The overlooked seaside destination 'better than Brighton' with lido and sandy beaches

Just a short hop from the vibrant and bustling Brighton lies the serene Saltdean, a nature reserve boasting white cliffs and sandy shores. This idyllic spot is also famed for its iconic lido, which uniquely welcomes dogs at the end of summer.

Ideal for cliff-top walks with panoramic sea vistas or exploring tidal rock pools, Saltdean is an unmissable destination before the chill of winter sets in. The beach offers a blend of shingle and sand, complete with quaint beach huts, a promenade for strolls, a welcoming cafe, and vigilant summer lifeguards.

For those seeking breathtaking maritime views, Telscombe Cliffs presents a vantage point so majestic that visitors describe it as "walking into clouds".

So if you're on the hunt for a refreshing change of pace or something slightly off the beaten path from Brighton, then Saltdean should be on your itinerary. The Saltdean Lido, designed with cruise liner-inspired architecture and flaunting an art deco style, invites both humans and dogs, reports Surrey Live.

The heated pool hosts 'Dogtember' events, allowing pet owners to enjoy swim sessions with their four-legged friends on select weekends, including September 14 and 15, 21 and 22, 28 and 29, as well as the first weekend of October.

Dog swim tickets are on sale for £10.60 each, so ensure both you and your furry friend have one booked before they're all snapped up. Dog owners can enjoy a splash with their pets along the stretch from Rottingdean to Saltdean, covering all beaches east of the hand-railed groyne.

For those looking to refuel with a bite or a warm drink, Saltdean boasts an array of spots perfect for a pitstop. Venture towards Rottingdean to discover charming cafes and bakeries.

Molly's at The Beach is a hit for its breakfast, lunch, and coffee offerings, not to mention the homemade cakes. Patrons rave about it, saying: "Lovely little cafe/ coffee shop right on the beach. Really nice people, dog friendly and reasonably priced. Outside seating so you can enjoy your drinks/ snacks whilst watching the world go by," as per Google reviews.

Don't miss out on Daisy's Pantry, an artisan bakery, and Crocodile Cafe, where you can indulge in focaccia pizza and chickpea salads.

For a substantial pub meal, Smugglers Rest offers a scenic sea view and a spacious garden. The menu features delights such as chicken schnitzel, pie of the day, mac and cheese, and burgers.

Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate White Horses Hotel for its sea bass pie, alongside other tempting dishes like mixed seafood linguine. The Rottingdean hotel also boasts a stunning terrace with breathtaking sea views and an elegant restaurant interior.

For those considering an overnight stay, rooms can be booked directly through the hotel's website, with some offering stunning sea views. The hotel also caters to pet owners, providing dog-friendly rooms for those who can't bear to leave their furry companions at home.