If your four-legged friend could choose their favourite dog friendly holiday destination in the UK, we’d bet it would be the Isle of Wight. We’re one of the most dog-friendly places to visit, with a massive variety of walks around our coastlines, beaches to be sniffed, places to be explored and acres of downland and woodland to be scampered on. Dogs are welcome on most of our beaches all year round and there are loads of places to eat at and stay in that would be honoured to host your pooch – as well as you, of course.
If you’re searching for dog-friendly holidays near you, we’ve got you covered. As well as offering the best for your dog while you’re on holiday, we make sure it’s easy to get them across the Solent. Dogs travel free on all our car ferry routes, as well as on the Ryde catamaran, Cowes passenger ferry and Hovertravel services. Here are some handy tips for bringing your canine companion (or herd of pooches) to the Isle of Wight for a fantastic dog-friendly holiday in the UK.
Take a look here at our top spots for a dog walk on the Isle of Wight!
Dog friendly Isle of Wight beaches
Dogs love beaches and the Isle of Wight loves dogs, so it’s a match made in heaven! We have everything from big swathes of sand to play on to rock pools to clamber over and, of course, lots of lovely waves to swim in. Many of our beaches are open to dogs all year round and welcome them with open arms – there’s nothing nicer than a beach full of dogs playing, digging and swimming.
While the winter is a canine playground, dogs aren't allowed on the resort beaches during the main season between 1 May and 30 September. There are restrictions during this period at Cowes, East Cowes and Gurnard, Ryde and Seaview, Ventnor, Sandown, Yaverland and Shanklin and in West Wight at Colwell and Freshwater. More details on the Isle of Wight Council website.
There are some beaches that welcome dogs all year round. Away from the resort beaches, there are many small coves and shoreline that don't make our list. You can walk your four-legged friend at the following - even in the summer:
West Wight
East Wight
South Wight
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Dog friendly accommodation on the Isle of Wight
We know the struggle only too well – trying to find accommodation that works for you, your family and friends - and your dog. Luckily, on the Isle of Wight we have more than 100 places to stay including hotels, guest houses and self-catering establishments more than happy to accommodate dogs during your stay.
Classic Cottages have over 70 dog friendly holiday cottages across the Isle of Wight, including romantic boltholes for two and magnificent mansions for big families. From Freshwater to Seaview, each property has been handpicked with careful consideration for all guests, especially your four-legged friends.
A dog-friendly option in Shanklin is Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel, which stands high on the cliff top. With the most beautiful sea views over the nearby Sandown Bay, it’s a tranquil place to get away from it all. Just a two-minute walk away from the busy Old Shanklin Village, it also has a pool, direct beach access and a games room, meaning there’s plenty to do for every guest – whether two legged or four.
Family-owned, The Orchards Holiday Park near Yarmouth, is another great place to take your dog. Set in 15 acres of gorgeous countryside, it’s an exceptional park offering caravans, touring and camping with trees, meadows and beautiful views everywhere you look. With two heated swimming pools and plenty of things to do it’s the perfect backdrop for a great holiday – and your dog will be overjoyed with the space, countryside and beach action.
HB Holiday Lettings welcomes dogs into 20 of their self-catered holiday homes with open arms. One dog is allowed as standard, but some cottages take two or three if you ask before your break. The light and spacious Little Bramley cottage in the heart of Seaview village even has dog bowls, as well as easy access to the nearby beach.
Wight Coast Holidays offers self-catering holiday lets across the Isle of Wight in Cowes, Bembridge, St Helens, Seaview and Shanklin. It has a wonderful range of dog-friendly apartments, cottages and houses with gorgeous gardens and spacious rooms only a short distance away from beaches, countryside and open spaces for your pooch to explore.
Haven Hall Hotel is another pooch-friendly paradise. With a selection of dog-specific ground floor rooms with tiled floors that are easier to clean than carpets, you won’t need to worry about muddy paws. But that’s not all, as they provide dog beds, treats and water bowls to ensure your furry friend enjoys a home away from home during their stay.
If your pooch loves exploring the sights, sounds and smells of the countryside, they’ll love the idyllic Nettlecombe Farm. Nestled in the heart of the rolling Isle of Wight countryside with some of the most spectacular walks right on the doorstep, Nettlecombe is happy to welcome dogs into their nine award-winning self-catered cottages. Many of the local pubs, cafes and restaurants are dog-friendly, too.
Our favourite dog walks on the Isle of Wight
There are more than 500 miles of footpaths wending their way through the Island and no matter the kind of walk your dog prefers, we’ll be able to provide it! There are woodland trails, clifftop walks, walks over the Downs, forest hikes, beachside rambles… everything your furry pal could dream of. Many of the walks have safe areas where dogs can run free, and a lot take in dog-friendly beaches.
You’ll also find many pubs, cafes and places to eat along the way that are more than happy to accept dogs – most will provide water bowls and some will even go so far as to have their own box of treats. To plan your walks before you arrive, have a look here for ideas and here for maps.
Here are a few of our favourite dog friendly walks on the Isle of Wight:
- Firestone Copse: A flat wooded walk with many different paths you can walk within the copse, allowing you to find many of the winding woodland paths. There's a beautiful lake up in the north west corner, marshlands on one side, pine forests and mixed tree areas.
