With its stunning coastline and pet-friendly spots, Eastbourne is a perfect getaway for dog lovers. This dog-friendly guide to Eastbourne covers the best beaches, hikes, and pubs to enjoy with your pup.
Plus, discover house sitting opportunities in Eastbourne or find a trusted Eastbourne pet sitter for while you’re away with our tips below.
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Best dog parks in Eastbourne
It's healthy for pooches to stretch their legs and mingle with new friends. Here are the best dog-friendly parks in town to do that:
Princes Park
Located near the Eastbourne seafront, Princes Park boasts lush open spaces, a large lake, and designated off-leash areas.
Location: Princes Park, Channel View Rd, Eastbourne BN22 7LL
Gildredge Park
Located in the heart of Eastbourne Borough, Gildredge Park is a peaceful area with vast green lawns and a woodland area – ideal for sniffing expeditions.
Location: 81 Vicarage Rd, Eastbourne BN21 1EY
Castle Hill Nature Reserve
With breathtaking views of Beachy Head in the background, Castle Hill Nature Reserve offers a mix of coastal paths and rolling hills.
Location: Newhaven BN9 9EL
Dog-friendly restaurants in Eastbourne
Grabbing a bite with your barking bestie? Here are the top dog-friendly restaurants in Eastbourne to visit:
Perch Princes Park
This award-winning restaurant is big into all-day brunch and welcomes well-behaved dogs.
Location: Princes Park, Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7LU
The Beachy Head
Enjoy a hearty Victorian country-style restaurant by the cliffs with an all-English menu. Treats and water bowls are also available.
Location: Beachy Head Rd, Eastbourne BN20 7YA
The Beach Deck
This dog-friendly Eastbourne eatery serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes right by the beach.
Location: Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7AE
Fun dog-friendly activities in Eastbourne
These are the best dog-friendly activities in Eastbourne that you can do together:
Historical touring at Pevensey Castle
Explore the popular ancient ruins of Pevensey Castle, where your leashed chum can encounter wildlife and sniff around medieval history.
Cost: Adult £7.80, child £4.70, concession £7.00, family 1+3 £12.50, family ticket 2+3 £20.30
Date and time: Open year-round (Weekends, 10AM - 4PM)
Location: Castle Rd, Westham, Pevensey BN24 5LE
Relishing the charm of Sovereign Harbour
Take a breathtaking stroll around northern Europe's largest composite marina complex. Make sure to stop at some of the dog-friendly cafes and shops along the way!
Cost: Free (varies on each place)
Date and time: Open 24/7
Location: Eastbourne, UK
Exploring South Downs National Park
South Downs National Park features natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage that’s enjoyable for adventurous dogs and their curious owners.
Cost: Family up to 5 people £20.00, adult £10.00, child £8.00
Date and time: Monday to Friday 9AM - 4PM; Saturdays and Bank Holidays 9AM - 2.30PM
Location: United Kingdom
Best dog-friendly walking trails in Eastbourne
Nothing beats a relaxing walk with your dogs, right? Here are some of the most enjoyable dog-friendly walks in Eastbourne:
Butts Brow to Jevington
An easy route with a picturesque countryside trek, rolling fields, and sweeping views.
Location: Butts Brow to Jevington Village
Length: 2.5 km
Abbot's Wood Walk
This gentle woodland walk is a great place for a stroll for smaller or older dogs any time of year.
Location: Polegate BN26 6SL, United Kingdom
Length: 3.5 km
Friston Forest
A mix of forest trails and open spaces makes for a moderately challenging yet exciting dog-friendly hike in Eastbourne.
Location: Friston BN25 4AD
Length: 10 km loop
The best dog-friendly cafes in Eastbourne
These dog-friendly cafes in Eastbourne welcome and cater to both humans and hounds:
The Kiosk
A friendly and charming seaside café selling coffee and cake and a warm welcome for pups.
Location: Foyle Way, Eastbourne BN20 7XL
Favoloso Cafe
This Eastbourne dog-friendly cafe is known for its artisan ice cream, coffee and tea, cakes, and homemade food.
Location: 19-25 Carlisle Rd, Eastbourne BN21 4BT
Nelson Coffee - The Roastery
A trendy café serving over 35+ different coffees with dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Location: 15 Station Parade, Eastbourne BN21 1BE
Annual dog events in Eastbourne
These dog-friendly events in Eastbourne should be on your list of social gatherings to attend. They are a great place to meet other owners.
