Article: Kate's Best Coastal Walks
Kate's Best Coastal Walks
Nothing like a good hike to put you in a better mood. Walking gets feel good endorphins going, it clears your head and you always get home in a better mood. When it comes to coastal adventures, the UK has so much to offer, with dog-friendly beaches spanning from Cornwall to Northern Scotland. Whether you want vast sandy stretches, or more dramatic coastlines that take you off the beaten path, my favourites offer something for everyone (and every dog). Head for the sea!
1. Harlyn Bay Beach, Cornwall
Home to some of the best coastline in the world, Cornwall has a number of dog-friendly beaches, with Harlyn Bay is one of the best (and safest). With its wide, sandy stretches, rock pools and dunes, this beautiful bay is varied and striking.
2. Salcombe, South Devon
The coastal towns of Salcombe and East Portlemouth offer a number of pretty dog-friendly beaches, including Salcombe South Sands Beach and the East Portlemouth beaches of Fishermans Cove, Smalls Cove and Mill Bay. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there is much to see and do, with shallow rock pools perfect for paddling, and sandy coves to shelter you from sea winds and summer sunshine.
3. Hive Beach, Dorset
Offering over a mile of sandy shoreline, Hive Beach is on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast and overlooked by farmland and rugged cliffs. Follow this dog-friendly route which takes you right the way around to the East Devon Coast.
4. Camber Sands, East Sussex
This unspoilt Sussex beach is one of the only in the area to have a sandy shoreline and stretches for almost five miles. With its picture-perfect views, Camber Sands is a must for all dog walkers – you can go for miles.
5. Old Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk
Described by many as the best beach in Norfolk, Old Hunstanton offers a wide expanse of sandy seafront. Its shallow waters are ideal for splashing and paddling and there are plenty of dunes for enjoying picnics in.
6. Embleton Beach, Northumberland
The gloriously wide beach of Embleton Bay stretches for miles on the horizon and is one of the cleanest and most unpopulated beaches in the UK. Visit at low tide to get the most of this stunning beachfront and enjoy the view of beautiful Dunstanburgh Castle.
7. Marloes Sands Beach, Pembrokeshire
A rugged coastline which all but disappears at high tide, Marloes Sands is a remote beach surrounded by cliffs. Your dog can go for an off-lead run as the beach remains quiet for most of the year.
8. Balnakeil Beach, Durness, the Highlands
With its white sands, rolling grassy dunes and aqua-marine waters, Balnakeil could easily be mistaken for an oil painting. With stunning views at every turn, including a ruined church and graveyard which add drama to this remote setting, you and your dogs will blow away the cobwebs on a bracing stroll along this unforgettable coastline.
9. Huisinis Beach, North Harris
A little slice of coastal perfection, Huisinis Beach offers everything you need for an adventure. Turquoise water and grassy slopes can be found in a sheltered setting, which is ideal for a quiet picnic while your dog enjoys the golden sands and clear surf. Perfect if you want a more secluded stroll as Huisinis is often empty, despite its obvious beauty.
10. Ballycastle Beach, County Antrim
A sand and shingle beach with rugged coastline, this is the perfect spot for a scenic dog walk. Extending 1.2km from the pier at Ballycastle Marina to the popular fishing spot of Pans Rocks, the generous beach offers stunning views of Rathlin Island and Fairhead and allows for unrestricted access year-round.
