Chief Brody shares his favourite dog walking spots in North Devon

North Devon is one of the most dog friendly places in the UK – there are loads of beaches that welcome dogs, some all year around, there are plenty of places to stay that are happy for your dogs to join you and there are even restaurants that let them dine alongside you!

Wherever you are in North Devon, you and your dog will receive a warm welcome, but one of the most important things to consider when holidaying with your dog is knowing where you can let them have a bit of exercise. So, to help you find new places to explore together, here are some of our favourite walking routes across North Devon.

We asked our roving re-paw-ter, Chief Brody to let us know his top spots for walks around North Devon.

Walks at Wistlandpound Reservoir

One of the most popular places for dog walks, Wistlandpound Reservoir is located on Exmoor and is incredibly peaceful and picturesque, whatever time of year you visit. It’s a flat, circular walk, so is well suited for all fitness levels, wheelchairs and prams, just make sure to keep your dogs on a lead while on the main pathways, though feel free to let them off on the quieter ones. There is wildlife that lives around the reservoir, so do keep your dogs under supervision at times of year.

Though the main attraction here is the reservoir, swimming is not allowed, not for you or your furry friends.

Parking is easy here and the main route around the reservoir is just under 2 miles long, so a good place for a shorter walk.

Where to stay nearby:

• Marsdens Devon Cottages - With over 2000 cottages throughout Devon at popular places throughout Exmoor and nearby, there are plenty of dog friendly options here.
• Sykes Holiday Cottages - There are cosy cottages, cabins and historic manor houses across the region to choose from here, with plenty of dog friendly options too.
   

Lee Bay to Ilfracombe walk

There is a lovely walk along the South West Coast Path between Lee Bay and Ilfracombe which is perfect for taking the dog out. Once you’re clear of any grazing animals, dogs are allowed off lead, so it makes it a good place for those that are particularly energetic.

For those of you travelling to Lee Bay, park in the village and walk along the sea front towards the old hotel, where you can pick up the South West Coast Path. Follow the signs down towards Ilfracombe where you can have a tour of the harbour and indulge in some of the incredible food and drink that is on offer!

Where to stay nearby:

• Classic Cottages - There are properties all over North Devon, including around Ilfracombe making this a great spot for exploring the various footpaths nearby.
• Epchris House - Set in a Georgian guesthouse with 2 acres of gardens and just a short walk to the beach, this is a great base for exploring the Ilfracombe area.
•  Mullacott Farm - Mullacott Farm’s camping provision is dog friendly, but make sure to keep dogs on a lead while on site.

Heddon’s Mouth

Heddon Valley is a beautiful area of Exmoor that is managed by the National Trust. The area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and as such, there is a lot of wildlife that calls the area home.

As a National Trust site, you’ll find parking and refreshments in the nearby pub, as well as plenty of signposted pathways to explore, these signs will also let you know which parts of the route dogs need to be kept on a lead.

Once you follow the path down to Heddon’s Mouth, there is a little cove that dogs can explore all year round and enjoy splashing in the fresh water river.

Where to stay nearby:

• Tarka Trail Camping - Located in nearby Barnstaple, Tarka Trail Camping is a quiet and peaceful family and dog friendly site alongside the River Taw – another fun spot for splashing around!
• Corffe House and Holiday Cottages - Dogs are welcome in the house and one of the cottages on the estate, which makes it a good base for exploring some of the North Devon countryside

Crow Point Braunton Burrows Walk

The Burrows and Crow Point is a great walk for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle while still enjoying the beach and some incredible views over to Saunton, Appledore and Westward Ho!

The Burrows are one of the most geologically important places in North Devon and dogs are free to roam around the area, so it’s good for pups that like exploration.

Once you’ve explored Braunton Burrows, you can get on the South West Coast Path and make your way down to Saunton Sands. It’s an 11 mile walk with some muddy and sandy paths, and will bring you out by Saunton Sands Hotel. Saunton Beach is one of the region’s most dog friendly beaches, so it’s a great place to visit.

Where to stay nearby:

• Saunton Beach Villas - Located right on the beach and near the Braunton Burrows sand dunes, Saunton Beach Villas make sure your dog is as welcome as you are – your pets will get their own doggy bag on arrival, with their own crate, bedding and throws for them to use during the stay.
• Saunton Sands - The hotel itself is not dog friendly, but the self catering apartments on site are dog friendly. The hotel and apartment guests are welcome to use all the usual facilities and have easy access down to the beach.

Looking for more ideas for a dog friendly break in North Devon? Find out more suggestions here.  Don’t forget you can enjoy Chief Brody’s pupdates on his Instagram, @chief_brody_dog.