Devon is a dream destination for dog lovers, offering scenic coastal walks, countryside trails, and plenty of pet-friendly attractions. Whether you’re looking for dog-friendly beaches, historic sites, or cosy cafés, there’s something for every pup and their owner. Here’s your guide to dog-friendly days out in Devon.
1. Coastal Walks & Beaches
Woolacombe Beach—One of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, Woolacombe welcomes dogs all year round, with some seasonal restrictions in certain areas. Let your pup enjoy the golden sands and crashing waves.
Saunton Sands—With miles of golden sand, Saunton Sands is a paradise for dogs that love to run and splash in the waves. It’s dog-friendly all year, with a few restrictions in peak season.
Slapton Sands in South Devon is a dog-friendly beach all year round, offering a long stretch of shingle, scenic walks, and nearby cafés.
Northam Burrows—This stunning coastal area combines sandy beaches with dunes and grassy plains, making it an ideal spot for an off-lead adventure.
Beesands Beach in South Devon is dog-friendly year-round, offering a peaceful shingle shoreline, scenic coastal walks, and a welcoming pub nearby.
2. Dog-Friendly Attractions
The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth— Free to visit and dog-friendly, this sanctuary offers beautiful coastal walks alongside rescued donkeys. A great family-friendly experience
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens—A historical garden offering plenty of open space for dogs on leads. Enjoy the stunning landscape while your pup explores the new scents.
Lydford Gorge—If you and your pup love adventure, this National Trust site offers woodland trails leading to Devon’s deepest gorge and stunning waterfalls.
Powderham Castle—Powderham Castle welcomes dogs on leads in its scenic grounds, gardens, and deer park, with pet-friendly outdoor seating at the café.
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway—let your well-behaved dogs on leads ride the heritage steam trains and explore scenic routes.
Knightshayes—a dog-friendly National Trust estate, welcoming dogs on leads in its stunning gardens, parkland, and woodland trails, with water bowls provided.
4. Countryside & Nature Trails
Dartmoor National Park—A haven for dog walkers, with miles of open moorland, ancient woodlands, and plenty of streams for your pup to cool off. Be mindful of livestock and keep dogs on leads where necessary.
Haldon Forest Park—Offers dedicated dog-friendly walking trails with stunning views over the Exe estuary. There’s even a dog activity trail for extra fun!
Tarka Trail—This scenic walking and cycling route stretches over 180 miles, offering riverside paths and countryside views, perfect for a day out with your dog.
5. Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Planning to extend your trip? Devon offers plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options:
Saunton Beach Villas are dog-friendly, offering comfortable, pet-welcoming accommodation just steps from the beach, with no breed restrictions and enclosed garden spaces.
Oakcliff Holiday Park is dog-friendly, offering pet-welcoming accommodations, coastal walks nearby, and a dedicated dog exercise area for a perfect getaway with your pup.
Otter Falls is surrounded by a stunning National Landscape making it a perfect gateway to year-round dog-friendly adventures.
Plan Your Dog-Friendly Devon Adventure
From coastal walks to dog-friendly attractions and welcoming pubs, Devon is the perfect destination for a day out or a longer getaway with your furry friend. Pack your lead and some treats, and get ready to explore the best of Devon with your pup by your side!
