The Isle of Wight is a wonderful destination if you enjoy sunny weather and beaches. Dog Friendly days out on the Isle of Wight have become increasingly popular due to the number of beaches and coastal walks available.
The Best Places To Take Dogs in Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a tranquil seaside break on the South Coast.
With it’s many beaches and often sunny weather, it’s a great place to take the kids and dogs without spending a fortune.
Dog friendly attractions on the Isle of Wight are also very accessible with some of the country parks, trains and beaches.
Activities & Things to Do
Find below 7 of the best days out in Isle of Wight for dogs
1. Enjoy the Beaches
The Isle of Wight is famous for its beaches, and there are some amazing stretches all around the island. Shanklin Beach is particularly famous for its sand, while Ventnor Beach faces south, and is home to some amazing, vintage beach huts. There are restrictions on dogs during the summer months on some beaches, so check these out before you go. However, these restrictions don’t mean you have to stay away altogether. Also, Bembridge Beach on the east of the island, and Seagrove Beach in Sandown, are both open all year round.
2. Visit Historic Osborne
The palatial holiday home of Queen Victoria, Osborne a magnificent palace set in acres of grounds. There are superb views out across the Solent, hot houses growing exotic plants from all over the world, and a suitably Victorian walled garden to take in. Enjoy the gardens, as designed by Prince Albert himself, in the company of your well behaved furry friend. There is also a choice of outdoor eating and drinking areas, including a picnic site. Be sure to check for restrictions and opening times before booking.
3. 3 Ride the Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Located inland, in the heart of the Isle of Wight’s countryside, this award winning visitor attraction is not to be missed. Real steam locomotives pull exquisite Victorian and Edwardian carriages, and the staff all wear uniforms of the period. Join the train at Havenstreet, and look out for the birds of prey on the lookout for unwary field mice. The ride takes in some unique, unspoiled countryside, and wildlife including red squirrels and red deer. Keep doggie on a short lead, and remember to buy an extra ticket.
4. Enjoy Robin Hill Country Park
Hidden in the heart of the island’s rolling countryside, this Park is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon with your four legged friend. Located in Downend, the nearest big town is Newport, which is several miles away. The Country Park covers 88 acres, and offers lots of peaceful walks through woodland and gardens, plus ponds for pooch to sniff around. There are also rides to enjoy if you’re up for fun, and you can try your hand (or arm) at falconry.
5. See Carisbrooke Castle
This historic castle and fort sits on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, and is well worth a morning or afternoon’s visit. This was the last place King Charles I was imprisoned before his unseemly end, and the Castle has an awe inspiring air about it. You’ll see people dressing up in historical costumes, and donkeys turning the 16th century treadwheel. Keep pooch on a lead, and you can enjoy the grounds of the Castle, which covers a huge area of open countryside.
6. Don’t miss The Needles
This is one of the Isle of Wight’s most iconic natural landmarks, and is the island’s most westerly point. Dramatic chalk cliffs come to a point on the mainland, and there are three stacks of gleaming white chalk heading further west into the English Channel, ending in a world famous lighthouse. Dogs are not allowed inside the buildings which make up the Needles visitor attraction, but the site includes a dog friendly park, and you certainly can’t miss the superb views.
7. Enjoy the Dog Friendly pubs
Dotted across the island, from the coastal towns and villages to those inland in the beautiful countryside, there are lots of dog friendly pubs and watering holes for you and pooch to enjoy. Depending where you are on the Isle of Wight, check out the pubs nearby. The Buddle Inn is particularly appreciated by dog owners, sitting right on the southern end of the island, at the confluence of the many coastal paths which cross the area. There are plenty of great dog walks on the Isle of Wight to enjoy.
Looking at Visiting the Area
Queen Victoria loved this island and these days thousands more agree. There are plenty of dog-friendly places on the Isle of Wight so no need to leave your faithful companion behind either when you book a pet-friendly holiday here.
Holiday Cottages
What could be better after a day’s adventure than returning to your very own home from home with a wood-burning stove and comfortable beds. If you like the sound of that then have a look at our Isle of Wight dog friendly cottages and our great range of Isle of Wight hot tub cottages for pets.
Log Cabins
Another popular choice, are dog friendly lodges on the Isle of Wight, some offer onsite facilities like restaurants and swimming pools and all are located in idyllic surroundings