What Are The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches In Yorkshire For An Autumn Walk?

There's a special kind of magic in the air when summer packs its bags and autumn arrives. The air gets a bit crisper, the light gets a bit softer, and for dog owners, it signals the best time of year. Why? Because many of the summertime dog restrictions on UK beaches are lifted, and the huge crowds vanish. Suddenly, the coast belongs to the walkers, the explorers, and most importantly, the happy dogs. If you're looking for the perfect spot for a coastal adventure, the Yorkshire coast is calling your name. An expert from Away Resorts, a company that knows a thing or two about creating the perfect dog-friendly holiday, has shared a list of the top spots. So, grab a lead, pack some treats, and get ready to discover your new favourite place.

Hunmanby gap: peace and quiet for your pup

Just south of Filey lies a stretch of golden sand so wide and peaceful it feels like a well-kept secret. Hunmanby Gap is one of those special beaches that’s absolutely perfect for dogs who need space to be themselves. Imagine your four-legged friend sprinting across the vast, sandy expanse, ears flapping in the sea breeze, without a care in the world. The gentle waves are brilliant for a bit of a paddle, even for nervous water-dogs.

What makes it so good is how quiet and crowd-free it is. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed walk away from the hustle and bustle you find at more popular resorts. The gently sloping cliffs that surround the bay create a stunning backdrop, making it a beautiful place for both dogs and owners to unwind and soak in the views of the Yorkshire coast. This is proper quality time.

Runswick bay: a picture-perfect coastal village

Tucked away between Staithes and Whitby, Runswick Bay is like something straight off a postcard. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, but it’s the calm, friendly atmosphere that makes it a winner for a dog-friendly day out. The sandy shoreline is perfect for sniffing, digging, and strolling, and the shallow waters invite a good splash about.

A massive bonus for owners is that the beachfront is car-free, which gives everyone that extra bit of peace of mind. After your walk along the shoreline, the charming little village is the perfect place to warm up. You can grab a hot chocolate from a cosy café and just sit and watch the waves roll in. It’s a real gem on the Yorkshire coast and a fantastic place to make memories during an autumn staycation.

Flamborough's north landing: an adventure playground

If you and your dog are the adventurous types, then North Landing at Flamborough is the place for you. Forget long, flat stretches of sand; this is all about dramatic scenery. With its massive white cliffs, hidden coves, and rugged paths, it feels like a proper exploration. This spot is brilliant for energetic pups who love more than just a simple run.

The mix of sandy patches, rock pools teeming with interesting smells, and coastal paths means there’s always something new to investigate. It’s a fantastic choice for a longer weekend walk, where you can breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the incredible views across the North Sea. For an active dog, Flamborough offers a natural playground that’s hard to beat.

Cayton bay: wild and unspoilt fun

Just a stone's throw south of Scarborough, Cayton Bay has a cool, laid-back vibe. It’s a favourite with walkers and surfers, and it’s easy to see why. The long, sweeping sandy shoreline gives dogs loads of room to roam, especially when the tide is out and the beach feels endless. It’s a place that feels wild and a bit raw, in the best possible way.

With cliff-top paths offering amazing views and a generally unspoilt feel, Cayton Bay is perfect for dogs and owners who love feeling close to nature. It’s a place to escape the everyday and just enjoy the simple pleasure of a walk on a beautiful, open beach. This is one of the top-tier Yorkshire beaches for a truly refreshing day out.

Marske sands: for the ultimate zoomies

For a truly epic, open-space experience, Marske Sands is absolutely brilliant. Situated between Redcar and Saltburn, this beach is flat, sandy, and seems to stretch on for miles. If your dog loves a proper, full-pelt run, this is their paradise. It’s the kind of place where you can throw a ball and watch them go for what feels like an eternity.

The gentle waves and uncrowded paths also make it a top choice for a peaceful winter walk or an off-season adventure. It’s one of those dog-friendly beaches that’s all about freedom and space. A trip to Marske Sands is guaranteed to leave you with a very tired and very happy dog.

A staycation that’s perfect for pets

Choosing a UK-based holiday has become more and more popular, and it’s easy to see why, especially if you have a dog. Dan Doherty, an Insight Manager at Away Resorts, understands this perfectly.

“As more travellers look for relaxing, crowd-free alternatives to busy hotspots abroad, Yorkshire continues to stand out as an ideal staycation choice for dog owners,” says Dan Doherty. He points out that the Yorkshire coast offers everything you could want for a pet-friendly break.

“These beaches showcase the best of the Yorkshire coast, giving dogs space to run, while owners enjoy beautiful scenery, peaceful walks and a true breath of fresh air. For anyone planning a pet-friendly holiday this year, Yorkshire is hard to beat.”

Find out more about The Bay Filey and what's on offer for dogs.