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Can’t imagine taking to the road this spring break without your four-legged companion by your side? Fear not! We’ve put together a list of the best dog-friendly beaches across the country you can visit together this spring.
With endless miles of rugged coastline to explore throughout the UK, your faithful pooch can run and play to their heart’s content. And then finish off with a well-deserved doggy-paddle, if it’s not too chilly for them!
But it’s not just your furry friend that needs to be well taken care of during springtime trips away. If you’re planning on journeying to some of these remote locations without having to worry about a thing then you’ll want some specialist motorhome insurance, too. We recommend you take a look at some of the fantastic deals on offer. And compare motorhome insurance quotes so everything is covered for your trip, no matter where the road takes you.
So, what are we waiting for? Pack your doggy treats and swim kit and let’s go!
Camber Sands, Sussex
Dogs allowed: All year around on most of the beach. Between 1st May and 30th September dogs are not allowed within clearly signposted zoned areas.
Located just east of the mediaeval town of Rye, if you’re looking for a doggy heaven this spring then this East Sussex coastal resort has to be on your list. With miles of golden sandy shores backed by the only sand dune system in these parts you and your dog will be able to explore without a care in the world.
Be aware that getting from the car park to the beach will require you to carry everything over what feels like mountains of sand. No wonder it’s taken such a starring role in so many movies over the years!
Hengistbury Beach, Bournemouth, Dorset
Dogs allowed: All year around.
Regularly featured in ‘best beach’ lists, this comparatively unspoilt area boasts a mix of pebble and soft, sandy beaches. Offering plenty of variety, dogs can run and play on the sand while also exploring the nearby woodland, wetland, and grassland. Although, be aware this is a nature reserve with plenty of rare and easily-frightened wildlife.
From the top of the headland, you can enjoy breath-taking views towards the Isle of Wight, Bournemouth and Mudeford. Take the land train from here to the rather exclusive Mudeford Spit and visit some of the most expensive beach huts in Britain!
Ringstead Bay Beach, near Weymouth, Dorset
Dogs allowed: All year around.
Dorset has many of the best UK beaches to visit by motorhome, but one of our favourites to explore with a dog is Ringstead. This shingle beach is home to an offshore reef and a series of rock pools for your dog to explore and sniff out. And while they’re exploring you can be busy hunting for some of the stunning fossils that litter beaches along this part of the world-famous Jurassic Coast.
Ringstead is easily accessible and offers great walks to other great Dorset locations such as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
For plenty more on what to discover in this part of the world, have a read of this recent Motorhome Protect guide to the Jurassic Coast. The perfect way to begin your journey back in time!
Soar Mill Cove, near Salcombe, Devon
Dogs allowed: All year around.
Heading to this peaceful cove nestled in the idyllic English countryside around Salcombe you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled across somewhere straight out of an Enid Blyton novel. Framed by dramatic rock and cliff faces and backed by rolling hills, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy cucumber sandwiches and lashings of ginger beer while your dog dips in and out of the waves.
There are some great caves to explore here but many of the best are only accessible at low tide. So, bring a torch with you to help with any treasure hunting.
Getting to such a secluded spot will require a bit of a hike. The beach car park is found at the lovely Soar Mill Cove Hotel, which is a 15-minute walk from the shore. Or take the South West Coast Path from Bolberry Down National Trust car park, Hope Cove, or Salcombe.
The National Trust recommends this fantastic nearby circular walk that starts at the Bolberry Down car park before exploring the coast and surrounding countryside. A fascinating mix of history, mystery and nature.
For those leaving their motorhomes parked up before heading to such spots, it’s important to have motorhome insurance in place to protect against theft or other mishaps.
Bantham Bay, Devon
Dogs allowed: Between 1st May and 30th December, dogs are not allowed on the main beach. However, they have access to River beach throughout the year.
Situated at the mouth of the Avon River and in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty there’s plenty to enjoy here. Expect to find plenty of sand and waves to play in.
While on the horizon you’ll see the famous Burgh Island, so beloved of mystery writer Agatha Christie. Found about ⅔ of a mile out to sea, it’s reachable at low tide either on foot or by riding the popular sea tractor.
As one of the most popular surf-spots in Devon your trusty pooch may even decide to take to the waves themselves!
Perranporth Beach, Cornwall
Dogs allowed: All year around. During July and August on the main beach area they need to be kept on a lead between 10am and 5pm.
Found on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, with miles of smooth golden sand, Perranporth Beach is hugely popular with dog owners. And the perfect spot for socialising with other pampered pooches.
