Can my dog go on Sandbanks 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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Restaurant · 0.1 miles
Rick Stein, SandbanksDogs: In the downstairs bar only. Not on the terrace or in the restaurant.
“Dogs are welcome to join you in the bar; dogs are not permitted on our outdoor terrace or harbour view restaurant.” Their page
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Park or walk · 1.2 miles
Luscombe ValleyBCP CouncilDogs: Close control. Short lead near livestock and from 1 March to 31 July.
“Dogs must be on a short lead when livestock is near and during the bird breeding season from 1 March to 31 July. At other times dogs must be under close control.” Their page
-
Park or walk · 2.0 miles
Pinecliff GardensBCP CouncilDogs: Welcome in the gardens.
“Dogs are allowed in the gardens.” 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: Sandbanks west end to Haven Point (chain ferry) (0.5 miles), Shore Road Beach (0.7 miles), Studland Shell Bay (1.0 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 Sandbanks 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 Sandbanks Beach instead?
Sandbanks west end to Haven Point (chain ferry), where dogs are allowed all year.