Dog-friendly Bournemouth: things to do in Bournemouth with a dog

Live along England’s south west coast path and wondering which dog-friendly beaches Bournemouth has to offer? Stick with us to explore this ultimate guide to dog-friendly Bournemouth. 

Here we dive into the rules around dogs at the beach in Bournemouth, plus dog-friendly restaurants, pubs, cafes and activities in the surrounding areas.

So, house sitting in Bournemouth or creating a handy guide to the local area for your Bournemouth pet sitter? Stay right where you are to get clued-up on one of the south coast’s most popular destinations.

The best dog-friendly beaches Bournemouth

When planning your day out in dog-friendly Bournemouth, it’s important to know where you’re allowed with your furry friend. If you’d like to explore Bournemouth’s sandy beaches, note the following:

Dogs are permitted on all of Bournemouth’s beaches from 1st October to 30th April. From 1st May to 30th September, dogs are not permitted on any of Bournemouth’s Blue Flag or Seaside Award beaches. During this time, dogs must be on a lead when on the promenades, piers, zig zags and footpaths.

No matter what time of year it is, dog owners (and sitters!) must always clean up after their dogs - not doing so can result in a fine of up to £1000.

Now that we’ve got Bournemouth’s beach rules digested, let’s explore the dog-friendly beaches Bournemouth boasts, all year round.

Bournemouth’s designated dog zones:

• Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve
• Middle Chine beach
• Durley Chine beach
• Gundimore beach
• Mudeford beach
• Hamworthy beach
• Alum Chine beach (western side)
• Fisherman’s Walk Beach (between groynes 32 to 41)
• Branksome Chine beach (eastern side of the beach office to the western side of Alum Chine beach office)
• Friars Cliff Beach (between the wave wall and Groyne H4 at Highcliffe) 
• Highcliffe Beach (no dogs are allowed between groynes H4 and H8 during the summer months)

If you’d like to visit other popular areas such as Boscombe beach and Sandbanks, double check which areas are dog-friendly at the time of year you’re thinking about going.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Bournemouth

When planning your day out in dog-friendly Bournemouth, it’s worth tracking down a place to eat that will welcome your canine companion. Bournemouth is filled with family-friendly restaurants popular in the summer months, as well as quaint eateries that also welcome four-legged friends. So, get planning your seaside day out and make a note of the dog-friendly places Bournemouth has to offer below.

Urban Reef

This dog-friendly Bournemouth restaurant welcomes furry friends on the decked terrace, where you can enjoy a bite to eat with an ocean backdrop. Naturally, this spot will also provide water bowls for canine companions.

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

Urban Garden

Another dog-friendly restaurant Bournemouth has to offer that provides water bowls for dogs, and also welcomes well-behaved furry friends indoors.

Location: Exeter Cres, Bournemouth BH2 5AY

Circo Lounge

Choose from tapas, cocktails and a range of breakfast plates at this pet-friendly joint, just in from the sea front.

Location: 66 Poole Rd, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 9DZ

Key West Bar & Grill Restaurant

If you’re after somewhere that’s both pet and family-friendly, Key West Bar is a local crowd pleaser. Find classics from the grill, as well as fish and chips to keep the whole family happy.

Location: Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA

Sobo Beach

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly restaurant in Bournemouth with stunning sea views, Sobo Beach is your place. Choose from breakfast classics like sausage and bacon baps, or go for noodles or something from the grill if it’s later in the day.

Location: Southbourne Rd, Southbourne Coast Rd, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 4BE

The Prom Diner

After a crowd pleaser with great views of the sea and a menu that’ll satisfy even the fussiest of eaters? Choose from The Prom Diner’s eclectic menu and relax with your furry pal right by your side.

Location: Undercliff Dr, Bournemouth BH5 1BN

WestBeach

More of a seafood and steak kind of diner? Luckily, the dog-friendly restaurants Bournemouth boasts serve up fresh seafood. And if it’s dinner with a view you’re after, head to WestBeach, and be sure to book ahead.

Location: Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA

Ludo Lounge

For a truly dog-friendly eatery, head to Ludo Lounge where you’ll find pet treats and an eclectic menu of cuisines from around the world.

