I am so excited to share my recent trip to the coast with you. Brighton and Hove is a place that feels like a second home to us. We lived there before we started our life as nomadic pet sitters, and the city always pulls us back.
We recently took our 10-year-old dog, Betty, who is a mix of Pointer, Spaniel, and Collie, for a wonderful day out in this seaside spot. It is honestly one of athe most dog-friendly cities in England. People constantly stopped to give Betty a pat or a scratch behind her ears.
The locals are super friendly, and the city has so many indoor spots to hide if the rain starts to fall. This is my ultimate guide for anyone who wants a Pet Friendly Vacation in Brighton, UK.
Travel and Getting Around the City
First of all, we had to decide how to get there. We chose to catch the train from East Worthing into Hove. This journey is very short and takes only about 20 minutes. You should know that all Southern Rail trains allow dogs on board.
There is no extra fee, but you must keep your dog under close control and on the floor. We wanted to give Betty a long walk into the center, so we got off at Hove station instead of Brighton.
You might prefer the bus once you arrive. Brighton & Hove buses run all through the city, and they are very welcoming to four-legged friends at no extra cost. However, the driver has the final say. If the bus is too crowded or unsafe, they might ask you to wait for the next one.
You must make sure your dog sits on the floor or on your lap. Never let your dog sit directly on a seat because it can cause problems for people with allergies.
Additionally, the city has a huge network of cycle lanes if you are a fan of two wheels. You can find Beryl bikes at 82 different hubs across the city. They offer pedal bikes and electric options that you can hire by the hour or with a pass for up to 30 days.
This is a great choice if you have a dog basket or a backpack for your pup. Though public transport is great, we usually prefer to get around on foot. Everything is within walking distance, and it gives the doggo a good workout. Plus, a bus ride at the end of a long day is a nice treat.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Holiday Lets
We found that finding a place to sleep is very easy here. There are so many options ranging from luxury hotels to cozy apartments. If you want a pet-friendly airbnb, you should look at 21 Bedford Place.
This is a central one-bedroom apartment that is perfect for couples. It includes a fully-equipped kitchen and free secure parking, which is like gold dust in this city. It is less than a 5-minute walk to the beach for morning walks.
On top of that, you might want to try the brighton marina holiday lets dog friendly options. Malmaison Brighton is a very stylish boutique hotel located right at the Marina. It has 73 beautifully designed rooms.
It is a great spot if you want to be a bit away from the main noise of the city center. Another great choice is the ihg hotels in brighton. The Holiday Inn Brighton-Seafront sits directly on the beach road. It offers rooms with a view of the sea and a lounge bar where you can relax. It is only a 20-minute drive from London Gatwick Airport, which is very convenient.
For those who love history, the new steine hotel, brighton is a fantastic pick. This guest house has a very stylish cocktail lounge and even a cozy French restaurant. They have dog-friendly rooms and are just minutes away from the beach.
Later, we saw The Grand Hotel, which is a stunning building. It was opened in 1864 and is often called the “Palace By The Sea”. Even ABBA stayed there after they won Eurovision in 1974. They charge £30 for a pet, but they provide a dog bed, bowls, and treats in your room. Similarly, the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole is right on the seafront. They give your dog a welcome pack with a blanket and chocolates for the humans.
If you prefer a pet-friendly airbnb style home, 11 Robert Street is a holiday home in the North Laines with 3 bedrooms and a private garden terrace. It is only a 7-minute walk from the train station. You can also find many other airbnb brighton options if you search the local listings.
Fun at the Brighton Beach UK
A visit to the brighton beach uk is a must for any vacation. You must be careful about the rules, though. From 1 October to 30 April, dogs are allowed on all the beaches in Brighton and Hove at any time. However, things change in the summer. Between 1 May and 30 September, dogs can only go on specific dog-friendly sections. The council puts up clear signs at the entrances to tell you where to go.
We love to walk for miles along the promenade. You can see the Brighton Pier, but sadly, dogs are not allowed on the pier itself. You can also spot the i360 observation tower and the ruins of the West Pier. For a beach that is open to dogs all year round, head to the Hove Lagoon end.
The area between the Peace Statue and the large groyne with the life-ring is also great for pups. Just remember that your dog must be on a lead while you are on the promenade. There are many skaters and cyclists, and a loose dog could cause a lot of trouble.
