Blue Anchor Bay

Blue Anchor Bay sits on the western edge of Somerset where the coastline begins to take on the character of Exmoor, a quiet stretch of pebble beach backed by countryside and the West Somerset Railway line. The setting is charmingly low-key — no development beyond a few houses and a pub, with views across the Bristol Channel to the Welsh coast and Steep Holm island sitting in the middle distance. The significant Bristol Channel tidal range means the beach is fully exposed at low tide, revealing a wide foreshore of pebbles, rock and sand patches. The heritage railway runs directly behind the beach, and the steam trains passing add a distinctive soundtrack to the walk.

Dogs are welcome year-round with no restrictions on this dog friendly beach, making Blue Anchor a dependable option on the Somerset coast. The pebble beach provides firm, varied footing and the tidal foreshore offers scent-rich investigation where seaweed, shells and tidal debris accumulate. The beach works especially well as part of a longer coastal walk — connecting east toward Watchet or west toward Dunster Beach along the coast path adds distance and variety. The quiet atmosphere means dogs can explore without pressure from crowds, and the open views provide visual interest throughout. Parking is conveniently available near the beach. The Blue Anchor pub welcomes dogs and serves as a natural start or finish point.