The UK's best dog-friendly beaches, according to data

Summer has officially arrived in the UK – and with it comes longer days, BBQs, beer gardens, and trips to our beautiful coastlines. And if you're lucky enough to have a four-legged friend in the family, there are plenty of opportunities to bring them along for the fun. But not every beach in England and Scotland is dog-friendly – some have dog bans or conditions that aren't ideal for pets. That's why we've analysed hundreds of coastal spots to uncover the best beaches for dogs in 2025, whether you're visiting on holiday or lucky enough to live nearby. 

To create our ranking, we have only included beaches that have been awarded top marks for water quality, offer the best environment for dogs to run about, have numerous dog-friendly restaurants and cafes nearby, do not have a full-year-round dog ban, and have nearby car parks. Oh, and we’ve factored in reviews from other beach visitors, too.

Now the data bit is out of the way, onto the beaches that have made the national list – who have ranked highly in our top 10 over hundreds of beaches throughout England and Scotland: 

The National Top 10

1. Woolacombe – North Devon
2. Dornoch – Highlands
3. Achmelvich – Sutherland
4. Loch Morlich – Highlands
5. Elie (Harbour) and Earlsferry – Fife
6. Fistral – Cornwall
7. Rosemarkie - Ross and Cromarty
8. Harlyn Bay – Cornwall
9. Porthminster – Cornwall
10. Sennen – Cornwall

Located in North Devon, Wollacombe Beach ranked as the best beach across England and Scotland. Often described as a paradise, Woolacombe has consistently won many prestigious awards over the years, and we're not surprised. The beach is easily accessible and tidy and has all the facilities a family, and pooch, may need, including parking, toilets and a long stretch of sand for your dog to play to their heart's content. Woolacombe welcomes dogs to the beach year-round; however, please be aware that there is a small section of the beach with seasonal zoning restrictions. 

Our research indicates there are at least 20 dog-friendly cafés and restaurants in the local area, so after a swim, a run and a play, your pooch can join you for a nice sit-down to relax those tired paws. 

If you're looking to explore Woolacombe Beach on your next holiday, our Golden Coast Leisure Park 

Mike Wilmot, CEO of Verdant Leisure, shares his thoughts on the national ranking: "It's fantastic to see so many of the UK's beaches recognised nationally for being dog friendly. Beaches like Woolacombe aren't just stunning—they offer space, clean air, and a real sense of freedom for both dogs and their owners.

There's something really special about sharing those moments—watching your dog race across the sand, splash in the shallows or nose around rock pools. And with so much incredible local wildlife along our coasts, from seabirds to seals, these places offer a gentle reminder of how important it is to enjoy nature responsibly."

Scotland's best dog-friendly beaches

1. Dornoch – Highlands
2. Achmelvich – Sutherland
3. Loch Morlich – Highlands
4. Elie (Harbour) and Earlsferry – Fife
5. Rosemarkie - Ross and Cromarty
6. Cullen Bay - Banffshire
7. Aberdour (Silversands) – Fife
8. Kingsbarns – Fife
9. Seacliff – East Lothian
10. Coldingham - Berwickshire

When you think of pristine beaches with white sands, spectacular sunsets and surfers, it's likely your mind will jump abroad to Australia's Golden Coast or the Bahamas. However, there's actually no need to travel so far, as Scotland has some of the most breathtaking beaches on the planet. According to our data, the 10 above are the best across the country for taking your dog for a visit. 

Topping our list as the best dog-friendly beach in Scotland is Dornoch Beach, which can be found in the Highlands. With excellent water quality, expanses of golden sand and hundreds of 5-star reviews on Trip Advisor, Dornoch Beach is certainly worth a visit. 

Dogs are welcome any time of the year, and your canine friends will enjoy running over its glorious sands or paddling in the pools of shallow water. There is also plenty of local wildlife to spot – such as seabirds, seals and sometimes dolphins. 

Has our rankings of the best dog-friendly Scottish beaches inspired you? We have plenty of holiday parks across Scotland, which are a perfect base to settle for your next beach trip.  