Gradually, we walked toward the Marina. The beach from the pier toward the Marina is usually much quieter and very dog-friendly.
You can even walk all the way to Saltdean. If your dog loves the water, you should plan a trip for September. The Saltdean Lido holds a dog swim event where pups can splash in the pool. It happens over four weekends, and it is a joy to watch.
Shopping with Your Pup
We were so surprised by how many shops are happy to see Betty. Brighton is just wonderful for retail therapy with a dog. The famous Laines are the best spot for quirky independent stores. Lucy & Yak sells colorful clothing and they actually encourage you to bring your dog inside. They will give your pup lots of fuss. Bert’s Homestore is another favorite of ours. They have several locations and sell everything from kitchenware to toys.
For a taste of vintage items, you must take your pooch to Snoopers Paradise. It is a huge space full of retro goods and feels like an Aladdin’s cave. The cobbled streets and street art in the Laines are a feast for the eyes.
Additionally, many big chain stores are dog-friendly too. We went into Lush, and the staff were so excited to meet Betty. Bird and Blend tea shop is also a great place to visit. You can find your favorite tea blend while your dog potters around with you.
Finally, do not forget to visit Archie’s Empawrium on the seafront. This shop is small but full of everything your dog could want. They have food, treats, accessories, and even doggy ice cream. The owner is incredibly welcoming to all pooches. It is the perfect place to spoil your pup after you have done some shopping for yourself.
The Best Brighton Dog Friendly Restaurants
You will be spoiled for choice when it comes to brighton dog friendly restaurants. If you want a familiar spot, Caffe Nero is a great choice. They have comfy armchairs and quiet corners where your dog can snooze undisturbed. For a more hipster vibe, try Wolføx. They have several locations and brew a perfect cup of coffee.
If you want the best brunch in Hove, you should go to Baked. Their fluffy pancakes are famous, but you should book in advance. They even serve vegan dog biscuits from a local supplier called Snaffles. Betty loves them! Another great brunch spot is Joe and Co. We had a vegan breakfast and a beef hash there that were both delicious. Our total bill was £42.13 for two people and two dogs.
For lunch, we highly recommend Shelter Hall along the seafront. This is an indoor food market with 7 different independent stalls. You scan a QR code on your table to order, and a server brings the food to you. This is perfect for dog owners because you do not have to leave your dog alone to go find food. Dogs are welcome in the large downstairs area. On top of that, The Dorset in the North Laine is a great spot to refuel. It has been part of the city for almost 200 years and has a cozy open fire.
If you want something a bit more fancy, try Dishoom Permit Room. This is a famous Indian restaurant that is surprisingly dog-friendly. They give out dog treats and have water bowls ready. We had a huge meal with chicken curry, lamb curry, and garlic naan that was a 9 out of 10. Additionally, The Chilli Pickle is another award-winning Indian spot that welcomes well-behaved pups.
Later in the evening, you might want to visit a pub. The Better Half near the seafront is a very friendly local spot. They have a resident pub dog named Leo, a Golden Retriever. The Farm Tavern in Hove is another gem. They actually serve complimentary doggy roast dinners on Sundays. Your dog will feel like royalty there. Similarly, The Hartington in Hanover offers free dog roasts so no one feels left out.
Parks and Green Spaces for Exercise
If your dog has too much energy for the beach, there are plenty of parks to explore. The Level is a small grassy area near the station where you can watch skateboarders. Preston Park is much larger and has a rose garden and a wildflower meadow. It is perfect for chasing tennis balls. Down by the sea, Hove Lawns offer a long stretch of grass. Just watch out for the cycle lane that runs right next to it.
If you need a safe, enclosed space for a young dog, you must visit Withdean Park. The locals call it the Puppy Park because so many people bring their pups there to learn recall. It has a huge fenced area where dogs can run without any fear of traffic. It is about a 20-minute bus ride from the center, but it is very peaceful.
Gradually, we explored even further. Stanmer Park is a massive public space on the edge of the city. It is perfect for a long countryside walk. However, you must be aware of grazing sheep and keep your dog under close control. Similarly, Saint Ann’s Well Gardens is a lovely spot with a pond and tennis courts. They have signs to help you find all the different birds in the park.
