Blackpool with a dog

Blackpool is a good dog town: seven miles of beach, a flat promenade and plenty of open space just behind the seafront.

The beach

Parts of Blackpool beach have seasonal dog restrictions through the summer months, while other stretches stay open all year. The quieter northern sands towards Bispham and Cleveleys and the southern end towards St Annes are the usual choice in high season. Signs at each access point give the current rules — they are updated every year, so read the board rather than trusting an old blog.

Walks worth the trip

• Bispham cliffs to Cleveleys along the top path, then back along the sand.
• Stanley Park — lake, gardens, wide paths, easy hour.
• Lytham Green and the windmill, a tram and a short hop away.
• Fleetwood at the northern end of the tramline, for the ferry-slip views and a proper sea breeze.

Getting around

Dogs travel on Blackpool's trams and buses at the driver's discretion, which in practice means well-behaved dogs on leads are routine here.

While you're inside

Most indoor attractions do not take dogs. Plan the day so the indoor hours are split — one of you inside, one on the Prom — or use a morning walk and an afternoon attraction rather than trying to do both at once.

Staying

Several of our hotels take dogs by arrangement. Say so when you book so we put you in the right building and the right room, and let us know the size and number.