Summer in Little Chelsea
A street fair where pooches are welcome to join in the festivities, including children's activities, delicious food, and stalls selling handmade goods.
Cost: Free to enter (varies on each stand & activity)
Date and time: Annually in June
Location: South St & Grove Rd
Pevensey Dog Show
An event where locals showcase and hone their canine handling skills in various competitions and classes.
Cost: £1.00 per dog
Date and time: Annually in June or September
Location: Pevensey Recreation Ground
Santa Paws
A Christmas event where pups can meet Santa and enjoy festive treats.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Typically in December
Location: Eastbourne Pier
The best dog-friendly pubs in Eastbourne
After a long day of adventuring, why not unwind at one of these dog-friendly pubs in Eastbourne?
The Marine
A traditional pub serving delicious seafood in a wood-paneled setting with an outdoor patio.
Location: 61 Seaside, Eastbourne BN22 7NE
The Lamb Inn
One of the oldest pubs in England serving Harvey's beer, fresh food, and doggie treats.
Location: 36 High St, Old Town, Eastbourne BN21 1HH
The Eight Bells
A laid-back country bar with a landscaped beer garden that welcomes four-legged guests.
Dog-friendly wineries in Eastbourne
Here are the dog-friendly wineries near Eastbourne that offer the finest wine-tasting experiences:
Hidden Spring Vineyard
A boutique vineyard in the heart of East Sussex, offering tours and tastings.
Location: Vines Cross Rd, Horam, Heathfield
Bluebell Vineyard Estates
This award-winning vineyard is famous for its sparkling wines and gorgeous walking paths where Lassie can roam.
Location: Glenmore Farm, Slider's Ln, Furner's Green, Uckfield TN22 3RU
Beacon Down Vineyard
A relaxed 18-acre vineyard with picnic areas where dogs are welcome.
Dog-friendly beaches in Eastbourne
These are the dog-friendly places in Eastbourne that are ideal for sandy paws, salty noses, and endless fun:
Birling Gap
Part of the South Downs National Park, this tranquil, enclosed pebble beach offers stunning coastal walks and pooch-approved entry.
Location: Eastbourne
Eastbourne Beach
While some sections have seasonal restrictions, many areas allow dogs to enjoy the sand and surf.
Location: 23 Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7LH
Pevensey Bay Beach
A quiet, rocky beach where four-legged friends are welcome year-round.
Location: Pevensey BN24 6EH
Tips for pet parents in Eastbourne
Living in Eastbourne means you and your dogs are likey seasoned coastal walkers. However, here are some other activities you can do with your dog to make life in Eastbourne even better.
Join local dog groups
If you don’t already, going to local dog groups such as dog walks is a great way to join the Eastbourne pup community and help your furry pal to make some new friends.
Prepare for changing weather
The coastal breeze can bring sudden weather shifts, so make sure to pack lots of water for hot days and a towel for muddy paws.
Find dog-friendly accommodation in Eastbourne
From cozy cottages to traditional B&Bs with a pet-friendly policy, if you’re visiting from afar, you and your pup will love your stay in Eastbourne.
Keep your dog happy while you're away
Planning a trip without your beloved dog? There are times when travel means leaving them behind. In those moments, keeping them in their familiar home environment can significantly reduce stress – and vets agree it’s the kindest option.
Consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to keep your home and pets safe while you're away. To find out more, click below.
Finding a pet sitter
Tips for pet sitters in Eastbourne
Eastbourne’s picturesque seafront and South Downs make it a delightful place for dog-sitting. Pet sitting isn’t just about caring for beloved pets – it’s also about providing owners with peace of mind. Here are some tips to ensure you deliver the best pet-sitting experience:
Keep in communication with the pet parents
Giving the pet parents peace of mind by showing their precious pup is having a great time is invaluable. Capture pictures of walks along Eastbourne’s promenade, playtime in Princes Park, and cozy times by the fire to share with them.
Keep pets safe
Keep dogs leashed during walks, especially near the busy seafront or cliffside paths. Make sure to also head to some dog-friendly parks for some off-leash fun!
Stay active
Make sure to both get some sea air through lots of walks. Make walks more exciting with scent games and beach play – and a trip to the local dog-friendly cafe after.
Finding a house sit
