If there’s one thing that the UK isn’t short of, it’s beaches. Whether you prefer the cooler climates of Scotland’s coastlines or prefer the almost tropical temperatures of Devon’s famed beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Searching for dog-friendly coastal cottages? Then you’ve landed in the right place. We’ve over 40,000 cottages for you to browse through - many in the most scenic and sought-after seaside resorts in Britain.
Of course, we don’t expect to simply scroll through that many cottages! Our friendly team is on hand to ensure you find the perfect cottage by the sea. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly cottage with an enclosed garden, or perhaps a cosy shepherds hut with a bubbling hot tub, we’re always here to help.
If you’re not quite sure where you’d like to go with your four-legged friend just yet, then that’s fine! From the dramatic surroundings of the Jurassic Coast to the traditional seaside towns of Scarborough and Barmouth, there’s plenty of options for you to consider! Why not take a look at our list of top beaches for some inspiration?
Best dog-friendly beaches in the UK
Looking for the very best in golden sands and sea views? We’ve handpicked some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK to help you find the perfect location for your next break.
Monkstone Beach
Location: Pembrokeshire, Wales
Best for: Letting the dogs off the leads on quiet afternoons
As well as the popular Pembrokeshire Coast Path, you’ll also find a lovely choice of beaches in this region of West Wales. Monkstone Beach is a popular dog-friendly beach, in between the seaside towns of Tenby and Saundersfoot. Along this gorgeous stretch of golden sands are plenty of rockpools and shallow sections of water - perfect for the dogs to splash around in!
Dogs allowed?: Dog-friendly all year round!
North Sands Beach
Location: Salcombe, Devon
Best for: Having a swim or paddle in its calm waters
Staying at a pet-friendly cottage in Salcombe? Situated along the South West coast, North Sands Beach is a popular dog-friendly beach that never feels too crowded. The views over the estuary are absolutely stunning, and the calm waters are perfect for paddling and swimming (on two legs or four!).
Dogs allowed?: Dog-friendly all year round!
Cayton Bay
Location: North Yorkshire
Best for: Escaping the crowds and listening to the rolling waves
Staying at a dog-friendly holiday home in North Yorkshire? Be sure to add Cayton Bay to your ‘must visit’ list! Tucked between the towns of Scarborough and Filey, this golden cove allows dogs throughout the year. A popular surfing spot, it’s a great place to sit and watch the waves roll by.
Dogs allowed?: Dog-friendly all year round!
Hunstanton Beach
Location: Hunstanton, Norfolk
Best for: Being right next to the bustling town of Hunstanton
The Victorian resort town of Hunstanton is a popular choice among visitors to Norfolk. Hunstanton Beach is best-known for the striped cliffs that stretch along its sands. The beach gets quite busy during the summer months, but dogs are free to roam during the off-peak seasons.
Dogs allowed?: Dogs allowed during spring, autumn and winter months.
St. Combs Beach
Location: North East Scotland
Best for: Enjoying a quiet stroll along this often deserted sandy beach
Scotland is home to a number of gorgeous beaches, including the quiet St. Combs Beach. Five miles from the town of Fraserburgh, this golden stretch of beach and dunes is often the home of Osprey’s during the summer months - be sure to keep an eye out!
Best dog-friendly coastal walks in the UK
There’s nothing more refreshing than a cool sea breeze on a warm summer’s day. If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next coastal walk, take a look at our top choices.
Dunwich Heath
Location: Suffolk
Best for: Seeing the vibrant colours of the heath during summer months
If you’re planning on staying at a dog friendly cottage in the beautiful surroundings of Suffolk, then you’ll definitely want to make a trip to Dunwich Heath. This pretty area of heathland is perfect for scenic walks with your pup - he’ll love sniffing around and exploring while you make the most of the coastal views.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: The Coastguard Cottages Tea Room is located in the National Trust car park of Dunwich Heath, great for refueling before heading back home.
Robin Hood’s Bay
Location: Yorkshire
Best for: Exploring this historic coastline of Yorkshire
An absolutely beautiful stretch of Yorkshire’s coastline, Robin Hood’s Bay is less than 15-minutes away from the popular seaside town of Whitby. After a good run on the beach, head into the historic village to discover its unique architecture and small choice of bars and restaurants.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: A seaside break isn’t complete without a tray of fish and chips - be sure to pop into Fish Box in the village of Robin Hood’s Bay.
Kingsgate Bay
Location: Kent
Best for: Discovering the white cliffs and hidden coves of this pretty bay
Kingsgate Bay is famed for the white cliffs that tower over the golden sands of this bay. Your pooch will love sniffing around the many sea caves that you’ll uncover as you walk along the shore. Dogs are allowed here all year round, so you don’t need to worry about any seasonal restrictions.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: After a long walk on the beach, refuel at the nearby Captain Digby restaurant.
Anglesey Coastal Path
Location: North Wales
Best for: Discovering the coastal delights of North Wales
If you’re staying in North Wales, be sure to make a trip to Anglesey to explore its famed Anglesey Coastal Path. Spanning 200-kilometres around the whole island, you’ll have plenty of options for scenic walks. Soak up the sights at South Stack, or enjoy a beachside walk in the popular town of Benllech.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: Be sure to visit The Golden Fry in Benllech to try out their award-winning fish and chips!
St Anthony Head
Location: Cornwall
Best for: A chilled-out stroll with your four-legged friend
Cornwall had to be on our list somewhere! St Anthony Head is located on the Roseland Peninsula, and offers some of the best coastal views in the area. Great for a relaxed stroll with the pup, you’ll be treated to glorious sights over the Lizard Peninsula.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: For a traditional pub experience, visit The Victory Inn at St Mawes.
Dogs allowed?: Dog-friendly all year round!
Dog Friendly Beach Holiday Reviews
What our customers are saying about their beach holidays
Bev Brazier, August 2020
Great time! The house was great. We brilliantly located just 3 min walk from the gorgeous mere and walking distance of the beach too. A nice little park for the kiddies around the corner too! Lots of great places to visit. We loved Flamborough Head and RSPB Bempton Cliffs especially. Bridlington beach was excellent too. Hornsea itself is a lovely friendly place. Our dogs had a wonderful time too!
Jan Head, July 2020
I had a lovely break from Mon to Fri; the cottage is in a beautiful location an ideal base for exploring North Wales. I had taken my dog with me, so that dictated what I did and where I went. I visited Loggerheads Country Park, Mofa Conwy beach dog-friendly, Great Orme some lovely walks on the headland. Finally, I went to Llyn Brenig and another ideal walking and picnic spot. The owners were amiable and lots of personal touches in the accommodation, e.g. welsh cakes on arrival. I would love to return here at some time. Peace is just what I needed.
Jonathan Beaston, October 2020
It wasn't a holiday. I stayed at The Willows while waiting to move into my new home. It was a natural home from home, very spacious, light and bright, very comfortable and with the kindest hosts one could wish for. There are heaps of places to walk the dog - Chard Reservoir, Lambert's Castle, Lyme Regis seafront and river.
Kathleen Chamberlain, November 2020
Beautiful little cottage! The owners have thought about all we could need. It is very easy for visiting Rye, Hastings etc., and Dungeness Pilot restaurant is highly recommended for great fish and chips. Fabulous walks through the fields with our dog; we all loved it. The location was not too far from the beach too.
My holiday was incredibly relaxing—plenty of walking with the dogs during the day and then lovely meals in the evening. I would recommend the coastal pathway walk, Chesil Beach, Portland Bill and The Heights for walking. Weymouth in the evening for food, Enzo's was a superb Italian restaurant on Weymouth seafront.