Dog-friendly travel is a huge market in the UK – and hotels, activity providers and tourist locations have been quick to pick up on it.
In the last couple of years, we've seen a huge rise in dog-friendly hotels and dog-friendly staycation packages in the UK. You can even book yourself and your pup onto a canine tour of the Cotswolds, if you feel so inclined.
Research from Parkdean Resorts found that more than half (54%) of UK dog owners are looking for a dog-friendly staycation in the UK rather than travelling abroad this year, with more than two-thirds (67%) stating they would cancel their holiday if they couldn’t take their dog with them.
One place where we'll always feel at home with our dogs is on the beach, and the UK has a host of dog-friendly beaches waiting to be explored. These are our favourite dog-friendly beaches across the UK for a staycation for the whole family.
1. Broadstairs Beach, Margate
Dogs are welcome any time on beaches at Dumpton Gap and Kingsgate Bay in Broadstairs, and on certain others at specific times of the year or at set hours in the day. Check the web link below for full details.
2. Formby, Liverpool
Red squirrels, natterjack toads, prehistoric footprints and miles of coastal walks are just waiting to be discovered in this ever-changing landscape where pinewoods meet the dunes. Dogs are welcome year round but must be kept on a lead due to vulnerable wildlife.
3. West Wittering Beach, Chichester
The whole beach is accessible to dogs between the end of September and beginning of May. At other times, all zones are open except between groynes 14A and 18, the area in front of the beach huts. This is a great place to take the dogs to stretch their legs – and yours.
4. Berrow Beach, Burnham-on-Sea
A glorious six-mile length of beach with dunes and firm sand perfect for walks. Look out for the famous ship wreck and various seabirds attracted by the adjacent marshland. From May to September, dogs are not allowed on the stretch of beach along the sea wall.
5. Blundellsands, Sefton
You can enjoy the cast-iron life-size sculptures by Antony Gormley on this open sandy beach, or watch the intrepid windsurfers out at sea. There are no restrictions for dogs, and you'll find parking and toilets close by.
6. Snettisham Beach, Kings Lynn
This attractive Norfolk beach stretches north to Hunstanton and is the only west-facing one in Norfolk. The extensive sand and mud banks are a popular area for birds, and there are no restrictions for dog walkers.
7. Studland Beach, Poole
Owned by the National Trust, Studland Beach in Dorset is a wonderful place for dogs and owners to relax and have fun with three-and-a-half miles of beach and plenty of dunes to explore. Dogs are welcome at Studland but may need to be kept on a lead at certain times of the year.
8. Milford-on-Sea, Bournemouth
A long pebble beach, which offers a great length for walking. Dogs are welcome year round.
9. Thorney Bay Beach, Canvey Island
There's parking, shops and a promenade close to this sandy beach, which is open to dogs all year round. Canvey Island is situated in the Thames Estuary off the southeast coast of Essex, and separated from the mainland by a channel. The beach is made up of sand and mud with a view of the Kent coastline.
10. Compton Bay, Isle of Wight
Compton Bay on the southwest of the island is popular with families, surfers and dog walkers, as they are welcome on the beach between Hanover Point and Brook Chine all year. Rising behind the coast, there are further walking opportunities across acres of open downland, with stunning views out to sea.
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Best travel accessories for your dog
Stay safe during your holiday walks with this dog lead featuring reflective stitching, making your pooch more visible during low light conditions. It offers a sturdy and comfortable grip for you, too.
This travel-friendly dog food storage system is compact, convenient and easy to use. We love the side-mounted food chute and the pockets that fit collapsible bowls and other adventure essentials.
Perfect for when you're on the go, this must-have travel accessory will help you keep your dog hydrated on holiday, whether you're on a challenging hike or enjoying a seaside escape.
This car seat belt helps comfortably restrain your pet in the front or back seat. It comes in a pack of two for those with two dogs or two cars, and can adjust from 53 to 74 cm.
Containing three inner chambers for dry treats, water and airtight storage, this set is perfect for a weekend away with your dog. It's lightweight but rugged and makes for a great gift, too.
Heading for cooler climes? This parka will keep your dog's body temperature stable in the cold weather. The winter jacket is ideal for dogs with wet fur and is quick to put on and take off.
A handy 750ml bottle that’s great for carrying water for your dog when you’re out walking. It’s lightweight and the stainless steel keeps water fresh for hours, while the plastic lid is used for feeding your pooch.
Made to ensure warmth and comfort while your dog is being transported, this bag has quilted outer fabric, luxurious plush fur lining and a fold-out water bowl. The adjustable shoulder strap keeps you comfy too!
Beco's eco-friendly dog waste bags are made from sustainable materials and degradable additives, so they don't put a strain on the environment. They're built extra thick and strong to avoid unwanted messes, too.
A sumptuously soft and cosy pillow for pets, M&S' padded pillow providea the ideal snug spot for your dog to lay down their heads whenever they’re in the mood to doze off or relax during your holiday.
Protect your dog's paws from tough terrain with these weather-resistant boots with their reliable closure system and protective innovation found in human walking boots.
A convenient tin to carry on days out, this comes complete with a pop-up dog bowl, printed waste bags and a stylish lead. Pop it in your bag for a day of playing in the park or a walk in the woods.
This water-resistant crate is foldable and ideal for use indoors and outdoors. It features durable Oxford fabric and every side has ventilated mesh panels to provide your pet with ample fresh air.
The easiest way to keep your car seats clean and dry, this durable seat hammock was created specifically for the dirtiest dogs, so wherever you're off camping, exploring or walking with your dog, this water-resistant and grippy hammock is a must-have!
This easily transportable pet bed is perfect for keeping your companion comfy during weekends away or long drives in the country. It's complete with a carry handle and adorned with an eye-catching print, as well as being washable.
Emma-Louise Pritchard is the Membership Director for Country Living UK & House Beautiful UK, previously Executive Digital Editor for Country Living UK. Emma-Louise is a digital expert specialising in content strategy, social media and newsletters. Her topics include sustainability, homes and interiors, gardening, health and wellbeing, pets, travel and countryside news. She has previously written for Good Housekeeping and Cosmopolitan and has won several awards, from AOP Digital Editor of the Year 2019 to PPA 30 Under 30. Emma-Louise studied at Cardiff University where she completed an MA in Magazine Journalism.
