Skip to content
Northumberland, with its rugged coastline, peaceful rivers, and stunning countryside, is an idyllic destination for dogs that love to swim. From rivers in the rolling Cheviot Hills to sandy beaches along the North Sea, Northumberland offers beautiful spots where dogs can cool off and enjoy the water. Here are five top dog-friendly swimming spots in Northumberland for a memorable day out.
1. Druridge Bay Beach
Druridge Bay, a beautiful seven-mile stretch of sandy beach along the North Sea, is a paradise for dogs that love the sand and sea. With calm, shallow waters and plenty of space, Druridge Bay offers a perfect spot for dogs to play, swim, and run freely. Dogs are welcome year-round, making it an ideal destination for a beach day no matter the season.
The surrounding dunes and coastal paths provide scenic views and additional space to explore, offering a quintessential Northumberland beach experience for both you and your dog.
Nearby Amenities: Parking, restrooms, and dog-friendly cafes are available near Druridge Bay Country Park.
Google Maps Address: Druridge Bay Beach
2. River Coquet at Rothbury
The River Coquet, flowing through the charming town of Rothbury, offers calm, shallow areas where dogs can safely enjoy a swim. The riverbanks provide easy access, and the gentle flow of the Coquet makes it ideal for paddling and splashing. Rothbury itself is a quaint town with dog-friendly shops, pubs, and cafes, so you can make a full day of your visit.
With scenic riverside walks and views of the surrounding countryside, the River Coquet at Rothbury is a peaceful spot for both swimming and exploration.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available in Rothbury, with cafes, restrooms, and dog-friendly pubs in the town.
Google Maps Address: River Coquet - Rothbury
3. Hulne Park, Alnwick
Hulne Park, part of the Alnwick Castle Estate, is a vast parkland with trails, streams, and rivers where dogs can cool off. While the park requires dogs to be on leads, there are designated areas along the streams where dogs are allowed to paddle. The park itself is a haven of beauty, featuring woodlands, meadows, and historic ruins, all surrounded by the peaceful Northumberland countryside.
With scenic trails that wind through forests and past rivers, Hulne Park is a great spot for dogs that enjoy both swimming and exploring.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available near the entrance to Hulne Park, with cafes and shops in nearby Alnwick.
Google Maps Address: Hulne Park - Alnwick
4. Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, Bellingham
For a unique swimming experience, Hareshaw Linn near Bellingham is a waterfall walk that leads through ancient woodland to a beautiful waterfall. While the main pool at the base of the waterfall isn’t suitable for dogs to swim in due to its depth, the walk passes along the River Hareshaw, which has several shallow areas perfect for a refreshing dip. Dogs will love splashing in the river along the trail as you make your way to the waterfall.
The trail is shaded by trees and features charming stone bridges, making it an enchanting place for a nature-filled outing with your dog.
Nearby Amenities: Limited parking is available near the trailhead, with cafes and restrooms in Bellingham.
Google Maps Address: Hareshaw Linn - Bellingham
5. Kielder Water and Forest Park
Kielder Water, the largest man-made lake in northern Europe, provides a stunning and spacious environment for dog-friendly swimming. Located in Kielder Forest, this lake has designated areas where dogs can enjoy the water. The shores of Kielder Water are easy to access, and the calm lake waters are perfect for dogs that love to paddle.
With miles of trails around the lake and through Kielder Forest, you and your dog can spend the entire day exploring this beautiful, remote landscape. Kielder Water also offers picnic spots and stunning viewpoints over the reservoir.
Nearby Amenities: Parking, a visitor center, a café, picnic areas, and restrooms are available around Kielder Water.
Google Maps Address: Kielder Water
Essentials for a Dog-Friendly Day in Northumberland
Make the most of your outing with these essentials:
- Training Collar: A training collar from Calmshops can help keep your dog close in open spaces.
- Fresh Water and Portable Bowl: Fresh water is essential, even when swimming spots are available.
- Towel and Blanket: A quick dry-off will keep your dog comfortable, especially before the car ride home.
- Dog Rain Coat: Be sure you have a high quality rain coat with you at all times.
- Dog Car Seat Cover: Can be ordered on our website or on Amazon.
5 Other Dog Friendly Simming Places in Northumerland:
Beadnell Bay
Description: Beadnell Bay is a stunning horseshoe-shaped beach with golden sands stretching for 2 miles. It's popular for swimming and water sports, making it ideal for active dogs that love the water. The beach is dog-friendly year-round, though seasonal restrictions may apply during bird breeding seasons.
Nearby Amenities: Paid parking is available off Harbour Road, adjacent to the beach. Toilets are near the car park, and the village of Beadnell offers dog-friendly pubs and cafes.
Cocklawburn Beach
Description: Cocklawburn Beach is a hidden gem offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful pools and sweeping scenery. Even during peak seasons, it remains relatively calm, providing ample space for dogs to run off-lead and explore the rock pools.
Nearby Amenities: Limited facilities; it's advisable to bring your own provisions. Parking is available just south of the beach.
Warkworth Beach
Description: Just a short walk from the village of Warkworth, this beach offers golden sands and plenty of space for your dog to run around. The River Coquet Estuary adds a scenic twist to your walk. Dogs are welcome year-round, though seasonal restrictions may apply between April and September.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available near Warkworth Golf Club, providing a shorter walk to the beach. The village of Warkworth has dog-friendly pubs and cafes.
Alnmouth Beach
Description: Situated at the mouth of the River Aln, Alnmouth Beach is a wide, sandy expanse lined with sand dunes, perfect for dogs to explore. The beach is dog-friendly all year round, and there are rock pools to paddle in at low tide.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available near the beach. The village of Alnmouth offers dog-friendly cafes and pubs.
Embleton Bay
Description: Embleton Bay is a gorgeous golden sand beach guarded by the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The beach is almost deserted, making it ideal for dogs to run freely and enjoy the water. It's a peaceful spot for both swimming and exploration.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available in the village of Embleton. There are dog-friendly pubs and cafes nearby.
Last Barks
From the expansive sands of Druridge Bay to the tranquil shores of Kielder Water, Northumberland offers plenty of beautiful, dog-friendly swimming spots. These locations showcase the county’s stunning natural beauty, creating a perfect setting for you and your dog to enjoy the water and explore the great outdoors. So pack up, pick a spot, and dive into Northumberland’s top dog-friendly swimming spots for an adventure you and your pup won’t forget!
