Par Sands has been named the UK’s best dog-friendly beach by PDSA vets ahead of the August bank holiday.  

A wide sandy expanse of golden sand backed by low dunes, just four miles from St Austell, Par Sands is dog-friendly all year round. It’s also popular for kite-surfing and windsurfing, thanks to south-westerly winds. In the UK, we’re lucky to be (literally) surrounded by amazing coastline and loads of beaches, which can be fun for us and our canine pals,” explains PDSA veterinary nurse Nina Downing. 

“But not every beach is dog-friendly, so before you go anywhere, research the area first to make sure there are no restrictions in place.” 

The advice for Par Sands: “It’s a lovely sandy beach surrounded by sand dunes and even has a little lake/pond. 

“It’s ideal for playing and walking with your dog and having a paddle in the sea. If you do go walking away from the beach, keep your dog on the lead in case of wildlife.” 

The beach topped a list of seven, which included Woolacombe in Devon, Weston-Super-Mare in North Somerset, Durdle Door in Dorset, Holkham in Norfolk, Bamburgh in Northumberland and St Bees in Cumbria.  

The poll was commissioned by PDSA Insurance.