Find beaches throughout the UK that welcome you and your pet dog
Listening to waves and feeling soft sand between your toes. Nothing beats time spent at the beach. For many of us, these trips to the seaside are made extra special with the company of our furry pals.
Motorhome Republic has looked at some of the best beaches in the UK that allow your dog to run wild. From the Scottish shores to Cornwall coastlines, this guide will cover it all. Get ready to make paw prints in the sand and visit the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK.
Selecting a Pet-Friendly Camper
It’s 100% possible to rent a motorhome for the whole family, including your favourite family pet. For UK rentals we recommend checking out Bunk Campers, Just Go, and Anywhere Campers, who offer pet-friendly motorhomes at no additional charge.
Other options include McRent, Easi Campervans and Open Road, who will welcome your dog aboard for an additional fee.
Although these companies are happy to accommodate your furry friend, it’s key to practise pet etiquette.
- Make sure your dog is nice and dry after visiting the seaside
- For safety, make sure your dog is securely fastened when on the move
- Pack toys and bedding so they feel at home (it’s their holiday too!)
- And be a responsible owner by bringing your own poo bags so you don’t leave anything behind…
That being said, now it’s time to find the best spots to wet your paws and soak up the British sunshine.
Silversands Beach, Scotland
Silversands Beach has clear waters and soft sands that draw visitors from near and far. It’s not only a human paradise but a haven for dogs too.
With caravan parks and walking trails dotted around, it’s easy to visit and stay near Silversands. Aside from the footpaths, you can also enjoy horse riding, and gentle sailing on the waves - and even see a dolphin if you’re lucky!
If you fancy a trip out with the family, Lossiemouth has plenty to keep you preoccupied. There’s trinket shops and beachside cafés to savour a taste of Scotland.
Only an hour’s drive from Inverness, and Cairngorms National Park, excitement awaits. You can choose to seek adventure or chill by the shore, Silversands is a star of Scotland.
Dog-friendly campsites nearby
Pickup a motorhome in Inverness and drive to Silversands Holiday Park and Burghead Holiday Park to camp near Silversands Beach.
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire
At Marloes Sands you’ll find untamed coastline on a private corner of the country. The beach's rock formations, caves, and roaring swells stir the explorer in anyone. Appearing in the film 'Snow white and the Huntsman', it’s a chance to step into a real life fairy-tale.
The village of Marloes welcomes the family with its boutique shopping and eateries. You can take a stroll around the quaint streets or visit the historical sites and museums. For dog walkies, try out The Marloes Peninsula Coastal Path. It's especially memorable for its prehistoric heritage and variety of rare wildlife.
Dog-friendly campsites nearby
Pickup a motorhome in Cardiff and drive to Foxdale Campsite or Mill Haven Place near Marloes Sands
Sandyhills Beach, Dumfries and Galloway
Sandyhills Beach is ideal for those as passionate about history as they are about dogs. Now a tourist spot, the most unique aspect of this beach is its connection to history. Today, remnants of World War II bombing targets can still be seen from the shore. A scenic spot for a momentous point in time.
The beach itself offers gorgeous views of the Solway Firth and surrounding countryside. Its sheltered location and sloping shore make it safe for paddlers of both species. If you're wanting to do some more hands-on activities, why not try windsurfing or kayaking? With many dog-friendly pubs and campsites nearby, Sandyhills ticks all the boxes.
Dog-friendly campsites nearby
Pickup a motorhome in Newcastle and drive to Sandyhills Bay Holiday Park or Castle Point Caravan Site near Sandyhills Beach.
Durdle Door, Devon
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Durdle Door’s a must for everyone. Its unique limestone arches have made it a popular tourist spot for years.
Durdle Door’s part of the Jurassic Coast, stretching from East Devon way over to the likes of Dorset. It has many hiking trails and scenic walks suitable for both boots and paws. An area known for buried bones; it’s going to prove pretty popular with your dog.
If you fancy a beach day to lounge in the sand or take a fresh dip, this is the place to do it. The crystal waters are great for snorkelling and for the more daring - cliff jumping. It’s definitely not somewhere you, or your dog, will get bored of quickly.
Dog-friendly campsites nearby
Pickup a motorhome in Bournemouth and drive to The Red Lion or Sandyholme Holiday Park near Durdle Door.
Porth Joke Beach, Cornwall
Porth Joke (known locally as Polly Joke), sits in the shadow of grassy cliffs and sand dunes. Close to busy campsites in Newquay, this beach feels intimate, almost secret.
This beautiful beach is National Trust protected, and worthy of the phrase 'hidden gem'. The shallow waters are inviting and great for both cave exploring and rock-pooling. Animal lovers will be delighted to learn it’s home to many seals seen sunbathing on the shore.
For explorers (and dogs) there's plenty of walking tracks that lead to the beautiful Holywell Bay. In the Spring/Summer you must walk through the area's famous poppy fields in West Pentire. A beautiful experience for hikers and four-legged friends.
Dog-friendly campsites nearby
Hire a motorhome from Plymouth and drive to Trevornick Holiday Park or Trevella Holiday Park near Porth Joke Beach.
Cresswell Beach, Northumberland
Cresswell Beach off miles of unspoiled and sandy beach. Sat on the Northumberland coast, it offers stunning views of the North Sea.
Cresswell’s home to a range of wildlife. It’s not unusual to see seals and dolphins while on dog-friendly walking and cycling paths along the coast. Near to Ellington and Lynemouth, you can walk inland and make a day of it. Shop for souvenirs, grab a pub lunch, or visit landmarks like the Cresswell Pele Tower. With camping sites few and far in between, Cresswell Beach is worth your while.
Dog-friendly campsites nearby
Hire a motorhome in Newcastle and drive to The Railway Inn or Walkmill Campsite near Cresswell Beach.
The Leash on Life
Pack your sense of adventure, and your furry friend, we're off to the beach. With these recommendations, we hope you're ready to trek the coast and get sandy paws. Get out there and enjoy the shores where you and your canine can make a splash – together!
Written by: Holly Dodd - Guess Contributor
About Holly: I'm never happier than when I'm outdoors. Whether it's walking, hiking, or running, I love exploring the countryside and coastlines of the UK with my beloved Cocker Spaniel. I've always had a sense of adventure, and have been fortunate enough to travel the world and do some amazing things. Honourable mentions include skydiving in New Zealand, caring for rescued elephants in Thailand, and scuba diving with Manta rays in Bali. My goal is to step foot in every continent before I turn 40, and say 'yes' to every opportunity that comes my way.
