offer tail-wagging joy at every turn.
So pack the lead, grab the treats, and start planning your next unforgettable adventure with your four-legged best friend.
FAQs
What essentials should I pack for a dog-friendly beach trip?
Be sure to bring a lead, water bowl, waste bags, a towel, a dog-friendly sunblock (especially for short-haired breeds), and their favourite toys.
How can I keep my dog safe in the sun and sand?
Avoid mid-day heat, check the sand temperature before letting your dog walk barefoot, provide plenty of shade, and keep your dog hydrated throughout the day.
Can I take my dog on public transport in the UK?
Yes. Most trains and buses in the UK allow dogs at no additional charge. Dogs must be well-behaved and remain on a lead or in a carrier.
Are all beaches in the UK dog friendly?
Not all beaches are dog friendly year-round. Many popular beaches enforce seasonal bans during summer, so check local council websites before your trip.
How do I find pet-friendly accommodation near a beach?
Websites like PetsPyjamas, Dog Friendly UK, and Airbnb filters help identify dog-welcoming stays. Read reviews for dog-specific amenities.
What beaches have year-round dog access?
Bamburgh Beach, Perranporth, Rhossili Bay, and Sandymouth Bay are great examples of beaches with no seasonal bans for dogs.
What are signs a beach is dog safe?
Look for signage about dog rules, clean facilities, low tide areas, nearby amenities like dog bins, and absence of sharp rocks or debris.