Seven dog friendly days out in East Sussex
Castles, gardens and coastal adventures
Countryside walks, coastal adventures, medieval towns and villages with cobblestone streets, and more than the odd castle or two to explore, we adore dog friendly days out in East Sussex. There’s so many adventures to be had in this inspiring corner of England brimming with history and boasting some of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline. These seven will get you started but don’t let us stop you from discovering more.
RYE
Nestled between rolling hills and the English Channel, Rye is an East Sussex gem. Once surrounded by sea, this historic hilltop was originally built to defend the south coast of England. Nowadays, you’re more likely to find film crews floating around in search of historical settings for their period dramas, as opposed to warships.
In the centre, you’ll find cobbled lanes lined with medieval, half-timbered houses and the infamous Mermaid Street and The Mermaid Inn. Once the hangout of smugglers and highwaymen, it’s said to be one of the most haunted spots in Britain. St. Mary’s church tower offers the best viewpoint to marvel at the many terracotta roofs. Dogs can accompany you into the church and up the steeple but it’s quite a narrow, steep climb so bear that in mind before setting off.
Stop for lunch at The Standard Inn. Think cosy corners, beautifully carved beams, warming open fires for cold days and seasonal meals using locally sourced produce. Dogs are very welcome. Or if you’d prefer to sit in the sun, The Ship Inn is dog friendly and has outdoor seating. The food is divine, especially when paired with a glass of Balfour wine from the local Hush Heath Estate.
Finish your day with a walk around Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, a large coastal nature reserve with an abundance of wildlife. Four-legged friends will need to be kept on their leads around livestock, but they’ll thoroughly enjoy the fresh air and changing terrains.
CAMBER SANDS
Within walking distance of Rye, Camber Sands is home to soft sand and huge dunes (it’s the the only sand dune system in East Sussex) and is the perfect place for setting up camp for the day. Stretching for five miles, four-legged friends will have a blast running along the beach and splashing in the sea. Dogs are allowed all year round, but between May and September, they can’t go within certain zones. They’re clearly signposted so you won’t fail to spot them. If you’re planning on staying a while, don’t forget to take a water bowl for your pup. A towel to dry them off will also come in handy. Stay for sunset to experience truly incredible views.
BODIAM CASTLE
The National Trust’s Bodiam Castle welcomes dogs in almost all of its outdoor areas but not across the medieval bridge and within the interior of the castle ruins. However, the grounds make for a lovely walk and offer (we think) the best views of the castle. Take it in turns to pop to the top of the tower if you’d like to play lookout. You can see right across the county. If you’re travelling with children as well as four-legged friends, it’s the type of castle that little ones often see in picture books and fairy tales. They’ll love it.
While the castle is expectedly rather popular, not as many people know about The Hub at Quarry Farm, a stone’s throw over the River Rother. To get to The Hub, you simply need to amble along the lane from Bodiam Castle, head over the river and walk up the hill until you reach Quarry Farm. It’s such a find and very popular with dog owners. The Hub describes itself as a café, shop, meeting place and venue. There’s plenty of seating, both inside and out, and dogs are welcome in both. The barn is decorated with festoon lights and has a warm and rustic charm to it.
SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDEN
Sissinghurst Castle Garden is a great location for an amazing dog friendly day out. Vita Sackville-West, the poet and writer, began transforming Sissinghurst Castle in the 1930s with her diplomat and author husband, Harold Nicolson. It’s now a world renowned garden. Despite four-legged friends not being allowed into the formal garden itself, there are more than 450 acres for them to explore out on the estate. With lakes to jump into (our favourite area) and wide open fields to sniff around, pack a picnic and take your time.
SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
Situated in the South Downs National Park, you’ll find the world famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Loved by photographers, families and dog walkers alike, it’s a really popular park but there are plenty of quieter spots to stop and enjoy the open skies, stunning seascapes and changing landscapes. Check the weather forecast before you set off as access to the beach may be limited in bad weather or due to sudden cliff falls. On a clear day, few other dog walks can rival the views of the iconic Seven Sisters. The National Trust has put together some wonderful walks that encompass both the Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters.
KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY
Take a ride on the Kent & East Sussex Railway and enjoy a journey through the surrounding villages aboard a beautifully restored steam locomotive dating back to Victorian times. Dogs are very welcome to travel with you although not on the seats. If you climb aboard at Tenterden (you might recognise the station from its many TV appearances, including on Downton Abbey), you can enjoy a ten and a half mile picturesque trip through idyllic countryside to Bodiam and combine it with a visit to the castle before returning. Wouldn’t that be a wonderful dog friendly day out in East Sussex?
BEAUTIFUL BRIGHTON
Brighton is wonderfully welcoming to four-legged friends, especially the independent dog boutiques who can furnish your pooch with everything from leads to pyjamas. Alternatively, head to Brighton beach and take a gentle walk along the glorious English coastline. The flat path along the pebbly beach goes for miles. Away from the pier, there is plenty of space to play fetch. Dogs are permitted on all beaches in Brighton & Hove from 1st October to 30th April and there are specific stretches open to dogs outside of these dates.
Garden Café is an oasis in the heart of the Lanes in Brighton where dogs are always given a warm welcome by the friendly staff. A calm sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s perfect for brunch or a lazy lunch after a beach walk or an afternoon of shopping with your four-legged friends.
Alternatively, combining amazing local beers, a cosy atmosphere, and delicious Thai food, it’s no wonder that The Pond is a popular spot for locals and visitors to Brighton. Paw-fectly tucked behind the heart of the Laines, the charming dark underwater themed décor is complimented by beautiful greenery and the natural light that fills the space with warmth.
