Shoreham Beach

Shoreham Beach is a long shingle spit that forms the coastal barrier to the west of Shoreham Harbour, where the River Adur meets the sea. The beach occupies a distinctive narrow strip of land between the sea to the south and the harbour lagoon to the north, creating an unusual dual-water landscape popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers. The beach is a designated Local Nature Reserve and supports around 90 species of plant in extensive areas of vegetated shingle. The Adur Estuary RSPB reserve at the eastern end is an important roosting area for wading birds and wildfowl. Shoreham Fort, a Scheduled Ancient Monument at the eastern tip of the spit, adds historical interest to the walk. The beach itself is wide shingle with some sand at low tide, and the open position means strong westerly winds are common.

Dogs are welcome at Shoreham Beach year-round with no seasonal restrictions under the Adur District Council PSPO. The wide, open shingle provides good walking in all conditions, and the relatively quiet setting keeps encounters with other beach users to a minimum. The nature reserve character of the beach means that dogs should be kept under close control, particularly during the bird nesting season in spring and early summer when ground-nesting species are present. The long, flat profile suits dogs of all fitness levels, and the harbour side of the spit provides additional calm-water walking. Several pubs and cafes in Shoreham-by-Sea town are within easy reach.