15 Amazing Walks for Your Dog in Devon

Devon is well-known for many amazing things, like the gorgeous coast and landscape, the oldest cinema in Europe, and the oldest bakery in the UK. They also assert that they invented cream teas and pasties, however adjacent Cornwall is likely to dispute this. Devon is also home to the final castle ever constructed in Britain, which was completed relatively recently but is nevertheless fascinating.

Most notably, the Jack Russell Terrier originated in Devon. Our country is beautiful, but your dog doesn’t have to be a dog to enjoy a trip here with you. In my opinion, a place is well worth visiting if it provides us with both wonderful pets and delicious snacks.

You may take your dog on some great hikes in Devon if you take a vacation down south. Here is a list of some of the greatest, and your dog will have a paw-some time at all of them.

From Branscombe to Beer, take a stroll in Country & Country Park 2023

With its picturesque scenery, beach crossing, and coastal path traverse, this well-traveled road from Branscombe to Beer exhibits the best of a Devon dog walk. One of the most picturesque coastline trails in the country is this one. The undercliff walk on the way down is the finest place to see the chalk giants, even if the views from the top of the cliff are breathtaking.

While you take in the sights along the Jurassic coast, Fido might get some much-needed off-leash exercise and exploration. This stroll will leave you and your friend feeling rejuvenated and in fantastic physical condition. Dogs are allowed on many local beaches, including Beer and Branscombe.

Any town is a good place to pause for a drink and a break. In Branscombe, there are many dining options, including the Sea Shanty Beach Café and the dog-friendly Mason’s Arms. Beer’s Barrel O’ Beer or Harbour Hotel are great places for you and Fido to rest your paws.

The Entire 9.6-Kilometre Distance

Moderately Difficult

Beginning With:

Sloping ground, twisting roads, and the coast make up the landscape.

Sadly, the response is no (unless a member of the National Trust).

The National Trust owns the parking lot at Margells Bridge in Branscombe, EX12 3DB.

NorthamA Burrows

Grassland, saline marsh, and coastal plains combine to provide a beautiful scenery in this national park. Its vast, untouched terrain may be explored on a circular walk that also includes a visit to the beach at Westward Ho! Make sure you know the beach’s seasonal dog policy before bringing Fido along this summer.

The park’s visitor centre has restrooms, a gift shop, and concessions. Any aspiring photographers or nature lovers will appreciate the presence of a bird hide. Westward Ho! is filled with dog-friendly establishments including the Waterfront Hotel and the Pig on the Hill.

Duration of a 3.4k Walk

Effort Level: Low

The hub of Burrows is our starting point.

Paths; level and undulating grassland

Disappointingly, no.

Northam, Bideford, EX39 1XS The Burrows Centre, Sandymere Road

Killerton

This stunning rural property was originally intended to be a seasonal retreat but has now become the focus of extensive renovations and remodelling over the course of decades. Now that it is owned by the National Trust, you and your dog are free to roam the massive 6,400-acre property.

You may use the hose next to the restrooms to clean your dog off if it becomes dirty during your walk in the countryside. It’s no day at the spa, but at least your automobile won’t be filthy anymore.

The estate features a number of amenities, including a plant centre where you can buy plants grown in the on-site nursery, a shop offering estate vegetables, and two cafes. If you’re looking for a longer walk in the woods, consider combining this walk with one in Ashclyst Forest, another great place for dog walks in Devon.

Distance of a 3.2- to 4-mile Walk

Effort Level: Low

The Front Door, as the Site of Origin

Variations on a theme: parkland, fields, pathways, woodlands, and rough terrain

Parking is free?

Postal Code: EX5 3LE Broadclyst, Exeter, Devon

Valley of Heddon

There are a wide variety of hikes you can do in the beautiful Heddon Valley, ranging from easy trails to strenuous coastline paths. This clifftop stroll is one of the more challenging paths, but it’s well worth it for the uncommon butterflies and panoramic views that extend all the way to Wales.

While you take in the breathtaking views, your dog may run free in the woods and explore the meadows on this challenging walk. The Hunter’s Inn, a country tavern and hotel, may be found along the path, as well as an orchard and several quaint homes. You and your dog will feel right at home here, whether you’re just stopping by for a dinner or staying the night.

The National Trust shop sells food and provides useful information about the region, such as the many other trails in the valley.

The 4.8 km walking distance is:

Level of Difficulty: Middle

Parking lot of the National Trust

Paths, hills, slopes, meadows, and forests make up the landscape.

Disappointingly, no.

Barnstaple, Devon EX31 4PY, Hunters Inn, Near Parracombe

Valley of Plym

This lengthy, easy stroll is perfect for you and your dog to spend some quality time in the great outdoors. This trek may be extended to cover the entire valley if you’re up for the challenge. This circular walk through woods and along the river and canal is a great way to get some exercise and see some sights.

Your dog will be well entertained on this walk due to the abundance of vegetation, animals, and burrows. Nevertheless, as you follow the river, you’ll see interesting sights like a pair of abandoned slate quarries and a beautiful viaduct.

