Worthing’s relaxed coastal charm makes it one of the South Coast’s most underrated gems for dog owners. With its mix of year-round dog-friendly beaches, spacious parks, and a growing number of welcoming pubs and cafés, it offers everything you need for a fuss-free trip with your four-legged friend. Whether you’re stopping by for a weekend or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you sniff out the best of dog-friendly Worthing.

🐾 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Worthing

While the central beach near the pier has seasonal dog restrictions, there are several stretches of coastline where pups can paddle and run all year round.

1. Goring-by-Sea Beach

A spacious pebble and sand beach that becomes wonderfully expansive at low tide. It’s open to dogs year-round and is one of the top spots for a game of fetch or a peaceful stroll with sea views.

• Facilities: Parking, toilets, dog-friendly cafés like Sea Lane Café

• Why Visit: Uncrowded, especially in the mornings and outside school holidays

2. Ferring Beach

A short drive west of Worthing, Ferring is a quiet, residential beach that welcomes dogs all year. At low tide, it transforms into a vast playground of sand and shallow rock pools.

• Tip: Visit the nearby Bluebird Café, which allows dogs inside and out and has excellent sea views.

3. Goring Gap

Nestled between Goring and Ferring, this is a wide-open space with grassy fields leading directly to the beach. It’s a firm favourite with local dog walkers, especially in the evenings.

• Why It’s Great: The combination of open space and sea access makes it perfect for high-energy breeds.

4. East Worthing Beach

This lesser-known stretch is great for avoiding the crowds and has no formal dog restrictions. It’s located east of the town centre, near Brooklands Park.

• Good For: Long, relaxed walks with minimal interruptions

5. Lancing Beach (just east of Worthing)

Although technically just outside Worthing, Lancing Beach is only a 10-minute drive away and is well worth the detour. Dogs are allowed on certain stretches year-round, and the promenade is perfect for long strolls.

• Bonus Stop: The Perch on Lancing Beach is a stylish dog-friendly café with outdoor seating and direct sea views.

🌿 Dog-Walking Parks and Green Spaces in Worthing

Brooklands Park

Recently upgraded, this large park includes a boating lake, new landscaping, and multiple walking paths. Dogs are welcome throughout, and it’s close to East Worthing Beach for a sea-and-park combo walk.

Highdown Gardens & Highdown Hill

For a walk with history, flora, and panoramic views, Highdown is unbeatable. Dogs must be on leads in the gardens but can roam freely on the surrounding hills.

• Great For: Calm, scenic walks and views across the South Downs and sea

The Gallops (Findon Valley)

Just north of town, The Gallops is open countryside ideal for off-lead adventures. With fresh air, space to sprint, and long-distance views, it’s the go-to spot for local dog walkers.

Victoria Park

Located near the town centre, this Victorian-era park is perfect for quick morning or evening strolls. It has open lawns, shaded paths, and is often full of other dogs for a friendly sniff-around.

🍻 Pubs and Cafés That Roll Out the Red Carpet for Dogs

The Corner House

An independent pub with a dog-friendly garden and a warm indoor welcome. They provide water bowls, dog biscuits, and fuss from the staff.

The Beach House

Ideal after a long beach walk, this laid-back pub serves craft beer and artisan pizza, and happily welcomes dogs indoors and on the terrace.

Munch Coffee Bar & Kitchen

This central Worthing favourite offers generous brunches and home-baked cakes. Dogs are welcome inside, and water bowls are always available.

CrabShack

A must-visit for seafood lovers. The outdoor deck is dog-friendly, and the relaxed vibe makes it ideal for summer evenings.

The Cow Shed

A rustic, dog-welcoming bar and grill with a strong local following. Dogs are allowed inside and will usually be greeted with a bowl of water and a treat.

🏡 Pet-Friendly Places to Stay in Worthing

Planning a weekend or longer stay with your pup? Worthing has a variety of short-let accommodations that welcome dogs, from seaside apartments to cosy homes with enclosed gardens.

Pass the Keys, a trusted short-let property management company, offers a curated selection of dog-friendly holiday rentals in Worthing. Their properties come fully equipped with amenities, digital check-in, and many have easy access to parks or beaches. Hosts that partner with Pass the Keys often include thoughtful touches like dog bowls or blankets, making your stay stress-free.

🐶 Final Thoughts: Why Dogs (and Humans) Love Worthing

Worthing blends everything a dog-friendly destination should have: long beaches, green open spaces, a welcoming hospitality scene, and a laid-back pace perfect for sniffing and strolling. Whether you’re sipping a local ale at a beachside pub, wandering the historic Highdown Hill, or watching your pup dig to their heart’s content at low tide, you’ll find that Worthing knows how to treat its furry visitors.

With plenty of pet-friendly stays available through Pass the Keys, you can plan your coastal escape knowing that your dog will be just as comfortable as you are. So pack the lead, grab the treats, and head to the Sussex coast for a break both you and your pup will remember.