Dogs banned May 1 – September 30
Dogs banned 1 May–30 September. Shell Bay at the north end and South Beach remain dog-friendly year-round.
Year-round alternative: Shell Bay (north end) is dog-friendly year-round. South Beach remains open to dogs.
About Studland — Knoll Beach
Knoll Beach is a vast, sandy stretch forming part of Studland Bay, backed by sand dunes and heathland. It offers a beautiful natural environment for dog walkers, with clear waters and ample space for exploration. Dogs are welcome all year, with seasonal lead restrictions to protect wildlife.
Notable features: Sand dunes, heathland, views of Old Harry Rocks. Northern end towards Shell Bay is a naturist beach.
Dog Tips
Dogs welcome all year. October 1 to April 30: dogs can be walked off-lead. May 1 to September 30: dogs must be on a lead of less than 2m anywhere on the beach. March 1 to July 31: dogs on leads in the heathland and dunes to protect ground-nesting birds. Dog bins and water bowls available. Owners are urged to pick up dog waste. Dogs can swim in the sea off lead all year round. Keep dogs on lead near cliffs due to fall risk. Avoid letting dogs enter Little Sea due to beavers.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is popular for beach trips and water activities, but can be crowded. Spring and early autumn are ideal for quieter visits. Parking is expensive in summer, more affordable out of season.
Hazards to be aware of
Live World War Two ammunition, Barbecues and fires not permitted, Metal detecting by permit only, Drones not permitted, Rip current risk, Sharp objects/litter hidden in the sand, Ticks and adders in heathland, Dogs falling from cliffs, Beavers in Little Sea.
Car park available at Knoll Beach. ANPR number plate recognition in place. Pay using bank cards or coins at machines or Justpark app. Free for National Trust members. Coach parking available. Blue Badge holders park free. Overnight parking and camping not permitted. Four car parks in Studland Bay with varying prices. Spaces for disabled people at Knoll car park. Postcode for sat-nav: BH19 3AH.
Postcode for sat nav: BH19 3AH
Café (at Knoll Beach, open all year), Shop (at Knoll Beach, open all year), Toilets (at Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and Shell Bay car park). Changing Places toilet at Knoll Beach. Bookshop. Slipway. Freshwater showers available. Dog waste bins available. No lifeguard service.
Mixed and uneven terrain throughout. Designated accessible parking. Accessible toilets at Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and Shell Bay. Changing Places toilet at Knoll Beach. Level access from disabled parking to changing room, café and shop. Disabled drop-off point at end of drive at Knoll Beach. Level access to food outlet and shop. Powered mobility vehicle (all-terrain electric wheelchair) and beach wheelchairs available for free hire at Knoll Beach visitor reception.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Pubs
Bankes Arms Studland
dog friendly
Old Harry Bar Studland
dog friendly, free dog treats and dog beer (water) outside.
Nearby Cafés & Restaurants
Knoll Beach Café
outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, water bowls available, dog ice creams available.
Location
Postcode: BH19 3AH
Nearby Dog Walks
Old Harry Rocks from Studland
The eastern end of the Jurassic Coast
Studland to Old Harry Rocks — Family Coastal Walk
The classic easy coastal walk — accessible for all
Durlston Country Park, Swanage
320 acres of limestone headland and coastal wildlife