Dog-Friendly Day Trips from Weymouth & Beyond

From scenic trails and hidden coves to welcoming country pubs, Dorset is the perfect playground for dogs and their humans alike.

Whether you’re staying at Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa, Chesil Beach Holiday Park, or Osmington Mills Lodge Park, these unique dog-friendly day trips are all within easy reach of your holiday home.

The Jurassic Coast is a must-visit for dog owners. Stretching for 95 miles, it’s packed with scenic clifftop walks and hidden coves that dogs adore. From Bowleaze Cove, follow the South West Coast Path towards Osmington Mills, where you’ll find dramatic views and the dog-friendly Smuggler’s Inn - perfect for a well-earned meal after a coastal ramble.

Further west, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove offer unforgettable scenery and plenty of room to roam, with dogs welcome all year round.

For a peaceful woodland escape, head inland to Thorncombe Woods, just outside Dorchester. This ancient woodland is full of winding trails where dogs can explore freely, and it links directly to Puddletown Forest for longer walks.

At the heart of the woods, you’ll find Hardy’s Cottage, the birthplace of author Thomas Hardy (dogs are welcome in the gardens and grounds). There’s also a lovely dog-friendly café at the visitor centre, making this a great morning or afternoon adventure away from the coast.

The Rodwell Trail is a scenic walking and cycling path that follows the old Weymouth railway line between the town centre and Portland. It’s flat, easy to follow, and perfect for a relaxed dog walk with sea glimpses and historic tunnels along the way.

Stop off at Sandsfoot Castle Gardens, a peaceful green space overlooking the water, where dogs are welcome to explore the grounds. From there, you can continue along the trail into Weymouth Harbour, where several cafés and pubs offer dog-friendly outdoor seating.

A short drive from Weymouth, the rugged isle of Portland offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Dorset. Dogs are welcome across the island, from the Portland Bill Lighthouse to the cliff paths that loop around its edge.

You can enjoy circular walks that take in sea views, wildlife, and the famous Pulpit Rock - a favourite photo spot. There’s even a dog-friendly café near the lighthouse, perfect for warming up after a breezy coastal walk.

If your dog loves open fields and rolling hills, head inland to explore the Dorset Downs. The Cerne Abbas Giant, a famous chalk figure carved into the hillside, makes for a great day trip with lovely walking routes nearby.

There are plenty of dog-friendly pubs in the area too including The Giant Inn in Cerne Abbas, where furry visitors are greeted with a warm welcome and the occasional treat!

Venture a little further west and you’ll find more great dog-friendly days out. Mapperton Gardens, near Beaminster, welcomes dogs on leads, while Bridport and West Bay offer coastal walks, markets, and dog-friendly cafés.

West Bay’s harbour and beaches are ideal for a relaxed wander, and the scenery might even look familiar as it was a filming location for ITV’s Broadchurch!

No day out is complete without a good meal, and Dorset has plenty of dog-friendly pubs and cafés to choose from.

• The Smuggler’s Inn (Osmington Mills) - Cosy fires, hearty meals, and water bowls at the ready.
• The Lookout Café (Bowleaze Cove) - Great sea views and outdoor seating that welcomes dogs.
• The Doghouse (Bowleaze Cove) - Our very own on-park takeaway with delicious hot dogs and treats!

From peaceful woodland trails to dramatic coastal walks, Dorset is packed with dog-friendly days out for every kind of adventurer, human or hound. When you stay with Waterside, you’ll have easy access to all these amazing spots, plus comfortable, dog-friendly accommodation to come home to.

Discover our dog-friendly holidays in Dorset and start planning your next seaside escape at Bowleaze Cove, Chesil Beach, or Osmington Mills Lodge Park.