Tucked along the scenic shores of the English Channel, Bournemouth is more than a mere beach retreat for summer sun seekers. This lively coastal town and its surroundings have earned acclaim as a haven for dogs and their dedicated owners.

Our guide will help you discover parks, beaches, and dining spots where your dogs are not only invited but warmly embraced.

Note: we’ve also included places in Poole in this article as it is so close and many visit both at the same time.

Bournemouth beach

Dog Friendly Bournemouth Must Sees

Stour Valley Nature Reserve

43 Granby Rd, Bournemouth BH9 3NZ

Stour Valley Nature Reserve is a two-mile stretch of riverside footpaths, meadows, hedgerows, and woodland in Bournemouth, Dorset, England. It is a Green Flag Award-winning nature reserve home to various wildlife, including kingfishers, otters, and grazing animals.

The reserve is easy to reach, with a car park and visitor centre at Kingfisher Barn on Granby Road. There are also regular buses to the reserve from Bournemouth town centre.

Corfe Castle

The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ

Corfe Castle is a ruined castle standing above the village of the same name on the Isle of Purbeck peninsula in the English county of Dorset. It is one of the most iconic and evocative castles in Britain and has a long and rich history.

The castle ruins are now owned and managed by the National Trust. They are open to the public and are a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, climb to the top of the keep for stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and learn about the castle’s history at the visitor centre.

Hengitsbury Head Wetlands

Hengistbury Head, Broadway, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 4EW

Hengitsbury Head Wetlands is a series of interconnected freshwater and saltwater wetlands at Hengistbury Head in Dorset, England. They are part of the Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, which is managed by BCP Council and the National Trust.

Dogs are welcome all year round on the sand and pebble beach, as well as on the majority of the heathland and grassland areas. There are a few areas where dogs are not allowed, such as the visitor centre, the café, and the bird sanctuary. However, there are plenty of other places for dogs to explore, including the many walking trails that wind their way through the reserve.

Swanage Railway

Swanage Railway, Swanage BH19 1HB

The Swanage Railway is a heritage railway on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, England. It operates full-size steam and diesel passenger trains from Norden to Corfe Castle and Swanage.

The railway was originally built in 1885 as a branch line of the London and South Western Railway. It closed to passenger traffic in 1972, but was reopened by a group of volunteers in 1979. It is now a popular tourist attraction, carrying over 200,000 passengers each year.

Dogs are welcome on board all trains but must be kept on a lead and on the floor. There is a charge of £3 for a single journey and £2 for a return journey. Dogs are not allowed in the buffet car or on the Santa Specials (assistance dogs excepted).

Swanage Railway

Poole Harbour

Poole, Dorset

Poole Harbour is a large natural harbour in Dorset, England. It is the second largest natural harbour in the world (after Sydney Harbour) and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and fish.

Dogs are welcome on most of the beaches in Poole Harbour, as well as in many of the pubs and restaurants. There are also several dog-friendly walks and trails in the area.

Dog Friendly Beaches in Bournemouth

Dogs are allowed on all beaches in Bournemouth from 1st October until 30th April.

Between 1st May to 30th September (inclusive) dogs are not allowed on any of Bournemouth’s Blue Flag or Seaside Award beaches, and if you walk your dog along any promenades, piers, zig zags and footpaths, they must be kept on a lead.

dogs on the beach bournemouth poole map

Bournemouth Central Beach

Bournemouth Central Beach, Bournemouth BH1 3BZ

Alum Chine

Alum Chine Beach, W Undercliff Promenade, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 8AN

Mudeford Sandbank (Mudeford Quay)