Cultural Spots and Unique Experiences
You might think a vacation with a dog means missing out on art, but that is not true in Brighton. The DOG SHOW is a wonderful open house event that happens in May. It shows over 200 pieces of dog art from 14 different artists. They serve tea, cakes, and homemade treats for all the dogs. It is a very joyful place and has even appeared on the BBC.
Another fun thing to do is to ride the Volk’s Electric Railway. It is the oldest working electric railway in the world, built in 1883. The train runs along the seafront from the Palace Pier to the Marina. Dogs are very welcome on the train. The journey takes about 12 minutes and is a very relaxing way to see the coast.
Additionally, you can visit the Royal Pavilion Gardens. While dogs are not allowed inside the famous palace, they can explore the beautiful gardens with you as long as they are on a lead. The gardens were designed in 1815 as a pleasure ground for a king. It is a stunning setting for a walk after lunch.
Essential Health and Safety Tips
We always want our pets to stay safe during a trip. First of all, you should know where the nearest vet is located. Priory Emergency Treatment Service in Brighton is the best place for out-of-hours care. They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They have state-of-the-art equipment and are only a 10-minute drive away.
If you are coming from outside the UK, you will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). These are valid for entry into the EU for 10 days and for onward travel for up to 4 months. You must make sure your dog has a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination.
Similarly, if you are walking in the countryside, you must be tick aware. Ticks are common in areas like the South Downs National Park and can carry diseases. You should stick to the paths and check your dog for ticks after every walk.
Also, always bag and bin dog poop. Dog mess is different from farm animal waste because dogs eat meat, and their poop can contain harmful parasites. Brighton has installed 300 new recycling bins along the seafront to make this easy for you.
FAQ
Is Brighton pet friendly?
It is widely considered one of the most dog-friendly cities in England. Locals and businesses frequently welcome pets as part of the family.
What is the most dog friendly town in the UK?
Brighton and Hove is hands down one of the top choices for dog owners in the United Kingdom. The city offers an incredible number of welcoming restaurants and public spaces.
What to do in Brighton dog friendly?
You can ride the Volk’s Electric Railway, which is the oldest electric railway in the world. Additionally, you might visit the Royal Pavilion Gardens or attend the Saltdean Lido dog swim in September.
What is the most pet friendly city?
Brighton is frequently praised for its friendly attitude toward animals. The city is compact and very easy to navigate on foot with a pup.
Is Brighton beach safe for dogs?
The beach is safe, but you must be aware of changing conditions. Always keep your dog away from the water edge when the sea is rough.
Where to holiday in the UK with a dog?
Brighton is a fantastic choice for a coastal break. Other popular areas for dog owners include Cornwall and the New Forest.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
Brighton is a top destination because of its diverse indoor places to visit if the weather turns bad. It has a great mix of parks, beaches, and shops.
Concluding Words
Our time in Brighton was truly magical. Betty was exhausted by the end of the week, but she had the best time. Whether we were eating a 9-out-of-10 meal at Dishoom or riding the historic electric railway, she was by our side for every moment.
The city is so compact and walkable that you really do not need a car. You can wander from the seafront to Kemptown or the Laines and find a friendly pub or cafe at every turn.
Brighton and Hove is a city that truly loves dogs. They are not just tolerated here; they are welcomed as part of the family. Therefore, I highly recommend that you pack a bag, grab the dog bed, and head to the coast. Your four-legged friend deserves a holiday just as much as you do. Plus, you will make memories that will last a lifetime.
Additionally, I would suggest checking the local council website for any last-minute rule changes before you go. Rules for beaches and parks can change, and it is always good to be prepared. Though the weather can be a bit gray sometimes, the warmth of the people and the excitement of the city make it all worth it. Brighton is a place that celebrates everyone, including our furry companions.
Gradually, you will find your own favorite haunts in this colorful city. Maybe it will be a specific bench overlooking the ruins of the West Pier, or perhaps a tiny tea shop in the North Laine.
Whatever it is, I am sure you and your pup will have a wonderful Pet Friendly Vacation in Brighton, UK. Do not forget to take plenty of photos to capture the joy on your dog’s face. Happy travels!
