Why Devon is Perfect for Dog Walking
Dartmoor National Park has open access land — 368 square miles where dogs can roam freely (on leads near livestock). It’s one of the very few places in England where you can walk anywhere, not just on marked paths, making it extraordinary for dogs. The coast is equally welcoming: most of the South West Coast Path is open to dogs year-round, and while some beaches have seasonal restrictions (May–September on some sections), there are always dog-friendly beaches nearby.
Devon’s dog-friendly reputation is well-earned, but a few rules apply. Keep dogs on leads near livestock — this is both law and courtesy. Check individual beach restrictions before visit (most are posted on signs at beach entrances). Carry water for your dog, especially on moorland in summer where streams may be dry. And clean up after your dog on all paths and beaches — no exceptions.
- Dartmoor: Open access — dogs allowed everywhere but MUST be on a short lead near livestock (ponies, cattle, sheep). Lambing season (March–May) requires extra care
- Beaches: Many Devon beaches have seasonal dog restrictions May 1–September 30. Always check on-site signs. Year-round access available on most North Devon beaches
- Livestock: If a cow charges you and your dog, let the lead go — the cow is chasing the dog not you. Reconnect with your dog when safe
- Stiles: Many coastal path stiles have dog gaps alongside — most Devon paths are dog accessible but check on longer routes
- Water: Dartmoor streams are generally safe for dogs to drink; coastal and lowland water sources may not be — carry 500ml+ per dog per hour of walking
The Best Dog Friendly Walks in Devon
1. Baggy Point, Croyde
The classic North Devon headland is one of the best short dog walks in Devon: open coast path, no livestock hazards on the headland itself, seals to spot below, and a return route via Putsborough beach at low tide. The narrow lanes approach and free National Trust parking make it accessible year-round.
Full walk guide2. Dartmoor Open Moorland, Haytor
Dartmoor’s open access land is the closest thing to paradise for an active dog: mile after mile of moorland, granite tors, streams to splash in and no restrictions except the livestock rule. Haytor is the most accessible starting point with a large car park. On the higher moor away from grazing areas, dogs can run completely free.
Full walk guide3. Valley of Rocks, Lynton
The Valley of Rocks walk from Lynton is wonderfully dog-friendly: the path is wide and clear, the dramatic rock formations are fenced where necessary, and the resident wild goats will provide excellent entertainment for most dogs. Keep dogs on lead near the goats. Return via the coastal path above the sea for maximum drama.
Full walk guide4. Morte Point, Mortehoe
The circular Morte Point walk from Mortehoe is exposed, dramatic coastal walking with no significant livestock hazards on the main circuit. Dogs love the clifftop grassland and the rocky descent to Grunta Beach. The Mortehoe village centre has a dog-friendly pub at the finish. Year-round access.
Full walk guide5. Salcombe to East Portlemouth
Cross the Salcombe ferry with your dog (dogs travel free) to East Portlemouth and walk the glorious coast south to Gara Rock. Dog-friendly throughout; a dog-friendly pub at Gara Rock in summer. The estuary beaches are accessible to dogs year-round. Combine with a swim at Sunny Cove.
Full walk guide6. Dartmeet and East Dart River
The East Dart river is one of Dartmoor’s best dog walk rivers: wide, clear, shallow in most places and with natural plunge pools for energetic dogs to cool down. The Dartmeet walk starts right at the confluence of the two Dart rivers — two rivers, twice the splashing. Keep dogs on leads in the car park and near the roadside sheep.
Full walk guide7. Croyde to Saunton Sands
Both Croyde and Saunton are dog-friendly beaches year-round, making this linear beach-and-coast walk one of the most dog-inclusive in North Devon. Walk the beach at low tide for maximum running space; take the coast path at high tide. The dune grassland at Saunton is open access for dogs. Combine with a post-walk rinse at the public shower by Croyde beach car park.
8. Postbridge and Clapper Bridge
The medieval clapper bridge at Postbridge is a perfect dog walk destination: flat accessible paths, the East Dart river for swimming, and easy moorland walking in all directions. Keep dogs on leads where ponies graze near the B3212; open running on the higher ground away from grazing. Car park, toilets and a cafe at Postbridge make this excellent for families with dogs.
Full walk guide9. Hartland Point to Clovelly
Devon’s most dramatic coastal walk is fully dog-friendly: no livestock on the cliff path, excellent dramatic terrain, and a dog-friendly welcome at the Old Smithy cafe at the Clovelly end (check ahead for access to the steep cobbled street itself). Dogs must be on leads near the cliff edge. One of the great Devon dog-owner adventures.
Full walk guide10. Otter Estuary, Budleigh Salterton
The Otter Estuary nature walk is excellent for dogs: flat, accessible paths, limited livestock, and the extraordinary experience of walking past England’s re-introduced beaver territory (you won’t see beavers easily but the habitat is there). Budleigh Salterton beach is year-round dog-friendly.
Beach guide11. Golitha Falls, Bodmin Moor
Ancient oak woodland beside the River Fowey with a waterfall at the end — a perfect short dog walk with shade, running water and beautiful woodland floor. The NNR has few restrictions; dogs are welcome. Keep on leads at the car park and near the riverside picnic areas. A genuinely lovely dog walk at any season.
Full walk guide12. Beer Head and Hooken Undercliff
The Beer Head circuit is excellent for dogs with no livestock on the main cliff path circuit. The dramatic chalk undercliff terrain provides excellent entertainment for agile dogs. Keep dogs on leads near the cliff edge; the undercliff section has no fencing. Year-round access. Beer village has a dog-friendly pub and beach (seasonal restrictions on main beach).
Full walk guideBest Dog-Friendly Beaches in Devon
Most Devon beaches welcome dogs year-round outside the summer season. Some of the best year-round dog beaches include: Croyde, Saunton Sands, Instow, Westward Ho!, Budleigh Salterton, Beer, Branscombe, Hope Cove, Mothecombe and most of the hidden cove beaches accessible only on foot. Always check signs on arrival.
North Devon dog-friendly beach guide →- Collapsible water bowl and plenty of water (especially Dartmoor in summer)
- Long line (5–10m) for moorland recall training
- Dog towel for post-swim — most Devon walks end near water
- Poo bags — always. More than you think you’ll need
- Dog first aid kit: tweezers for thorns and ticks, antiseptic wipe, bandage
- Tick prevention treatment before Dartmoor and woodland walks — ticks are present year-round