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With a plethora of dog-friendly beaches in Norfolk to explore, you won’t have to worry about leaving your canine companion at home during your visit to the Norfolk coast.

From tranquil shorelines to evening promenade strolls and sandy beaches that stretch for miles, Norfolk is perfect for a seaside trip with your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for a quick beach run around, a paddle in the water or a relaxing day of beach fun, find plenty of Norfolk beaches to suit your needs.

Keep reading to find the top 10 dog-friendly beaches Norfolk…


1. Snettisham Beach, Snettisham

Dogs running on Snettisham Beach

First on our list of dog-friendly beaches in Norfolk is the beautiful golden shores of Snettisham Beach, an excellent place for a dog walk in Norfolk. Being on Norfolk’s only west-facing stretch of coastline, it’s the best place to watch the sunset. Norfolk’s sunsets are recognised as some of the best in the world, lasting up to 5 ½ hours, and are believed by many to be even more magnificent than the famous Australian sunset.

Nearby, you’ll find the RSPB Snettisham nature reserve, an excellent spot if you’re looking to extend your walk and witness some wild birds. Although there are no restrictions in this area, leads are recommended on this dog-friendly beach around the nature reserve.

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sand and shingle

Postcode: PE31 7PS
Parking: Yes


2. Old Hunstanton Beach, Hunstanton

Old Hunstanton Beach

Unlike nearby Hunstanton Beach, the magnificent golden sands of Old Hunstanton Beach have no restrictions for your furry friend and is an excellent location for you and your dog. This delightful vista is away from the hustle and bustle of the busy promenade, making it one of the most convenient Norfolk dog-friendly beaches.

It can be a popular hotspot during peak seasons; however, its endless miles of golden sands and nearby sand dunes are perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds or enjoy long walks. Old Hunstanton is also west-facing, so you can enjoy a wonderful evening stroll to watch the sunset with your loved ones.

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: PE36 6JJ
Parking: Yes, available at the Clifftop car park


3. Holkham Beach, Holkham

Holkham Beach

Holkham beach is often referred to as one of the most picturesque beaches in the country. With vast expanses of unspoilt golden sand, Holkham Beach is amongst many dog walkers’ favourite spots for a dog-friendly walk along the Norfolk coast, boasting easy access to the Norfolk Coast Path, which spans 83 miles.

11 miles of this dog-friendly Norfolk beach make up part of Holkham National Nature Reserve, one of the county’s largest nature reserves, and awareness of the local wildlife should always be considered while visiting.

Dogs allowed: All year round (dogs are not prohibited at the eastern end of Wells Beach)
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: NR23 1DR
Parking: Yes


4. Waxham Beach, Waxham

Dog with a frisbee on Waxham Beach

With no car park or amenities, Waxham is one of the lesser-visited and quietest Norfolk dog-friendly beaches. This beach is perfect for a gentle stroll and, on a sunny day, you can walk as far as your heart desires!

You’ll begin your walk by strolling along a sandy path, shaded by trees, before the paths open up on the golden beach. To the south, you’ll find Waxham Sands, a slightly more popular beach due to its adjacency to a campsite and holiday park, offering flexibility for all.

IT’s easy to see why Norfolk is considered one of the best regions in the UK to visit for dog-friendly beaches!

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: NR12 0DY
Parking: No official parking, parking is available on roadside


5. Scratby Beach, Great Yarmouth

Scratby Beach

Next on our list of dog-friendly Norfolk beaches is Scratby Beach. Popular with surfers and swimmers, Scratby Beach is a favourite destination for dog walkers due to its endless stretch of sandy shores and crystal waters which are perfect for a playful dip.

You can walk for miles in either direction and set up base on the soft sands. Caister-on-Sea and Great Yarmouth can be reached to the south, and Hemsby Beach can be found to the north, offering great options for a fun day out.

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sand and shingle

Postcode: NR29 3PD
Parking: Yes


6. Bacton Beach, Bacton

Dog on Bacton Beach

Bacton Beach is one of the most tranquil dog-friendly beaches in Norfolk for a quiet moment of reflection. Although there are dog restrictions during the summer months, this beach is popular for spring and autumn walks with your canine companion.

Enjoy an even longer walk in either direction towards the Victorian village on Mundesley on one side, and the small village of Walcott on the other. Both offer an intriguing selection of Norfolk hidden gems to explore.

Dogs allowed: Restrictions apply between May 1 – September 30
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: NR12 0EW
Parking: Yes, in car park


7. Thornham Beach, Thornham

Boat on Thornham Beach

Another remote and quiet dog-friendly beach in Norfolk is Thornham Beach. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this stunning hidden beach involves a half-mile walk just to reach it.

Immerse yourself in the pure solitude and privacy of this beach, covered by soft sands, sand dunes and high tides. There’s also a fascinating old fishing boat placed on the shore at Thornham harbour which you can see on your trip.

Be sure to be mindful of wildlife when reaching the border of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Holme Dunes Nature Reserve.

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: PE36 6LX
Parking: Off-road parking available at Staithe Lane


8. Titchwell Beach, King’s Lynn

Pug on Titchwell Beach

For a more rugged seaside experience, Titchwell Beach sits in the RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve, surrounded by tidal lagoons, woodland quarters and rural marshes. This Norfolk dog-friendly beach offers a wild experience for more active pets to enjoy.

Wildlife lovers will delight in the array of birdwatching opportunities around the area, as well as unique wildlife throughout the impressive nature reserve. This beach is perfect for those who want to be close to nature and away from the busy corners of daily life.

Make use of the RSPB facilities including a café, gift shop and a visitor centre.

Dogs allowed: Dogs are permitted on leads along the West Bank Path all year round
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: PE31 8BA
Parking: Pay and display car park (free for RSPB members)


9. Burnham Overy Staithe Beach, Burnham Overy Staithe

Burnham Overy Staithe Beach

Hidden along the Norfolk Coast Path within the magnificent North Norfolk AONB is our next dog-friendly beach, Burnham Overy Staithe Beach.

Admire the bobbing sailing boats at the charming harbour, before visiting the historic boathouse and chandlery, which offers kayak hire.

Similar to Thornham Beach, find this remote sanctuary accessed via a mile-long walk from coastal roads, great for dogs to stretch their legs without the crowds of some of the other dog-friendly beaches in Norfolk.

If you want to get back to basics and connect with yourself, visit Burnham Overy Staithe for an unusual and unique Norfolk beach experience.

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sandy and dunes

Postcode: PE31 8FF
Parking: Yes, beware of high spring tides


10. Wells-next-the-Sea Beach, Wells-next-the-Sea

Dog on Wells next the Sea Beach

Last but not least is the marvellous Wells-next-the-Sea Beach. Found in the heart of North Norfolk’s coastline, this gorgeous fishing port lies on the edge of Holkham Beach and within the North Norfolk Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Comprising a characterful quay, golden sands, spots for crabbing and access to Holkham Estate, this is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK. Take advantage of all the fantastic facilities in the area while you’re here, including classic fish and chip shops, seal watching at Blakeney Point, and a looping gauge miniature train.

Dogs allowed: All year round
Type of beach: Sandy

Postcode: NR23 1DR
Parking: Yes


Pinpoint the location of your favourite dog-friendly beaches in Norfolk and start planning your next trip today!


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Ready to treat your four-legged friend to a trip to the beach? Visit one of these incredible destinations before heading back to a dog-friendly cottage in Norfolk. For more inspiration on your holiday to Norfolk, check out our Norfolk Travel Guide.

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