Discover our dog friendly travel guide

Dog‑approved beach adventures

The Warren – If your pup loves a bit of wilderness, The Warren is a must‑visit. This area combines cliff‑top paths, scrubby undergrowth, and sea views – perfect for sniffing, exploring, and socialising with local canine regulars.

Sunny Sands – Dogs are welcomed on leads on Sunny Sands between 1 October and 30 April, making it one of the best seasonal beach walks in Folkestone. Pups love running on the sand,  splashing in the shallows and hanging out with their pup pals!

Sandgate Beach – A long stretch beside the castle, Sandgate Beach is another soothing seaside stroll – especially lovely at sunrise when the sea sparkles and tails are wagging.

Dymchurch and Greatstone Beaches – Dymchurch Beach: Broad sands and open horizons just a few minutes from the main Dymchurch beach. There is so much space to stretch their legs and play for hours – don’t forget to bring a ball! Greatstone Beach is calm, peaceful beach walks ideal for relaxed beach days and endless games of fetch.

Lower Leas Coastal Park – For even more scenic trails with sea views and countryside vibes, check out stretches like Lower Leas Coastal Park – perfect if your pup needs shade or you’re chasing the perfect golden hour photo together.

(Important note: Some seasonal dog restrictions apply on beaches in the summer months — always check signage before letting dogs off lead.)

Dog‑friendly cafes, pubs & bars

Folkestone has seriously embraced its four‑legged residents and visitors and welcome them into their cafe’s and restaurants. Our dog friendly travel guide to Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh gives you loads of inspiration for eating out with your beloved pup in tow!

The Radnor Arms and The Pullman – Classic British pubs in Folkestone town, both with a relaxed dog‑friendly vibe.

The Pilot and Little Rock (Folkestone) and The Lazy Shack (Hythe) – With seating directly on the pebbles, dining with your pup has never been easier!

Harbour Inn –  Dramatic harbour views and outdoor seating for pups to enjoy the sea breeze.

Djangos – A busy town café where dogs are always welcome and the food is always tasy!

Steep Street Café – Friendly coffee spot in Folkestone’s Old Town where pups are welcome, and you can grab a bite or a cappuccino while they relax by your side.

The Harbour Arm –  Bars, street food, and outdoor seating with stunning sea views – dogs are more than welcome to join the fun at so many of the vendors on the Harbour Arm. Harbour Coffee and Sailbox both have outside seating and welcome doggos with open arms!

Unit 1 – The perfect stop-off during a dog walk along the Royal Military Canal, Unit 1 has become a haven for dog-walkers, hikers and cyclists alike. The team even have treats and water bowls on hand ready to welcome your beloved pup!

Pup‑Friendly Places to Stay

Planning a getaway and can’t imagine leaving your four-legged friend behind? Good news – you don’t have to. Across Folkestone, Hythe and the wide landscapes of Romney Marsh, you’ll find a whole host of pet-friendly places to stay!

Voco Folkestone – Looking for a modern, stylish stay by the sea? This is a brilliant choice. Dogs are warmly welcomed in the bar, reception and outdoor areas, making it easy to relax together after a day exploring. Expect contemporary comfort, sea views and a genuinely dog-friendly attitude.

The View Hotel – True to its name, this hotel offers stunning coastal views – and your dog is welcome to enjoy them too. With easy access to the seafront for morning walkies and sunset strolls, it’s a great base for a classic seaside escape.

The Castle Hotel – Tucked away in the charming village of Saltwood, this pub-with-rooms is full of character. Think cosy interiors, hearty food, and a warm welcome for dogs. After a countryside ramble, it’s the perfect place to settle in for the evening, pup at your feet, drink in hand.

Bloom Stays and Keepers Cottages – A curated collection of beautiful holiday homes across Kent, many of which are dog-friendly. Expect stylish interiors, thoughtful touches, and locations close to coast and countryside.

Camping, glamping & wild escapes – For pups who love the great outdoors, this region is a dream. Across Romney Marsh and the surrounding countryside, you’ll find a huge range of camping and glamping options – from traditional campsites to safari tents and shepherd’s huts. Just be sure to check site rules – some locations may require dogs to be kept on leads, especially near wildlife and grazing animals.

Walks beyond the beach

While the coastline often steals the spotlight, there’s a whole world of tail-wagging walks beyond the beach across Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh. Think leafy parks, peaceful canals, wild coastal paths and wide-open countryside – perfect for curious noses and happy paws.

Brockhill Country Park – A short hop from Hythe, this country park is a hidden gem. With woodland walks, a lake, and wide grassy areas, it’s perfect for a full morning or afternoon outing. There’s even a café on-site for a well-earned post-walk treat.

Royal Military Canal Path – If you’re after a calmer, more leisurely stroll, the canal path between Folkestone and Hythe is spot on. Flat, peaceful and lined with greenery, it’s great for long, relaxed walks. Combine with Unit One along the route for refreshments.

Reinden Woods – Walk the circular routes of this beautiful patch of woodland in Densole, near Folkestone. Positioned in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Reinden Wood is an important habitat for woodland plants and butterflies – a truly beautiful spot for a stroll.

Extra special treats for your beloved fur babies!

In Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh dogs aren’t just tolerated – they’re celebrated!

Not for Humans, Old High Street – This adorable pet shop is a must-visit! Whether you’re looking for dog treats, advice, or just a friendly spot to have a chat and browse, the team here welcomes both pups and humans alike. Perfect for picking up something special for your furry companion.

Dog Deli at Folkestone Harbour Marketplace offers nutritious, natural snacks and treats – ideal for training or post‑walk rewards – and they even opened a second spot in Dymchurch!

Top Tips for Happy Walks

• Always be mindful of local dog restrictions

• Keep dogs on leads in areas with wildlife or grazing animals

• Bring water, especially for longer countryside walks

• Pack towels – muddy paws are part of the adventure!

• Always carry poop bags and help keep these beautiful spaces clean

From cliffside freedom to sandy beaches, pup‑approved cafes and restaurants, to woodland walkies and charming pet shops like Not for Humans, every trip to the area is full of happy owners and wagging tails. We hop this dog friendly travel guide to Folkestone Hythe and Romney Marsh has inspired you to pack your leash, treats, and sense of adventure – your pup’s next great holiday awaits!