Norfolk isn’t just a haven for holidaymakers—it’s paradise for pups, too!
We should know—after living in Norfolk for over 15 years, we’ve explored just about every corner of this beautiful county with our little dog Maxie. Norfolk, with its miles of unspoiled beaches and cozy, dog-friendly holiday cottages, has something for every kind of traveler, whether on two legs or four.
For us, every weekend feels like a mini-adventure. From wind-swept coastal walks to short stays in some of the finest Norfolk holiday cottages, we’re always on the lookout for dog-friendly spots to enjoy.
Maxie goes ‘everywhere’ with us—if a place isn’t dog-friendly, we simply don’t go. Whether you’re visiting Norfolk for the first time or planning a staycation, you’ll find that Norfolk’s one of the most dog-welcoming places in the UK.
In this guide, we’ll answer the questions we hear all the time from fellow dog owners. Where are the best beaches for dogs? What’s the perfect place to stay with your four-legged friend? And where can you both grab a bite to eat without worrying about “no dogs allowed” signs? These are all the spots we know and love, from years of exploring this county with little Maxie by our side.
Let’s dive in. Whether you’re looking for dog-friendly beaches, Norfolk cottage hideaways, or cafes, this guide has everything you need to make your Norfolk getaway truly unforgettable—for both you and your pup.
Dog friendly beaches in Norfolk
What are the best beaches in Norfolk?
Norfolk’s coastline is home to some of the most scenic beaches in the UK, perfect for both you and your dog to explore. Visitors flock to the more obvious spots like Holkham Beach, with its wide open sands and dunes, Wells-next-the-Sea offers a mix of beach and pinewoods that’s hard to beat, while Brancaster Beach gives you stunning views and plenty of room for your dog to run free.
Locals tend to have the time and freedom to hunt out the hidden gems, like Cley-next-the-Sea, Winterton, Salthouse and Waxham beaches to name but a few. Each Norfolk beach has something unique to offer, your only issue…to choose just one or two if visting!
- You can Explore the Best Beaches in Norfolk; Our Top 10 Revealed
- Favourites are Holkham beach, Wells-next-the-Sea beach and Brancaster beach
Are Norfolk beaches dog friendly?
Absolutely. All Norfolk’s beaches are dog friendly, and all year-round. You’ll find that even during peak tourist seasons, there are designated areas where dogs are welcome to enjoy the sand and sea without restrictions.
Like everything, it’s always a good idea to check specific seasonal rules, but in general, all of Norfolk’s beaches are a haven for dogs…and their owners too. Our Norfolk best beaches guide offers information about, what if any restrictions apply to a selection of the more popular beaches.
Which Norfolk beaches are dog friendly?
As locals, who also have a dog and have explored the Norfolk coast extensively, we can confidently say all beaches in Norfolk allow dogs. It is however worth remembering, some impose restrictions during the summer months.
It’s common practice that many beaches have designated zones where dogs are restricted between May to September, this so families and visitors can enjoy areas untroubled by dogs. Cromer, Sheringham, Wells-next-the-Sea and Hunstanton beaches, to name but a few have seasonal restrictions, but trust us, you don’t have to walk far with your pooch to find the dog friendly areas at all of these.
Beaches like Old Hunstanton, Holme-next-the-Sea, and Cley-next-the-Sea beaches all allow dogs to roam all year round. These beaches are less crowded and perfect for long, off-leash adventures.
Are Norfolk beaches clean?
Yes, Norfolk’s beaches are known for being well-maintained and clean. The local communities and beach authorities work hard to keep these coastal spots pristine. Beaches like Sea Palling and Horsey consistently receive high marks for cleanliness, making them safe for both you and your dog to enjoy.
There are numerous Blue Flag beaches in Norfolk, West Runton, Cromer, Sheringham, Mundesley and Sea Palling. They are clean and safe however if visiting with your pooch, always remember to pick up after your dog to help keep these beaches beautiful! Not everyone is a lover of ‘all things dog’.
Which dog friendly beach in Norfolk do you recommend?
This is fairly subjective however here’s a list of the ‘better known’ dog friendly beaches in Norfolk we love to visit with our pooch and why:
- Wells-next-the-Sea beach – For us, the pine woods are as much a reason to visit as the beach. Our pup loves to scamper through the woods, sniffing about and exploring. If you take this route from the car park, you pass the dog free zone completely. The reward afterwards is the stunning beach…however the ‘sea’ can be a mile away depending on tide times.
- Mundesley beach – We stumbled upon this award winning gem by chance and still visit to this day. A great sandy beach, some summertime restrictions, a short walk in either direction along the prom and you’ll come to dog friendly areas with plenty of fine sand and nearby sea.
- Cley-nexy-the-Sea beach – Now worth mentioning, this beach is mainly pebbles however even with a small dog worth a visit. It’s where you see ‘real sea’ close up and often crashing as the shoreline is close and steep. Great for a sunset visit, take a couple of chairs and just sit, relax to the sound of the crashing waves.
- Brancaster beach – Easy parking and a short sandy walk and you’ll discover the quieter pleasures of this vast beach all backed by its natural dunes. Regardless of the time of year, this beach is vast with plenty of scampering about space for everyone.
- Sea Palling beach – Situated only 10 minutes from the market town of Stalham, Sea Palling is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Stretches of fine sand create a series of shallow bays, formed by man made reefs just off the coast, providing safe paddling for you and your dog. Very unspoilt and a dream in the winter.
