Lowestoft

Bye Bye Shotley ... the adventure has started. After a fruity sail, with the wind on the nose, Pete arrived safely at Lowestoft and was greeted on the pontoon by an old friend Bob Day. After a welcome beer and a quick nap, the challenge was on to check out the local pubs, walks, and facilities ... in that order.

Today started at 5:30 am with a visit to the local fishmonger's. After completing his provisioning, Svea took Pete on a 5-hour walk up the coast, pulling him into more refreshment holes, all in the name of research. We have one more day in Lowestoft, so the below reviews may change slightly.

🐾 Dog-Friendliness of Lowestoft Haven Marina

• Marina Policy: Dogs are allowed on the pontoons and marina grounds, without a lead. Facilities and very clean and staff extremely friendly.

• Facilities: There are no designated dog facilities (like fenced runs or dog showers), but the marina is secure, with space for short walks.

• Dog Waste Bins: Available near the marina office and around Royal Plain.

  
  

🌳 Best Places to Walk a Dog in and Around Lowestoft

1. South Beach & Royal Green

• Distance: Flexible; walk as long as you like along the promenade

• Access: 5-minute walk from the marina

• Details: The South Beach promenade is wide and mostly quiet outside of peak season. Royal Green (a grassy public space) is perfect for a quick stretch or play.

• Dog Notes: Seasonal beach restrictions apply (May–Sept: dogs banned from main bathing beach, but allowed south of Claremont Pier and in marked zones). Off-lead possible on the green, on-lead on prom.

  
  

2. Kensington Gardens

• Distance: 0.5 miles from marina (~10 min walk)

• Details: Beautiful landscaped park with ornamental gardens, a pond, and shaded paths.

• Dog Notes: Dogs allowed on lead. A peaceful place for a calm stroll.

3. Sparrows Nest Park & The Denes

• Distance: 1.3 miles north (~25 min walk or 5 min drive)

• Details: Sparrows Nest Park is a historic parkland with a café (dog-friendly), and the adjacent Denes is a grassy coastal stretch popular with local dog walkers.

• Dog Notes: Great off-lead areas, open space, and not usually crowded.

4. Pakefield Beach & Cliffs

• Distance: 2.5 miles south (~10 min drive or cycle)

• Details: Quiet, dog-friendly beach year-round with lovely views and open walking. Popular with dog walkers.

• Dog Notes: No seasonal restrictions. Wide-open beach and cliffside greens.

5. Kessingland

• Distance: 2 hour each way - out and back walk along the coast

• Details: Beautiful, dog-friendly coastal walk. Head South along the promenade until you hit the coastal path towards Southwold. The canine welcoming Oddfellows Arms has good food and is 30 minutes walk if you want a shorter stroll. Pete and I have complete the entire coast line to Southwold in the past. We did have to cross a river (waist deep) just before the town so only carry on if you have your swimming kit.

• Dog Notes: No seasonal restrictions and plenty of dog friendly pubs along the way.

🐕‍🦺 Dog-Friendly Sailing Clubs, Pubs and Cafe's Near the Marina

• Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club

  Very welcoming to visiting sailors. Svea was not allowed in the club house but could stay on the grounds. Does an excellent breakfast.

• The Mariners Rest

  Local corner pub close to the marina worth a visit. Pete was going to watch his beloved Tottenham beat Man U here, however he fell asleep so missed Spurs win the Europa League Final. Dog friendly throughout.

• Iconic Café (Royal Plain)

  Just steps from the marina; outdoor seating welcomes dogs. Serves breakfast and lunch.

• The Harbour Inn

• On the seafront near South Pier. Dog-friendly both indoors and outdoors. Ideal for a post-walk pint or meal.

• Lord Nelson Pub

  Very traditional friendly pub that will take you back in time. Cash only (well that is what they told Pete). Good if you want affordable pub fare with your dog beside you.

✅ Summary

Feature	Assessment
Marina Policy	Dogs allowed, very friendly staff
Walks Nearby	Several green and coastal options
Beach Access	Seasonal restrictions on South Beach only
Pubs & Cafés	Multiple within 5–10 min walk
Off-lead Spaces	Yes, at The Denes and Pakefield Beach