Best Dog Friendly Holidays in Hampshire

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Made up of Portsmouth, Southampton, and Winchester, this seaside county is ideal for a summer getaway. With Beaches, forests, parks, castles, ruins and of course Stonehenge, Hampshire has something for everyone. Countryside Canine’s is a new initiative launched by Hampshires countryside service. It aims to let people know where they can walk their dogs off a lead and where they would like dogs to be on leads or on the paths. Coloured way marking discs will denote the areas making it easy for you to know what you can do where. We take a look at some of the best dog friendly places to visit and stay.

What beaches can I take my dog to in Hampshire?

These beaches are dog friendly but others in the area may offer dog friendly areas.

Gosport

Browndown Point Beach is a sand and shingle beach that is owned by the Ministry of Defence. It’s located near to Gosport, just outside of Portsmouth. In clear weather you can see straight across to the Isle of Wight. The beach backs on to Alver Valley Country Park (see below).

Lymington

Calshot beach forms part of a mile long shingle spit which reaches out into the mouth of Southampton Water giving great views of the ships coming and going from one of the UK’s largest ports.The beach also offers fabulous views of the Solent, Southampton and the Isle of Wight which is why it is the site of a 16th century castle. On the other side of the spit is an extensive salt marsh which is home to a wealth of birds and other wildlife.

Milford-on-sea

Milford on Sea Beach, is a long shingle beach with sand at the waters edge during low tide. Character beach huts line the beachfront and there are great views of the Isle of Wight & The Needles. To the west you can clearly see the Purbeck Hills, Hengistbury Head & Christchurch Harbour. Thers are various places to stop and refuel along the beach.

Are there any dog friendly parks in Hampshire?

There are some lovely parks in Hampshire with lots going on for all of the family.

The Alver Valley Country Park

Dogs are very welcome in Alver Valley, with a range of circular routes, a mix of terrain and fantastic views over the Solent there is something for every dog (and their owner). Dogs can run off-lead over large parts of the Country Park and there are a number of dog dips for those dogs that enjoy a paddle. The park is also great for cycling, running, angling, and also has a recreated 17th century village experience and play area for children. The Alver Valley Country Park

Itchen Valley Country Park

Itchen Valley Country Park is set in 440 acres of beautiful water meadows, woodland and meadows situated beside the River Itchen and has been recognised with ten Green Flag awards. Dogs are welcome at Itchen Valley with an designated area for them to run off lead. There is even a self service dog wash if things get really muddy! Events such as craft workshops and art exhibitions are often run, (check website for details and Covid-19 restrictions), there is a Go Ape on site, 2 outdoor play areas, an indoor play area, cafe and much more. Well worth a visit. Itchen Valley Country Park

What other dog friendly activities are available in Hampshire?

Robin Hill

If you have kiddies in tow then Robin Hill on the Isle of Wight is a great day out with dogs on leads being welcome. Robin Hill Country Park is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages. Set in 88 acres of beautiful countryside, the park provides fun, adventure and great family experiences. Offering a fantastic blend of rides, falconry and adventure play for fun loving families and children, and relaxing woodland gardens, ponds and walks for discerning adults to enjoy, there is something for everyone at Robin Hill. Robin Hill Country Park

New Forest Activities

New Forest Activities have a range of experiences for families and couples with dogs being welcome during canoeing and archery sessions. New Forest Activities

Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway

Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway is a popular attraction near to Southampton, offering a perfect for a day out. The steam trains run from the main station at Eastleigh Parkway, with the entire trip totalling 15-20 minutes. Dogs are more than welcome at the railway and are allowed everywhere, including the cafe. Dogs travel free on the trains. Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway.

Is there any dog friendly accommodation in Hampshire?

Indeed there is, please see the link below for our reccommendation.

Dog Friendly Log Cabins in Blackwood Forest, Hampshire sleeps 2-10 people and up to 4 pets per cabin, £££

What else should I consider taking with me?

Consider taking a map with you on your travels. Many people now rely on technology to get around but there is nothing more satisfying than using a traditional map, and better still you aren't reliant on signals and batteries.

OS New Forest, Hampshire & South Downs - Pathfinder walks guidebook from £12.99 excluding postage

OS Map of Salisbury & Stonehenge from £8.99 excluding postage