If you're planning a getaway to Dorset, home to one of Britain’s most glorious countryside and coastlines, don’t let the thought of taking your pooch exploring this extraordinary county on the South Coast! With such a variety of dog friendly beaches in Dorset to discover (the majority of which welcome dogs all year round, without restrictions!), there's no excuse not to visit...
Here's a list of 8 pet friendly beaches to explore the next time you visit this stunning part of the South West:
1. DURDLE DOOR WEST AND EACH BEACH
The distinctive, picture-perfect limestone arch of Durdle Door is perhaps one of the country’s most photographed and iconic landmarks. Nothing beats strolling along the sand and pebble beach here, and along the adjacent Man 'O' War beach with your four-legged friend in tow. Access to Durdle Door Beach is rather restricted, so make sure to wear sturdy footwear if you plan on walking down the steep path, or over the hills from Lulworth Cove! Lulworth Cove is also a spectacular place to explore, and has a lovely dog-friendly shingle beach (no restrictions between October and March).
Pay a visit to one of Dorset’s clean and spectacular beaches with your pooch in tow.
2. ST GABRIEL'S MOUTH
At the heart of the Jurassic Coast lies St Gabriel's Mouth, a remote sandy beach that you can reach via a 45-minute coastal path walk from the village of Seatown, home to the Golden Cap, the tallest cliff in England. Despite the long walk, however, the views and peacefulness are well worth it!
Discover this sprawling stretch of sand deep in Jurassic Coast fossil country. Photo copyright of Rob Noble and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
3. CHURCH OPE COVE
Near Fortuneswell, Church Ope Cove is one of the very few beaches on the Isle of Portland, and good news – it's dog friendly! A haven for bird watchers, take advantage of the secluded peace of this small little cove walking your dog along the calm pebbly shores.
Enjoy views of Rufus Castle and enjoy the secret Church Ope Cove. Photo copyright of Jim Linwood and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
4. MONMOUTH BEACH
This attractive pebble and sand beach located in Lyme Regis welcomes dogs all year round – excellent news for dog-friendly families wanting to spend the day fossil hunting or rock-pooling at low tide. Part of the Jurassic Coast, this beach is backed by the ancient Ware Cliffs. It's around a mile outside of Lyme Regis town centre, but all of the town's amenities are still be within easy reach.
Treat the dog to a stroll and a swim at Monmouth Beach. Photo copyright of M Etherington and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
5. RINGSTEAD BAY
This shingle stretch of Ringstead Bay, with its fantastic water quality, is great for swimming, bathing and of course, dog walking. At low tide, a stretch of sand is also uncovered, and there are also rockpools to explore at the western end. It's located around five miles east of Weymouth.
Head to this quiet stretch of the beautiful Jurassic Coast and take in views across Weymouth Bay to the Isle of Portland. Photo copyright of Chris Downer and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
6. MUDEFORD SANDBANK
Situated at the mouth of Christchurch harbour, this sandy beach offers scenic views over the Solent towards the Isle of Wight and The Needles. Extending off Hengistbury Head, the beach can be reached by a 15-minute walk, a land train or ferry. As well as walks along the beach, the beach is also great for bathing and water sports.
Let the dog have a run around while you walk along the row of beautiful beach huts. Photo copyright of Smudge 3000 and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
7. EYPEMOUTH BEACH
The charming village of Eype leads you down steep winding lanes to the hidden beauty of Lower Eype beach. A small pebbly beach popular with walkers enjoying the South West Coast Path, where you can enjoy endless games of fetch and gorgeous views out to sea.
Boats on the beach at Eype Mouth. Photo copyright of Derek Harper and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
8. BOWLEAZE COVE
Towering blue cliffs provide a dreamy backdrop to this stunning beach, situated only two miles east of the gorgeous seaside town of Weymouth and two minutes away from the renowned South West Coast Path. In addition to being pet friendly, Bowleaze Cove is also a wonderful family beach, with shallow zones for bathing and watersports. Perfect for balmy summer days!
Enjoy one of the most dog-friendly beaches around Weymouth. Photo copyright of Jim Linwood and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
If you're unsure where to venture on your next cottage holiday, why not try the South, and visit the beautiful county of Dorset with your doggo?
Premier Cottages has a fabulous range of luxury UK holiday homes in Dorset, which you can view by clicking here. If you're searching for a great dog-friendly beach or inspiration while on holiday in Dorset, don't forget to browse our dog-friendly holiday cottages!