The North East of England’s best dog-friendly beaches

1. Druridge Bay - Northumberland
2. Warkworth - Northumberland
3. Tynemouth Long Sands South - North Tyneside
4. Beadnell - Northumberland
5. Bamburgh Castle - Northumberland
6. Blyth South Beach - Northumberland
7. Seaton Carew North Gare - County Durham
8. Marske Sands - Redcar and Cleveland
9. Crimdon - County Durham

According to The Beach Guide, the North East of England is home to 127 beaches. Nine have ranked highly on our list for being ultimately dog-friendly. If rugged, moody coastlines are your thing, you'll want to bookmark this list, sharpish. 

Hitting the top of our list for beaches in the North East is Northumberland's Druridge Bay. This seven-mile stretch of sandy coastline features grassy, rolling dunes – an ideal location for your dog to let off some steam. Dogs are allowed at the beach all year round, and if you do venture for a stroll, be sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife, as the bay is a haven for birds and birdwatchers. 

Looking for a place where the whole family (pooch included) can stay in the North East? From County Durham to Northumberland, our holiday parks in Northern England offer everything from lodges to caravans. Oh, and hot tub breaks, too. 

The North West of England’s best dog-friendly beaches

1. St Bees - Cumberland
2. Formby - Sefton
3. Moreton – Wirral

Although not usually known for its coastline, the North West has three spectacular beaches that have made our list. Ranking as number one is St Bees, located in Whitehaven, Cumberland. While the bank stretching down to the beach is shingle, the rest of the beach is slopes of golden sand – perfect for your pooch to run about and explore. Dogs are welcome at St Bees all year round and the beach includes all the facilities the family may need, such as toilets, a children's play area, cafés and restaurants. 

The South East of England’s best dog-friendly beaches

1. West Wittering - Chichester
2. Yaverland - Isle of Wight
3. Botany Bay - Thanet
4. Joss Bay - Thanet
5. Ramsgate Sands - Thanet
6. Minnis Bay - Thanet
7. Seagrove - Isle of Wight

The South East of England is home to some of the most impressive historical sites in the country, as well as seven stunning dog-friendly beaches. First on our list is West Wittering Beach, which can be found in Chichester.  Known by some as the 'jewel in the crown' of the Sussex coast, West Wittering is part of a beautiful, unspoiled stretch of coastline.

While this beach does not have a year-round dog ban, there are certain zones where dogs aren’t allowed during the year. Outside of this central zone, dogs are allowed at West Wittering all year and will love running on the open flats. Google Maps shows at least 60 dog-friendly cafés and restaurants close by, and the beach itself has over 700 5-star reviews on Trip Advisor, so it is well worth a visit.

The South West of England’s best dog-friendly beaches

1. Woolacombe -Devon
2. Fistral - Cornwall
3. Porthminster - Cornwall
4. Sennen - Cornwall
5. Perranporth - Cornwall
6. Carbis Bay - Cornwall
7. Daymer Bay - Cornwall
8. Perranuthnoe - Cornwall
9. Porthmeor - Cornwall
10. Treyarnon Bay – Cornwall

The Southwest – famous for pasties and cream teas (we won't dare suggest who does either best) – is just as celebrated for its breathtaking coastlines. It's a haven for dogs and their humans, with miles of sandy stretches, turquoise waters and plenty of wide-open space for zoomies.

Every beach on our list has firmly earned its place thanks to a mix of dog-friendly factors: expansive sands perfect for off-lead adventures, accessibility, easy-to-reach car parks, nearby amenities like cafés and loos and glowing reviews from visiting pet parents. Whether it's the golden shores of Woolacombe in Devon or the iconic surf at Fistral in Cornwall, each destination offers a blend of natural beauty and practical perks. Many have shallow paddling areas, rock pools to sniff around in, and nearby walking trails for post-beach rambles. Several are just a stick's throw from dog-friendly pubs too – perfect for a post-splash pint (or bowl of water).

If you fancy a trip to Devon, our holiday parks in Southern England have you covered. 

The East of England’s best dog-friendly beaches

1. Sea Palling - Stalham
2. Frinton - Frinton on Sea
3. Gorleston Beach - Great Yarmouth
4. West Runton - Cromer
5. East Runton - Cromer
6. Hemsby - Great Yarmouth
7. Dovercourt - Tendring
8. Walton - Tendring
9. Great Yarmouth North - Great Yarmouth
10. Southend Thorpe Bay - Southend-on-Sea

The East Coast of England is renowned for its wide, sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and long promenades – offering a tranquil escape for dog owners and their four-legged friends alike. From the peaceful dunes of Sea Palling to the genteel atmosphere of Frinton-on-Sea, each spot has been chosen for its excellent dog-friendly credentials. 