Mudeford Sandbank, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 4EW

Hengistbury Head

Hengistbury Head, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 4EW

Sandbanks Beach

Sandbanks Beach, Banks Rd, Poole BH13 7QQ

Middle Chine

Middle Chine Beach, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 8AP

Durley Chine

Durley Chine Beach, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH2 5JF

Fisherman’s Walk

Fisherman’s Walk Zig Zag, Bournemouth BH5 2EL

Branksome Chine

Denecote Lodge, 4-6 Westminster Rd, Westbourne, Poole BH13 6JL

Hamworthy Park

Lulworth Ave, Hamworthy, Poole BH15 4DH

Southbourne

Southbourne Beach, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 4BQ

Boscombe

Boscombe Beach, 2501 Undercliff Dr, Bournemouth BH1 3BZ

Alum Chine Beach Bournemouth

The Best Dog Friendly Walks in Bournemouth

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest

Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET

Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is a large country park and forest in Ashley Heath, Dorset, England. It is a popular destination for walking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.

There are a few areas where dogs are not allowed, such as the play areas and restaurant, and in other areas, dogs must be kept on a lead. There is also a dog park at the entrance to the Junior Play Area.

Stanpit Marsh

Stanpit, Christchurch BH23 1BD

Stanpit Marsh is a nature reserve located on the north side of Christchurch Harbour and home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 300 species of plants, 14 of which are nationally rare and endangered. Several footpaths and trails run through the marsh, making it a popular spot for walking and hiking. There is also a birdwatching hide located on the edge of the marsh.

Dogs are welcome at Stanpit Marsh, but they must always be on a lead.

Kingston Lacy National Trust

Kingston Lacy, Wimborne BH21 4EA

Kingston Lacy is a grand estate in Dorset, England, that is now owned and managed by the National Trust. The estate is home to a magnificent 17th-century mansion, which was extensively remodelled in the 19th century by William John Bankes, a wealthy traveller and collector. The estate also includes beautiful gardens, parkland, and a working farm.

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the car park, parkland, woodland walks, and the courtyard at the Stables restaurant. There are also miles of dog-friendly paths and bridleways to explore on the estate. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the house, formal gardens, or the adventure playground.

If you are planning a visit to Kingston Lacy, please be sure to check the National Trust website for opening times and admission prices.

Kingston Lacy National Trust

Lower Gardens

Lower Gardens, Westover Road, Bournemouth BH2 5AH

Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens is a beautiful stretch of parkland from the beach to the town centre in Bournemouth, England. The gardens are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and offer a variety of activities and attractions including beautiful flowers, a mini golf, an aviary, and a bandstand.

Dogs are allowed in the Lower Gardens in Bournemouth, but they must be kept on a short lead at all times. This is to ensure the safety of other visitors and the gardens themselves. There are also many dog waste bins located throughout the gardens, so please be sure to clean up after your pet.

Boscombe Arts Trail

Boscombe sits next to Bournemouth and the Boscombe Arts Trail is a free self-guided cultural trail that features seven sculptures along a 1.5-mile route from Boscombe shopping precinct to Boscombe Pier. The sculptures were designed by Dorset-based artist Andy Kirby and were installed in 2010. They reflect the ideas put forward by residents of Sea Road and Undercliff Road, and the artist’s distinctive approach to public art. Dogs are welcome to walk alongside their owners on the trail and it is a great way to enjoy the local art scene and get some exercise with your furry friend.

Boscombe Arts Trail bench

Bournemouth Coast Path

The Bournemouth Coast Path is a 37-mile (60 km) long-distance footpath along the south coast of England, linking the Solent Way with the South West Coast Path. It is a varied and scenic route, taking in cliffs, beaches, woodlands, and two natural harbours. The path can be walked in its entirety over a few days, or in shorter sections.

The path starts in Milford-on-Sea, Hampshire, and heads eastwards along the coast. It passes through the towns of Barton-on-Sea, Christchurch, and Bournemouth, before reaching its end point at North Haven Point, Dorset.

