Dog-Friendly Kent | Dog-Friendly Beaches Kent

Live in the Garden of England or house sitting as a pet sitter in Kent? Stay right where you are for the ultimate guide to dog-friendly Kent. Here we explore the most dog-friendly beaches Kent has to offer, along with dog walks, local attractions, pubs and more.

Dog-friendly beaches Kent

Palm Bay Beach

Situated near Margate town, this sandy beach is super dog-friendly all year round - with no seasonal restrictions for our four-legged friends. Find the car park near the bathing pool, and join local dog walkers any time of year for beach fun with your pooch.

Location: Promenade, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 3DQ

Botany Bay Beach

For unbeatable views of Kent’s chalk cliffs, head to Botany Bay beach where dogs are welcome. Bear in mind that the edges of the beach disappear at high tide (so check the tide when planning your trip), and dogs aren’t allowed between 10am and 6pm from 1st May to 30th September.

Location: Marine Dr, Cliftonville, Broadstairs CT10 3LG

Joss Bay Beach

Popular with both dog walkers and surfers, Joss Bay is the perfect place to watch the world go by with your canine companion. Just be aware that dogs are only allowed on this beach between 1st October and 30th April.

Location: Joss Gap Rd, Broadstairs CT10 3PG

Dumpton Gap

As one of the most dog-friendly beaches Kent has to offer, this spot welcomes dogs all year round with no restrictions. Access via the slope from Dumpton Gap Road, and stop by for a walk and a spot of rock pooling.

Location: Broadstairs CT10 1TD

Minnis Bay

Perfect for birdwatching, a game of fetch and walkies with a view, Minnis Bay welcomes dogs on its sandy beach between 1st October and 30th April.

Location: Birchington-on-Sea, Birchington CT7 9QY

Tankerton Beach

For a stroll by the colourful beach huts and ocean views, check out Tankerton Beach in Whitstable. Just be aware that dogs are restricted between 1st May and 30th September between the first house and the start of the beach huts at safety point 14.

Location: Tankerton Rd, Whitstable CT5 2BE

Samphire Hoe Beach

Want to explore the famous white cliffs of Dover? Head to Samphire Hoe beach for jaw-dropping views of the English channel. While dogs are welcome, it’s important to follow the on-lead rule that helps to protect the local wildlife.

Location: Samphire Rd, Dover CT17 9FL

Kingsdown Beach

Explore the dog-friendly Kent coastline if you live anywhere near Deal, and head to Kingsdown Beach. This shingle beach is open to dogs between 1st October and 30th April, but dogs are welcome all year round on the promenade, but should be kept on a lead.

Location: Kingsdown, Deal CT14 8ET

St Mary's Bay

For views across Romney Marsh, head to St Mary’s Bay - a popular sandy beach with dog walkers. Keep in mind that dogs are banned between 1st May and 30th September, so this spot is perfect for blustery walks outside of the summer season.

Location:Romney Marsh, TN29 0XP

Dog-friendly tourist attractions Kent

Want a hand planning a dog-friendly day out in Kent? Well it turns out that the county is filled with tourist attractions that happily welcome four-legged guests. So, take a look below for the pet-friendly places Kent has to offer, and remember to always check the rules when planning your visit.

Rochester Castle

Looking for dog-friendly things to do in Kent, and love history? Look no further than Rochester Castle if you live nearby. It’s a Norman fortress that played a key role in multiple conflicts in England’s history. Marvel at the architecture from the castle grounds, where dogs are welcome.

Location: Castle Hill, Rochester ME1 1SW

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

This maritime museum showcases over 400 years of Kent’s naval history - the perfect dog-friendly activity if you live nearby. There are a few restrictions on where your dog is welcome - such as keeping them on a lead and outside of any galleries and historic ships. But with acres to explore, the Dockyard is certainly worth a visit with your pooch.

Location: Main Gate Rd, Chatham ME4 4TZ

Hever Castle & Gardens

Fancy taking a look around the childhood home of Anne Boleyn? Head to Hever Castle, where dogs are welcome to explore the 150 acres. And if you’d like to take a look inside, there is a courtyard where you can leave your pooch for a short while - if they’ll be comfortable around other dogs.

Location: Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG

Penshurst Place & Gardens

This stunning estate dates all the way back to the 14th century, and dogs are allowed in the free-to-access public footpaths in the parkland that surrounds the estate, as well as the dog-friendly tables in the Porcupine Pantry Cafe.

