Shotley Marina - Leaving home

Tucked between the River Orwell and the River Stour, Shotley Marina sits in a truly unique location - directly opposite Felixstowe and Harwich. For sailors, it’s a well-run and practical stop, with excellent facilities and a friendly welcome. For us, it was also the perfect mix of boat maintenance, river walks, and Svea-friendly adventures. We, of course, had to begin with Shotley, as Pete had moored Rimau here for the past decade.

🐾 Dog-Friendliness of Shotley Marina

• Marina Policy: Shotley is a very dog friendly marina. Dogs are allowed on the pontoons and marina grounds, provided they are kept on a lead and under control. There are dog waste bins available on site. Many birth holders own dogs so there are many canine friends to be made.

• Facilities: While there aren’t dedicated dog facilities like fenced play areas or dog showers, the spacious layout and quiet ambiance are suitable for pets. Dogs are not allowed in the shower block, however there is space for them to be tied up outside.

• Staff Attitude: Pete had spent the last two years sailing in and out of Shotley with Svea. Staff are extremely friendly toward dogs and accustomed to sailors travelling with pets.

🌿 Best Dog Walks Near Shotley Marina

River Orwell and Shotley Vineyard

• Distance: A two-hour circular walk (extended if including wine-tasting)

• Details: Starting from the marina, cross the lock and proceed north along the River Orwell. After approximately a mile, a footpath sign directs you inland to one of Shotley's highlights - Shotley Vineyard. It is open from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays and Sundays for coffee, cake, and wine-tasting. Dogs are not permitted inside the main building but are welcome outside or in the tent. Walk uphill through the vines towards a church, then follow Oldhall Road back to Shotley village.

• Dog Notes: Ample off-lead areas during the initial part of the walk. A path runs along the main road back to the marina.

Shotley Gate Circular Walk

• Distance: ~3 miles (shorter options possible)

• Terrain: Coastal paths, village lanes, and fields

• Details: Start from the marina and head toward the HMS Ganges museum site, then loop through the village and along the Stour estuary shoreline. Lovely views across to Harwich and Felixstowe.

• Dog Notes: Mostly off-lead friendly except near roads. Sheep may graze in some fields— observe signs. Svea has encountered the odd bull too so watch out!

River Stour Estuary Path

• Distance: Varies – up to 5+ miles

• Terrain: Estuary-side footpaths

• Details: You can walk along the sea wall toward Erwarton or even as far as Harkstead. These paths offer beautiful, open vistas and minimal road traffic.

• Dog Notes: Off-lead suitable, though note seasonal nesting bird zones (lead may be required in spring/summer).

Shotley Heritage Park

• Distance: Short walks within a park area

• Details: Near the HMS Ganges mast, this small but pleasant area has benches, paths, and open spaces.

• Dog Notes: Nice for a morning or evening stroll.

Pin Mill - 10–15 min drive or longer walk

• Distance: 2+ hours walk along the Orwell

• Details: A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty featuring coastal woodland trails, creeks, and the renowned award winning Butt & Oyster pub, which welcomes dogs both inside and outside. Follow the directions for the River Orwell walk, however don't turn left off the path. This spot, popular with Pete for brunch is many locals favourite due to its excellent food, exceptional views and friendly staff.

• Dog Notes: Superb for off-lead walking with plenty of dog treats available at the bar. This is an out and back walk which Pete does regularly.

🍻 Dog-Friendly Cafés & Pubs Nearby

• The Shipwreck Bar & Restaurant (at Shotley Marina)

  Dogs are allowed on the outdoor terrace with a great view of Harwich and Felixstowe docks. It has strange opening hours and sometimes closed early in the evening if footfall is low. Staff are usually happy to provide water for dogs.

• The Bristol Arms

  A charming pub offering stunning views of Harwich. Dogs are welcome in the main bar and are pampered by the bar staff. The restaurant is excellent, featuring a wide selection of maritime dishes.

• The Rose Inn, Shotley

  Located a 15-minute walk from the marina, this place is dog-friendly both indoors and outdoors, offering quality pub food.

• Shotley Sailing Club, situated beside the Bristol Arms, also extends a warm invitation to visiting sailors. The bar offers very competitive prices since the club is operated by its members for their benefit. Both you and any canine crew members will be warmly welcomed. Please ensure dogs are kept on leads in the bar area.

  
  

Summary

✅ Pros:

• Superb walking routes directly from the marina

• Several exceptional dog-welcoming pubs

• Fantastic marina staff

• Easy access to long estuary walks and green space

• Plenty of dog bins

⚠️ Cons:

• No fenced dog area on site

• Must watch for sheep, bulls and nesting birds on longer walks. Svea can outrun the bulls however Pete can't. Yes ... there is a story there.

  
  

  Rating:

• Svea gives Shotley a 10 paw rating - 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