Gorleston Beach, for example, stretches for miles and offers plenty of space even on busy summer days – perfect for playing fetch or enjoying a paddle. West and East Runton are favourites among locals for their relaxed vibe, fossil-rich cliffs and dog-welcoming feel. Further south, Southend's Thorpe Bay adds a more traditional seaside feel, complete with a long promenade for pram-friendly strolls and a breeze that seems tailor-made for wagging tails.

Wherever you go along the East Coast, expect gentle waves, peaceful views and plenty of tail-thumping appreciation.

Whatever the season, you and your dog can have a fun time at the beach. That being said, there are some things to watch out for to ensure your dog stays safe and healthy. We sat down with Emily Norton, Veterinary Services Manager at Woodgreen Pets Charity, who has worked in the pet and veterinary industry for more than a decade, about the things you need to consider when taking your dog to the beach: 

When taking a dog to the beach in winter, what is the one less obvious watch out you want all pet owners to be wary of? 

"Winter can be a great time to visit the beach with your dog! You'll find fewer people, less wildlife and more space to enjoy. Remember, though, that coastal areas are commonly windier and colder than inland. This means a wet dog, from swimming or spray from the sea, can get cold very quickly." 

Is there a safe limit for how long a dog should be in the sea?

"This is very much down to your dog. Some dogs are happier in the water than they are out of it. Be mindful of the water/environment temperature, your dog's energy levels and how long you are planning to spend at the beach. It's advisable to moderate how long and how often your dog is going in the water. Remember to support drying them once they are no longer going in the water; this could be letting them run off most of the water or immediately drying them." 

When taking a dog to the beach in summer, what is the one less obvious watch out you want all pet owners to be wary of? 

"Ingestion of sand can be very problematic! Sand will make dogs vomit, get diarrhoea or become lethargic. High volumes eaten may result in a trip to the vet due to the sand blocking the intestines." 

What are some overlooked signs of overexertion in dogs when they're having too much fun?

Just like us, dogs sometimes are not the best at knowing when they need to take a break from the fun. That means us as owners need to keep an eye on their behaviour. Signs of overexertion include:

1. Being wobbly and uncoordinated. This often happens in working breed dogs and/or dogs who like to play with their ball.  Holding the ball makes it difficult to efficiently pant and they become too focused on chasing their ball/their job. 
2. Frequently stopping or laying down. 
3. A reduction in response to commands ('naughty' behaviours). 

Any other top tips you would like to share? 

1. Taking dogs to the beach can be a wonderful experience for all! Many dogs enjoy running on the sand, going in the ocean and spending time with their people. However, even in the UK, sand can become very hot, and this can lead to painful, burnt pads in dogs.
2. Although sea water is great for supporting wound healing, it will cause a very upset tummy. The high salt content can create an imbalance of minerals in your dog's body that affects many of their organs and bodily functions.
3. Even the strongest swimming dog can struggle against waves, so be mindful of how far your dog is swimming and how tired they are. The more exhausted your dog is, the more dangerous swimming in the sea becomes.

From Devon's golden coves to Scotland's sweeping sands, the UK is brimming with dog-friendly beaches that make seaside escapes even more special. Whether your pup loves a splash in the waves or a snooze in the dunes, there's a stretch of coastline waiting for you both.

At Verdant Leisure, we know that holidays are made better with wagging tails and sandy paws – it's why our parks are ideally placed near some of the UK's most beautiful, pet-friendly beaches. Every destination on our list offers the space, freedom and warm welcome your dog deserves.

Heading out on a coastal adventure with your canine companion? We'd love to see! Tag us in your beach day snaps using #VerdantVibes, and show us those salty noses, happy paws and sunset strolls.

Methodology

To create our ranking, we have only included beaches that have met the following criteria: 

• Recently classified as 'excellent' for water quality 
• Sandy beach 
• Has no complete year-round dog ban in place 
• A carpark can be found close by 
• The closest town or city includes several dog-friendly cafés and restaurants 
• Has a high number of 5-star reviews from previous beachgoers 

Each beach has been given a relative score and ranked, with 1 being 'best'. Beaches that have not met the above criteria haven't been included in our research. The full dataset can be downloaded here.