Location: Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge TN11 8DG

Scotney Castle

This idyllic medieval castle - a National Trust property - is surrounded by a moat, and the land also features a Victorian mansion - a true historic feast for the eyes. Dogs are welcome on short leads in the main garden, as well as the shop and the tea room.

Location: Tunbridge Wells TN3 8JN

Sissinghurst Castle Garden

These are the famous gardens of writer Vita Sackville West, and dogs are welcome on leads throughout the wider estate, as well as the Old Dairy Cafe, the plant shop and the main shop.

Location: Biddenden Rd, Cranbrook TN17 2AB

Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre

As one of the most significant Roman sites in the UK, this fort has to be at the top of your list of dog-friendly activities in Kent. The amphitheatre is thought to have been constructed in the 1st century AD, while the fort is almost 300 years later - so you won’t be short of fun facts after your trip! Now looked after by English Heritage, dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas, but it’s recommended that you shouldn’t enter the amphitheatre with a dog if there are farm animals roaming.

Location: Richborough Rd, Sandwich CT13 9JW

Dover Castle

Why not visit England’s largest castle that sits atop the white cliffs of Dover? Dogs are welcome in the grounds of this iconic English Heritage property. Find out about the secret wartime tunnels and its history that spans from the Romans through to the Second World War.

Location: Castle Hill Rd., Dover CT16 1HU

Rochester Castle, Kent

Dog walks in Kent

The county is known as the Garden of England for a reason, and there are countless places perfect for walkies. Start with our list of some of the best dog-friendly walks in Kent below, and be sure to explore your local area.

Reculver Country Park

Part of the Saxon Shore Way, this country park is home to the ruins of St. Mary’s Church, as well as clifftop views and walks along the shore. Dogs are welcome all year round, and can be let off the lead in the marked open fields. Just be sure to keep your pooch on a lead on the seawall and the cliffs.

Location: Reculver, Herne Bay CT6 6SU

Minnis Bay to Grenham Bay Coastal Path

For an easy stroll, start at Minnis Bay and follow the pathed coastal path to Grenham Bay. For the safety of your dog and cyclists, keep them on a lead while on the path, and check nearby beaches for dog restrictions before exploring.

Location: Birchington-on-Sea, Birchington CT7 9QY

Shorne Woods Country Park

For almost 300 acres of dog-friendly woodland and meadows to explore with your dog, head to Shorne Woods Country Park in Gravesend. There are both on and off-lead areas to discover, as well as car parks around the site.

Location: Brewers Rd, Shorne, Gravesend DA12 3HX

Blean Woods National Nature Reserve

Located in Herne Bay is southern Britain’s largest (broadleaved) ancient woodland - and it’s yours to explore with your dog on a lead. Head to Belan Woods to find hazel, beech, oak, birch and more, along with bluebells in the spring.

Location: 163 Margate Rd, Herne Bay CT6 7AB

Stour Valley River Walk

Follow the River Stour for the Stour Valley Walk - which is a 58-mile route in total, but perfect for a leisurely stroll. Following the Low Weald and the North Downs - you’ll find grassland, orchards, marshes and traditional villages along the way. Pick a point near you and choose the length of your walk.

Location: River Stour, Kent

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest

A High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest showcases a world-renowned collection of conifers and other ancient trees. Find various paths to walk with your dog, and remember to keep your dog on a lead in the car park.

Location: Bedgebury Rd, Goudhurst TN17 2SJ

Haysden Country Park

Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Haysden, where you’ll find stunning natural habitats including grassland, woodland and freshwater lakes.

Location: Lower Haysden Ln, Tonbridge TN11 9BB

The White Cliffs of Dover Walking Path

Maybe one of the most iconic walks in Kent is the White Cliffs of Dover walking path - where you can soak up the Kent coast’s dramatic views. Be sure to keep your dog on a lead for their own safety, and to keep them away from livestock.

Location: National Trust Visitor Centre, Langdon Cliffs, Dover, CT16 1HY

Hever Castle, Kent

Dog-friendly pubs Kent

Did you know that some of the most dog-friendly places in Kent are its pubs? They’re packed with local charm and serve up hearty classics as well as local ales and craft beers that celebrate Kent’s cultural heritage. Take a look below for a few of the dog-friendly pubs and restaurants Kent has to offer, and be sure to explore your local area for more.