- Bembridge Beach: A beautiful beach walk where your pooch can run free! It has a mixture of sand, pebbles and rocks and takes you towards the lifeboat station. Once you reach the lifeboat station you can see all along the coast to the white cliffs of Culver.
- Fort Victoria Country Park: Located West of the Island in Yarmouth, this country park offers both beach and woodland!
Days out your dogs will love on the Isle of Wight
Don’t think that you have to leave Fido at home if you want to explore the many dog-friendly things to do on the Isle of Wight. Below are just some of our favourite ideas. It’s always worth checking before you go, just in case there have been any updates to their dog policies.
Osborne House: While the house doesn’t allow dogs, the magnificent estate which was Queen Victoria's favourite holiday home opens its grounds to well-behaved canines. Walk around Prince Albert's beautifully designed gardens with your four-legged friend and admire the beauty of the daffodils, primroses and grass meadows.
Blackgang Chine: This Isle of Wight institution has been welcoming visitors for years. There are lots of rides, activities and things to explore and your dog is welcome to come along, as long as they stay on a lead. Be aware it does get busy during high season so if your pooch is a sensitive type, it may not be for them.
Carisbrooke Castle: Famous for being the last place King Charles I was imprisoned, this gorgeous castle is set high on a hill. Much of the beauty of the caslte is outdoors, meaning dogs can come and explore with you.
The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary: They rescue donkeys and ponies, giving them a loving and forever home in beautiful natural surroundings. With 55 acres to explore, dogs on leads are very welcome. There’s a dog station in the café, with fresh water and clean towels, doggy ice cream and a special pooch patron board for dog visitors!
The Needles Landmark Attraction: This family-orientated park has lots to see and do, along with a chairlift down to Alum Bay. Dogs are allowed on leads in the park itself, but not into the buildings.
Model Village Godshill: Nestled amongst two acres of gorgeous landscaped gardens, this quintessentially English attraction offers first scale models of how the villages of Shanklin and Godshill were in the 1920s. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a lead – and there are water bowls available as well as a tasty treat from the shop!
Shanklin Chine: First opened in 1817, this historic gorge is the longest-established attraction on the Island. Stroll through the tree-lined chine before marvelling at the magnificent waterfall tumbling down the cliff. Dogs are welcome to enter the chine, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Yarmouth Castle: Built by Henry VIII, this stunning Tudor castle offers the very best views of sailing in the Solent. Enjoy a picnic on the rampart lawns before climbing the battlements and stepping inside to see how the castle was used when it was built. Best of all – your furry friend is free to explore the castle with you!
Isle of Wight Steam Railway: A visit to the ‘UK Heritage Railway of the Year 2023’ will charm, engage, and captivate families, adults, and dogs alike! Yes, they welcome your furry friends too, as long as they are kept on a lead, but they are not sat on reserved seating on the train ride, to help us to preserve our beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages. They look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable adventure through time…and there’s lots more for you all to explore around the visitor attraction at Havenstreet, including their Woodland Walk and The Park. Woof!
Dog friendly places to eat on the Isle of Wight
Pooches are very welcome at many of our dog-friendly places to eat and drink, with lots of Isle of Wight pubs, restaurants and cafés more than happy to accommodate dogs inside as well as in their gardens. Water bowl facilities are usually provided as well. There are so many places that welcome dogs, particularly on the walking paths, that you will feel you’ve come to a doggy paradise!
Lady Scarlett’s Tea Parlour is one such place. Located on the Esplanade in Ventnor, this vintage-style café is owned by a family of dog lovers. It offers dog treats on arrival, as well as a water bowl conveniently placed outside for thirsty pups to rehydrate. There’s also a dog bed in case your furry friend needs a little rest while you enjoy the sweet treats, indulgent desserts and light bites on offer.
The Lime Tree cafe, located in the heart of Shanklin is a super dog friendly family run cafe, offering a great selection of hot and cold food, homemade cakes, sweet treats, a wide selection of hot and cold drinks. They can also throw your four legged friend a birthday party!
Chessell Pottery Café is also dog-friendly inside and out. This hidden gem is set amongst tranquil surroundings in West Wight and provides an amazing selection of pup-friendly treats – including doggy ice cream! You’ll be spoilt for choice, too, with plenty of delicious cakes, breakfasts and lunches to choose from.
Muddy paws are just as welcome as muddy boots at The Pearl Café. After journeying your way around the Island, relax, unwind and enjoy the most spectacular views of the English Channel over a menu created using fresh local produce. And don’t forget to grab a homemade doggy treat before continuing your trek.
If you’re after a quick drink in beautiful surroundings, dogs are allowed into the bar, library and common areas at Foresters Hall.
Your four-legged friend can enjoy the Island's first lactose-free, dog-friendly ice cream made using hand-selected dog-friendly ingredients, including a hint of vanilla.
See our dog friendly venues directory below
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Find the perfect accommodation for you and your four legged family member from a variety of hotels, self-catering, holiday parks and unique accommodation.
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Visit the many attractions and activities that are dog friendly.
Discover the many eat and drink venues across the Isle of Wight.
to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
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