Paws and Paths: Navigating the Gower with Your Dog
- Jan 16
- 2 min read
There is a specific kind of joy in watching a dog experience the Gower for the first time. The sheer scale of the landscape, the variety of scents, and the freedom of the sand make it a canine paradise. At The Boathouse, we don’t just tolerate dogs - we welcome them as part of the family.

The Secret to Year-Round Beach Runs
One of the most common questions we get is about beach restrictions. While it’s true that the main part of Port Eynon Beach (from the slipway to the beach steps) has a seasonal dog ban from May to September, the Gower is incredibly accommodating. You simply need to walk a few hundred yards east toward Horton. This end of the beach is dog-friendly 365 days a year. The dunes here, known as the Burrows, offer miles of sandy trails where your dog can explore off-lead in a safe, enclosed environment.
Dog-Friendly Pitstops
You’ll find that ‘Dog-Friendly’ is the default setting for most Gower businesses. The Ship Inn and Smugglers Beach Bar both welcome well-behaved dogs in their bar areas and gardens. If you’re heading further afield, the walk to Mewslade Bay is fantastic for dogs, as the valley leading down to the sea is sheltered and full of interesting sights and smells.
A Note for Owners
The Gower is a working landscape. You will frequently encounter wild ponies and sheep grazing on the common land and cliff tops. Even the best-behaved dog can be tempted by a running sheep, so please keep them on a lead in these areas to protect the livestock and the local wildlife.





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