Dog-friendly Cafés and Restaurants in Bournemouth

Flirt Café & Bar

21 The Triangle, Bournemouth BH2 5RG

Flirt Cafe & Bar is a cozy dog-friendly cafe & bar in central Bournemouth that serves light bites, milkshakes, and cocktails. It has comfy sofas, outdoor seating, and free WiFi. It is a family-run cafe bar with fresh delicious eats and a great community spirit.

Urban Reef

The Overstrand, Undercliff Dr, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH5 1BN

Urban Reef is a bar, cafe, and restaurant located on Boscombe Beach, offering stunning panoramic views of Bournemouth Bay, from the Isle of Wight to the Purbecks and beyond. The restaurant is committed to using fresh, local, and seasonal produce, and its menu changes regularly to reflect what is available. The cafe serves a variety of coffees, teas, and light bites, while the bar offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.

The Prom Diner

Undercliff Dr, Bournemouth BH5 1BN

The Prom Diner is a dog friendly classic American-style diner located on Bournemouth Beach. It offers a wide variety of food and drinks, including classic diner food like burgers, fries, and milkshakes, as well as British favourites like fish and chips. The diner also has a large outdoor terrace with stunning sea views.

Key West Bar & Grill

Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA

Key West Bar & Grill is a relaxed bar and grill located at the end of Bournemouth Pier. It offers a great tasting, varied menu with something to suit everyone’s taste, as well as a wide selection of drinks. The bar also has a large sun terrace with stunning sea views, making it the perfect place to catch the sun or watch the sunset. Dogs are welcome on the terrace and inside, and they offer treats for dogs, too.

Circo Lounge, Ludo Lounge & Conto Lounge

Bournemouth is home to 3 Lounges; Circo, Ludo and Conto. With an impressive array of vegan and gluten-free choices, the Lounges chain has consistently won the hearts of dog owners. As our seasoned readers are aware, we are staunch supporters of Lounges restaurants. Polite and well-mannered dogs are always greeted with open arms, and provisions like water and treats are readily available for their enjoyment.

Stable Pizza

The Bournemouth Stable, 7-10 Westover Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2BU

Bournemouth is home to one of our favourite dog friendly small chains; Stable Pizza!

Stable Pizza Bournemouth is a family-friendly (and dog friendly) pizza restaurant and bar, known for its sourdough pizzas, craft pints, and bottomless brunch. The restaurant is located in the Lower Gardens, just a short walk from Bournemouth Beach.

Urban Garden

Urban Garden, Exeter Crescent, Bournemouth BH2 5AY

Urban Garden is a restaurant and bar located in the heart of Bournemouth. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning views of Bournemouth Gardens, and delicious food and drinks. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the terrace and inside Urban Garden’s bar and restaurant.

Cafe Riva

Cafe Riva, Boscombe Overcliff Dr, Bournemouth BH5 2EL

Cafe Riva is a dog-friendly cafe located on the clifftop in Southbourne, Bournemouth, offering panoramic views of the Purbecks and the Isle of Wight. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu that includes locally sourced ingredients.

Coffee #1 Winton

Coffee #1 Winton, 401 Wimborne Rd, Bournemouth BH9 2AJ

Coffee #1 is a coffee shop chain in the UK with over 100 locations, the Bournemouth branch is located in the Winton area of Bournemouth. It is dog friendly and has a designated dog-friendly area where well-behaved dogs are welcome. They also provide water bowls for dogs

Browndog Coffee

Browndog Coffee, 117-119 Belle Vue Rd, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3DJ

Brown Dog Coffee is a dog-friendly cafe located in Southbourne, Bournemouth. They offer a wide variety of coffee drinks, as well as food such as sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. The cafe is also known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients, is committed to supporting the local community and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Rockwater Branksome (Villages)

Pinecliff Rd, Branksome Park, Poole BH13 6LP

Rockwater Village at Branksome and Sandbanks is described as a ‘beautiful beachfront destination to spend your days from sunrise to sunset’.

Stemming from the success of Rockwater in Hove, Rockwater’s Branksome location offers a place to eat, drink, work and more, while their shacks on Sandbanks beach provide a place to relax while Rockwater Sandbanks is being worked on.

