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The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Our Pubs

  • 1 day ago
  • 3 min read

One of the best things about the East of England is that you’re never too far from a beach where the dog can come too. From long stretches of sand on the Norfolk coast to wilder spots along Suffolk’s shoreline, there are plenty of places for sandy paws, sea swims and walks before heading back to the pub.




Old Hunstanton Beach


Old Hunstanton has one of Norfolk’s best year-round dog-friendly beaches. With wide sands, shallow water and the backdrop of striped cliffs, there’s plenty of space to roam whatever the season. It’s also one of the few west-facing beaches on the east coast, making it a particularly good spot for sunset walks - especially nice to finish with a drink at The Ancient Mariner Inn, just a short walk over the dunes.



Wells Beach


Wells remains a favourite for good reason. The large sandy beach, pastel-coloured beach huts and pinewoods make it one of the most recognisable stretches of coastline in Norfolk. Dogs are welcome year-round across much of the beach, with a small section near the main entrance during peak season restricted. The walk along the harbour and through the pinewoods is part of the experience, and once you're back, The Globe is perfectly placed for a late lunch or drink in the courtyard.


Holkham Beach


Few beaches feel quite as expansive as Holkham, just along the coast from Wells Beach. The huge stretch of sand has become one of Norfolk’s most photographed coastal spots, and is known for appearing in Shakespeare In Love and All Saints' Pure Shores music video. It's particularly popular with dog walkers throughout spring, autumn and winter. Some seasonal restrictions apply around nesting birds, so leads may be required in certain areas.



Blakeney and Cley Coast


For those who prefer walking routes, salt marshes and big skies to traditional seaside promenades, Blakeney and Cley offer some of rewarding coastal walks along the Norfolk Coast Path. The coastline here is part of a protected landscape, so it's worth keeping an eye out for seasonal wildlife restrictions, particularly around nesting birds. Once you've worked up an appetite, The White Horse makes an excellent stop for lunch.


Brancaster Beach


Brancaster has one of those beaches where the horizon seems to stretch on forever. Miles of sand, shallow water and space to run make it especially popular with dog owners, although some seasonal restrictions apply during the summer months. It’s also ideally placed for combining with lunch in nearby Thornham before heading home.



Dunwich Beach

Near The Ship at Dunwich


The Suffolk coast has a slightly wilder feel than Norfolk, and Dunwich captures that perfectly. The beach stretches along a quieter section of coastline and is popular with walkers throughout the year. Nearby heathland, woodland and coastal paths mean you can easily turn a beach walk into a longer day outdoors with your four-legged friend.


Finish with fish and chips on the terrace or dinner at The Ship at Dunwich, just a short stroll from the shore.


Walberswick and the Suffolk Coast


Walberswick has long been a favourite with dog walkers thanks to its combination of beach, dunes, heathland and estuary paths. It's the sort of place where one walk often turns into several hours outdoors. Nearby Sizewell, Dunwich and Covehithe also offer quieter stretches of dog-friendly coastline.

For those staying nearby, it's an ideal base for exploring this stretch of the Suffolk coast.



Please note, before setting off, it's always worth checking local websites and signage for seasonal restrictions, particularly around nesting birds and protected habitats. But with miles of coastline to explore across Norfolk and Suffolk, there’s no shortage of beaches where both you and your four-legged companion can make the most of a day by the sea.


To reserve a table afterwards or book a break with your dog, take a look at our coastal (and country) pubs with rooms and Big House hotels here.

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