Can my dog go on Dovercourt Beach?
Yes, but part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 May to 30 September.
The rules through the year
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
- Dogs allowed
- Part of the beach closed to dogs
| Summer | Part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 May to 30 September: no dogs from the Mill Lane subway to the end of the promenade at the Spa Cabins, or from the slipway south-west of the swimming pool to the upper lighthouse south-west of Beach Road. The rest of the beach stays open to dogs. Keep dogs on a lead on the promenade. |
|---|---|
| Winter | Dogs allowed on the whole beach from 1 October to 30 April. |
| Fine | Fine of up to £500 if it goes to court |
Where to go instead
The rest of Dovercourt Beach, outside the two zones, is open to dogs all year.
On the map
Nearest beaches: Harwich Beach (0.9 miles), Landguard Nature Reserve (1.9 miles), Felixstowe Beach (central) (3.0 miles).
Where this comes from
These rules are set by Tendring District Council. Read them at the source: Tendring District Council 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 Dovercourt Beach?
Yes, but part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 May to 30 September. In summer: Part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 May to 30 September: no dogs from the Mill Lane subway to the end of the promenade at the Spa Cabins, or from the slipway south-west of the swimming pool to the upper lighthouse south-west of Beach Road. The rest of the beach stays open to dogs. Keep dogs on a lead on the promenade. In winter: Dogs allowed on the whole beach from 1 October to 30 April.
What is the fine for taking a dog on Dovercourt Beach during the ban?
Tendring District Council can issue a fine of up to £500 if it goes to court.
Where can I take my dog near Dovercourt Beach instead?
The rest of Dovercourt Beach, outside the two zones, is open to dogs all year.