The Best Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Bournemouth

“Grab your four-legged friend and get out on the beaches and trails in Bournemouth. Making up part of Dorset’s rugged coastline, the seaside town has plenty of grassy headlands and sandy beaches that welcome dogs. For a family day out, there are nature walks and preened gardens, too, not to mention pooch-friendly eateries. Read on for more dog-friendly things to do in Bournemouth.

See the Norman Ruins of Christchurch Castle
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You and your dog can wander around the historic ruins of what was Christchurch Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. After you’ve walked up the steps to the mound, follow the path along the riverside to the old water keep – it’s a great spot for your four-legged friend to stretch its legs.

The castle ruins are open all year and entrance is free. Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead.

Spot the Old Harry Rocks from Alum Chine Beach
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Stand on the shoreline of this sand beach and you can spot the Old Harry Rocks, the white chalk formations that have become an iconic feature on the Jurassic Coast. Look a little further and you can see all the way to the Isle of Wight, too.

Dogs are welcome outside of season. Take the short walk to the Chineside café and let your pooch have a breather while you tuck into tea and freshly baked cake.

For a view from above, head up to the Alum Chine Tropical Gardens. Here, you can catch some shade under the overhanging trees, let little ones loose in the paddling pool and look down onto the expansive beach below. The gardens allow dogs, but they should be kept on their lead.

Run Wild at Fisherman’s Walk
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Another of Bournemouth’s gorgeous beaches, Fisherman’s Walk is a little quieter than the main beach. There are acres of sand for your dog to play fetch on (outside of the summer season) and the Blue Flag waters are ideal for you to swim in.

During the summer season, dogs are still allowed at the section of the beach that adjoins Southbourne.

Grab a Pint at a Dog-Friendly Pub
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Get to know Bournemouth with a walk around the town centre, dominated by Georgian townhouses, boutique shops and quaint cafes.

Afterwards, treat yourself and your pooch to a well-earned rest at a traditional pub. Sip on a pint of craft beer – or satisfy your hunger with a stacked burger – at the Brewhouse & Kitchen in Bournemouth city centre. There’s a beer garden you can relax in and regular live music to enjoy.

Walk the Headland at Hengistbury
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The headland above Hengistbury beach is home to plenty of walking trails for you and your dog to explore. Take a walk to glimpse Christchurch Harbour or further onto Mudeford Sandbank. The sand and pebble beach below welcomes dogs too.

Need to rest your feet? Pooches are allowed on the land train to Mudeford at a small charge. The journey takes around 15 minutes.

Delve into Delph Woods
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Head just outside of Bournemouth to Delph Woods, around a 20-minute drive away. The rugged woodland is the perfect exploration ground for inquisitive dogs, children and adults alike.

There’s plenty of grass to roam in and wildlife to spot. Plus, near the car park, you’ll find a dog activity area with hurdles and tunnels for your pooch to run off some excess energy before the journey home.

Look out to the Sea from Bournemouth Pier
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Breathe in the sweet scent of candyfloss and doughnuts on a wander along Bournemouth’s Pier. There are games and amusements to keep the younger members of the family entertained and, from the very end of the pier, you can enjoy an expansive view out to sea.

Dogs are welcome on the pier, so long as they are kept on a lead. Dogs are allowed all year on Bournemouth beach, except for July and August.

Uncover the Lower Gardens
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The 3km stretch of Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens is a peaceful place for a calming stroll with your dog. It runs towards the pier, so you can carry on your walk to the beach, too.

The gardens are home to an aviary, mini-golf course and a giant tethered balloon – so there’s plenty to see and do. Pack up a picnic and head out for the afternoon.

### Plan Your Trip

Ready to explore the Dorset coast with the furry member of your family? Find Bournemouth hotels with Expedia.”