North Norfolk: A Dog-Friendly Guide

You may have noticed that we absolutely love the North Norfolk coastline!

It’s not only one of the most beautiful coastlines in the UK, but it’s also one of the most dog-friendly places to visit. You’ll struggle to find a pub that doesn’t welcome dogs with open arms! From incredible dog-friendly beaches and beautiful countryside to heathlands, woodland, welcoming pubs and independent shops, there’s plenty to explore with your four-legged friend.

Dog-Friendly Accommodation

There are loads of websites to choose from when searching for pet-friendly accommodation, and it can sometimes feel like a bit of a minefield!

For properties along the North Norfolk coast, I really recommend Norfolk Hideaways. As they focus solely on Norfolk, it makes finding a cottage in the right location much simpler. Many of their properties are dog-friendly and are within easy reach of dog-friendly beaches, walks and pubs.

When we stay, we usually head to Pinewoods, a gorgeous static caravan park which could not be closer to the beach. Imagine sunrise strolls when no one else is around, or enjoying a picnic as the sun goes down. Absolute bliss!

If camping is more your thing, we’ve also stayed at Deepdale Backpackers & Camping in Burnham Deepdale. This award-winning, eco-friendly independent hostel and campsite is in a fantastic location for exploring some of North Norfolk’s most beautiful beaches and scenery.

There are lots of different pitches available, with or without electric, and the facilities are really modern. The campsite is open all year round and there’s a brilliant Visitor Information Centre with plenty of leaflets and information about things to do during your stay, as well as free Wi-Fi.

And when it comes to dogs, Deepdale couldn’t be more welcoming. You can bring up to two dogs per camping pitch, completely free of charge.

Dog-Friendly Beaches

There are around 30 beaches along the North Norfolk coastline, and the majority are dog-friendly, or have only limited restrictions.

The beaches are wonderfully sandy, with huge expanses of sand for dogs to run around on. Some even have little pools, which Murphy absolutely loves swimming in!

Before visiting, I recommend checking the latest restrictions for each beach, as these can vary throughout the year.

Holkham Beach

Our favourite beach by a long stretch is Holkham, and it would seem we’re not alone! Holkham won the prize for Best Beach at the 2018 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards.

With endless miles of unspoilt golden sand, sheltered by pine woods, it really is a spectacular place to visit.

Honestly, the photos don’t do it justice.

It’s incredibly dog-friendly, with no restrictions at the time of writing, and although it’s a popular destination, the huge expanse of beach means it never feels overly busy.

For the full experience, I’d really recommend taking the walk from Wells-next-the-Sea to Holkham, which allows you to experience the beach and surrounding countryside along the way.

Other Dog-Friendly Walks

North Norfolk has some gorgeous beaches, but it doesn’t stop there. There are plenty of beautiful inland walks, as well as lovely dog-friendly towns that are well worth exploring.

Burnham Deepdale to Burnham Market

I’d really recommend the walk from Burnham Deepdale to Burnham Market. It’s a lovely way to explore more of the countryside and visit one of North Norfolk’s prettiest villages.

Barrow Hill

Barrow Hill is also well worth a visit and has some stunning views. It’s one of the few genuinely hilly parts of North Norfolk, so it’s a great option if you fancy something a little different from the coastal walks!

Peddars Way

Peddars Way is another one to add to your list. This well-maintained trail offers some gorgeous inland walking and is a great way to explore a different side of Norfolk.

Dog-Friendly Pubs

A must-visit on every walking holiday, right?

Here are a few of our favourite pubs around North Norfolk — all dog-friendly, of course.

The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe

I can’t recommend The White Horse enough, and it would definitely be top of my list.

It’s incredibly dog-friendly and has a lovely terrace with amazing views — perfect for sitting outside and sipping an Aspall in the summer.

The food is also gorgeous and really fresh. It’s well worth visiting if you’re in the area, or even making a special trip for!

The Jolly Sailors, Brancaster Staithe

A little cheaper than The White Horse and just down the road, The Jolly Sailors is another great option.

It has a massive beer garden and serves great homemade food, making it a lovely stop after a day of exploring.

The Hoste, Burnham Market

The Hoste is perfectly located on Burnham Market’s high street and is super dog-friendly.

There are lovely seats outside, making it the perfect spot for sitting back, relaxing and watching the world go by.

The Victoria, Holkham

The Victoria is ideally located after a walk on Holkham Beach and, once again, is very dog-friendly.

They even have dog biscuits on the bar!

The decor is gorgeous and, although I haven’t eaten there myself, the food certainly looks delicious.

Why Visit North Norfolk With Your Dog?

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly getaway, North Norfolk really does tick all the boxes.

You have miles of beautiful sandy beaches, peaceful countryside, scenic walking trails, charming villages and plenty of pubs and cafés where your dog can join you.

It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning walking along the coast, stop for lunch at a dog-friendly pub and then explore a pretty Norfolk village in the afternoon.

Where the sky meets the sea, North Norfolk is made for slow days, sandy paws and adventures with your dog.