Five of the best dog friendly beaches this winter

The tails of our four legged friends have been wagging now they have their pick of beaches again, as the majority of dog bans have been lifted and there's over 300 to chose from... Follow our lead and let Rover run free on one of these beaches that have been off limits over the summer…

Maenporth Beach
For a beach with the woof factor head to Maenporth just outside Falmouth. This attractive east-facing sandy beach set between small headlands has sheltered shallow water that's great for dogs! Whether it’s sticks, stones or a battered old ball, dogs won’t care when they’re getting their paws wet and leaping along the shoreline in pursuit of the cast-off treasure destined for their slobbery jaws. For those who prefer a bit more exercise, head out along the coast path to Nansidwell Beach or carry on to Helford Passage, just over two miles away.

Crooklets Beach
At low tide Crooklets Beach on the north side of Bude is a canine dream. Since the end of September, adventurous pooches have loved scrambling over the rocks and dipping their inquisitive noses into rock pools, whilst others perfect their jumping, running and fetching skills on the wide expanse of golden sand. Crooklets is also home to the Bude Surf Life Saving Club, so there's usually plenty of activity for humans to watch while the dogs enjoy themselves. And if that's not enough, there's a play area, skate park, beach cafe, amusements and pubs all close by.

Seaton Beach
To the east of Looe, Seaton Beach is popular all year round with dog lovers, but in the winter there's much more space for the hounds to enjoy without upsetting anybody. With a choice of places to eat, parking, play area and toilets all close by, there's no need for a long walk before you reach the sand. However, if you do want to stretch those legs, the lovely Seaton Valley Country Park runs up the valley behind offering a sheltered walk on a hard surface path past ponds and thick woodland.

Porthtowan Beach
This is one of those beaches that has it all – rolling surf, golden sands, large dunes, dramatic cliffs and to top it all off, it’s located within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and boasts a coveted Blue Flag award! After letting the dogs run wild on the beach, why not carry on to the neighbouring and equally stunning beach at Chapel Porth (check tide times first) and then return to Porthtowan via the South West Coast Path which climbs over the cliffs offering spectacular views out to sea. Enjoy a relaxed end to walkies by grabbing a drink and a snack at a beach side cafe as the afternoon sun goes down.

Sennen Cove Beach
Another great beach for getting paws sandy and tails wagging is Sennen Cove in the far west. In the winter, huge blue waves roll in from the Atlantic making Sennen Cornwall’s most westerly surf hotspot, but there's still plenty of space to wrap up warm and walk the dog. Once their worn out, why not retreat to the Old Success Inn for a warming hot chocolate or something a bit stronger!

When taking dogs onto beaches please be responsible and always pick up after them.

Be aware that other dogs may not want to play with your dog and always check tide times.

Many beaches introduce dog bans around Easter time, so be sure to check our beach guide for more information on your favourite coastal spot.