Cambridge is inland but only 1h-1h30 from the long sand beaches of Norfolk and Suffolk. Most have year-round dog-friendly stretches; restrictions on the central tourist sands apply only May-September.
Lady Anne's Drive, Holkham NR23 1RG
A vast 6 km golden-sand beach backed by pine forest and salt marsh — frequently rated the UK's best beach. Year-round dog-friendly. 1h45 drive from Cambridge.
💡 Park at Lady Anne's Drive — direct boardwalk through the pines to the dog-friendly main beach in 5 min.
Beach Road, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1DR
A wide North Norfolk sand beach 4 km from Wells-next-the-Sea harbour, with the famous brightly-painted beach huts on the dunes. Off-leash dog zones at both ends; the centre is leash-required May-September. 1h45 drive.
💡 Tide times matter — at very high tide the beach disappears against the pinewood. Check tidetimes.org.uk for Wells before driving up.
Crag Path, Aldeburgh IP15 5AT
A 4 km Suffolk shingle beach with the Aldeburgh fishermen's huts and Maggi Hambling's iconic Scallop sculpture — year-round dog-friendly along the full length. The colourful seafront town behind has many dog-friendly cafés. 1h35 drive from Cambridge.
💡 Shingle is hard on paws — boots help on hot summer days. Park at the south end Slaughden car park for the quietest stretch.
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
University Arms Cambridge
★★★★★ · 9/10
€295/night
Hotel du Vin Cambridge
★★★★ · 8.7/10
€210/night
Premier Inn Cambridge City Centre (Mill Road)
★★★ · 8.5/10
€85/night