Location: 34 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3RA

Dane & Port - Natural Kitchen

If you’re looking for somewhere a little more upmarket yet is still totally dog-friendly, Dane & Port might be up your street. Check it out for organic and vegan eats and of course, bring your furry friend along.

Location: 122 Poole Rd, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 9EF

Dog-friendly pubs in Bournemouth

Like many UK towns, Bournemouth boasts a huge range of pubs that welcome canine companions. From simple traditional pubs offering up comfort food classics, to microbreweries and beer gardens, you certainly aren’t short of choice. So, notepads at the ready - let’s explore the dog-friendly Bournemouth pubs you could be heading to next.

Spyglass & Kettle

Like many dog-friendly pubs Bournemouth has to offer, the Spyglass & Kettle has a reliable menu of pub grub and cask ales. So after a windy beach walk with your furry pal, why not settle in this spot’s airy conservatory for a comforting meal?

Location: 25-27 Stourwood Ave, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3PW

The Goat and Tricycle

If you’re serious about ale, The Goat and Tricycle will be right up your street. Stop for Sunday roast or choose from one of its eleven guest beers.

Location: 27-29 W Hill Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5PF

The Pavilion Arms

For upmarket breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday roasts, head to The Pavillion Arms which is just inland from Bournemouth Pier.

Location: 41 Wimborne Rd, Bournemouth BH2 6NB

The Westbourne

For a no-frills pub that serves up international cuisine, well-known tap beers and welcomes dogs, head to this local’s favorite, The Westbourne.

Location: 45 Poole Rd, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 9DN

The George Tapps

Nothing quite beats a beer garden on a sunny day, so why not head to The George Tapps? You’ll find food and drink deals and of course, staff who welcome dogs with open arms.

Location: 207-215 Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth BH1 1JZ

The Branksome

More of a microbrewery kind of pet lover? Head to The Branksome for a range of unique beers to try and a place to relax with your furry companion.

Location: 152-154 Commercial Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5LU

The Libertine

Unlike many dog-friendly pubs Bournemouth has to offer, it’s worth booking a table at The Libertine. If you’re after more than a drink and a simple supper, this spot offers well-thought out comfort food classics and seasonal plates.

Location:1 Alumhurst Rd, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 8EL

Dog-friendly cafes in Bournemouth

A day out with your furry friend isn’t complete without stopping by a pooch-friendly cafe for a coffee and a bite of something sweet. So to plan your dog-friendly Bournemouth day out, make a note of the cafes below that sit along Bournemouth’s coastline.

Flirt Cafe Bar

Whether you’re after a slice of cake, coffee or cocktail, Flirt Cafe has a warm, welcome vibe and is of course at the top of our dog-friendly Bournemouth cafe list.

Location: 21 The Triangle, Bournemouth BH2 5RG

South Coast Coffee

For a dog-friendly cafe Bournemouth has to offer, head into the town centre and choose from bagels, breakfast plates and help yourself to the dog treat jar.

Location: 24 Richmond Hill, Bournemouth BH2 6EJ

Beach House

Whether you’re looking for shelter from beachside winds or you’d rather a takeaway to snack on during walkies, Beach House offers both, like many of the dog-friendly cafes Bournemouth has to offer. And as it’s a popular spot in Mudeford, be prepared to wait in a line on sunny days.

Location: The Spit, Mudeford BH6 4EN

Browndog Coffee

If you’re walking in Southbourne and you’re looking for somewhere that serves up a decent coffee, head to Browndog - a dog-friendly cafe on Bournemouth’s seafront.

Location: 117-119 Belle Vue Rd, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3DJ

Cafe Riva

For a cafe that prides itself on dog-friendliness, head to Cafe Riva for a hot drink, snack and shelter from the tidal winds.

Location: Boscombe Overcliff Dr, Bournemouth BH5 2EL

Cafe Boscanova

If you’re after a Bournemouth dog-friendly cafe that’s in from the sea, head to this bohemian-style spot that welcomes pups both inside and out.

Location: 650 Christchurch Rd, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 4BP

Fika

For a warm welcome with your canine companion by your side, head to Fika for coffee and irresistible cinnamon buns.

