Old Hunstanton Beach
Norfolk
Old Hunstanton Beach sits just north of the main Hunstanton resort on Norfolk's unusual west-facing coast, where distinctive striped cliffs of white chalk and red-brown carrstone create one of the most photogenic shorelines in East Anglia. Because the beach faces west rather than east — unusual for Norfolk — it catches evening light and sunsets that are worth planning around. The dune-backed edges and absence of promenade give it a wilder, less managed feel than the main resort beach, with considerably more space and freedom.\n\nDogs are welcome year-round on this dog friendly beach without the restrictions that apply to the main Hunstanton promenade section. The firm sand near the waterline provides excellent walking and running ground, while the dune edges carry warm marram grass and chalky mineral scents from the cliffs that dogs tend to investigate thoroughly. At low tide the beach extends far out into the Wash, revealing wide firm sands ideal for long off-lead walks. The proximity to Hunstanton means refreshments and facilities are close at hand without compromising the peaceful atmosphere.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Beach Type
- Sand, Dunes
- Tide Notes
- The beach faces west into the Wash and the tide goes out a considerable distance, revealing wide firm sands ideal for walking. Arrive around low tide for the most space.
- Facilities
- Limited directly at the beach. Full facilities including cafés, toilets, and shops available in Hunstanton town a short walk south.
- Parking
- Car park at Old Hunstanton, PE36 6EQ
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Old Hunstanton Beach dog friendly?
Yes, Old Hunstanton Beach is a great choice for dogs and earns a solid 8/10 for dog friendliness. Unlike the main Hunstanton promenade, this stretch has no restrictions in place, giving dogs plenty of freedom to explore the firm sands, sniff around the dune edges, and roam off-lead when the tide goes out.
Are dogs allowed at Old Hunstanton Beach year round?
Dogs are welcome at Old Hunstanton Beach throughout the year with no seasonal restrictions. This makes it a reliable option whatever time of year you're visiting Norfolk, and a particularly good alternative to beaches that ban dogs during the summer months.
What should I know before visiting Old Hunstanton Beach with my dog?
The beach has limited facilities directly on site, so it's worth knowing that cafés, toilets, and shops are available in Hunstanton town just a short walk south. At low tide the sands extend far out into the Wash, opening up a generous amount of off-lead space, so timing your visit around the tide can make for a much longer walk. Parking is available at the Old Hunstanton car park, PE36 6EQ.
Visitor Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.
Old Hunstanton Car Park, Old Hunstanton Road, Hunstanton, Norfolk, PE36 6EL
52.9499, 0.4946
Get DirectionsWhat’s Nearby?
Hunstanton South Beach
Norfolk
The quieter southern section of Hunstanton's west-facing beach with longer seasonal restrictions (10 April to 31 October) on the central stretch, though South Beach itself offers more dog friendly access.
Beach3.8 mi awayThornham Beach
Norfolk
One of North Norfolk's most remote and beautiful beaches, reached via a half-mile walk through salt marsh, with no dog restrictions and outstanding AONB scenery all around.
Beach5.1 mi awayTitchwell Beach
Norfolk
A wide, sandy beach accessed via the spectacular RSPB Titchwell Marsh reserve with no beach restrictions, though dogs must be kept on leads on the mile-long path through the reserve.
Snettisham Beach
Norfolk
A wild Wash beach famous for the spectacular wading bird flights, with lead requirements during nesting season (1 April to 31 August) and an easy-access car park directly at the beach.
Beach6.7 mi awayBrancaster Beach
Norfolk
One of Norfolk's most reliably open and spacious beaches, with minimal restrictions outside the summer season.
Beach10.5 mi awayBurnham Overy Staithe Beach
Norfolk
A vast, remote sandy beach reached via a mile-long walk through stunning North Norfolk salt marsh, with no dog restrictions ever and one of the finest off-lead coastal walks in the county.
