Dog Walking Rules Come Into Force On Isle Of Wight Beaches Today

Some of the Isle of Wight’s most popular beaches will introduce dog walking restrictions from today (May 1) as part of seasonal measures to keep the coastline enjoyable for everyone.

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) means dogs are not allowed in certain areas of beaches in Colwell, Cowes, East Cowes, Freshwater Bay, Gurnard, Sandown, Shanklin, Springvale, Ventnor, Yaverland and Ryde between May 1 and September 30.

The rules are brought in each year during the busy summer season to help manage the Island’s coastline as visitor numbers increase.

Maps showing the restricted areas are available on the Isle of Wight Council website, with signage also in place at affected beaches.

Despite the seasonal restrictions, there are still plenty of beaches and coastal stretches where dogs are welcome all year round.

These include parts of Yaverland to the east of the car park, areas of Ryde seafront to the west of the pier and east of Appley Tower, as well as Seagrove Bay, Whitecliff Bay, Priory Bay and Bembridge Beach.

On the west side of the Island, dog-friendly options include Colwell Bay to the east of the slipway, Totland Bay and more remote locations such as Atherfield Bay, Brook Bay and Rocken End.

Other year-round dog walking spots include Chilton Chine, Steephill Cove and Bonchurch.

Dog owners are also reminded that under PSPO rules, dogs must be kept on leads on public roads, pavements and verges across the Isle of Wight.

The council says the measures help ensure beaches remain clean, safe and enjoyable for residents and visitors throughout the summer months.