The UK’s coast and countryside is a breathtaking canvas, especially during winter, when storms whips the sea into frenzy and cast dramatic light across rolling hills. So don’t hide away in the chilly months, for the winter scenery is a mesmerising, ever-changing spectacle to behold. And if you’re a dog owner, you’ve got the perfect excuse to get outside and experience the raw power of nature on wild walks. So wrap up and head out with your camera and your canine companion, to go storm watching in these awe-inspiring locations – from the rugged peaks of Scotland to the windswept cliffs of Cornwall.
Cape Cornwall
There are few more dramatic places to experience wild storms scudding across the Atlantic than the South West Coast Path. Which is also one of our favourite places for dramatic winter walks with your dog. The promontory of Cape Cornwall, where the Atlantic meets the Irish Sea, is a tremendous spot to feel the sheer power of nature and watch two oceans collide. It’s up to you if you want to extend your walk towards Land’s End and explore more of Cornwall on foot, or turn back and warm up with a treat at the Little Wonder Cafe in the National Trust car park.
Stay nearby at: Nanpean Barn, where 2 guests and a dog can squirrel away close to the wild coastline.
Flamborough Head, Yorkshire
Yorkshire’s exposed coastline, where towering cliffs and rugged beaches meet swirling clouds and dramatic skies, is a incredible location for storm watching. Head out on paw and foot along Flamborough Head for breathtaking views of waves crashing against stunning chalk cliffs, or scamper along the five-mile Filey Beach combing for beach treasure and playing fetch with Fido. When you’ve had enough of stormy weather, dry off in one of the dog-friendly cafés in nearby Bridlington.
Stay nearby at: Rosewood Cottage, which sleeps 4 + 1 dog in Flamborough Village.
St Bees Head, Cumbria
Looking for the contrast of wild beauty and dramatic storms to experience with your dog? Head to St Bees Head, one of the many stunning spots for a dog walk in the Lake District, Cumbria – especially when winter storms roll in. Trot along the coast paths with your canine companion, looking out for seabirds while watching the Irish Sea crashing against majestic cliffs, then retreat to the Lakeland village of St Bees, where you can let your dog loose on the beach before warming up with a cuppa in the dog-friendly tearoom.
Stay nearby at: Seaspray, sleeping 4 + 2 dogs between the coast and the Lake District National Park.
Ben Nevis, Scotland
If it’s not too stormy to stomp into the mountains, then Ben Nevis offers dramatic views of the Scottish Highlands. The summit is a challenging hike, especially in wild and chilly weather, but if conditions and your fitness levels prevail, the views from the top are well worth the effort. On a clear day you can see the coastlines of the Atlantic and the North Sea, but when storms whisk clouds across the sky, enjoy the golden light and glimpses of the peaks and lochs smattering the landscape. When you’re done with chasing storms you can seek out a cosy local inn for a dram of whisky by the roaring fire.
Stay nearby at: Black Grouse, sleeping 2 + 1 dog in a luxury cabin overlooking Fort William.
The Cobb Harbour Wall, Lyme Regis, Dorset
Immortalised in films including Persuasion and The French Lieutenant’s Woman, during winter storms this iconic harbour wall on Dorset‘s Jurassic Coast continues to be a dramatic stage, with giant waves crashing against it, creating plumes of sky-high spray. While venturing onto the wall is dangerous during storms, take in the drama on a leisurely walk through Langmoor Gardens, or over pie and mash in the dog-friendly Beach and Badger café on the seafront.
Stay nearby at: Alcove View, which sleeps 6 + 1 dog in a sea-view apartment..
Berry Head, Torbay, South Devon
Surrounded by the ocean on three sides, Berry Head provides panoramic views across Torbay and South Devon, making it a prime location for storm watching and wildlife spotting. Witness wild winter storms and panoramic sea views on a web of dog-friendly trails etched into the headland, keeping your dog on a lead to keep them safe and protect resident wildlife as you explore the rugged terrain between the lighthouse and a Napoleonic Fort.
Stay nearby at: Honeysuckle Bay Cottage, which sleeps 4 + 2 dogs on the outskirts of Brixham.
Snowdonia National Park, Wales
The stunning Snowdonia National Park is a dramatic backdrop for winter storm watching, as rain lashes the valleys and mist descends on the peaks. In unpredictable weather taking on the challenge of Mount Snowdon isn’t the wisest of walkies, but you can enjoy the landscape drama from dog-friendly trails around Llyn Padarn and Llyn Dinas. Or, head to Holyhead on Anglesey, where you can watch the waves pounding the shoreline with a backdrop of the majestic mountains of Snowdonia.
Stay nearby at: Happy Landing, sleeping 2 + 1 dog in a sea-view cottage.
Porthleven, Cornwall
This tranquil fishing village transforms into a storm watcher’s paradise when huge winter swells crash against the shallow reef just offshore, and waves explode with mighty spray that wraps around the clock tower. In fact, during the historic storms of 2013 and 2014, when Hercules and Eunice pounded the Cornish coast, this was one of the most photographed landmarks in Britain. While the harbour wall and beach are strictly off-limits in big storms, you can take in the scenery from the more sheltered walking trails around the Penrose Estate, or enjoy a front-row seat at the dog-friendly Ship Inn.
Stay nearby at: Harbour Lights, sleeping 5 + 1 dog in a sea-view harbour cottage.
Storm-watching Safety Tips
- Check the forecast: Not only will this increase your chances of witnessing impressive weather, but it will also help you plan your trip safely. Never head into the mountains in challenging weather.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Staying warm and dry will extend your experience in the magnificent scenery.
- Stand back: Keep your distance from the waves and never turn your back on the sea. Rogue waves and powerful spray can be dangerous.
- Keep your dog on a lead: Especially close to cliffs and high waters.
- Check the tide: Before heading out, find out when the next high tide is and keep extra distance from the waves if the tide is coming in.
- Ask a local: Local knowledge is key, so ask a friendly local for the best and safest spots to watch the storm.
- Take supplies: Pack a flask of your favourite hot beverage to keep you warm while you enjoy the show.
- Pack your camera: Storms are phenomenal subjects for photography. Pack a camera and experiment with different lenses to capture the drama of the waves and the sky.
- Take binoculars: Enhance the experience with a pair of binoculars. They’ll allow you to get a closer look at the waves, wildlife navigating the storm, and the ever-changing weather patterns.
Book a Storm Watching Break with Your Dog
Choose one of our dog-friendly cottages in stunning locations around the UK, then lead your on a storm watching break in Britain this winter.
