Are dogs allowed on Whitby Beach?

Yes! Dogs are allowed on the beaches in Whitby. However, there are some restrictions in place which we will cover in this blog post.

Whitby is one of the most dog-friendly towns in the UK. You won't have a problem finding suitable accommodation, a restaurant or pub to welcome you and your dog here. There are also plenty of beautiful dog friendly beaches in Whitby to enjoy with your furry friends, which we will cover in this blog post.

Please be aware there is a seasonal dog ban from the beginning of May to the end of September on some beaches in and around Whitby. Signs and pavement stencils identify restricted areas; we will also outline these in this article.

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Tate Hill Beach is dog friendly year round.
Tate Hill Beach

Tate Hill Beach

Tate Hill Beach is a lovely spot to watch the harbour boat traffic and paddle in the shallow waters; it's the perfect spot to relax in the sun and even let your four-legged friend stretch their legs – as dogs are welcome all year round.

How to get there: Click here for directions to Tate Hill Beach


Whitby Sands (West Cliff Beach) allows dogs during certain months of the year.
Whitby West Cliff Beach

Whitby West Cliff Beach (Whitby Sands Beach)

Dogs not permitted from May – September

Whitby West Cliff Beach is a gorgeous sandy stretch between Upgang Beach and West Pier. Easily accessed from the Cleveland Way, North Terrace and North Promenade, this popular beach is just a few minutes from Whitby town's centre.

The beach can be reached via access ramps or the lift located on North Terrace during the warmer months. For added convenience, paid parking is available at West Cliff and Pavillion Top car parks.

How to get there: Click here for directions to West Cliff Beach


Upgang Beach | Scott Rimmer, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Upgang Whitby Beach

Dogs allowed all year round

Upgang Beach is an unspoiled area between Sandsend and Whitby West Cliff Beach. Accessible from the nearby golf course, it isn't often used for sunbathing or picnicking. Instead, Upgang Beach is well-loved by walkers, surfers and anglers in the summer months, and they enjoy it all year round with no restrictions on pet owners. It's a peaceful retreat far from the crowds of the more popular beaches in Whitby.

How to get there: Click here for directions to Upgang Beach


Saltwick Bay Shipwreck, Admiral Von Tromp
Saltwick Bay Shipwreck, Admiral Von Tromp

Saltwick Bay Beach

Dogs allowed all year round

There is a footpath to access Saltwick Bay off the cliff near Whitby Holiday Park. This bay features an untouched sandy beach and plenty of fossils to be discovered. Despite the path being steep in places and slippery when wet, it's well worth the effort. Canine friends are permitted here all year as long they don't disturb any of the local wildlife that calls this beautiful secluded cove home.

How to get there: Click here for directions to Saltwick Bay


Sandsend, dog friendly beach near Whitby.
Sandsend Beach

Sandsend Ness

Dogs allowed all year round

Sandsend Ness features a rugged headland located north of the village with a shale beach full of treasures. You can easily access this spot from the Lythe Bank car park, at the end of the village. Just follow the beach northwards, and you'll find yourself in fossil heaven. But do note: This beach is unsafe for swimming and has dangerously strong currents. People have lost their lives here. So, it's best to visit at low tide, stay close to the car park and remember to leave well before the tide comes back. Dogs are welcome on this beach but keep them (and kids!) away from any unstable cliffs for their own safety.

How to get there: Click here for directions to Sandsend Ness.


As always, please clean up after your dog and keep them on a lead so everyone can enjoy Whitby's beautiful beaches. Hopefully, this article has answered your question, and now you can plan a trip to Whitby with your pup!

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