There’s nothing quite like the joy of a beach day with your four-legged friend—waves to chase, wide-open space to roam, and plenty of fresh sea air to sniff. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, the UK is full of dog-friendly beaches where tails can wag freely and memories can be made.

To help you plan the paw-fect coastal escape, we’ve rounded up some of the best UK beaches for dogs—from rugged Scottish bays to sunny Cornish shores. Plus, don’t miss our handy interactive map of dog-friendly beaches to easily find beaches that allow dogs near you.

Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Across the UK

1. Holkham Beach, Norfolk (England)

One of the most scenic stretches of the Norfolk coast, Holkham offers vast sandy expanses backed by pine forests—ideal for adventurous pups. Dogs are welcome year-round, though they must be kept on leads in some nature-sensitive areas during nesting season (April to August).

Facilities: Parking, café nearby, walking trails
Best time to visit: Early morning or weekday afternoons to avoid crowds

2. Rhossili Bay, Swansea (Wales)

Regularly voted among the UK’s best beaches, Rhossili’s three-mile stretch of golden sand is open to dogs all year. It’s perfect for long walks and even better for energetic pups who love to run.

Facilities: National Trust parking, tearoom, dog-friendly pub
Top tip: Bring water and check tide times—parts of the beach can disappear at high tide.

3. Westward Ho!, Devon (England)

This unique beach is split between a dog-friendly zone and a restricted area, so it’s a great option if you’re visiting with a mix of dog lovers and those who prefer dog-free zones. Outside of the summer dog-ban zone (May to September), the whole beach is open to pups.

Facilities: Toilets, cafés, promenade
When to go: Visit out of peak season for fewer restrictions and more space.

4. Yellowcraig Beach, East Lothian (Scotland)

Just a short drive from Edinburgh, Yellowcraig is a haven for dogs and their humans. With grassy dunes and views of Fidra Island, it’s a lesser-known gem that’s rarely crowded and ideal for off-lead exploration.

Facilities: Picnic area, toilets, coastal trails
Bonus: Great for combining with nearby forest walks.

5. Poppit Sands, Pembrokeshire (Wales)

Situated at the start of the Wales Coast Path, this wide sandy beach is a favourite for dog walkers. There are seasonal restrictions on part of the beach (typically between May and September), but a large section remains dog-friendly year-round.

Facilities: Beach café, parking, RNLI lifeboat station
Pro tip: Great for families and dogs who enjoy calmer waters.

Practical Tips for Dog-Friendly Beach Days

• Always check local signage: Restrictions vary, especially in summer months.
• Bring essentials: Water, a lead, dog waste bags, and a towel for sandy paws.
• Respect wildlife: Keep dogs under control in sensitive areas like dunes and nesting zones.
• Leave no trace: Clean up after your pup to help keep beaches beautiful and open to dogs.

Find Dog-Friendly Beaches Near You

Planning your next adventure just got easier. Use our interactive map of dog friendly beaches to search for dog-friendly beaches near me—perfect whether you’re staying local or heading off on a holiday.

This handy tool lets you browse by location, read up on local rules, and discover new favourite spots along the coast. Whether you’re in Cornwall, the Highlands, or anywhere in between, there’s a beach waiting for you and your pup.

Final Thoughts

From windswept Scottish coves to sunny South West sands, the UK is packed with amazing dog-friendly coastal getaways. With a little planning, your beach day can be both fun and stress-free—for you and your furry companion. So grab the lead, pack the treats, and get ready to explore some of the best dog friendly beaches the UK has to offer.