Dog friendly beach

The beach near Bridlington is one of the few stretches along this stretch of Yorkshire coast where dogs can actually run free without a lead - a proper rarity come summer. It's a working beach, nothing fancy, with the usual seaside clutter of pebbles and the occasional bit of seaweed, but that's precisely what makes it brilliant for animals. Your dog gets to be a dog here instead of being dragged past ice cream vans on a tight lead.

The reserve itself isn't huge, but it's functional. You get sea air, space to walk, and the chance to let your pet burn some energy while you take in the cliffs and that familiar East Yorkshire coastline. Dogs are the main draw - families with excitable spaniels or rescue mutts who need proper exercise will get genuine value from an hour or two here. Walkers who aren't fussed about their four-legged friend can enjoy it too, though it won't blow your mind if you're after dramatic scenery.

Being just 1.2 miles from South Cliff Holiday Park and within easy reach of Parkdean Resorts at Barmston Beach makes this a natural stop during a caravan holiday in the area. It's free, obviously, and accessible year-round - though winter is quieter and genuinely more pleasant if you want to avoid the school holiday chaos. Allow an hour minimum if you've got a dog that needs proper running space; less if you're just stretching your legs. Worth the detour if you're staying locally with a pet, less essential otherwise.