Gruinard Beach
Highlands
Gruinard Beach is a sandy beach on the shore of Gruinard Bay in Wester Ross, with a notorious past: the small island offshore, Gruinard Island, was used by British military scientists for anthrax bomb testing during World War II and was quarantined until 1990. The island is now safe and the beach has a wild, empty beauty typical of this stretch of Wester Ross coastline. The surrounding countryside is dominated by the dramatic Torridonian sandstone mountains.
No dog restrictions apply at Gruinard Beach. Year-round access.
At a Glance
Beach Must-Haves
Elite Paws Luxury Dog Drying Coat
£28.99 View on Amazon
LumoLeaf Portable Dog Water Bottles
£24.29 View on Amazon
Mud Daddy 8L Portable Pet Washing Device
£49.99 View on Amazon
Dog Travel Bag
£33.99 View on Amazon
Dog Tie Out Stake and Run Cable
£17.54 View on Amazon
Dog Life Jacket
£29.68 View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gruinard Beach is a great choice for dogs, earning a solid 8 out of 10 on our dog-friendly rating. There are no restrictions in place, so your dog can roam freely across the sand and take in the wild, open surroundings of this beautiful Wester Ross bay.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Gruinard Beach throughout the year with no seasonal restrictions. It's a particularly rewarding spot to visit out of peak season, when the beach's remote and unspoilt character really comes into its own.
Gruinard Beach is a remote spot with no facilities on site, so you'll need to come fully prepared — bring water, food, and anything else you and your dog might need for the day. The nearest amenities are in Ullapool and Gairloch, and parking is roadside off the A832 at Gruinard Bay. The dramatic Torridonian sandstone mountains make for a stunning backdrop, but the landscape here is genuinely wild, so good preparation is key.
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