Dog owners will know that planning a holiday or a break can be hard – either you have to find someone who can look after your fur baby, feel the guilt of putting them in a kennel for the duration of your holiday or scour the internet for somewhere that will allow them to come with you. We’re here to take the stress out of the whole thing – North Devon is one of the most dog friendly destinations in the UK. Not only are there comfortable properties that are happy to welcome your pups but there are also a host of attractions and eateries that are happy for them to join you too!
So, if you are on the hunt for a dog-friendly places to stay, check out these suggestions.
If you like the sound of having your own little home from home with beaches right at your disposal, Saunton Beach Villas are a must. Saunton Beach is known for being the most dog friendly in the region and the villas are right on the doorstep – they are also completely dog friendly! So much so, that on arrival, all dogs are treated to a doggy bag complete with a special Saunton Beach Villa tag to wear while on site, so they don’t get lost! Everything your dog could need is provided, including crates, bedding and more! Each villa even has their own fully enclosed garden and a special shower so you can wash sand off their paws! The beach is accessed via a private pathway and gate, so you can visit any time you like and there are plenty of fun places for you and your dogs to explore, including Braunton Burrows where you’ll find one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK. It isn’t just the dogs that are well catered for, you’ll find fully equipped kitchens, complete with coffee machines and washer dryers. There are even 39 inch flat screen TVs, blue ray players and USB chargers included.
One of the best dog friendly options is camping – you have lots of open space for your dog to explore and you don’t have to worry about them getting their hair everywhere! Hidden Valley is an award winning campsite and touring caravan park located near the popular resorts of Ilfracombe and Woolacombe. The site is equipped with the best facilities, you’ll find first class amenity blocks, thermostatically controlled showers, hair dryers and family shower rooms and even underfloor heating in some blocks! Dogs are also well cared for here, there is a whole dog exercise area where they can roam free and enjoy themselves.
Camping isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re planning on visiting in the colder months, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a visit to North Devon. Many of the region’s holiday parks are also dog friendly and are perfect for family holidays. Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park is just a short distance from the beach and has incredible sea views, as well as a huge selection of activities and entertainment to suit everyone. You can even choose the accommodation that best suits you with a choice of caravans, lodges and apartments. There are a number of pet friendly options and plenty of space for them to explore. Whatever tie of year you visit, you’ll find activities every day and entertainment every night – you won’t even need to leave the site if you don’t want to!
Alternatively, there is Braddicks Holiday Centre in Westward Ho! From here you are well places to explore a host of beautiful beaches, rolling countryside and fascinating towns and villages. This part of Devon is perfect for anyone who loves watersports and staying at Braddicks puts you right on the doorstep of some of the best spots for surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking. You also have a choice of accommodation here with pet friendly villas and caravans to choose from. These properties are set within lovely grounds with a private dog exercise areas, so they can run around to their heart’s content, you’re also within easy reach of the South West Coast Path, offering some of the best dog walking routes in the region.
One of the best places for dog walking is Exmoor – there are miles of countryside and coast to explore here. Park Life Resort’s Watermouth Lodges are right on the edge of Exmoor and give you access to woodland trails, multi sports courts, swimming pools and a host of other activities. There are a selection of dog friendly lodges on site, which are self contained and fully equipped with everything you need for your stay. If you don’t fancy cooking though, don’t worry, their Sea Terrace bar offers a range of dishes, all with an amazing view over the harbour and they have a takeaway and lodge delivery service too, so you don’t even need to get out of your pyjamas!
Another option for a great self catering holiday is renting a cottage. These are excellent choices for anyone who wants to go at their own pace and have complete privacy and peace during their holiday. There are a host of holiday cottages available across the North Devon region but to help you sort through the list, check out Marsdens Devon Cottages’ portfolio. They have a large and diverse portfolio of holiday cottages, and their knowledgeable team are always on hand to help you find the best property for you.
You can find more dog friendly accommodation as well as a host of dog friendly attractions here.
Depending on what time of year you visit, there may be restrictions on some of the region’s beaches, the beaches you can go to all year around include Saunton Sands Beach, Hele Bay, Watermouth, Wild Pear Beach, Rockham Beach and Soar Mill Cove.
