Walkies While You Can: The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches to Visit Before May Rules Return
- Before stricter UK beach rules for dogs return from May 1st, Trainline is sharing tips for some of the best dog friendly beaches across the UK, including Whitstable and Montrose.
- The alert coincides with National Pet Month, so Trainline is also sharing some general tips for travelling with dogs by rail, alongside some of the best other dog walking spots including the New Forest and the Cotswold Way
- Each destination is easily accessible by train and offers scenic routes and open spaces, making it simpler for owners to explore the UK with their dogs this spring.
7th April: April is National Pet Month, which just so happens to coincide with the last few weeks before summer dog walking beach restrictions return in May. So, to help make the most of Britain’s best coastal walkies before they’re gone, Trainline is sharing the best accessible seaside locations to pay a visit with your pup. The current Easter holidays also offer the pawfect opportunity for family days out with your dog, so alongside some beach suggestions, Trainline have highlighted alternative scenic routes, as well as spotlighting simple tips for travelling with your favourite four-legged companion.
Trainline’s Pooch Perfect Dog Walking Destinations:
With its wide sandy shoreline and traditional seaside charm, Cromer is a great spot for a dog-friendly day by the coast. Outside of seasonal restrictions, dogs can enjoy running on the beach, while owners can take in the Victorian pier, promenade walks and local seafood (including the town’s famous crab).
Getting there: Cromer station is around a 5–10 minute walk from the beach and town centre.
Montrose Beach offers miles of open sand, making it ideal for long dog walks and energetic runs by the sea. The surrounding dunes and nearby Montrose Basin also provide plenty of space for exploring, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
Getting there: Montrose station is around a 15-minute walk from the beach.
New Forest National Park, Hampshire
Brockenhurst offers one of the easiest gateways into the New Forest for dog owners, with walking routes starting almost directly from the station. From here, visitors can access open heathland and woodland trails within minutes, where dogs can enjoy varied terrain and plenty of space to explore. Free-roaming ponies and livestock are common, so dogs should be kept under close control.
Getting there: Brockenhurst station is just a few minutes’ walk from the forest, with multiple walking routes beginning right outside the station.
A classic seaside destination, Weymouth combines dog-friendly coastal walks with access to the wider Jurassic Coast. Nearby stretches and coastal paths provide plenty of space for dogs to explore. If you’re feeling artistic, why not take in the Weymouth Sculpture Trail and seek out six artworks installed around the town, the trail is free to follow and includes thought provoking artwork.
Getting there: Weymouth station is around a 10-minute walk from the seafront.
Whitstable, Kent
Whitstable’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a favourite for dog owners. Pups can enjoy walks along the pebble beach and harbour, while owners can stop at dog-friendly cafés, pubs and seafood spots. One highlight not to be missed is the The Old Neptune pub, an iconic beachfront pub, which is especially beautiful at sunset. It’s an easy-going coastal escape just outside London.
Getting there: Whitstable station is around a 15–20 minute walk from the harbour and seafront.
The Cotswold Way
One of the most accessible entry points to the Cotswold Way is in Bath, where the trail begins close to the city centre. Dog owners can follow routes leading out of the city and quickly reach open countryside, with scenic views across the surrounding hills. The mix of gentle climbs and well-marked paths makes it a good option for a manageable day walk.Getting there: Bath Spa station is around a 15–20 minute walk from the official start of the Cotswold Way near Bath Abbey.
Sajjad Motamed, UK Country Manager, Trainline, says: “The UK rail network welcomes our four-legged friends, making April a great time to explore dog-friendly destinations by train before seasonal beach restrictions come into place. Trainline’s tips make travelling with your dog calm, comfortable and enjoyable for both pets and other passengers, so what better time than National Pet Month for dog owners to book a ticket and get out to enjoy scenic walks and coastal spots.”
Trainline has also curated some top travelling tips for dog owners:
The Good Pup’s Guide to Train Travel:
- Tickets? I don’t need one:Dogs travel for free on most UK trains – an excellent deal.
- Two’s company, three’s a crowd… ask first:You can usually bring up to two dogs per person. More than that, and you may be subject to a charge of up to 50% of a full adult fare.
- Paws on the floor, please:Seats are for humans. Dogs should stay on the floor or in a pet carrier.
- Stay close and stylish (lead required):Keep your dog on a lead or in a pet carrier at all times.
- Be a calm commuter:No barking debates or aisle zoomies – don’t let your dog disturb other passengers.
- Read the room (and your dog):If your dog seems stressed, it’s okay to take a break or adjust your journey.
Bonus “Very Important” Dog Etiquette
- Share the cuteness:If someone admires your dog, feel free to share a photo or accept compliments.
- Offer cuddles (with consent):If your dog is friendly, a polite wag and optional cuddle can brighten someone’s trip.
- Take friends and family with you too: A Family & FriendsRailcard gives 1/3 off adult fares and 60% off kids’ tickets – really handy for days out! Travelling as a pair with your pup? Try the Two Together Railcard, as the savings really do add up!