Plymouth is home to most of the closest conveniences, although you can get there quickly by car. A large variety of bars and restaurants in the city welcome dogs, including the Seco Lounge and The Flower Café.

Distance Walked: 8.2Km

Level of Difficulty: Middle

Place of Departure: Either Parking Garage

Paths, hills, slopes, meadows, and forests make up the landscape.

Disappointingly, no.

Plymouth, Plymbridge Road, PL7 4SR

Nature trails

Forest of Ashclyst

Ashclyst Forest, a component of the Killerton Estate and one of the largest forests in eastern Devon, is a great area to take your dog for a stroll in the woods. It’s a wonderful place for travellers on two or four legs to spend some time exploring.

The trails through the woodland are well-maintained, however they can get muddy after rain. Your dog may run about and burn off some steam, or investigate the underbrush and take in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest and its inhabitants.

Because it is on the estate, you are welcome to enjoy Killerton House’s amenities, including the dog wash. Otherwise, the New Inn and the Red Lion are both within easy driving distance.

The 4.8 km walking distance is:

Effort Level: Low

Parking lot in Forest Gate is the starting point.

Surface: level, sloping, rocky, wooded, and a network of pathways

Parking is free?

Forest Gate Parking Lot, Broadclyst; Exeter; Devon

Forest of Haldon

There’s fun to be had in the woods today whether you bring your dog or your whole family. There are many different paths for cycling, jogging, and walking, as well as orienteering, segway rentals, bike rentals, playgrounds, Go Ape, and breathtaking views of the forest and countryside.

There’s more to this forest than simply trees, as you can see. The woodland cafe is the perfect place to warm up and refuel after a long walk.

Yet, there are also several trails where you can go for a peaceful stroll among the woods while taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Your dog will be overjoyed at the chance to go about with their closest companion without being restrained by a leash. Although the lengthy Tree Path is more challenging to travel, it does offer glimpses of Dartmoor through the trees.

Distance Walkable: 2.5 km – 4.5 km

Difficulty ranges from simple to difficult.

Place of Origin: Parking Garage

trails, woods, hills, and level ground

Disappointingly, no.

Postal Code and Address: Bullers Hill, Kennford, Haldon Forest, Exeter EX6 7XR

Wood from a Wistman

The lonely Wistman’s Wood is tucked away in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. In the 18th century, the local reverend referred to the odd and gloomy panorama of this wooded area as “grotesque.” It’s easy to imagine pixies, elves, and other fantastical creatures as you stroll through this area’s twisted trees. Legend has it that the Wisht Hounds, who reside in the woods, come out at night to hunt for unsuspecting humans. Fortunately, the only thing hiding in the forest is your own dog and not any ghostly hounds.

You and your dog will have a great time exploring the moss-covered rocks and trees in this unusual terrain. The weather might be unpredictable, but getting about is simple on the well-marked trail. Because the area is inaccessible to grazing animals due to the short, twisted trees and rocky terrain, lichen and other forms of life have flourished there. It’s hard to imagine the beauty of this place without actually seeing it.

You may take a short stroll from the dog-friendly Two Bridges Hotel in the area across the moor and into the woodland and back.

Time Required: Two Kilometers

Effort Level: Low

Check in at the Two Bridges Hotel.

Topography: Steep, wooded, and rocky

Parking is free?

The address is Two Bridges, Princetown, PL19 9NA.

Walks around the dunes of Saunton’s coast

For as far as the eye can see, Saunton Sands is a magnificent, bright, sandy beach. This beach is great for taking a stroll with your dog and is frequented by families and surfers because of the long, clean stretch. Dogs are welcome here year-round, and leashes are required only in select areas; after you leave the leash-free zone, you have miles of beach and sea to explore at your leisure. Ideal for your dog to burn off some energy when chasing balls or surfing.

If a stroll across the sand dunes isn’t enough to get your blood pumping, you can always conclude your walk at the river’s edge at Crow Point. You’ll get a great view of the expansive beach and water from the boardwalk’s elevated position. The beach shop has everything you need, from restrooms to snacks, for a day at the beach.

Distance of a 12km Hike

Effort Level: Low

Parking lot at Saunton Sands is the starting point.

Level ground, sandy beaches, sloping sand dunes, etc.

Disappointingly, no.

Location: Braunton, EX33 2NU Saunton Sands parking lot

Walking along the Avon Estuary

The Avon Valley is a wonderful place to take your dog for a stroll. By following this loop, you may see the best of both sides of the river and be rewarded with stunning vistas of the valley’s rolling hills and meadows, as well as glimpses of the estuary through the hills, all while strolling through an area designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Keep your dog on a leash at the beginning of this walk, as there is a brief section along a road. But it’s brief, so don’t let that stop you from enjoying this beautiful stroll and all the sights you’ll see along the way. The only other thing to keep in mind is that a short (1.6 km) diversion may be necessary if there has been significant rainfall in order to prevent any flooding. Nonetheless, the extra activity is sure to make your dog happy.

