Can my dog go on Avon Beach?
Yes from 1 October to 30 April. No from 1 May to 30 September, when dogs are banned.
The rules through the year
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
- Dogs allowed
- No dogs
| Summer | No dogs from 1 May to 30 September. |
|---|---|
| Winter | Dogs allowed on the beach from 1 October to 30 April. Keep them on a lead on the promenade, piers, zig zag paths and footpaths. |
Where to go instead
Dog-friendly places nearby
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Pub · 0.4 miles
Haven House InnDogs: Inside the pub (not the cafe next door).
“Dogs are very welcome in the pub but not in the café.” Their page
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Park or walk · 1.2 miles
Hengistbury Head nature reserveBCP CouncilDogs: Short lead from February to August in nesting areas. Follow the signs.
“Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Hengistbury Head; keep to paths and use a short lead February to August” Their page
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Cafe · 1.3 miles
Hiker CaféDogs: Outside only (assistance dogs welcome inside).
“We request that dogs are to be kept outside where water bowls are provided for them.” Their page
-
Pub · 1.4 miles
The OaksDogs: In the bar and garden. Mention your dog when you book.
“Dogs are very welcome in our bar and garden area; Please let us know if you are bringing your four legged friend along…” Their page
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Park or walk · 1.6 miles
Stanpit MarshBCP Council-managedDogs: Close control. Leads near livestock and from 1 March to 31 July.
“Dogs are allowed but must be under close control; always keep dogs on a lead when near livestock.” Their page
-
Park or walk · 1.9 miles
Chewton BunnyBCP CouncilDogs: Under close control on the woodland paths.
“Dogs are allowed but must be under close control.” Their page
Each place says on its own website that dogs are welcome (checked 17 October 2026). Places change their rules, so check with them before you go. Distances are as the crow flies.
On the map
Nearest beaches: Gundimore Beach (0.2 miles), Friars Cliff Beach (0.5 miles), Mudeford Sandbank (0.6 miles).
Where this comes from
These rules are set by BCP Council (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole). Read them at the source: BCP Council (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) dogs on beaches.
Last checked: 17 October 2026. Seen a different sign? Tell us and we will check it.
Common questions
Can I take my dog to Avon Beach?
Yes from 1 October to 30 April. No from 1 May to 30 September, when dogs are banned. In summer: No dogs from 1 May to 30 September. In winter: Dogs allowed on the beach from 1 October to 30 April. Keep them on a lead on the promenade, piers, zig zag paths and footpaths.
Where can I take my dog near Avon Beach instead?
Gundimore Beach, where dogs are allowed all year.