Our latest signature style has just landed! Welcome Marine Kikoy, comprised of blue shades perfectly complimented with more earthy tones - this fabric reminds us of beautiful walks along Margate seafront. Kikoy, or kikoi, is a traditional woven cloth originating from Africa. Considered a part of Swahili culture, the kikoy is mostly worn by men in Kenya as well as men from Tanzania and Zanzibar. Kikoy is made of cotton and patterns are woven rather than dyed into the fabric. Traditionally used for trading, kikoy can now be found the world over, though the traditional kikoy come mostly from Kenya. Our kikoy is ethically sourced directly from makers in Kenya on our co-founder Bee's adventures.
Hiro wears our Marine Kikoy Collar, Marine Kikoy Dog Bow Tie & Marine Kikoy Hands Free Lead
Whether you go for the complete set or choose to mix and match with our other designs, we think Marine Kikoy is the perfect design for you and your four-legged friends seaside adventures! To celebrate the launch of Marine Kikoy, we wanted to share with you some of our favourite dog friendly beaches across the UK. Some beaches do have dog restrictions during the summer months, but there are often dog-friendly zones nearby the same location that provide lovely walks for you and your dog. We have tried to give you the most pup-to-date information but do make sure to double check local websites before you go as things can change.
Wolf wears our Marine Kikoy Harness
Before you head down to the sea-side, here are a few important things to remember:
- On hot days, leave walks for early morning and evening when the sun is lowest.
- Take care with tides – the only thing worse than being stranded is being stranded with a dog!
- Keep dogs under control around children, wildlife and livestock. Other people are there to enjoy the beach too.
- Near cliff edges, be sure to keep dogs on leads and be wary of signage for falling rocks.
- Only allow dogs in shallow waters as currents can be deceiving.
- Do not follow your dogs into the sea or rough water, they generally get out of trouble more easily than us. Call for help if you think your dog is in trouble.
Ludo and Dolly wear our Marine Kikoy Hound Collars and Marine Kikoy Hands Free Lead (used as a coupler)
Kingsgate Bay, Kent
Local to us in beautiful Broadstairs, Kingsgate Bay is a sheltered sandy cove amongst the county's distinctive white chalk cliffs that allows dogs all year round. With sea caves thought to be amongst the best in the country and a smuggling history, Kingsgate Bay is perfect for adventurous humans and canines alike! l We love exploring the little caves and rock pools along with our dogs before stopping off for a coffee in one of the many local dog friendly cafes. Kingsgate Bay is usually fairly quiet so is great for dogs that may like a little more space on their walkies. You can walk through the gap in the chalk cliffs to get to the ever-popular Botany Bay when the tide is out. It is important to bear in mind that the beach is cut off at both ends when the tide is in, so make sure to plan accordingly! You can check tide times online before your trip.
Flynn wears our Marine Kikoy Harness and Marine Kikoy Skinny Classic Lead
Woolacombe Beach, Devon
The busy seaside resort of Woolacombe is a firm favourite for many beach-goers in the UK. It is where you can see the North Devon coast meet the Atlantic waves on its sandy shores. This award-winning beach has been number 1 on Trip Advisor for two years running, and the area is most famous for it's biscuit industry! With three-miles of picturesque sandy beaches, it is the perfect area for an afternoon amble. Incredibly popular with surfers, you may even see a surfing dog in the shallow waters! The beach is clearly separated into three zones - no dogs, dogs on leads and dogs running free.
Hiro wears our Marine Kikoy Dog Bandana and Marine Kikoy Classic Lead
West Wittering, Sussex
This beach in West Sussex is passionate about preserving and protecting the environment and keeping the area clean. Not only is there a great expanse of sand but also 20 acres of grass on which pups can play (and picnic!). You and your dog can enjoy dipping your paws into the shallow lagoons at low tide and exploring the beautiful scenery. With wonderful views of both Chichester Harbour and the famous South Downs, this is a great beach to be enjoyed year-round. There are some restrictions on dogs throughout May to October but some zones are available for dogs all year round (either side of the groynes: 14a-18.)
Some other honourable mentions are:
- Brean Beach, Somerset
- Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire
- Luskentyre, Isle of Harris
- Holkham, Norfolk
- Formby, Lancashire
Have you visited any of these dog friendly beaches? Let us know! We hope you love our new Marine Kikoy collection and that it has inspired you to get yourself and your pup down to the coast.