Dog Friendly Cottages in Weymouth by the Sea

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Weymouth

Weymouth Beach has different rules depending on which section you visit. Dogs are not allowed on the main sandy beach between 1 May and 30 September. From 1 October to 30 April, they can use this section of the beach again.

There are still places to take your dog beside the sea during summer. The designated dog exercise area beside Weymouth Pavilion is open throughout the year, as is the stretch from Greenhill Groyne towards Overcombe and Preston Beach.

Bowleaze Cove, at the eastern end of Weymouth Bay, also welcomes dogs throughout the year. This gives you another nearby beach when the seasonal restriction is operating in central Weymouth.

Walk the Coast Beyond Weymouth Bay

Weymouth also gives you plenty of alternatives to walking on the sand. The South West Coast Path passes through the town and can be followed east towards Bowleaze Cove and Osmington, or south towards the Isle of Portland.

Dogs are permitted along the whole South West Coast Path, although they need to be kept under close control. A short lead is recommended around livestock, and extra care is needed near cliff edges.

The Rodwell Trail provides another route from Weymouth towards Ferrybridge and Portland Harbour. Dogs are allowed on the trail but Dorset Council requires them to be kept on a lead.

More Places to Visit with Your Dog

Staying in Weymouth puts several other dog-friendly beaches within reach. Ringstead Beach welcomes dogs throughout the year, while Church Ope Cove on Portland also has year-round access. Chesil Beach has different rules depending on the section you visit, so it is worth checking before setting out.

For more ideas along the county’s coastline, our guide to dog-friendly beaches in Dorset covers other places to visit during your stay.

You can also browse our wider collection of Dorset dog-friendly holiday homes to compare Weymouth with Lyme Regis, Swanage and other Dorset destinations.