The great thing about family holidays in Devon is that all the family can enjoy the break ‐ including the family pet. Rather than paying expensive boarding fees and worrying about your pet, why not choose a holiday cottage in Devon that is pet-friendly? With plenty of green open spaces, empty beaches, dog-friendly pubs and attractions that welcome dogs, the whole family can relax and enjoy a holiday in Devon together.
Dog-Friendly Walks in Devon
North Devon has some great open spaces on Exmoor that are ideal for walkers, climbers, mountain bikers ‐ and for giving your dog a bracing run too. With some of the mildest and sunniest weather in the UK, long walks along the South West Coast Path with your four-legged friend are a wonderful way to discover the natural beauty of this scenic county.
The Exeter Ship Canal has good paths for walking in all seasons and well-earned refreshments can be enjoyed at the Turf Pub. Walk beside the River Otter from Budleigh Salterton to the delightful village of Otterton or follow the Dart Valley Trail from Tipton St John to Aylesbeare with your leashed dog.
Dog-Friendly Attractions in Devon
Castle Drogo, Killerton House, Saltram House and Knighthayes Court all have extensive parkland for long walks with your dog, although they are not allowed in the house and gardens.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Devon
Beaches are ideal for doggy walks at any time of year. Some beaches do not allow dogs in the peak season, May 1 ‐ September 30, but there are plenty of beaches that welcome dogs all year round, including these:
Instow Beach welcomes dogs year round, has some dog friendly pubs overlooking the beach and is close to the dog-friendly Tarka Trail. Neighbouring Saunton Sands stretches for miles with plenty of space for dogs, although during the summer dogs are prohibited from some areas.
Ness Cove Beach at Shaldon is accessed by an original smugglers tunnel and welcomes dogs all year round.
Soar Mill Cove Beach near Salcombe is a tiny cove accessed from the South West Coast Path. Situated beneath the black rocks of Bolt Head, this dog-friendly beach is well worth the effort of getting to. North Sands Beach at Salcombe is more accessible for dog owners, but it is also busier. You need to plan your visit carefully as the beach disappears at high tide.
East Portlemouth Beach is a pet-friendly beach in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Take the ferry from Salcombe or walk to the beach from your holiday cottage in the village. After a run on the sandy beach, enjoy refreshments at the Venus Café. Dogs are also welcome at nearby Mill Bay Beach.
Teignmouth Town Beach welcomes dogs all year round at the extreme ends of the beach. With the long promenade, golf course and pier, there is always plenty to do in this lovely resort. Teignmouth River Beach is also pet-friendly.
Wonwell Beach and the beautiful estuary at Mothecombe permit dogs in certain parts of the beach ‐ check local signs.
Dawlish Warren Beach prides itself on being a top family beach. This Blue Flag award-winning beach restricts dogs to the area between groynes 3 and 9. Dawlish Town Beach allows dogs to the left of the viaduct.
Thurlstone and South Milton Beach welcome dogs to this National Trust owned beach which has plenty of rock pools for curious dogs (and their owners) to explore.
If you want to enjoy an active holiday without leaving your dog behind, Devon is the perfect place to visit at any time of year.
Born in Cheshire, Gillian Birch moved to Cornwall at her earliest opportunity and never looked back. After 20 years, her ongoing discovery of popular attractions, quiet footpaths and local eateries has made her a fount of knowledge as she entertains readers with her informative articles on the hidden gems of Devon & Cornwall from a local point-of-view.