The bustling village of Perranporth is very welcoming of our four-legged friends and is a great all-weather location. So, when the weather takes a turn, hide out in one of the great local pubs until the sun emerges again. Our favourite is the Watering Hole pub right on the beach.
Other doggy treats here include the dog-friendly showers, the 100% dog-friendly ice-cream at Pavilion Ice and the brilliant Perran Pooch-Wear and Dog Grooming.
Be aware many beaches in Cornwall ban dogs during the tourist months of July and August. Always pay careful attention to any signs you see as breaking the ban could result in a penalty fine ranging from £100 to £1,000.
Harbour Cove, Padstow, Cornwall
Dogs allowed: All year around.
Another dog-friendly town worth visiting on the north coast is Padstow. This world-renowned foodie paradise is not only home to some amazing eateries but also the huge expanse of sand at the nearby Harbour Cove. Great for running, playing and swimming, the relatively quiet Harbour Cove is strongly recommended by Billy the springer spaniel over at the Blue Cross animal charity.
Many motorhome owners enjoy cycling as part of their holidays around the UK. If you’re one of those then you’re in for a treat down here. The Camel Trail is a dis-used former railway line that’s since been transformed into a wonderfully level 18-mile cycle path. Dogs are welcome on the route and many of the cycle hire places even rent out dog trailers, too!
Taking a bike along for any springtime trip is a popular idea. But when you have such expensive items on board you’ll want motorhome insurance that covers your contents, too. If you arrange cover through Motorhome Protect then it can include cover for camping personal effects for up to £3,500.
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Dogs allowed: All year round provided they’re kept under close control or on the lead. There are seasonal restrictions in some places to help protect birds.
The English east coast can lay claim to some of the best beaches in the country, if you wrap up against the sometimes-chilly North Sea breezes. One of our favourites has to be this wonderful stretch near Holkham Hall. The beach is part of the Holkham National Nature reserve and is surrounded by acres of flora and fauna among the forests and dunes.
Park up and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the shaded pinewoods before heading to the large stretch of fine golden sand. It will feel simply heavenly to your dog’s paws. Do keep an eye out for the wonderful variety of wildlife that call this area home.
Fraisthorpe Beach, Yorkshire
Dogs allowed: All year around.
This large, flat, sandy beach in the East Riding area of Yorkshire stretches many miles south down to the Humber Estuary. As well as dog walkers you’ll also find it’s popular among horse riders, hardy North Sea swimmers, and kite-surfers. So, plenty of adrenaline to go round!
But beware of parking charges. Recent changes have led to a lot of disgruntled complaints on the TripAdvisor website.
Whitley Bay, Northumberland
Dogs allowed: All year around on the area of the beach north of Panama Gardens. Dogs banned from the rest of the beach between May and September.
The Northumberland Heritage coast is charmingly wild and home to countless numbers of breeding birds. What a wonderful place for a windswept walk with your willing woofer. Recently named among the UK’s most photogenic places, if you’re visiting Whitley Bay and the Northumberland coast then bring along your camera to grab some of those classic beach shots.
Embleton Bay, Northumberland
Dogs allowed: All year around.
Overlooked by the dramatic ruins of the 14th Century Dunstanburgh Castle and with the mediaeval village of Embleton nearby, this beach is something of a gem for visitors and their dogs. Blissfully isolated from the rest of the modern world you’ll spend many happy hours among the sands here.
If you’re both keen walkers then there are numerous paths crisscrossing the area. The BBC Countryfile Magazine awarded Embleton Bay ‘Best Beach of the Year’ in 2017 and recommends this wonderful 11-mile circular walk.
Whiteford Sands, Gower Peninsula, South Wales
Dogs allowed: All year around.
This two-mile expanse of beach backed by dunes on the stunning Gower Peninsula is only accessible on foot. So, you’ll have to park near the village of Llanmadoc and make your way from there.
If you’re looking for peace and quiet then this could be the beach for you. Although watch out for when the tide comes in. Also, currents can be strong so care should be taken if entering the water.
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire
Dogs allowed: All year around.
Another remote dog-friendly beach that’s definitely worth the effort is Marloes Sands. Situated at the very westernmost tip of Pembrokeshire, its soft sands, crystal coves and dramatic cliffs make it a special location indeed. It’s about a half mile walk from the National Trust car park.
Make sure to bring your binoculars as Marloes Peninsula is a great place to spot dolphins, seals, rare birds, and even the odd whale.
