Top 27 Fun Things to Do in Dorset with Dogs

Looking for things to do in Dorset with dogs? Look no further! Dorset is a beautiful county in the south of England that offers a variety of activities for dog owners to enjoy with their furry companions. Some of the things to do in Dorset with dogs include visiting dog-friendly beaches, such as Sandbanks or Weymouth Beach, and going for walks or hikes along the stunning Dorset coastline or in the countryside.

There are also a number of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in Dorset where you can enjoy a meal or drink with your dog, as well as dog-friendly attractions and landmarks, such as Corfe Castle and the Jurassic Coast. In addition, there are several dog-friendly accommodation options in Dorset.

These range from hotels to vacation rentals, and a number of other dog-friendly activities and events, such as outdoor markets, festivals, and fitness classes. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the countryside, Dorset has something for every dog-loving traveler.

There are a lot of things to do in Dorset with dogs. From dog-friendly beaches and walks to pubs, restaurants, and accommodation options, Dorset has something for every dog-loving traveler. Discover the beauty of this stunning county with your furry companion by your side and enjoy a variety of activities, including visiting iconic landmarks, attending outdoor festivals, and participating in fitness classes.

Check out our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Dorset with dogs and start planning your trip today. With its abundant outdoor activities, dog-friendly accommodation options, and welcoming atmosphere, Dorset is the perfect place to explore with your four-legged friend.

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Introduction

Welcome to Dorset, a stunning county located in the south of England that offers a diverse range of landscapes, from sandy beaches and rolling countryside to charming villages and historic landmarks. With its beautiful beaches, breathtaking coastlines, and abundant outdoor activities, Dorset is a perfect destination for dog owners and their furry companions. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, go for a hike in the countryside, or explore some of the county’s cultural and historical attractions, Dorset has something for every type of traveler. In this blog post, we’ll share some of the best things to do in Dorset with dogs, from dog-friendly beaches and walks to pubs, restaurants, and accommodation options. So grab your leash and get ready to discover all that Dorset has to offer with your four-legged friend by your side.

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Dorset

Dorset has a number of beautiful beaches that are perfect for dogs and their owners to enjoy. Here are some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Dorset and things to do in dorset with dogs:

Sandbanks Beach: Located in Poole, Sandbanks Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round, but must be kept on a leash from May to September.
Weymouth Beach: Located in the town of Weymouth, this sandy beach is popular with tourists and locals alike. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round, but must be kept on a leash from May to September.
Chesil Beach: This 18-mile-long pebble beach stretches from Portland to West Bay and is a great spot for walks and picnics. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round, but must be kept on a leash from May to September.
Studland Beach: Located on the Isle of Purbeck, Studland Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round but must be kept on a leash from May to September.
West Bay Beach: Located in the town of Bridport, West Bay Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round but must be kept on a leash from May to September.

Tips for enjoying the beach with your dog:

Bring plenty of water and a beach umbrella to keep your dog hydrated and protected from the sun
Pack some waste bags to clean up after your dog
Avoid leaving your dog unattended on the beach, as they may become distressed or get into trouble
Respect other beachgoers and keep your dog under control at all times
Check the local rules and regulations for dogs on the beach before you visit.

There are a few things to do in dorset with dogs. Following these tips will help make sure you have a great time!

Dog-Friendly Walks and Hikes in Dorset

Dorset has a wealth of beautiful walks and hikes that are perfect for dogs and their owners to enjoy. Here are some of the best dog-friendly walks and hiking trails in Dorset:

Jurassic Coast: This World Heritage Site stretches for 95 miles along the Dorset and East Devon coast, offering breathtaking views and a rich history. Dogs are welcome on the Jurassic Coast, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Lulworth Cove: Located in the village of West Lulworth, this stunning cove offers breathtaking views and a number of easy walking trails. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Durdle Door: This iconic natural arch is located on the Jurassic Coast and is a popular spot for walks and picnics. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
The Tank Museum: Located in the village of Bovington, this museum is home to a collection of tanks and military vehicles and also offers a number of dog-friendly walking trails. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Hardy’s Monument: Located on Blackdown Hill, this monument offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for a hike. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Tips for preparing for a hike with your dog:

Bring a leash and waste bags to clean up after your dog
Pack plenty of water and snacks for you and your dog
Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather
Keep your dog under control at all times and respect other hikers
Check the local rules and regulations for dogs on the trails before you visit.

Dog-Friendly Pubs and Restaurants in Dorset

Dorset is home to a number of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants. Plenty of things to do in dorset with dogs. You can enjoy a meal or drink with your furry companion. Here are some of the best dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in Dorset:

The Anchorinn: Located in the village of Chiswell, this charming pub is dog-friendly and offers a selection of beers, wines, and pub grub. Dogs are welcome in the bar and outdoor seating area.
The Old Granary: Located in the town of Beaminster, this dog-friendly pub offers a selection of beers, wines, and pub grub, as well as a cozy atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in the bar and outdoor seating area.
The Crown Hotel: Located in the town of Dorchester, this dog-friendly hotel offers a selection of beers, wines, and pub grub, as well as a cozy atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in the bar and outdoor seating area.
The Pilot Boat Inn: Located in the village of Portland, this dog-friendly pub offers a selection of beers, wines, and pub grub, as well as a cozy atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in the bar and outdoor seating area.

