Please note, as the UK is under lockdown restrictions, you are not permitted to travel at this time. These are suggestions for later in the year or for residents already in the local area.

If you’re planning a future staycation in Sidmouth or the surrounding area and want to bring your furry friends with you (they’ve been stuck in lockdown too after all) here are some top dog walking routes around the town for you to enjoy together.

River Otter route

This circular route starts and ends at Otterton Mill in Budleigh Salterton, which isn't that far from Sidmouth, though you will need to use a car or public transport to get there.  We estimate that the walk is about four miles in total and is picturesque and features lots of great sights and sounds for your dog to explore. The route takes you along the river towards Budleigh Beach and there are several places along the way for them to splash about in the water – just make sure to keep an eye out for otters and beavers, who live along the river.

Salcombe Hill



If you’re up for a challenge, you could walk there from your accommodation, but there is also a car park at the base of the hill if you’d prefer to use up all your energy on the walk itself. From the car park, cross the Alma Bridge and you’ll find yourself on the cliff path which will take you up the hill, on the way you’ll pass a small dog friendly beach and from the top there are spectacular views and the chance to have a sit down and refuel.

Peak Hill


This one is a little closer to home, you could start at Ladram Bay and enjoy the views of the standing rocks on the way before joining the South West Coast Path up to the top of the hill. Alternatively, start in the town centre and follow sign posts to the coast path and then on to Peak Hill. On a clear day there are some incredible views across the coast, you can see along to Dorset in one direction and all the way to Exmouth in the other!

Hooken Cliffs walk

 

If you’re up for a day long walk, why not give the Hooken Cliffs route a try? This can be found in the nearby village of Beer, which is accessible via Branscombe and Seaton, which are both on the South West Coast Path. Alternatively, you could drive the short distance to Beer and park up in one of the village’s car parks before heading to the Anchor Inn. From here, you can do the circular route which will take you around Beer and Branscombe as well as up to the cliffs and seeing the views of the Jurassic Coast. East Beach is along the route and is dog friendly, so you can enjoy a bit of time chasing pebbles and waves too! Parts of Branscombe Beach are also dog friendly, but make sure to check the local signage when you get there. This route is a bit longer, around 7 miles in total, but the views and watching your pups play on the beach makes it worth it!

Do you have any favourite dog walking routes around Sidmouth? You can let us know on our social media pages!

As we are currently still under a national lockdown, please do not travel at the moment, these walks will still be there when restrictions have lifted!