Dog friendly beaches in Somerset

Dogs allowed: all year round

Kilve Beach, found just north of the Quantocks near the historic market town of Bridgewater, is not only a firm favourite with fossil hunters but also with dog walkers. Engage your inner-archaeologist with a try at uncovering ammonites on the long, stony beach whilst your four-legged friend sniffs around the rock pools formed by the unusual formations. We recommend using strong footwear at this long, stony beach as clambering over the uneven surfaces can take its toll on your feet. This also means that the beach is perhaps better suited to larger dogs. This is not, however, a beach for swimmers, owing to the nature of the coastline.

Parking is available at Kilve as well as the village of East Quantoxhead, where you can park in the church parking field for a snip and enjoy a lovely half-mile walk along an even easy footpath leading to the steps onto the beach. There’s also a large grassy area behind the beach that’s perfect for picnics.

Dogs allowed: all year round

The scenic beach is made up of sand and shingle. It is popular with walkers for its stunning view, made famous by a JMW Turner painting from around 1820. Blue Anchor Bay was apparently named after the colour of the mud left on ships' anchors moored in the bay, though this fact is still debated! The beach curves around with the steep wooded hills of the Grade II listed folly Conygar Tower and is surrounded by alabaster rocks and cliffs with Dunster Castle rising in the distance.

The beach is also one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Somerset, welcoming four-legged friends all year round. However, there are no lifeguards patrolling the beach and currents along this stretch of coast are notoriously strong, so it is recommended to stick to walking with your pooch rather than taking a dip together. Often overlooked in favour of the ever-popular Minehead, this west Somerset beach is an underrated gem with plenty of parking, toilets, a fantastic pub and even a steam railway connection. If you’re in the area, you won’t regret a visit.

Dogs allowed: all year round

The simply named Sand Bay is a very pleasant sand and shingle beach near Weston-super-Mare in North Somerset. True to its name, the beach offers a large expanse of golden sand in addition to excellent views across the Bristol Channel to the Welsh capital, Cardiff.

The calm environment gives off an atmosphere of tranquility and with ample space, the beach is a wonderful place for a walk with man’s best friend. At one end there is a large area with plant life of all descriptions growing into the body of sand itself which your pooch will delight in exploring. In fact, there are no restrictions for dogs at any time of the year at Sand Bay and car parks along the length of the bay mean that access is simple. We also recommend a visit to the nearby Sandy Bay Tea Rooms that serves refreshments of the highest quality.

Dogs allowed: all year round

Nestled at the edge of the imposing hills of Exmoor National Park, Porlock Weir Beach is a pretty dog friendly beach in Somerset made up of large shingle. There’s plenty for your dog to explore here and for the very best views, we recommend walking your furry friend down one of the winding paths along the coastline, where you’re able to gaze out over the Bristol Channel.

The town of Porlock has a very rich history, evident in its buildings and cottages, and is sure to charm. There’s ample choice in the way of local cafes and restaurants to refuel in after your walk, many of which will be happy to accommodate your dog. There’s also a pay & display car park with 60 spaces, including disabled spots, and toilet facilities on offer.

Dogs allowed: all year round

Bossington Beach lies at the eastern end of Porlock Bay and consists of medium-sized smooth stones that form a bank, behind which is agricultural land. It is perfectly comfortable to sit or lie on as the beach slopes in steps to the shore. Of course, the best way to enjoy this location is in the company of man’s best friend!

Your dog will love the vast expanse of shingle and it’s easily accessed via a good stone bridleway from the quaint, rural village of Bossington (where there is a National Trust operated car park) or via the coastal path from Porlock. Towards the centre of the beach are the remnants of a World War Two pill box and some old lime kilns which your kids will love exploring. However, as the signs warn, it’s best to avoid swimming due to the strong currents, so keep your kids and dogs with you safely on dry land.