Sailing with a dog into Blyth

Pete and Svea motored to Blyth without Jen and a foresail. Jen had returned to work in London, and the foresail was with Stephen Douthwaite, the sailmaker, for repairs. We highly recommend him! The weather was fair, and the journey was without incident. The first night, however, had over 40 knots of wind, resulting in a popped fender. No damage to the yacht, thank goodness. The yacht moored behind Rimau, however, hit a buoy on the way into Blyth and took a chunk out of the hull. Neither an autohelm nor an AIS can replace a good lookout.

30 years ago, Blyth was a vibrant mining town. Whilst it continues to make wind turbines, its best days are a distant memory. Blyth itself has an excellent yacht club; however, dogs are not welcome. There are many other canine-friendly locations reviewed below:

🐾 Dog-Friendliness of Blyth South Harbour Marina (RNYC)

• Marina Policy: Dogs are welcome aboard and on the pontoons if kept on a lead at all times.

• Facilities: No dedicated dog areas or bins within the secure marina compound, but easy access to green areas and beach walks nearby.

• Access: The marina is located in a quiet area with excellent access to South Beach, dunes, and promenade, just minutes on foot.

• Local Attitude: Blyth is dog-friendly, especially around the beach and parks, with locals often walking dogs near the coast.

🌿 Best Dog Walks in and Around Blyth

1. Blyth South Beach & Dunes

• Distance: 2–3 minutes walk from the marina gate

• Details: Wide, sandy beach stretching south toward Seaton Sluice; flanked by grassy dunes and a quiet promenade.

• Dog Notes:

  • Dogs are allowed year-round - no seasonal restrictions.

  • Fantastic for off-lead runs and paddling.

  • Dog waste bins are regularly spaced along the promenade.

2. Ridley Park

• Distance: ~0.5 mile north (~10-minute walk)

• Details: Well-maintained Victorian park with open lawns, shaded areas, and a small café.

• Dog Notes:

  • Dogs allowed on-lead throughout.

  • Off-lead is possible on the larger open green, if under control.

  • Café has outdoor dog-friendly seating and water bowls.

3. Blyth Quayside & Commissioners Quay

• Distance: Begins right outside the marina

• Details: Attractive waterfront with art installations and benches, ideal for short strolls or a pre-bedtime walk.

• Dog Notes:

  • On-lead walk.

  • Access to grassy areas near the RNLI station and beyond.

4. Cycle Path to Seaton Sluice

• Distance: ~2.5 miles south (walkable or cycle-able)

• Details: Coastal path through dunes and fields. Quiet and scenic.

• Dog Notes:

  • Off-lead potential once outside town.

  • Ends in another dog-friendly beach zone.

🐕‍🦺 Dog-Friendly Cafés & Pubs

• The Boathouse Café (on the quayside) 2-minute walk from the marina. Dogs welcome inside and out. Great for breakfast. Closes at 5pm

• Commissioners Quay Inn Directly across the water from the marina. Dogs allowed in the bar and terrace. Water bowls and treats available.

• Costa Coffee (Blyth)Some outside seating allows dogs, good for a quick stop.

✅ Summary

Feature	Assessment
Marina Policy	Dogs welcome on lead
Walks Nearby	Superb coastal access within minutes
Beach Access	Dog-friendly beach year-round
Pubs & Cafés	Multiple dog-friendly options by the quay
Off-lead Spaces	Yes – beach, dunes, and some green park areas

🧭 Tips for Visiting Sailors with Dogs

• South Beach and dunes are your #1 destination - quick access from the marina, rarely crowded, and no restrictions.

• For a shaded or more structured walk, Ridley Park is nearby.

• If you’re staying more than a day, the walk to Seaton Sluice is an easy scenic route with a good mix of terrain.

Verdict:  Svea gave Blyth eight paws 🐾🐾🐾🐾.