Nine secluded dog-friendly beaches in the UK to visit
Date published: 03 Apr 2023
From miles of golden sands to tranquil shingle shorelines, the UK is renowned for having some of the best secluded dog-friendly beaches in the UK. These pretty spots are a haven for your furry friends. Whether they love playing fetch or frolicking in the water, each location creates the perfect setting for fun-filled beach holidays. So, let’s take a look at our top picks of quiet beaches that welcome dogs all year round.
1. Beesands Beach
Location: South Devon
At only one mile long, Beesands Beach is a picturesque and quiet destination to soak up the beauty of the Devon coastline. Backed by spectacular countryside views, the village of Beesands creates a charming atmosphere that is perfect for family day outs – there’s also a playground for the kids. But, of course, your four-legged friends are welcome any time, too and will enjoy having plenty of space to play by the water’s edge.
2. Marloes Sands
Location: Pembrokeshire, Wales
Marloes Sands is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Wales, and it’s not hard to see why. This secluded spot is accessed by a half-mile descent along its striking cliff faces. Once at the beach, your dog will love exploring its rock pools and the various small bays. Walking to the tidal island of Gateholm also showcases the ruins of an ancient settlement against captivating rocky outcrops. This beach is best enjoyed at low tide as the sea can quickly engulf the sands come high tide.
3. Balnakeil Beach
Location: Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Venturing to the Scottish Highlands presents the perfect tranquil location of Balnakeil Beach. This is a great place to get away from it all, and you’ll probably have the beach to yourself most of the year. Its mountainous backdrop and white sandy shores create a unique setting for quality time with furry pals. The azure waters also gently lap the beach, making it the ideal spot to take a refreshing dip.
4. Runswick Bay
Location: North Yorkshire
Another popular dog-friendly beach that’s ideal for a quiet walk is Runswick Bay. This picture-postcard coastline has it all. There’s a mix of sandy stretches and rocky outcrops. Plus, the cliff-top walks take you along Cleveland Way for spectacular views over the water. Two car parks and recently improved road access make it simple to visit. In addition, there are no restrictions on dogs, so you can enjoy the charm of the village and beach all year round.
5. Hele Bay
Location: North Devon
The South West is famed for its long stretches of golden sands and iconic surfing beaches. But if you’re looking for a quieter stroll that’s pet-friendly, Hele Bay near Ilfracombe ticks the box. This sand and shingle beach is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and at low tide, rock pools appear on either side of the shoreline. These shallows waters also create a safe place for a paddle.
6. Chesil beach
Location: Dorset
Chesil Beach is regarded as one of the most unique beaches in the UK. That’s because it’s made up of a massive bank of pebbles and gently slopes all the way from West Bay to Portland. With nearly 18 miles of space to enjoy, your dog will love splashing in the calm waters of the South Coast and soaking up its serene atmosphere. Fleet Lagoon, a protected saltwater lagoon, sits just behind the bay and is a great spot for walking.
7. Sandwood Bay
Location: Sutherland, Scottish Highlands
If you’re looking for an adventure to one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Scotland, then Sandwood Bay tops the list. It’s a four-mile trek to experience it, but you’ll be presented with secluded sands backed by striking dunes. It practically feels otherworldly as you explore its tranquil, unspoiled shoreline. Then, head a mile south for even more captivating sights at Am Buachaille, a massive and iconic sea stack loved by climbers.
8. Rhossili Bay Beach
Location: Swansea, Wales
Nestled at the western end of the Gower Peninsula is the breathtaking spot of Rhossili Bay. This award-winning sandy beach has previously been crowned the UK’s number one dog-friendly beach and features within the top ten best beaches every year. There’s heaps of space for your furry friends to run wild, plus numerous walking routes around the beach. You might even spot a grey seal on your way. Just be aware of tide times, especially when exploring Worms Head tidal island.
9. Kingsgate Bay
Location: Kent
Sheltered by striking white chalk cliffs, Kingsgate Bay is an ideal walking spot for a quieter, off-the-tourist trail vibe. It’s a short walk from the nearest car park and local coastal cottages, but once you arrive, your dog will love the space to roam and explore. It’s also renowned for its sea caves, and when the tide is out, you can walk through the gap in the cliffs to Botany Bay.
