Dog Walks on The Suffolk Coast

National Trust Dunwich Heath is a real treat for dogs and owners alike. Look out for the free of charge forestry car park on the Westleton Road just before you arrive in Dunwich. The paths here take you through glorious woodland as well as open areas of heath and towards the beach. 

You’ll find an abundance of picnics spots en route to recharge and refresh – This is ‘dog heaven’ and not too bad for humans either! For more information, Dunwich Heath have put together this helpful guide to taking your dog: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunwich-heath-and-beach/visitor-information/dogs.

For something less rural, the quintessential Suffolk market town of Bungay and the surrounding area offers three great circular walking routes to choose from.

There's a selection of free and pay and display parking available, for the shorter option; a two and a half mile stroll around Outney Common or for the more ambitious, take on the five and a half mile 'Bigod Way' walk around Bungay, Earsham and the Bath Hills.

Probably a walk for the more experienced walkers among us, requiring sturdy boots and a copious supply of water!At Westleton Heath there are paths galore here, winding through woodland glades, across fields and moorland and along trickling streams.

This part of the county is home to some of Suffolk's prettiest churches too; follow the Angels & Pinnacles church trail from St Andrew's Walberswick to St Peter's in Westleton (6.5 miles) or for shorter routes, try the Walberswick to Blythburgh or Southwold to Walberswick routes.

Download the map and trail here:

http://angelsandpinnacles.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/AP-Southwold-Trail-8.pdf 

Taking in fields and riverside paths, along the sea wall and over stiles, the 6.4 mile walk commencing at Felixstowe Ferry is for the seasoned dog walker. The walk takes at least 3 hours, but is worth it to take in views of the Deben estuary.

For a slightly easier stroll, walk along the River Deben, and enjoy views of the UK's last working tide mill in Woodbridge. Free parking is available at The Avenue car park. Take a look at our guide to the Deben Peninsula for more things to do and walks.

The wild beaches of Kessingland and Pakefield are perfect for dogs who love a splash in the sea. The cliffs at Kessingland are replaced by dunes, maram grass and fisherman's boats at Pakefield. If you've still got some energy, continue on to the golden sands at Lowestoft, or head into the coastal villages for a wander round the winding coastal lanes.

For more walking routes and inspiration take a look at our Walking Guide