Aveton Gifford has local businesses and public restrooms.

Distance of 7 kilometres

Moderate to Challenging in Difficulty

Parking lot at Aveton Gifford is the starting point.

Paths, hills, steps, and uneven ground

Parking is free?

Fore Street, Aveton Gifford, TQ7 4LB is where you’ll find us.

Storage for the Burrator

Burrator Reservoir in Devon is a nice place to take your dog for a stroll along the water, as it is flat and has a moderate slope, and the scenery is lovely, with a great view of Sheepstor towering over the lake and an outstanding granite dam.

There are multiple parking lots and spaces along the road, and there are numerous trails through the woods and a walkway that goes around the reservoir. The fenced arboretum is a great place to let your dog run free without fear of it getting lost, frightening the cattle, or falling into the water. At the visitor centre is a fenced-in dog exercise area, where your pet may run around and play without being tethered to you.

A visit to the Burrator Inn for lunch, where you and your dog will be made welcome, is the perfect end to a Sunday Walk in this beautiful area. Start here for a strenuous trek around the nearby tors if you’re in the mood.

Distance of a Walk: 7.2Km

Effort Level: Low

Place of Origin: Parking Garage

Routes, paths, hills, valleys, and slopes in the woods.

Parking is free?

Postal Code and Address: PL20 6PE Burrator Reservoir, Yelverton, Devon

Mill Cove Soar

This little cove has infinite charm, despite its diminutive size. It is a remote jewel on the south coast, hemmed in by foreboding black rock and accessible only by foot or water. This has prevented development in the area, making it a perfect place to take your dog to the beach with few if any restrictions.

Hotels are about all that can be found in the area. This, however, adds to the lovely seclusion of the cove. It’s a great area to relax with your dog as you soak up some rays and swim in the ocean or explore the many rock pools along the South West Coastal Walk.

Duration of a 3.1k Walk

Level of Difficulty: Middle

Parking lot near the East of the Soar

Hilly, sandy, rocky, or sandy slopes

Parking is free?

Soar Mill Cove, Malborough, TQ7 3DU is the address.

Torquay Seafront Agatha Christie Marathon.

Anybody interested in literature or in discovering the English Riviera should take this short stroll. There are a dozen plaques to discover along the way, each one marking a location significant to Agatha Christie’s life or her writing. It’s a great way to show your dog about Torquay while getting some exercise yourself.

There are many more wonderful dog walks on the English Riviera if you want to stay for more than a day. Taking a trip on the unusual funicular train to the beaches of Babbicombe and Oddicombe.

This promenade is ideal for vacationers because it circles Torquay’s waterfront, and the train station is conveniently located nearby. The Driftwood Café and the Offshore Bar are two examples of the many establishments available. The Hole in the Wall is a historic bar with a terrific atmosphere, perfect for a drink with your dog.

Time Required: 1 Mile

Effort Level: Low

The Imperial Hotel or the Grand Hotel is the starting point.

Routes, level, flat, hills, and uneven terrain

Disappointingly, no.

Torquay TQ2 6NT Sea Front, Torbay Road

the enormous mist of tor

The Jurassic Coast cliffs or the tors of Dartmoor make up the majority of Devon’s elevation. One of the park’s tallest and most accessible tors is Big Mis Tor. This walk can easily be combined with others in the area, such as the one to Little Mis Tor.

Because the tor doesn’t rise all that high and the ascent is somewhat gradual, it’s not a very terrifying hill walk. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the moor if you and your dog manage to ascend that famous rock formation.

The neighbouring Dartmoor Hotel is a great place to catch some Zs. This amazing bar welcomes pets, serves delectable food, and gives stunning views of the moor if you’re fortunate enough to get a window seat.

6 km of required time

in difficulty from challenging to moderate

Four Winds parking lot, the starting location

Hills, paths, and uneven terrain

Is parking free?

Four Winds, Yelverton, PL20 6SS (Postal Code and Address).

Tor’s Dogs

We had to add Hound Tor on our list of dog hikes in Devon since, according to local folklore, it was created when a pack of dogs were turned to stone. Furthermore, this region of Dartmoor served as the inspiration for one of the areas in The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

It seems that canine canine spirits are aplenty on Dartmoor. From the Baskerville Hounds to the Whist Hounds. Fortunately, your own dog will be friendlier and appreciate the wide-open spaces just as much as everyone else.

The spectacular outcrop known as the tor is a favourite of rock climbers. If you ascend to the top, you can see a lot of the moor and clearly see what’s remained of the mediaeval settlement. You’ll see more than simply Haytor Rocks and Saddle Tor on this hike.

The closest pubs, like The Old Inn, require a drive but at least have facilities and are just as spartan and memorable as a trip to the tor.

Area Covered: 12.2 km

in difficulty from challenging to moderate

The starting point is the parking lot at Saddle Tor.

Hills, paths, and uneven terrain

Is parking free?

Address: TQ13 9XS Ilington, Northampton