Call to book or speak to our team | 02034 886 980

Get The Most From Your Dog Friendly Getaway In Devon

8th July 2022

Dog friendly getaways in Devon are not hard to find, with long sandy beaches and plenty of open countryside. From the rolling hills of Exmoor, to the stretches of sand that line the coast, there’s something for every dog. If you love nothing more than to escape the city and explore the countryside with your dog, then a getaway in North Devon is sure to delight. It’s a well known fact that dogs love nothing more than spending time with their owners. But what about when you’re on holiday? Not all beaches and pubs are dog friendly, so let us help you out by highlighting those that allow your furry friends to join in the fun and offer some tips on how to get the most from the getaway.

Why take your dog on holiday?

If you are a dog owner, the answer is obvious. You love them to bits and would never dream of leaving them behind when you go on holiday, so why not make it a dog friendly getaway? But the benefits go beyond that:

1. Dogs make us happy! Research has shown that having a pet can help ease stress, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

2. It can help alleviate separation anxiety. Dogs are pack animals and they crave company, especially if it means being with their owners all day long! Booking a dog friendly holiday means they can join in with everything from a stroll on the beach to a bite to eat in a local pub.

3. It will give your dog lots of exercise and mental stimulation – both of which are important for their health and well-being.

Dog friendly beaches, gorge walks and the coastal path

It’s important to note that not all beaches allow dogs so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and make sure the one you’re heading too doesn’t have any specific rules against them. We have listed a few of our favourite dog friendly beaches, gorge walks and the coastal path, that can be enjoyed by humans and dogs alike!

1. Watersmeet – a moderate walk taking roughly, 1.5 – 2 hours

2. Coastal path and Valley of The Rocks – a moderate walk taking roughly 1.5 hours

3. The Coleridge Way – Westward route from Porlock to Lynmouth – a challenging (moderate with some strenuous ascents) walk of around 12.1 miles

Dog friendly pubs and restaurants

Generally North Devon is very accepting of mans best friend, however it’s always worth planning ahead to find some places to eat and drink that allow your dog to join in the fun. You’ll find lots of pubs with an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a drink with your dog at your feet.

1. The Rising Sun – A cosy pub on the harbour offering amazing steak and fantastic views. We love sitting outside at sunset and watching the changing colours on the heather on the sea cliffs across the bay. This local pub is tied to Hall and Woodhouse Brewery and welcomes dogs so the whole family can enjoy what it has to offer. Located just 10 mins walk down the hill into Lynmouth Harbour. If you visit, look out for Matt, the landlord, and say Hi from us!

2. The Ancient Mariner and The Bath Hotel – Serving a mix of traditional and vegetarian/vegan food, we love the creative dishes on offer. The Ancient Mariner is named after Coleridge’s Poem of the same name, which was written while he was in this area in 1798. Now known as the place to get local beer and cider including Exmoor Ales, and the favourite, Exmoor Gold. Owned by the Glover family, and run by Carly (no relation to us, but neighbours and good friends of Tors Park), as well as great food you’ll be able to spot a collection of maritime salvage, including a 20ft. torpedo and figurehead. The Ancient Mariner welcomes dogs, but The Bath Hotel restaurant does not. Located just a 10 minute walk down the hill into Lynmouth Harbour.

3. Charlie Fridays – Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the most colourful café in the area! With great veggie options available. The cafe is dog friendly and located a 25 minute walk up a very steep hill. We would recommend the funicular railway, driving, or using Riverside Taxis.

We hope that this list encourages you to get out and explore more dog friendly beaches and pubs in North Devon. This is one of England’s most beautiful counties, with lots of well kept beaches, wild gorge walks and coastal paths, and dozens of dog friendly attractions to spend your time exploring. Why not take advantage of the stunning North Devon scenery and book a dog friendly getaway today?

Book your dog friendly stay

Discover Tors Park

Enter your details below to download a copy of our brochure