Bring your dogs with you to North Devon

There are several accommodation providers across North Devon who are dedicated to making sure your dogs have as good a stay as you do! In Holsworthy, there is Pillows and Paws Cottages where dogs are not only welcome, but go free! They have two holiday cottages designed specifically for those visiting the region with their dogs and you’ll find everything you might need, including bowls, beds and towels, just for your dog! The cottages are surrounded by beautiful countryside, giving you plenty of space for running and adventures and are close to some of the region’s best loved beaches, some of which are open to dogs all year round.

Near Ilfracombe, The Woodlands House is just a short walk from the beaches and many of the region’s attractions. The best thing about this property is that you have exclusive use! It’s a great location for anyone looking for a secluded and tranquil place to stay – there is over an acre of grounds for your dogs to explore and you don’t have to worry about bothering other guests or them bothering you!

If you’re someone who wants something a little different from your North Devon holiday, check out the properties on offer from Sleepy Owl Devon. These luxury treehouses and retreats, complete with hot tubs are perfect for everything from romantic getaways, exploring the region or for family breaks. The Nest Treehouse has been designed with outdoor bathing in mind, has a spacious open plan living space and a private courtyard. The Cosy Cowshed has a huge, secure garden for your dogs, while the Hideout Treehouse is the only treehouse in the UK with a bath on rail, so you can enjoy a bubble bath inside or outside where you can watch the sunset. Whichever of the properties you pick, your dogs will be well catered for, they will be provided with water bowls, treats, toys, blankets, beds, poo bags, a first aid kit and even shampoo! The site has its own dedicated doggy shower/bath and you can even borrow light up collars for evening strolls.

For those of you who want to be close to the beach, and who can blame you when North Devon has some of the best beaches in the UK, Saunton Beach Villas is a great choice. You’ll find your home from home right on Saunton Beach, one of the most popular dog friendly beaches in the region and one of the prettiest. The villas have plenty of space for the whole family and a fully equipped kitchen, not only that, but on arrival, your dogs will be treated to a doggy bag complete with a special dog tag to wear during your stay. Each of the villas include dog crates and bedding – no rooms are off limits and with the beach and plenty of attractions on your doorstep, you’ll find a host of activities to fill your days.

Another option close to the beaches is Hidden Valley an award winning campsite and touring caravan park nestled in the countryside and a short journey from Woolacombe, Tunnel Beaches and more. Dogs are welcome around the park and there is a dedicated dog exercise area if they need to burn off any energy after exploring the wider area.

There are few things dogs like more than chasing waves, digging in sand and fetching pebbles – sometimes we think they like being at the beach more than we do! It's lucky then that there are several beaches in North Devon that are happy for dogs to visit all year around and even more that have dog friendly sections and are open to dogs at certain times of year. Most of those that have restrictions are open to dogs at this time of year, with the bans coming into place in April.

The below beaches are open all year around, so whenever you’re planning your trip, you can visit.

Lynmouth Beach
Wild Pear Beach
Hele Bay
Rockham Bay
Clovelly
Welcombe Mouth
Saunton Sands

North Devon is one of the most dog friendly destinations in the UK – not only do you have the incredible beaches, but there are a host of lovely walking routes and rural areas to explore too. The Exmoor National Park is one great option for anyone who wants to go on an adventure, The Tarka Trail follows the same route of Tarka the Otter from the famous stories and the South West Coast Path offer a host of dog friendly routes on their website. Just remember to keep your dogs on a lead for their and others’ safety and to make sure they don’t disturb any wildlife.

It isn’t just outdoor areas to visit, some of North Devon’s best loved attractions are also dog friendly and are happy for you to bring your furry friends along for the ride.

One of our favourite places to take our dogs are National Trust properties. On the outskirts of Barnstaple is Arlington Court and the National Trust Carriage Museum, with gardens and grounds, a beautiful family home and a museum housing vehicles spanning over 300 years of history, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. Though closed until the spring, Hartland Abbey and Gardens are another option for anyone wanting a day out with their dogs. If you’re planning a trip in the future, make sure to plan it for their opening, which coincides with the blooming of the gardens’ spring flowers which is always a hugely special time. Or take a trip on the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway the UK’s only fully water powered railway. Built in 1888, it is the world’s highest and steepest fully water powered railway and dogs are more than welcome to bring their humans along for a ride! Water is provided for all dogs visiting the site and there is no charge for lap dogs or service animals!