Top Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Suffolk for a Perfect Weekend Getaway

Published November 19, 2025 · by Christine

Suffolk’s coastline is a paradise for dogs and their owners! From golden sands to scenic dunes, there are plenty of beaches where your furry friend can run free and enjoy the fresh sea air. Whether you’re staying at our adult-only, dog-friendly cottages or just visiting for a day, our Suffolk retreats are the perfect base for exploring dog-friendly beaches, scenic walks, and nearby villages with dog-friendly cafés, pubs, and restaurants.

Here are our top picks for dog-friendly beaches in Suffolk, complete with walking paths, starting points, and parking tips.

1. Southwold Beach

Distance: ~ 20 miles / ~ 35 minutes’ drive
Walk Length & Difficulty: 2–4 miles / Easy
Parking & Start Point: Park at Southwold Pier Car Park or Harbour Quay Car Park in Southwold. Start your walk either end of the beach, explore the colourful beach huts, sand dunes and coffee shops along the promenade. If you wish for a longer walk, start at the Pier walking towards the harbour and cross over the bridge or get the little boat over the river into Walberswick.
Why Visit: Southwold offers a wide sandy/shingle beach, space for dogs, and beautiful views of the pier and lighthouse. Please note, that dogs are not allowed on parts of the beach from 1st April – 30th September.


Dog-Friendly Spots Nearby:

  • The Sail Loft – dog-friendly seating with views of the seas
  • The Bell – dogs welcome in bar area
  • Most of the shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs are dog friendly in Southwold, even on the pier!

    Tips: Arrive early in summer to secure parking. For free parking, head towards the pier and then turn right at the end, parking along North Parade Street.

2. Walberswick Beach

Distance: ~ 18 miles / ~ 35 minutes’ drive
Walk Length & Difficulty: 3–5 miles / Moderate
Parking & Start Point: Park at The Green Car Park in Walberswick village. Begin your walk along the riverside to the beach, then through the dunes and village footpaths. Alternatively, park at the Walberswick Quay and head straight onto the beach.
Why Visit: A quieter beach than Southwold, with river paths and dunes for dogs to explore all year round!


Dog-Friendly Spots Nearby:

  • The Anchor – riverside pub with dog-friendly outdoor seating
  • The Bell Inn – historic pub welcoming well-behaved dogs

    Tips: Combine the beach walk with a stroll around the charming village. Check tide times if walking along the riverbank.

3. Dunwich Beach

Distance: ~ 20 miles / ~ 40 minutes’ drive
Walk Length & Difficulty: 4–6 miles / Moderate
Parking & Start Point: Park at Dunwich Beach Car Park or the village car park. Start by heading along the dunes and woodland edges, looping back via quiet footpaths.
Why Visit: Dunwich Beach is peaceful, less crowded, and ideal for longer dog walks with dunes and open spaces. Dog friendly all year round, no restrictions.
Dog-Friendly Spots Nearby:

  • The Ship Inn – outdoor seating welcomes dogs

    Tips: Bring water for your dog and a sunshade if visiting during summer. Great for a full-day adventure.

4. Aldeburgh Beach

Distance: ~ 24 miles / ~ 45 minutes’ drive
Walk Length & Difficulty: 3–5 miles / Easy
Parking & Start Point: Park at Aldeburgh Beach Car Park near the town centre, or if you get there early, you may find parking along the high street. Start along the shingle beach, then head along the promenade and back through the town streets for a circular route.
Why Visit: Aldeburgh offers a shingle beach, charming art town, and year-round dog access.

Dog-Friendly Spots Nearby:

  • The White Lion – dog-friendly areas inside and out
  • The Swan – café with outdoor seating for dogs
  • Munchies – a wonderful little café, with sandwiches, cakes and the best coffee around!

    Tips: Enjoy fresh seafood or an ice cream during your walk. Early morning or late afternoon is quieter and more scenic.

5. Orford & Surrounding Beaches

Distance: ~ 23 miles / ~ 45 minutes’ drive
Walk Length & Difficulty: 4–7 miles / Moderate
Parking & Start Point: Park at Orford Quay Car Park. Start along the quay and riverside path, then follow the footpath toward Orford Ness or nearby open beaches.
Why Visit: Scenic walks with river views and open beaches, perfect for adventurous dogs.

Dog-Friendly Spots Nearby:

  • The Butley Orford Oysterage – outdoor seating welcomes dogs
  • The George & Dragon – pub with water bowls and dog-friendly areas

    Tips: Great for combining beach and village exploration. Bring snacks and water for a longer walk.

Tips for Dog-Friendly Beach Days

  • Always check local signage; some beaches restrict dogs in summer.
  • Bring plenty of water, poop bags, and treats.
  • Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter.
  • Keep dogs on leads near wildlife and roads.
  • Plan your walk loops and return to your cottages to relax after a long adventure.

Looking for the perfect dog-friendly Suffolk escape? Stay at our adult-only, dog-friendly cottages — Udder Cottage or Milk Churn Cottage, your ideal base to explore Southwold, Walberswick, Dunwich, Aldeburgh, Orford, and more.


Check availability and book your stay today →

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