Sandy Paws & Salty Noses- The best UK beaches where dogs are welcome all year round
There’s nothing quite like watching your dog sprint full-speed into the sea, ears flying, tail in turbo mode. But not all beaches are pup-friendly all year—and a “No Dogs” sign is a sure-fire way to take the wag out of a summer day.
We’ve rounded up our favourite UK beaches that always welcome four-legged visitors, even in peak season. So whether you’re chasing sunsets in Cornwall or cooling off on a Scottish coast, these spots are perfect for paddles, picnics, and post-walk naps in the sand.
1. Rhossili Bay, Swansea (Wales)
Regularly voted one of the UK’s best beaches (and even among the world’s!), Rhossili Bay is a doggy dream. Miles of golden sand, shallow surf, and absolutely zero dog bans—what more could you want?
Why we love it:
- Huge open space
- Great for off-lead zooms
- Ice cream kiosk nearby (for you, not them... sorry)
2. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Part of a nature reserve, this beach is stunning, serene, and super spacious. Dogs are welcome year-round, though they ask for leads during bird nesting season in some areas.
Why we love it:
- Sweeping dunes + shady woodland walks nearby
- Ideal for quiet explorers
- Instagram-worthy views for days
3. Westward Ho!, Devon
Yes, it really has an exclamation mark—and your dog will definitely agree. While some restrictions apply to parts of the beach in summer, the Northam Burrows end is open to dogs all year, and it’s lovely.
Why we love it:
- Long tidal stretches
- Nearby cafés with dog treats
- Rock pools = bonus fun
4. Embo Beach, Sutherland (Scotland)
Looking for somewhere quiet and beautiful? Embo Beach is a little slice of calm, with gentle waves and a total lack of summer crowds.
Why we love it:
- No restrictions, ever
- Cool coastal breeze for hot days
- Perfect for dogs who prefer peace over parties
5. Cemlyn Bay, Anglesey (Wales)
Tucked away on the Isle of Anglesey, this hidden gem is ideal for nature-loving dogs and humans. There’s a shingle beach, rock pools and even the odd seal spotting.
Why we love it:
- Great for hot days thanks to the sea breeze
- All-year dog access
- Wildlife + wow-factor views
6. Formby Beach, Merseyside
Backed by pine woods and sand dunes, Formby is a National Trust gem with plenty of sniff-tastic trails and dog-friendly sand stretches.
Why we love it:
- Cooling woodland + sea in one walk
- Epic for fetch
- Dog-friendly all year round (just keep an eye on squirrel areas!)
7. Tentsmuir Beach, Fife (Scotland)
A bit of a secret spot even among locals, Tentsmuir offers peaceful sands, shady forests, and a very good ice cream van in summer.
Why we love it:
- Dreamy mix of beach and pine forest
- Dog-friendly all year
- Space to run, sniff, roll, repeat
Before you go…
Always check tide times
Bring plenty of fresh water and shade
Watch out for strong currents
Rinse sandy paws and salty fur after
And don’t forget a stash of cooling treats (hello, frozen Caboodle cubes 🧊) for the journey home. Got a favourite all-year dog beach we missed? Tag us @caboodlers and let us know—bonus points for sandy nose pics. Wherever you wander this summer, stay cool and keep those tails wagging.
