Travelling to Brighton with a Dog: Practical Tips

Brighton beach is managed for dogs year-round but some sections have seasonal restrictions May to September. Dogs are always welcome on the shingle beach east of Brighton Marina and west of the West Pier ruins. The central section (between Palace Pier and West Pier) has peak-season restrictions on some days; check the council signage on arrival. The South Downs in late September and October are exceptional: quieter trails, lower temperatures, still-green hills.

From the EU: ISO microchip, valid rabies vaccination (21 days min) and a GB Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an EU official vet within 10 days of arrival. Valid 4 months for return. Tapeworm treatment only for Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway.

The best route links the seafront promenade (10 km from Rottingdean to Hove Lagoon, flat, fully dog-welcoming) with the South Downs via the Undercliff Path east of Brighton Marina. Devil's Dyke (6 km north of Brighton, National Trust, 700-acre chalk downland, dogs off-leash on open grassland) is the easiest big off-leash walk. Take the number 77 bus from the Old Steine (dogs accepted at driver's discretion).