Sandbanks Beach

Dog-friendly Pubs in Bournemouth

The Grasshopper

The Grasshopper, 139 – 141 Bournemouth Rd, Poole BH14 9HT

The Grasshopper is a pub and restaurant located in Parkstone, Poole, which is near Bournemouth. It is a restored 19th-century pub that offers a variety of food and drinks, as well as a function room for events. The pub has a designated dog-friendly area where well-behaved dogs are welcome. They also provide water bowls for dogs.

The Neptune

The Neptune, Beach House, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH5 1BN

The Neptune is a Harvester pub and restaurant located on Undercliff Drive, close to Boscombe Pier. Harvester pubs are dog friendly in the bar area, so this is a great option to take your dog!

Darcy’s Bar & Kitchen

Darcy’s Bar & Kitchen, 1089 Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth BH7 6BQ

Darcy’s Bar & Kitchen is a small, unique restaurant and bar located in Bournemouth. It offers a variety of home-cooked food, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is also known for its Sunday roasts! Well-behaved dogs are welcome in Darcy’s!

Hot Rocks

Hot Rocks, Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA

Hot Rocks is a restaurant and cocktail bar located in Bournemouth, located next to Bournemouth Pier and offering stunning views of the beach. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes from around the world, including fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and succulent steaks. They also have a wide selection of cocktails, perfect for enjoying on their outdoor terrace

Spyglass & Kettle

Spyglass & Kettle, 25-27 Stourwood Ave, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3PW

The Spyglass & Kettle is a Greene King pub located in Southbourne. It offers a wide range of food and drink, including traditional pub fare, pizzas, and a variety of beers and ciders. They welcome well-behaved dogs in their bar area and beer garden.

The Goat & Tricycle

The Goat & Tricycle, 27-29 W Hill Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5PF

The Goat and Tricycle is a traditional multi-award-winning real ale pub located in Bournemouth and offers an extensive selection of 11 guest ales, ciders, craft beers, and lagers, along with a variety of home-cooked pub food served all day. The pub also has a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, with a patio garden that is perfect for al fresco drinking and dining, and they welcome well-behaved dogs in their bar area and beer garden.

The Wight Bear

The Wight Bear, 65 Southbourne Grove, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3QU

The Wight Bear is a micropub located in Southbourne and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and is known for its wide selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits. The pub also has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and it often hosts live music and events and welcomes well-behaved dogs.

people on bournemouth sandy beach

Dog Friendly Shops in Bournemouth

Castlepoint Shopping Centre

East Mall, Management Suite, Unit Z, Castle Ln W, Bournemouth BH8 9UZ

Castlepoint Shopping Centre is a great place to go for a day out shopping, eating, and drinking. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The mall is dog friendly, but not all shops in the mall are, so make sure to check out which shops at Castlepoint are dog friendly ahead of visiting.

Bobby’s Bournemouth

The Square, 2-12 Commercial Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5LP

Bobby’s is dog friendly and home to Drool – the UK’s first-ever food hall for dogs!

The Dolphin Centre, Poole

110 Dolphin Centre, Poole BH15 1SZ

The Dolphin Shopping Centre is a large shopping centre located in Poole and is home to over 80 stores, including high-street brands, department stores, and independent retailers. Well-behaved dogs are welcome throughout the centre with 56 of its retailers allowing dogs in their stores.

Southbourne beach

Dog-friendly Accommodation in Bournemouth: Where to Stay

There’s a great selection of dog friendly accommodation in Bournemouth; including hotels, B&Bs and holiday parks. Here are some that we recommend.

Travelodge

We here at UK Pet Guide love Travelodges for being dog friendly, and there’s a great selection to choose from in Bournemouth.