The Royal Crown

This pooch-friendly pub in Rochester welcomes well-behaved dogs in the bar area. This family-friendly spot offers up a menu of traditional pub classics with a twist - so it makes for the perfect place to grab a bite after a visit to Rochester Castle.

Location: 2 High St, Rochester ME1 1PT

The Anchor Inn

Dating all the way back to the 1400s, The Anchor Inn in Faversham is steeped in local charms, and showcases the beams from the old abbey.

Location: 52 Abbey St, Faversham ME13 7BP

The Evenhill

Originally a 16-century cottage, this country pub is the perfect place to get cosy with your furry family member. Choose from pub classics like ham, egg and chips, mixed grills and homemade pies.

Location: The Evenhill, Littlebourne, Canterbury CT3 1TL

The Spotted Dog

In the charming villages of Penshurst is the aptly named pub, The Spotted Dog. Stop by to warm up by their roaring log fires with your furry friend, and stay for the hearty food and dog treats.

Location: Smarts Hill, Penshurst, Tonbridge TN11 8BL

The George & Dragon

Located in Speldhurst, near Tunbridge Wells, The George and Dragon is a locally-renowned dog-friendly pub and restaurant that celebrates food and drink made with locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy the cosy atmosphere and rest assured, fresh water is provided for dogs.

Location: Speldhurst, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0NN

The Royal Oak

For real ales and a classic pub menu, check out the Royal Oak in Dover - a 19th century pub that’s made with flint. Just ask for a water bowl and your pooch will settle straight in.

Location:The Royal Oak, Common Lane, River, Dover CT16 2NZ

Penshurst Place, Kent

Dog-friendly places in Kent

Already know where you’re headed in Kent, or live in Canterbury, Royal Tunbridge Wells, or Sevenoaks? Take a look below for local, dog-friendly recommendations in each of those locations.

Dog-friendly Canterbury, Kent

Historic Canterbury is a great place to be for pet lovers - whether you’re a dog owner or you’re house sitting as a Canterbury pet sitter. Explore Canterbury Cathedral precincts for a scenic dog walk, or explore Blean Woods with ample sniffing opportunities, or check out Canterbury Bark in the Park that’s held every August in Dane John Gardens. For more local recommendations and tips on the city, head to our guide to dog-friendly Canterbury.

Dog-friendly Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Royal Tunbridge Wells is bursting with idyllic places to walk your dog - so local pet sitters and dog owners are never short of things to do. Whether it’s Dunorlan Park, Calverley Grounds or Tunbridge Wells Common, you’ve got heaps of stunning spots popular with dog walkers to choose from. Dogs are even welcome at the Spa Valley Railway, where you can get a taste of a traditional heritage railway. For the dog-friendly restaurants, cafes and walks the town offers, head to our guide to dog-friendly Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Dog-friendly Sevenoaks, Kent

Sevenoaks is a charming civil parish in Kent, and is home to some of the most charming, dog-friendly pubs Kent has to offer. Whether you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Sevenoaksor you live locally, check out The Bricklayer’s Arms for hearty classics, or The Pheasant Plucker that celebrates local produce. For more ideas on things to do with a dog in the town, head to our guide to dog-friendly Sevenoaks.

Canterbury, Kent

Tips for pet parents

Explore the coastline. Kent is surrounded by a stunning coastline with sweeping views of the English channel, so be sure to take a trip to a dog-friendly beach near you for a breath of sea air.
Check out a local parkland. Kent isn’t called the Garden of England for nothing - it’s home to some of the most stunning parklands and ancient woodlands in the country. So, be sure to explore with your pooch and always follow local dog restrictions.
Get your holiday pet care sorted. So you’re all set for a dog-friendly day out in Kent, but what about when the time comes for a holiday? Well what if we told you that vets agree pets are happier at home, and it’s simple to find verified, in-home pet sitters? Click below to find out how to give your furry friend the staycation of their dreams.

Pet sitters in Kent

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Find a castle near you. You might have noticed, but Kent is brimming with history - so why not find a dog-friendly castle to soak up the local culture?
Follow the pup’s routine. The best way to keep your new furry companion happy is to stick to their feeding, sleeping and exercise schedule. Always check with the pet owners before venturing for a day out - their dog might not be used to other canines, or big crowds.
Explore Kent through house sitting. So, fancy seeing the sights in Kent without paying a penny for accommodation, and having a pup for company? Click below to find out how to kick off your house sitting adventure.

House sitting in Kent