There’s nothing better than watching dogs digging in the sand, racing along the beach with their new friends and chasing balls in the sea and with miles of footpaths and dog-friendly access to beaches, attractions and a range of accommodation, North Devon really is a haven for pets! It isn’t just the walking opportunities that make North Devon a great place for those looking for a perfect dog friendly holiday in the area.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
Many of the beaches across North Devon are also super dog-friendly – some have open access all year round, whilst others offer different zones in peak seasons, but all are clearly marked.
Here's a couple of the region's most popular dog friendly beaches!
- Saunton Sands Beach (all year around)
- Putsborough Sands (Restrictions at one end from April-October)
- Woolacombe Beach (Split into 3 zones, one of which is dog friendly)
- Hele Bay (all year around)
- Watermouth (all year around)
- Westward Ho! (all year around, some restrictions apply)
- Instow (restrictions apply May-Sept)
- Wild Pear Beach (all year around)
- Croyde (restrictions May - Sept)
- Rockham Beach (all year around)
- Soar Mill Cove (all year around)
North Devon, the pooch’s paradise
With miles of coast path to explore, along with varied terrain and networks of footpaths across Exmoor, there are walks to suit all sizes and breeds. The South West Coast path covers the majority of the region and with National Trust managed walks such as that at Baggy Point, you can be sure of a lovely, fun walk for your dog, whatever the weather.
Dog friendly places to stay in North Devon
The people of North Devon know how dogs are really a part of the family and that it isn’t really a family holiday if they have to stay behind. Because of this, the accommodation providers make it easy for dog owners with a wide range of accommodation options all across the region.
Many of the campsites have pitches specifically for those bringing their dogs and often these sites have easy access to the beaches and walking trails, as well as plenty of space for them to roam and explore. There are also a number of holiday parks offering dog friendly options with everything from caravans to chalets and lodges.
For those of you looking for a self catering holiday in North Devon that lets your dog join in too, take a look at the pet friendly cottages and B&Bs. Often you’ll find that these properties not only accept dogs, but actively welcome them with extra treats just for them! If you’re a fan of a hotel stay, you needn’t miss out either, there are plenty of hotels that are happy to accept dogs and even provide pet pamper sessions, so your dog can have a relaxing bath and a groom after returning from a day out and about exploring!
You won’t need to let your pet hamper your experience of the local area either, with many of the region’s attractions happily welcoming man’s best friend as well, including gardens, family attractions, stately homes and even theme parks! There are also a range of attractions that while they don’t allow dogs to actually join you, do provide dog sitting services, so you don’t have to leave them alone at your accommodation.
Dog friendly places to eat in North Devon
Dog owners planning on a trip to North Devon will be pleased to find a wide range of restaurants and cafes with dogs already inside – so much so, that some pubs are known to stock free homemade dog biscuits on the bar, and water bowls are found at many locations as standard.
These places make for the perfect respite while out and about exploring, just pop in for a rest and a pint or two to refresh before heading back out on another adventure.
Dog bins are also provided at most car parks for your convenience too and you’ll find water bowls outside many of the shops and around the high streets. Don’t forget to look out for the special dog ice creams while at the coast, that way you won’t feel guilty when you get yourself one!