The Commodore

The Commodore, Southbourne Overcliff Dr, Bournemouth BH6 3TD

The Commodore is a hotel and pub located in Bournemouth and situated on the clifftop, overlooking the beach and the sea. The hotel has a variety of rooms to choose from, including family rooms, sea-view rooms, and suites. The pub serves food and drinks all day, and there is a large outdoor seating area with stunning views. They allow well-behaved dogs in the bar and restaurant areas and there is also a large outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome. Hotel-wise, there are some rooms set aside for dogs; but make sure you call to pre-book a dog friendly room.

Royal Bath Hotel

Royal Bath Hotel, Bath Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2EW

The Royal Bath Hotel in Bournemouth is dog-friendly, allowing up to two well-behaved dogs per room. Guests must keep their dogs on a lead at all times and clean up after them. Dogs are also allowed in the hotel’s public areas, including the lobby, bar, and restaurant.

Bournemouth East Cliff Hotel by Best Western

Bournemouth East Cliff Hotel by Best Western, East Overcliff Dr, Bournemouth BH1 3AN

The Bournemouth East Cliff Hotel by Best Western is dog-friendly, allowing guests to bring up to two well-behaved dogs per room for a small fee per night. Dogs are welcome in the hotel’s public areas, including the lobby, bar, and restaurant. However, they are not allowed in the swimming pool or fitness centre.

Hotel Collingwood

Hotel Collingwood, 11 Priory Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5DF

Just a few minutes walk from the beach and main restaurants and shops, Hotel Collingwood is a boutique hotel with a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, a leisure centre with a swimming pool, and spacious bedrooms. There’s ample parking and well-behaved dogs are welcome at a small supplement of £15 per night, per dog (maximum of 2 small or medium dogs per room).

Britannia Hotel Bournemouth

Britannia Hotel Bournemouth, Meyrick Rd, Bournemouth BH1 3DP

Bournemouth is home to 5 Britannia hotels, and Britannia Hotel Bournemouth* is located in the town centre, just a short walk from Bournemouth’s beaches and attractions.

Dogs and cats are both welcome at Britannia Hotel Bournemouth, with one pet of any size allowed per room. A fee of £10 per pet per night applies, with a maximum of £25 per stay and a £50 refundable deposit is payable ahead or at the beginning of the stay.

Roundhouse Hotel Bournemouth

Roundhouse Hotel Bournemouth, 1 Meyrick Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2PR

Situated in the centre of Bournemouth, near local attractions such as Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum and Bournemouth International Centre, you’ll find the Roundhouse Hotel*.

As with the other Britannia hotels in Bournemouth, dogs and cats are both welcome at Roundhouse Hotel, with one pet of any size allowed per room. A fee of £10 per pet per night applies, with a maximum of £25 per stay and a £50 refundable deposit is payable ahead or at the beginning of the stay.

Heathlands Hotel

Heathlands Hotel, 12 Grove Rd, Bournemouth BH1 3AY

Just 10 minutes’ walk from Bournemouth Pier and close to attractions like the beach, award-winning gardens, and shopping areas, you’ll find Heathlands Hotel*.

Like the other Britannia hotels in Bournemouth (there are 5), dogs and cats are both welcome at Roundhouse Hotel, with one pet of any size allowed per room. A fee of £10 per pet per night applies, with a maximum of £25 per stay and a £50 refundable deposit is payable ahead or at the beginning of the stay.

Burley Court Hotel

Burley Court Hotel, 29 Bath Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2NP

Burley Court Hotel is a 3-star hotel located near Bournemouth station that’s been family-run for nearly 50 years and is known for its excellent service.

The hotel is pet friendly, but the number of rooms is very limited, so make sure to speak directly with staff to make your booking to avoid disappointment.

Marsham Court Hotel

Marsham Court Hotel, 3 Russell Cotes Rd, East Cliff, Bournemouth BH1 3AB

Marsham Court Hotel is a family-run, 4-star hotel with a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views across Bournemouth Bay. It has 7 dog-friendly bedrooms and 2 dog-friendly apartments available, and they provide bowls, mats, and waste bags for your dog.