Location: 7 Westover Rd, Bournemouth BH1 2BA

Dog-friendly activities near Bournemouth

Explored all the beaches, been to all the cafes, and now want something else to do near dog-friendly Bournemouth? Take a look below for a few activity ideas that your furry friend will love.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest

Around 15 minutes in the car from central Bournemouth, Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is the perfect place to get into nature and let your furry friend run off some energy. Just be aware of the park’s rules, and keep your dog on a lead in car parks, picnic areas, the play trail and around Moors Lake. Of all the dog-friendly places Bournemouth and its surrounding areas has to offer, Moors Valley is a firm favorite amongst dog owners and families.

Location: Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET

Visit Corfe Castle

If history is your thing and you’re looking for dog-friendly places in Bournemouth to explore, why not consider a short drive out of town to Corfe Castle village? Explore its quaint streets and marvel at the ruined castle.

Location: Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EJ

Stour Valley Nature Reserve

Just 10 minutes in the car from central Bournemouth, Stour Valley Nature Reserve is the ideal local spot to get into nature and enjoy some quality time with your canine companion. 

Location: 43 Granby Rd, Bournemouth BH9 3NZ

Swanage Railway

Are heritage railways your thing? Get both yourself and your furry friend a ticket and enjoy this vintage transport experience.

Location: Station Rd, Swanage BH19 1HB

Explore Poole Harbour

Did you know that Poole Harbour is the second largest natural harbour in the world, with the first being Sydney? Yup, explore this natural beauty with your furry friend by your side and be sure to keep your dog on a lead on the footpath.

Location: Brownsea Island BH13 7EE

Dog parks in Bournemouth

Sometimes the best way to let your furry friend run off some energy is to head to a fully fenced, local dog park. We’ve listed a few of the dog parks Bournemouth offers below - it might just help your pooch settle down before heading out for a bite to eat together.

• Petplan Dog Adventure Park. 40A Knighton Ln, Bournemouth, Wimborne BH21 3AS
• K9 Woods. 323 Christchurch Rd, Ferndown BH22 8SH
• Slades Farm Doggy Play Patch. Slades Ln, Bournemouth BH10 4JA
• Woodland Dog Park. Woodland Dog Park, Burley Rd, Bransgore, Christchurch BH23 8D
• Oak Paddock. Slough Ln, Upton, Poole BH16 5NB

Tips for pet parents

Planning a dog-friendly day out with your furry friend? Follow our top tips below to keep your companion happy while you’re both in and out of town.

• Get clued-up on beach restrictions. Not all Bournemouth beaches are dog-friendly, so do your research and plan your trip ahead of time. Some welcome dogs all year round, while other beaches restrict access during the summer months.
• Always pick up after your dog. You should always pick up after your pooch, wherever you are. Not doing so in Bournemouth could result in fines of up to £1000.
• Explore the local area. There are heaps of dog-friendly restaurants in Bournemouth, as well as cafes, pubs and nearby nature reserves. So while the beaches are certainly breathtaking, why not expand your horizons?
• Plan ahead for your holiday. So your dog-friendly Bournemouth day out is planned, but what about when it’s time for you to head out of town? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, why not consider welcoming an in-home, verified pet sitter to take care of them? Click below to find out how.

Tips for pet sitters

Like the sound of Bournemouth’s golden stretch of sandy coastline, ocean views and dog-friendly eateries to check out? Well why not try living like a Bournemouth local and get your house sitting adventure started? Begin with our tips below.

• Follow pet parent guidelines. If you’re house sitting in Bournemouth and you’re new to the area, follow pet parent suggestions on where to take your new pet pal, and stick to their eating, sleeping and exercise schedule.
• Check for dog-friendliness. Certain Bournemouth beaches are not dog-friendly all year round, so double check before visiting, and do the same before heading out to eat with your furry friend.
• Always remember poop bags. As we’ve mentioned, you could be paying a hefty fine if you don’t pick up after your canine companion, so always double check for poop bags.
• Explore Bournemouth through house sitting. To experience Bournemouth yourself, simply connect with dog owners looking for loving, in-home pet sitters to secure a new pet pal and a place to stay. To find out more about how it works, click below.

Useful resources

• Dog-friendly Manchester: things to do in Manchester with a dog
• Dog-friendly York: things to do in York with a dog
• Dog-friendly Brighton: things to do in Brighton with a dog