Can my dog go on Thorpeness 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: a small area opposite the car park. Dogs must be on a lead in the area next to it. The rest of the beach stays open to dogs off the lead. |
|---|---|
| Winter | Dogs allowed on the whole beach from 1 October to 30 April. |
| Also | The areas are shown only on the council's maps, so check the signs on the beach. |
| Fine | Fixed penalty (up to £1,000 if it goes to court) |
Where to go instead
Thorpeness Beach outside the two signed areas stays open to dogs.
Dog-friendly places nearby
-
Cafe · next to the beach
The Kitchen @ ThorpenessDogs: Dog-friendly. Areas not stated.
“We’re Dog Friendly!” Their page
-
Pub · 0.2 miles
The Dolphin InnDogs: In the Snug Bar.
“Snug Bar: A dog-friendly bar featuring sepia photographs of Thorpeness.” Their page
-
Restaurant · 0.4 miles
Braid's Bar, Thorpeness Golf Club & HotelDogs: In Braid's Bar, the lounge and patio. Not Ogilvie's restaurant.
“We welcome all dogs to dine alongside you in Braid's Bar” 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: Aldeburgh Beach (1.9 miles), Sizewell Beach (2.0 miles), Dunwich Heath Beach (5.4 miles).
Where this comes from
These rules are set by East Suffolk Council. Read them at the source: East Suffolk 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 Thorpeness 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: a small area opposite the car park. Dogs must be on a lead in the area next to it. The rest of the beach stays open to dogs off the lead. In winter: Dogs allowed on the whole beach from 1 October to 30 April.
What is the fine for taking a dog on Thorpeness Beach during the ban?
East Suffolk Council can issue a fixed penalty (up to £1,000 if it goes to court).
Where can I take my dog near Thorpeness Beach instead?
Thorpeness Beach outside the two signed areas stays open to dogs.