Waggy Tails Welcome

If your four-legged friend could choose their favourite 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.

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 dog (or herd of pooches) to the Isle of Wight for a fantastic holiday break.

Dog Friendly 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

• Alum Bay (dogs on leads)
• Colwell Bay right of the slipway
• Totland

East Wight

• Bembridge Beach
• Seagrove Beach
• Priory Bay
• Ryde Beach left of the pier
• Whitecliff Bay
• Yaverland left of the car park

South Wight

• Brook Bay (from Brook Chine to Hanover point at Compton)
• Chilton Chine
• Rocken End
• Steephill Cove (dogs on leads)

Dog Friendly Accommodation

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. Have a look here at just a couple of our favourites.

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.

Dog Walking 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 maps and ideas.

Dog Days Out

Don’t think that you have to leave Fido at home if you want to explore the man dog-friendly attractions and activities 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: the magnificent estate which was Queen Victoria's favourite holiday home opens its grounds to dogs. Walk around Prince Albert's beautifully designed gardens with your four-legged friend.
• Robin Hill Country Park: this gorgeous park with extensive gardens set in a valley has lots to do for adults and kids alike. And, best of all, your dog gets to join in the fun. Dogs are allowed in the park on a lead – there’s even a free poop scoop provided.
• 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.
• Isle of Wight Steam Railway: this award-winning attraction has so much to do all year round and dogs are welcome to travel in 1^st and 3^rd class – they must be on leads throughout the journey and have a doggie train ticket.
• 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.

Dog Friendly Places To Eat & Drink

Dogs are very welcome at many of our eat and drink venues, with lots of Isle of Wight pubs 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!

See our dog friendly venues directory below.

Accommodation

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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Things to Do

Visit the many attractions and activities that are dog friendly.

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Food & Drink

Discover the many eat and drink venues across the Isle of Wight.