Tips for dining out with your dog:

Find a patio or outdoor seating area where your dog can join you
Check with the establishment beforehand to make sure they are dog-friendly and to confirm any rules or regulations for dogs
Keep your dog under control at all times and respect other diners
Pack some waste bags to clean up after your dog
Consider bringing a portable water bowl for your dog to drink from.

Dog-Friendly Attractions and Landmarks in Dorset

Dorset is home to a number of dog-friendly attractions and landmarks that are perfect for dogs and their owners to visit. Here are some of the best things to do in dorset with dogs, and dog-friendly attractions and landmarks in Dorset:

Corfe Castle: Located in the village of Corfe Castle, this stunning castle is a must-see for any visitor to Dorset. Dogs are welcome in the grounds and gardens but are not allowed inside the castle.
The Tank Museum: Located in the village of Bovington, this museum is home to a collection of tanks and military vehicles and is a great place for history buffs. Dogs are welcome on the grounds and gardens but are not allowed inside the museum.
Swanage Railway: Located in the town of Swanage, this steam train offers a fun and nostalgic way to explore the countryside. Dogs are welcome on the train but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Kingston Lacy: Located in the village of Wimborne, this historic mansion is a great place to explore the grounds and gardens. Dogs are welcome on the grounds and gardens, but are not allowed inside the mansion.
Hardy’s Monument: Located on Blackdown Hill, this monument offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for a hike. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but must be kept on a leash at all times.

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Tips for visiting these places with your dog:

Bring a leash and waste bags to clean up after your dog
Respect the rules and regulations of the attraction or landmark, such as keeping your dog on a leash and not allowing them inside certain areas
Check the hours of operation before you visit
Keep your dog under control at all times and respect other visitors
Pack some water and snacks for you and your dog.

Dog-Friendly Accommodation Options in Dorset

Dorset has a variety of dog-friendly accommodation options to choose from, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals. Here are some of the best dog-friendly accommodation options in Dorset:

The Anchorinn: Located in the village of Chiswell, this charming inn offers dog-friendly rooms and is close to a number of attractions and landmarks. Dogs are welcome in the rooms, but there may be a fee and size restrictions apply.
The Old Granary: Located in the town of Beaminster, this dog-friendly bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and a great location. Dogs are welcome in the rooms, but there may be a fee and size restrictions apply.
The Crown Hotel: Located in the town of Dorchester, this dog-friendly hotel offers a variety of rooms and a great location. Dogs are welcome in the rooms, but there may be a fee and size restrictions apply.
The Pilot Boat Inn: Located in the village of Portland, this dog-friendly inn offers cozy rooms and a great location. Dogs are welcome in the rooms, but there may be a fee and size restrictions apply.
West Dorset Leisure Holidays: Located in the town of West Bay, this dog-friendly vacation rental company offers a variety of dog-friendly cottages and apartments. Dogs are welcome in the properties, but there may be a fee and size restrictions apply.

Tips for choosing a dog-friendly hotel or vacation rental:

Check the size and number of dogs allowed, as well as any additional fees
Confirm the rules and regulations for dogs, such as whether they are allowed in certain areas or must be kept on a leash
Consider the location and proximity to dog-friendly activities and amenities
Read reviews from other dog owners to get a sense of the property’s dog-friendliness
Contact the property directly to ask any questions or clarify any details.

Other Dog-Friendly Activities and Events in Dorset

In addition to the many dog-friendly beaches, walks, pubs, restaurants, and attractions in Dorset, there are also a number of other dog-friendly activities and events to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in dorset with dogs

Outdoor markets: Many of the towns and villages in Dorset host regular outdoor markets, where you can browse a variety of stalls selling local produce, crafts, and more. Dogs are generally welcome at these markets, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Festivals: Dorset is home to a number of festivals throughout the year, such as the Dorset Knob Throwing Festival, the Dorset Seafood Festival, and the Dorset County Show. Dogs are generally welcome at these festivals, but must be kept on a leash at all times and may not be allowed in certain areas.
Fitness classes: Some of the fitness studios in Dorset offer dog-friendly classes, such as yoga, Pilates, and outdoor boot camps. Dogs are generally welcome at these classes, but must be kept on a leash at all times and may not be allowed in certain areas.

Tips for enjoying these events with your dog:

Bring a leash and waste bags to clean up after your dog
Pack plenty of water and snacks for you and your dog
Check with the organizers beforehand to confirm any rules or regulations for dogs
Keep your dog under control at all times and respect other participants
Consider the weather and plan accordingly.

Be sure to read our other guide on: 75 Expert Tips for Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

Recap

In recap, Dorset is a fantastic destination for dog owners and their furry companions, offering a variety of dog-friendly activities and attractions to enjoy. From the beautiful beaches and stunning coastlines to the charming pubs and restaurants, there is something for every dog-loving traveler in Dorset.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, go for a hike in the countryside, or explore some of the county’s cultural and historical attractions, Dorset has something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Dorset with your dog and discover all that this beautiful county has to offer.

With its abundant outdoor activities, dog-friendly accommodation options, and welcoming atmosphere, Dorset is the perfect place to explore with your four-legged friend by your side. Enjoy the best of things to do in dorset with dogs