Dunnet Bay

Dunnet Bay is one of the longest beaches on mainland Britain, a vast sweep of sand running for over two miles along Scotland's far north coast between Dunnet Head — the most northerly point on the British mainland — and Castletown. The beach is backed by low dunes and the Dunnet Bay Distillery sits nearby, but the overwhelming impression is of scale, remoteness and raw northern light. The sand is wide and firm, the views take in Hoy and the Orkney Islands across the Pentland Firth, and the North Sea surf can build powerfully on this exposed stretch of coast. The sky here feels immense.

Dogs are welcome off-lead year-round on this dog friendly beach, and the sheer scale means the concept of crowding simply doesn't apply. The wide sand provides outstanding running terrain — dogs can sprint without restriction across the firm, flat expanse. The dune system offers contrasting exploration with marram grass, rabbit activity and sheltered hollows when the wind off the sea becomes too much. The beach is exposed to the North Sea and strong surf is possible, so dogs entering the water should be confident swimmers. The powerful salt scent and constant wind keep the air intensely fresh. Several roadside pull-ins provide parking access. One of Britain's great wilderness beaches, where the scale and northern light make every visit feel like an expedition.