Dog Friendly Norfolk

Yes, you love your dog, or dogs. So do I!  And I'm pleased to tell you that Norfolk is without doubt one of the most dog friendly places to visit in the UK.  

Located on the beautiful east coast of England, Norfolk loves dogs and offers an abundance of opportunities for you and your pet to really discover, explore and enjoy everything this stunning county has to offer.

From miles of stunning sandy beaches to ancient woodlands and rolling countryside (yes, Norfolk does have hills!) Norfolk has it all for you and your dog.

Why Norfolk Is Heaven For Dogs

Norfolk has become a haven for dog owners, and it’s not hard to see why:

• 84 miles of breathtaking coastline with many beaches where dogs can run free year-round
• The Norfolk Broads - a network of rivers and lakes perfect for waterside walks
• Ancient woodlands and forests like Thetford Forest - the UK’s largest lowland forest
• Miles of trails and footpaths including the spectacular Norfolk Coast Path
• Dog-friendly pubs, cafés, and attractions scattered throughout the county
• Wide open spaces where your dog can run, swim, and play to their heart’s content

Have you ever noticed how much your dog loves running on a beach? That sense of freedom as they race along the sand, ears flapping in the wind? In Norfolk, you can experience that joy every single day of your holiday!

Where Will You Stay?  Dog Friendly Accommodation in Norfolk

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay with your dog, Norfolk will absolutely spoil you for choice! From luxury cottages with enclosed gardens to welcoming hotels and pubs that treat your dog like a VIP guest, there’s something for every budget and preference.

Types of Dog-Friendly Accommodation

Accommodation ranges from:

• Coastal cottages - many with enclosed gardens and just a short walk from dog-friendly beaches
• Country lodges - surrounded by woodland paths perfect for morning walks
• Boutique hotels - where dogs receive their own welcome packs
• Cosy B&Bs - run by fellow dog lovers who understand your needs
• Camping and glamping sites - for those who want to really embrace the outdoor life

Browse Dog-Friendly Accommodation Options here

Beaches, Parks and Trails

One of the highlights of a dog-friendly holiday in Norfolk is the opportunity to explore our magnificent coastline and countryside.

Norfolk is blessed with plenty of beaches and trails that are perfect for outdoor adventures with your four-legged friend.

Norfolk's Dog Friendly Beaches

I love our Norfolk’s beaches which I think are stunning, and many welcome dogs throughout the year. Imagine miles of golden sand at places like Old Hunstanton, Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea - perfect for those energetic games of fetch or leisurely strolls along the coast.

While some of the busier beaches do have restrictions during peak summer months, there are plenty of alternatives where you and your dog can enjoy the sand and sea without any worries.

My comprehensive guide will tell you exactly which beaches welcome dogs and when.

Discover Dog-Friendly Beaches In Norfolk

Wonderful Walks And Trails

The Norfolk Coast Path stretches for 84 miles, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and plenty of dog-friendly sections.

In fact, if you’d love to walk this trail with your dog, I can help arrange that for you! Many dog owners enjoy our walking holidays along the coastal path - it’s a wonderful way to really experience Norfolk’s beauty.

For woodland walks, Thetford Forest offers ancient trees and a sensory delight for curious dogs.

The Norfolk Broads provide waterside walks with views across the iconic Broadland landscape, while country parks like Sheringham and Holt offer varied terrain to explore.

Read about Dog-Friendly Days Out In Norfolk

Norfolk’s Stately Homes and Parklands - Dogs Welcome!

As you may know, Norfolk has some amazing stately homes, and most welcome dogs in their parklands and gardens. These historic estates offer a different kind of walk - one with heritage, beautiful landscaping, and sometimes even resident deer herds!

Explore the grounds of magnificent properties like:

• Blickling Hall - with its ancient woodland and lakeside paths
• Felbrigg Hall - offering varied walks through woods and parkland
• Sandringham House - where even the Royal Family walk their dogs
• Holkham Hall - with its stunning deer park
• Houghton Hall - surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens

It’s different for the dogs and different for you too - and you get to see some amazing houses at the same time!

Dog-Friendly Dining and Drinking

After a day of adventure, you and your four-legged friend will have worked up quite an appetite! Thankfully, Norfolk boasts numerous pubs, cafés and restaurants that welcome dogs with open arms.

Many country pubs not only allow dogs in bar areas but provide water bowls, treats, and sometimes even special “doggy menus”!

While there are often a few restrictions such as dogs not being allowed in restaurant areas, you’ll find the majority of establishments across Norfolk are more than happy to accommodate your dog.

From beachside cafés serving locally caught seafood to cosy pubs with roaring fires in winter, you’ll never be far from somewhere to enjoy a meal or drink with your dog by your side.

Dog Friendly Norfolk Events

If you're looking to add some excitement to your dog-friendly holiday in Norfolk, be sure to check out the various events and festivals tailored specifically for dogs and their owners.

The Norfolk Showground hold an event, usually over the August bank holiday, titled “All About Dogs, Norfolk”.  

Some of the Norfolk villages put on dog shows during the summer months which always provide great family entertainment.    Crufts they may not be, but still fun!

Hunstanton is a good example of this – The Hunstanton Fun Dog Show, usually in May of each year.  Take a look at The Barking Bugle's "what's on" page which is full of doggie shows!

Additionally, many local farmers' markets and fairs are dog-friendly, such as Creake Abbey Farmers Market, so you can browse the stalls and sample delicious treats while your dog enjoys the lively atmosphere.

Ready to Explore Norfolk with Your Dog?

With its stunning natural landscapes, welcoming dog-friendly accommodation options, and a wide range of activities and attractions, Norfolk has something to offer every dog owner.

So, pack your bags, grab your dog's leads, and get ready to unleash the fun on your dog-friendly holiday in Norfolk!

Browse Dog-Friendly Accommodation Options

Read Our Dog-Friendly Norfolk Blog

Discover Dog-Friendly Beaches in Norfolk

Explore Dog-Friendly Days Out In Norfolk

Looking for More Inspiration? Get Our Coastal Dog Walks book

If you’re looking for wonderful coastal walks with your dog, then my book “Dog Walks Around the Norfolk Coast” might be just what you need!

This guide features 16 circular dog-friendly walks covering the whole of the Norfolk coast, specially selected for places where you can let your dog roam under control, with very little time needed on leads.

Learn more about the dog walks book here