Black Rock Sands, Porthmadog, Gwynedd
Dogs allowed: Between 1st April and 30th September dogs are not permitted on the northern end of the beach. The rest of the beach is dog-friendly all year around.
The two-mile stretch of beach at Black Rock Sands near Porthmadog is backed by dunes and offers wonderful views of the mountains and countryside of Snowdonia National Park.
Black Rock Sands is also a popular venue to experience the thrill of driving on the beach. If this sounds like something you’d like to try, read our top tips for driving a motorhome on a beach.
Getting stuck is only one of the many hazards that can befall an unwary motorhome driver. Motorhome insurance can guard against a lot of mishaps but wouldn’t it be best to avoid them happening in the first place?
It’s always a good idea to have proper breakdown cover for your motorhome. However, it’s not usually included as standard on motorhome insurance policies and you’ll probably have to add it as an extra. If you do, make sure it covers your particular needs.
Cable Bay, Anglesey, North Wales
Dogs allowed: All year around.
With so many miles of coastline to explore, you and your dog are bound to find a perfect spot to hang out on Anglesey. But if you’re looking for suggestions, this cracking little sandy beach on the western coast is wonderfully sheltered and has a variety of places to discover. Rock pools, sand dunes and more seaweed than you’ll know what to do with!
Not only do the surrounding headlands make it a safe place for a doggy paddle, but they also form part of the Anglesey coastal path. What a wonderful place to enjoy a sunset together!
Dalmore Beach, Isle of Lewis, Western Isles
Dogs allowed: All year around.
You’ll love the views surrounding Dalmore Beach on the exposed north coast of the Isle of Lewis. Taking the full force of the Atlantic swells, these golden sands flanked by rugged cliffs and a couple of sea stacks are a favourite with photographers and surfers.
Traigh Iar, Isle of North Uist, Western Isles
Dogs allowed: All year around.
While beaches in Scotland may not be the warmest, they are undoubtedly among the most beautiful and far flung in the country. Traigh Iar on the western side of North Uist is a perfectly serene, 4km-long crescent of white sand. Set against wonderfully still waters and breath-taking views of the Harris Hills and the nearby Isle of Taransay. It’s just you, your dog and pure island air!
Whiterocks Beach, Portrush, County Antrim
Dogs allowed: Dogs are allowed but restrictions apply between 1st June to 15th September.
Motorhome tourers love the Causeway Coastal route, and if you adore the beach then Whiterocks Bay is a must-visit. With sweeping golden sands, crashing ocean waves and giant sand dunes it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. Sitting in the shadow of Dunluce Castle, it’s a great spot to sit and ponder the meaning of life together after a long walk.
How to keep your dog safe on the beach
Heading out for a walk along the beach with your faithful friend at your side is one of the most natural things in the world. However, no matter how many times you’ve both done it, there can be plenty of hazards lurking just around the corner. Here are five handy tips to keep everyone safe:
- Watch out for strong currents. Particularly if your dog isn’t naturally a strong swimmer, you’ll want to confine them to shallow waters only. Strong currents, fast tides and big waves can be dangerous to our precious pups.
- Know your tide times. It’s easy to get cut off when walking around a headland or exploring fascinating sea caves.
- Keep your dog under control at all times. Many beaches state that dogs are only welcome if they’re kept on a lead. This is particularly the case if there’s wildlife or children nearby.
- Beware of cliffs. Whether below or above cliffs there can be significant dangers for dogs who might be more focused on following a scent than looking out for dangers around them.
- Stay ahead of the weather. On hot summer days walking on a beach may not be the best idea for a dog. Heatstroke, sunburn and dehydration can all cause a problem for your furry friend, not to mention burnt paws. Why not leave walking for the early morning or evening to make the most of the cooler temperatures?
From eating sand and drinking sea water to heatstroke, jellyfish and discarded fishing hooks there are many hazards to keep a watchful eye out for.
Protecting your vehicle with motorhome insurance cover
We hope you’re now feeling inspired to take your dog to the beach of their doggy dreams. But before you set off to explore some of the UK’s best seaside landscapes, there’s something important you need to do. Finding motorhome insurance now will take away any stress while you’re away.
Whatever type of motorhome you drive, they’re a big investment in time, money and effort, so they deserve significant protection when on a beach adventure.
Using our panel of insurers, the team at Motorhome Protect will search out motorhome insurance, tailored to your vehicle, needs and budget. There are so many benefits to be had.
Give Motorhome Protect a call and get a quick quote for motorhome insurance today.
Policy benefits, features and discounts offered may very between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Information contained within this article is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.
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