Suffolk is a fantastic place to holiday with your dog. Renowned for its wide-open countryside, gorgeous coastal views and abundance of wildlife, there is no shortage of great walks to explore. It is hard to beat the stunning and unspoilt landscape of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy a long hike in the ancient heaths, a brisk walk along the beautiful beaches or a gentle stroll down the pretty country lanes surrounding the picturesque Wool Towns and villages. The abundance of dog friendly attractions, places to eat and cosy cottages to rent makes Suffolk a fabulous place for a family adventure with your four-legged friends at any time of the year. Read more
Whether you have four legs or two, the fantastic variety of footpaths and trails in Suffolk is guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained. If you are looking to blow the cobwebs away and get your fill of salty sea air you should head to the Suffolk Coastal Path. Winding its way through ancient heath, shingle beaches, cliff tops and historic towns and villages you will find numerous walking trails. Explore the fascinating history, wonderful wildlife and stunning countryside on a walk around Trimley Marshes or enjoy some of the finest coastal scenery on the 6-mile Walberswick and Dunwich circular walk. Make sure you stop off at the National Trust’s Dunwich Heath and Beach where your dog can enjoy an off lead run on the beach all year round followed by a dog friendly ice cream in the tea room.
If you want to combine a walk whilst learning about the fascinating history of Suffolk’s Wool Towns that are characterised by their timber-framed Tudor houses, embark on one of the Suffolk Threads Trails. The traditional town of Clare is a particularly pretty spot. When you have explored the many historical gems including Clare Castle and the Country Park you can stretch your legs on one of the circular walks or stroll to the iconic pink village of Cavendish.
If you are after something a bit more wild, tackle the Brecks Trail in the Thretford Forest. The deep pine forest and purple heathland is home to rare wildlife and miles and miles of peaceful paths to explore. Arguably the best walks in Suffolk are those that start or end at a pub where you can enjoy a hearty lunch and a pint of local ale. There are several stunning walks from the dog friendly Sorrel Horse in Shottisham or enjoy the coastal Inn to Inn walk from the Ship in Dulwich to the Westleton Crown.
If you are looking to hang up your walking boots for the day take the family to The Suffolk Punch Trust where you can learn how these lovely horses shaped the local landscape before taking a walk around the farm. Or if buses and trams are more your thing, dogs are also welcome at the East Anglia Transport Museum where you can hop on and off a fantastic collection of working trams, buses and trains. If you want to make the most of the beautiful scenery you and your four-legged friend can explore Suffolk’s Rivers and Broads on a boat at Waveney River Tours. Or catch some waves, fly a kite and take the kids crabbing at the dog friendly beach at Walberswick.
Whether you are planning on staying in a cosy riverside cottage for two, a large coastal family pad or a luxurious hideaway, the abundance of dog friendly cottages to rent means your dog is welcome too.
