Strete Gate Beach
Devon
Strete Gate is a section of the Slapton Sands shingle bar at its northern end, below the village of Strete and the cliffs that rise steeply above the coast road. The setting is straightforward: a wide shingle beach directly accessible from a car park off the A379, with toilets at the entrance and a food wagon serving hot drinks and snacks on most days during the season. The bar stretches away south towards Torcross with nothing to interrupt the walk, and the views out to Start Point on clear days are exceptional. It is less visited than the Torcross end and tends to be quieter, which suits those looking for a no-fuss beach walk rather than a full day out.
Dogs are welcome at Strete Gate all year with no restrictions, and the flat, wide shingle walk is one of the easier dog-friendly beach options in the South Hams regardless of season. The beach is accessible at all tide states and the shingle bar does not disappear at high water. The car park charges apply but the access from vehicle to beach is genuinely immediate, which makes it useful for a quick stop as well as a longer visit. The Cafe By The Sea food wagon is a welcome addition on cooler days when something warm to drink makes the difference.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Beach Type
- Shingle
- Tide Notes
- Shingle bar beach, flat and accessible at all tidal states. Wide and exposed, good for long walks in either direction along the bar.
- Facilities
- Toilets at the car park, Cafe By The Sea food wagon (most days, seasonal). Easy flat walking on the shingle bar.
- Parking
- Pay and display car park off the A379 coast road at Strete Gate (charges apply).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Strete Gate Beach dog friendly?
Yes, Strete Gate Beach welcomes dogs with no restrictions, earning a 7/10 dog-friendly rating. The wide, flat shingle bar makes for easy walking whatever the weather, and the immediate access from the car park to the beach means you can get your dog out for a stretch without any fuss.
Are dogs allowed at Strete Gate Beach year round?
Dogs are welcome at Strete Gate all year with no seasonal restrictions, which makes it one of the more reliably dog-friendly beaches in the South Hams. The shingle bar remains accessible at all tide states too, so you won't find yourself cut off or limited by the tide during your visit.
What should I know before visiting Strete Gate Beach with my dog?
The car park is pay and display off the A379, but access from the car to the beach is genuinely immediate, making it a practical choice for both quick stops and longer walks. There are toilets at the car park entrance, and the Cafe By The Sea food wagon is on site most days during the season if you fancy a warm drink. The beach stretches south along the shingle bar towards Torcross with nothing to interrupt the walk, and it tends to be quieter than the Torcross end.
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