Don’t let your furry friends feel left out – East Devon is the paw-fect destination for anyone looking to bring their dog on a new adventure! Whether you’re planning a day trip or spending a few days in the area, there’s plenty to keep you and your dogs entertained.

Suggestions for walking routes

East Devon is full of amazing walking routes for you and your dog to enjoy. Here is a selection to help you plan your visit.

Peak Hill

If you’re in Sidmouth, you can pick this route up in the Town Centre and follow the signs for the South West Coast Path. You’ll then come across signs for Peak Hill, which will take you on a lovely scenic walk with some amazing views of the coast. Alternatively, you can start at Ladram Bay and follow the signs from there. Either way, this is a lovely route for a dog walk.

Salcombe Hill

A slightly more challenging walk, depending on where you’re staying you could either access the route directly from the grounds of your accommodation or you start from the car park at the bottom of the hill. From there, you cross the Alma Bridge and then follow the path. This one also has some lovely views for you and is a bit more adventurous than the average walk for your dog.

River Otter walk

This circular route starts and ends at Otterton Mill in Budleigh Salterton. The route takes you along the river, where if you’re lucky you might catch sight of a beaver or otter, so make sure to keep your dog on a lead just in case for this section. Eventually, you come to Budleigh beach, which has some dog friendly sections where they can have a splash around.

Be aware that until the end of the summer season, there are restrictions on certain beaches around East Devon, so check all signage before letting your dog on the beach! In Sidmouth, dogs are allowed all year at the Port Royal beach at the eastern end of the promenade, but there are restrictions on the main town beach until the end of September.

In Budleigh Salterton and Seaton, dogs are allowed at either end of the beach all year, but are banned from the centre section between 1st May and 30th September.

Where to stay

Wondering where to stay? There’s plenty of options in and around Sidmouth. One option that puts you close to the Jurassic Coast and the city of Exeter is Alpine Park Cottages – they have certain cottages that are dog friendly, just make sure to let them know when booking. The site features 11 high-quality, award-winning self-catering cottages set in 6 acres of lightly wooded parkland complete with a children’s play area and plenty of space for exploring with your dogs.

Another site on the outskirts of Sidmouth is Oakdown Touring and Holiday Caravan Park. With lots of space and even their own dog-friendly Clean Paws Dog Spa, this is a great location for a dog friendly holiday. Plus you can pick from touring and camping spots or glamping pods – whatever best suits you and your dog!

There is a selection of dog-friendly holiday cottages available across East Devon from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays. These cottages are a real home-from-home, designed and decorated with both your and your dog’s comfort in mind. These properties are located in town centre, countryside and beachside areas, allowing you to choose what suits you best and leaving you safe in the knowledge that you have the space and comfort you need.

Alternatively, for a more central location, book a stay at Sidmouth Harbour Hotel. Set right in the centre of town, with a popular spa, the Sidmouth Harbour Hotel has a limited number of dog-friendly rooms – just be aware that your pets are not allowed in the bar, restaurant or lounge areas. There are plenty of open spaces around the hotel for your dog to enjoy.

Need more suggestions for a dog friendly break? Check out our itinerary below!

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Plan your dog friendly visit