Southwold Dog-Friendly Guide

Our pets are an important part of the family and deserve a holiday too.  At Suffolk Secrets we are proud to offer the best choice of dog-friendly holiday cottages in the county. The Southwold area is a fabulous location for a pet-friendly cottage holiday.  There are adventures galore awaiting you and your dog in this wonderful stretch of coastline.  The area's eateries and shops are becoming increasingly welcoming to pets, and there are even local events specially for the canine members of the family including Suffolk Dog Day and 'Woofbridge' to name just two.  See our What's On section for more events like this.

Dog Friendly Beaches

Dogs can enjoy a free run on most of the beaches in the area which streches from as far north as Lowestoft down to Walberswick.  There are however, some seasonal restrictions on the some of the more commonly used beaches including Lowestoft's South Beach, Kessingland and Southwold, between the northern tip of the promenade (to the North of the pier at the very end of the council car park) to the East Street steps (below the Sailor's Reading Room). These restrictions only affect 1.6 miles of over 26 miles of coastline in the Waveney district.

Dog restrictions on the beaches are enforced by Waveney District Council and you can find out more about them here.

The goldens sands that stretch north of Southwold to Covehithe and further up to Benacre are simply stunning.  Your dog can explore the flotsum and jetsum whilst you admire the magestic, yet fragile cliffs and the views out to the North Sea.  If you prefer to head South from Southwold, crossing the River Blyth to Walberswick another beautiful dog-friendly beach awaits.  Please take care and keep your dog on a lead around the fenced off areas that are there to protect the land-nesting birds such as small turns.

Dog Friendly Pubs and Cafes in Southwold

The Harbour Inn, Southwold - A favourite with locals and visitors alike! The Harbour Inn offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere and welcomes families and well-behaved dogs. There is a spacious garden to the rear with views towards the expansive common and town centre.  Enjoy freshly caught fish of the day and other traditional English pub classics.

Two Magpies Bakery - This small artisan bakery serves wonderful coffee too!  It's cosy so it probably doesn't suit the larger dog, but small dogs are welcome.

The Anchor Inn, Walberswick - The Anchor is a fantastic Dog Friendly pub with lots of outdoor seating and a tantalising menu. If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t miss the Anchor’s weekend BBQ featuring a range of seasonal treats including fresh local shellfish or Tamworth pork with homemade seasonal salads.

Harbour Cafe, Blackshore - With its stunning views of Southwold harbour and it's cosy woodburning stove, and plenty of outdoor seating this is a perfect pitstop on your dog walk during any season.  The box of dog-biscuits on the counter shows how welcoming they are of our furry friends.

The Bell Inn, Walberswick - The Bell Inn is a friendly place to have a refreshment or lunch after a stroll with your four-legged friend.  Well behaved dogs are welcomed throughout the pub and there is a large garden at the rear with a family play area.

Just in Case

Fromus Vets Surgery, Southwold High Street, 01502 725132

To view all of our lovely dog-friendly cottages in Southwold and the surrounding area click here. To view all of our pet-friendly cottages across Suffolk simply begin your search from our homepage. If you need further assistance in booking your dog-friendly holiday in Southwold, don’t hesitate to call us on 01502 722717.