Skip to content
Hampshire, with its mix of scenic coastlines, rivers, and lakes, offers wonderful options for dog-friendly swimming spots. Whether you’re near the New Forest or along the Solent coast, you’ll find beautiful, safe places to enjoy a swim with your dog. Here are the top five dog swimming spots in Hampshire.
1. Lepe Country Park
Lepe Country Park, located along the southern coast of Hampshire near the New Forest, offers stunning views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. Historically, Lepe was a significant site during WWII, used as a launching point for the D-Day landings. Today, it’s a popular recreational spot with woodlands, meadows, and a beach.
Dogs are welcome on parts of the beach year-round, making it a perfect place for a swim. The water is calm, and the sandy beach provides an easy entry point for dogs to play and cool off.
Nearby Amenities: Lepe Country Park has a café, picnic areas, parking, and restrooms, making it convenient for a day out.
Google Maps Address: Lepe Country Park
2. Hatchet Pond, New Forest
Hatchet Pond, located in the heart of the New Forest National Park, is the largest body of water in the park. Created in the 19th century to provide water for livestock, Hatchet Pond is now a popular spot for dog walkers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding area is beautiful, with wild ponies and diverse wildlife.
Dogs are allowed to swim in designated areas of the pond, and the shallow edges make it safe for all sizes of dogs. After a swim, you can explore the nearby trails, offering a variety of scenic views through heathlands and woodlands.
Nearby Amenities: Limited parking is available near the pond, but it’s recommended to bring your own food and water as there are limited facilities.
Google Maps Address: Hatchet Pond
3. Southsea Beach
Southsea Beach, located in Portsmouth, is a lively seaside spot with both pebbled and sandy areas. The beach has historical significance, having been a popular destination since Victorian times. It also offers views of the iconic Spinnaker Tower and easy access to the city’s attractions.
Certain parts of Southsea Beach are dog-friendly, with designated areas where dogs are allowed off-leash. The gentle waves make it a safe spot for dogs to swim and enjoy the sea. The promenade along the beach is perfect for a leisurely walk before or after a swim.
Nearby Amenities: Southsea Beach has nearby parking, cafes, and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the view, with the town center just a short walk away.
Google Maps Address: Southsea Beach
4. Itchen Valley Country Park
Itchen Valley Country Park, located near Southampton, spans 440 acres of woodlands, meadows, and riverside paths along the River Itchen. The river itself has historical roots dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, once serving as a vital trade route for the area. Today, the park offers a variety of dog-friendly walking paths and spots where dogs can wade into the water.
The River Itchen flows gently through the park, providing calm areas for dogs to splash and cool off. The shaded trails also make it an ideal place for a summer outing.
Nearby Amenities: The park has ample parking, a café, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a well-equipped location for a day trip.
Google Maps Address: Itchen Valley Country Park
5. Calshot Beach
Calshot Beach, situated at the mouth of Southampton Water, offers beautiful coastal views with calm, shallow waters ideal for dog swimming. Calshot was historically used as a military site and later became a recreational area, known for its panoramic views of passing ships and the Isle of Wight. The beach is pebble-lined, and there are designated areas where dogs are welcome year-round.
With gentle waves and clear waters, Calshot Beach is a safe and enjoyable spot for dogs to swim. The nearby Calshot Activities Centre also offers additional activities, making it a fantastic spot for a family outing.
Nearby Amenities: Calshot Beach has parking, restrooms, and a café. The Calshot Activities Centre offers a variety of recreational options, including watersports.
Google Maps Address: Calshot Beach
Essentials for Your Dog’s Swimming Day in Hampshire
Before you head out, make sure to pack these essentials for a smooth and enjoyable outing:
- Training Collar: A training collar from Calmshops is helpful in keeping your dog secure in open areas.
- Dog Car Cover: Swimming and beach play can make dogs weg and dirty, car seat cover is a must. You can order here on Amazon.
- Towel: For drying off after a swim, especially if your dog enjoys rolling in the sand!
With its mix of beautiful coastlines, scenic parks, and rivers, Hampshire provides an array of perfect spots for dog-friendly swimming. Whether you’re exploring the New Forest or the bustling city of Portsmouth, these locations offer a unique experience for you and your dog. Pack up your gear, choose a spot, and enjoy a refreshing day out in Hampshire with your four-legged friend!
