Widemouth Bay
Cornwall
Widemouth Bay is a large, popular surf beach south of Bude on the north Cornish Atlantic coast, a wide, flat expanse of sand framed by low cliffs that makes it one of the most approachable surf beaches in the area. The beach is broad and south-facing, which gives it better sun retention than many north Cornish beaches, and the reliable surf and flat sand have made it a popular choice for families and surfers alike. The surrounding coastal farmland drops directly to the clifftops, and the South West Coast Path runs above on both sides.
Dogs face seasonal restrictions at Widemouth Bay during summer months under the Cornwall Council PSPO, with bans on the main beach sections from May to September. Outside these restrictions the beach is excellent for dogs, with the wide flat sand ideal for running and the consistent surf providing good swimming conditions for confident dogs. Several of the cafes and the Bay View Inn at the top of the beach are dog-friendly, and the cliff walks in both directions provide excellent extension walking for active dogs. Widemouth is at its best for dog owners in the shoulder seasons when the surf and empty sand are available without restriction.
At a Glance
Beach Must-Haves
Elite Paws Luxury Dog Drying Coat
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LumoLeaf Portable Dog Water Bottles
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Mud Daddy 8L Portable Pet Washing Device
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Dog Travel Bag
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Dog Tie Out Stake and Run Cable
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Dog Life Jacket
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Frequently Asked Questions
Widemouth Bay is dog friendly outside of the summer season, though restrictions during peak months bring its overall rating down to 6/10. The wide, flat sand is brilliant for dogs when they're allowed on it, and the Bay View Inn at the top of the beach is dog friendly year round, as are several of the seasonal cafes nearby.
Dogs are banned from the main beach sections at Widemouth Bay between May and September under Cornwall Council's PSPO, so full beach access is limited to the quieter months. Outside that window, the beach is unrestricted and the wide Atlantic sand and surf make it a fantastic spot for dogs , the shoulder seasons in particular offer excellent conditions with far fewer crowds.
The key thing to plan around is the May to September dog ban on the main beach sections , visiting in spring or autumn will give you the full run of the place. The South West Coast Path runs along the clifftops in both directions, which makes for great extension walking if you want to stretch your dog's legs beyond the beach itself. Parking is straightforward at the pay and display car park just off EX23 0AD, and the Bay View Inn is a solid dog-friendly option for food and drinks.
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