Hilton Bournemouth

Hilton Bournemouth, Terrace Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5EL

Less than a 10-minute walk from Bournemouth beach and city centre, Hilton Bournemouth is a great dog friendly stay for those who like a hotel that’s known for being a premium stay – complete with spa, and 8th-floor rooftop bar.

All types of pets can stay at Hilton Bournemouth at a £50 non-refundable fee – as long as the pet is 34 kilograms or less (and is deemed as ‘large’ or smaller)

The Riviera Hotel & Holiday Apartments

The Riviera Hotel & Holiday Apartments, 14-16 Burnaby Rd, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 8JF

Well-behaved, trained dogs are welcome at The Riviera Hotel & Holiday Apartments which is located in Alum Chine. There is a fee of £10 per dog, per night and there are some restrictions on where dogs can fo within the hotel.

The Ashleigh

The Ashleigh, 6 Southcote Rd, Bournemouth BH1 3SR

If you’re looking for a cozy and welcoming B&B in Bournemouth that caters to adults and welcomes pets, The Ashleigh is a great option as the hotel won the best Hotel/B&B category in the UK for this year’s Dog Friendly Awards.

Waves In

Waves In, 14 Knole Rd, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 4DQ

Located in the Boscombe district, a short walk from Bournemouth’s beaches, Waves In is a family-run B&B with a warm and friendly atmosphere. It allows dogs of any size in designated rooms for a fee of £10 per pet, per night.

Hotel Celebrity

Hotel Celebrity, 47 Gervis Rd, Bournemouth BH1 3DD

Hotel Celebrity in Bournemouth is a themed hotel with a focus on fun, vibrancy, and excitement, located in the East Cliff area, a short walk from Bournemouth’s beaches and town centre. It’s pet friendly and charges £20 per pet per night.

Bournemouth Carlton Hotel

Bournemouth Carlton Hotel, East Overcliff, Grove Rd, Bournemouth BH1 3DN

Perched on Bournemouth’s East Cliff, offering sweeping views of the bay, the Bournemouth Carlton Hotel has a spa, restaurant and leisure club. Pets of any size are allowed for a fee of £15 per pet, per night and it’s best to contact the hotel directly to confirm any specific breed restrictions or additional guidelines they may have.

The Trouville Hotel

The Trouville Hotel, 5-7 Priory Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5DH

Located near Bournemouth’s seafront attractions, The Trouville Hotel is family and pet-friendly and has an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness centre, alongside a restaurant with fantastic views across Bournemouth.

Dogs are welcome to stay in the hotel bedrooms, but dogs are not allowed in public areas like bars and restaurants. There is a nightly charge for dogs, and a damage/cleaning deposit may be required. It’s best to contact the hotel directly to confirm specific details and any breed restrictions.

The Suncliff Hotel

The Suncliff Hotel, 29 E Overcliff Dr, Bournemouth BH1 3AG

The Suncliff Hotel is a seafront hotel with panoramic views of Bournemouth Bay and is dog friendly with a small amount of restrictions.

Dogs under 10kg are allowed for an additional fee of £20 per night, plus a refundable deposit of £50 per stay. Dogs are only permitted in the bedrooms, lobby areas, and certain outdoor spaces.

The Cumberland Hotel

The Cumberland Hotel, 27 E Overcliff Dr, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 3AF

The Cumberland Hotel is a 4-star hotel offering stylish rooms with sea views and features a heated outdoor pool, sun deck, and lido deck. Dogs up to 10 kg are allowed in designated rooms and a fee of £20 per night applies, plus a refundable deposit of £50.

It’s worth noting that some guests have expressed varying experiences regarding the hotel’s pet policy., so it’s best to communicate directly with the hotel to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay for you and your dog.

Looking for other dog friendly places in the UK?

Check out our dog friendly city guides.

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