- Explore more, visit our Best Beaches in Norfolk; Our Top 10 Revealed
Dog friendly cottages in Norfolk
Norfolk cottages for dogs
Finding dog-friendly cottages in Norfolk is a breeze! From quaint countryside retreats to modern lodges near the North Norfolk coast, there’s something for every type of getaway. These dog friendly Norfolk hideaways often come equipped with enclosed gardens, easy access to walking trails, open spaces and even little extras like dog beds and welcome treats.
On Fabulous Norfolk, our most ‘popular collection’ is for dog friendly cottages in Norfolk, and over 65% of our cottage holidays welcome pooches, and well behaved humans of course. With that we’re pretty confident we showcase a dog friendly cottage in Norfolk you’ll love, no matter what the size or budget.
- Discover our Dog friendly holiday cottages in Norfolk
- Check out Our Top 10 New Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages
Norfolk dog friendly holiday cottages
Whether you’re dreaming of a seaside retreat or a countryside escape, our handpicked collection of dog-friendly cottages in Norfolk offers something for everyone.
Explore our top collection of dog friendly cottages in Wells-next-the-Sea, where your pup can enjoy the best of the Norfolk coast. Also incredibly popular are our dog friendly cottages near a Norfolk beach, offering easy access to scenic walks and endless seaside fun.
For a more indulgent escape, discover our luxury dog friendly holiday cottages, where comfort and style come together to create the perfect retreat for both you and your furry companion.
Luxury dog friendly cottages in Norfolk
If you’re looking for something a little more special, our luxury dog friendly cottages in Norfolk are perfect for a truly indulgent getaway. At Fabulous Norfolk, we offer an exclusive collection of handpicked luxury dog friendly holiday cottages where no detail is overlooked.
Imagine a stylish coastal retreat with panoramic sea views, a private garden for your dog to play in, and perhaps even a hot tub for you to unwind in.
These cottages blend high-end finishes with thoughtful, pet-friendly touches. A stay in one of our luxury Norfolk cottages is a real treat for both you and your four-legged friend. So, why not treat yourself and your pup to a memorable, luxury stay with Fabulous Norfolk?
- Explore our Dog friendly cottages in Norfolk collection
- And our Luxury dog friendly cottages in Norfolk
Norfolk dog friendly cottages near the beach
Cottages near the beach are a dream come true for dog owners in Norfolk. We showcase a fabulous collection of dog friendly cottages near the beach. While our cottages may not be directly on the shoreline, they are nestled in charming coastal villages, just a short walk from some of Norfolk’s most stunning beaches.
Staying close to the coast is one of the main reasons people choose a Norfolk holiday, and our Close to Coast collection of dog friendly cottages Norfolk has to offer is perfect for those looking to enjoy seaside playtime with their furry friends.
Our pet friendly Norfolk holiday cottages near a beach provide easy access to coastal paths, beach views, and plenty of dog-friendly trails, ensuring both you and your pup can make the most of Norfolk’s fabulous coastline.
So why not treat yourself and your dog to one of our handpicked cottages near a beach and discover the beauty of Norfolk’s coast?
- Explore more, Dog friendly holiday cottages Norfolk
- Stay coastal, with our Norfolk dog friendly cottages near a beach
Dog friendly restaurants, cafes & pubs in Norfolk
Dog friendly places to eat in North Norfolk
Norfolk is a foodie’s paradise, and the best part? You don’t have to leave your dog behind when dining out! This part of the county is packed with dog-friendly pubs, cafes, and restaurants that welcome you and your canine companion with open arms.
We love The Parlour in Binham, it’s a countryside café with a difference offering homemade cakes and a welcoming atmosphere for both you and your dog. For something more casual, Eric’s Pizza in Thornham serves delicious wood-fired pizzas with dog-friendly outdoor seating. We love it here!
Lastly, Wells Beach Café is the perfect stop after a walk on Wells-next-the-Sea beach, with locally sourced food and even dog ice cream to treat your pup. Spacious and welcoming, highly recommended any time of year! North Norfolk’s dining spots ensure you’ll never have to leave your dog behind!
- Read more Our Top 10 Dog Friendly Cafes and Restaurants in Norfolk
- You can Explore the Best Beaches in Norfolk; Our Top 10 Revealed
Norfolk dog friendly restaurants
Norfolk is full of dog-friendly restaurants, perfect for a relaxed meal with your four-legged friend. The Globe at Wells-next-the-Sea offers delicious locally sourced dishes and a welcoming environment for dogs both inside and out.
The Old Store in Snettisham is a cozy spot known for its seasonal menu, with dogs more than welcome to join in. For a coastal dining experience, The Lodge in Old Hunstanton provides a laid-back setting near the beach, where you can enjoy great food while your dog relaxes by your side. Norfolk’s dining scene ensures you and your dog never have to compromise on quality.
Dog friendly pubs in Norfolk
Norfolk is a haven for food lovers and their furry friends. With a coastline known for its fresh, mouth-watering seafood and an abundance of local producers inland, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly pubs ready to serve up the best the region has to offer.
Whether you’re indulging in Cromer crab by the coast or enjoying a pint in a cozy village pub, there’s no need to leave your dog behind. From rustic countryside inns to chic city-center bars in Norwich, Norfolk offers the perfect combination of good food and dog-friendly hospitality. And with beautiful walking routes and pet-friendly beaches nearby, your pup will be well entertained between meals, making Norfolk the ideal spot for a food-filled, dog-friendly adventure.
About Fabulous
Fabulous was born in 2011 when two guys started a simple blog of Norfolk holiday cottages they had stayed in, this over the years grown into a UK and European wide guide offering fabulously unique homes and places to stay. We celebrate difference, championing homes we would love to stay in ourself, each and every one of them chosen by us.