Cornish local Baxter has the Woof Factor. Copyright 2012 ©VisitCornwall and Andy Smith

Let your pooch stretch their legs and have a doggy paddle while you hunt for fossils or explore the depths of a Cornish cave at one of these dog-friendly beaches with dog-friendly accommodation thrown in as well.

Bossiney Cove Beach, Cornwall

Just up the road from Tintagel, with its age-old castle ruins steeped in mystery, sits Bossiney Cove, a hidden sandy spot where your pooch can let loose. It’s a compact beach with beige sands wedged between a rugged cove – look out for the Elephant Rock hidden in the cliff face and be sure to explore the 60 foot-high cave that opens up into a large cavern. Just don’t lose the dog’s ball in there!  Be sure to check the tidal patterns beforehand as Bossiney is completely covered over at high water. To plan your dog-friendly holiday in Cornwall, take a look at cornwalllovesdogs.com

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby: The Mill House

Northumberland coastline

The North East coastline is a pooch paradise, with nearly all beaches allowing dogs to roam on a lead. Well known for its remote bays cuddled by dramatic sand dunes, wetlands alive with seabirds and ancient ruins dotted along the way, explore 64 miles of coastal path and charming little fishing villages such as Seahouses and Craster – famous for its oak-smoked kippers. The only area out of bounds is Newbiggin-by-the-Sea. Check out the dog walking guide for full details.

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby: Bamburgh Castle Inn

Bamburgh beach, Northumberland

Camber Sands, East Sussex

Camber Sands is one of Sussex’s best kept secrets and less than two hours away from London. It made a cameo in Carry On film Follow that Camel, was the backdrop for an iconic fashion shoot with Kate Moss and more recently stood in as an alien planet in Dr Who. And it’s easy to see why the camera crews flock to this part of south coast. Its vast stretch of unspoilt sands studded with sea shells is perfect for an energetic game of fetch while the tall grassy sand dunes behind add to its secluded and wild feel.

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby: Jeakes House Hotel, Rye

Woolacombe, Devon

This dramatic stretch of coastline in North Devon is a great place for walkies. Seasonal and area restrictions apply, but the overwhelming majority of this vast beach lets dogs run free. The beach has a blue-flag award to match the bright blue waters that curve along three miles of spongy golden sands. Wedged between two rocky points, it’s perfect for surfing, especially if you’re a beginner. And if you fancy a bite to eat after you’ve both shaken off the excess salty water, nothing beats warming your hands and stomach with a fish ‘n’ chip supper as you watch the sun melt into Woolacombe’s waters.

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby: Seafoam House, Ilfracombe

Woolacombe, North Devon

Cayton Bay, Scarborough, North Yorkshire

England’s oldest seaside resort has both a beach and a pub that caters for four-legged friends. The cosy Blacksmiths Arms is just a few minutes’ walk from Cayton Bay, a rugged sandy beach surrounded by grass-topped cliffs. Situated just below South Bay, it’s surfer-friendly too. But if you aren’t brave enough to hit the barrelling North Sea waves, you and your pooch can always hunt for fossils or discover a little bit of history in the form of the World War II pillboxes that were built to protect the coast from invasion.

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby: Cayton Bay Holiday Park