Westward Ho! Beach
Devon
Westward Ho! offers around two miles of beach combining a distinctive pebble ridge with broad sandy sections that open up well at low tide, backed at the northern end by Northam Burrows Country Park with its open grassland and dune system. The village side has a more traditional seaside feel with promenade access, cafes, and shops. The beach holds Blue Flag status and is one of the more accessible options on the North Devon coast.\n\nThis dog friendly beach has year-round unrestricted access at the north end via Northam Burrows, making it the best starting point for dog owners. From May to September, dogs are restricted from the southern section closer to the village, but the Northam Burrows entrance provides immediate access to pebble, sand, and wide open space with rich coastal scenting along the tideline. Outside the restricted months, the full beach is available and dogs can explore freely across both halves. The country park behind adds valuable extra walking through open grassland, extending the outing well beyond the beach itself.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Seasonal Restrictions
- North end (north of Sandymere Bridge): year round, no restrictions. South end: no dogs from 1 May to 30 September. Dogs must be on leads on the promenade during restricted months
- Beach Type
- Sand, Pebble
- Tide Notes
- Good sandy stretches revealed at low tide, particularly on the southern half. The pebble ridge runs along the back of the beach year round
- Facilities
- Cafes, beach shops and toilets in Westward Ho! village. More limited facilities at the Northam Burrows end
- Parking
- Car parks by the seafront in Westward Ho! and at Northam Burrows Country Park (charges apply at both)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Westward Ho! Beach dog friendly?
Westward Ho! Beach is a solid choice for dog owners, earning a 7 out of 10 on our dog friendly rating. The north end of the beach, accessed via Northam Burrows Country Park, offers immediate access to pebble, sand, and open coastal space, and the country park itself adds extra walking through grassland beyond the beach.
Are dogs allowed at Westward Ho! Beach year round?
Yes, dogs have year-round unrestricted access at the north end of the beach through Northam Burrows Country Park, making it the most reliable entry point for dog owners. Between May and September, dogs are restricted from the southern section closer to the village, but outside those months the full beach is open and dogs can roam freely across both halves.
What should I know before visiting Westward Ho! Beach with my dog?
It's worth heading to the Northam Burrows end of the beach rather than the village end, especially in summer, as this keeps you clear of the seasonal restrictions and gives you access to the country park's open grassland for extra walking. Parking is available at both Northam Burrows Country Park and the village seafront, though charges apply at both. Facilities are more limited at the Northam Burrows end, so if you need cafes, toilets, or shops, these are found in Westward Ho! village.
Seafield Free Car Park, Merley Road, Westward Ho!, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1JU
51.0396, -4.2499
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