The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Devon

Devon offers a vast network of dog-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 430 routes suitable for you and your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks across diverse landscapes.

Yes, Devon features several beautiful walks where you can enjoy waterfalls with your dog. The region is home to dramatic gorges like Lydford Gorge, which boasts the impressive Whitelady Waterfall. For a coastal waterfall experience, consider the route to Hartland Quay, Blackpool Mill Beach & Spekes Mill Mouth Waterfall in North Devon.

Devon has many excellent circular routes perfect for dog walking. In Dartmoor, you could explore the Yes Tor & High Willhays loop from Meldon Reservoir or the shorter Meldon Reservoir and Black Tor Loop. Along the North Devon coast, the Bull Point & Morte Point loop from Woolacombe offers stunning coastal views.

Absolutely. Many trails in Devon are suitable for families with dogs, offering varied terrain from gentle river valleys to coastal paths. Look for routes marked as 'easy' in the guide, which often feature well-maintained paths and shorter distances, perfect for all ages and energy levels.

Devon's dog-friendly trails often lead to spectacular natural landmarks. In Dartmoor, you can encounter iconic granite tors like Haytor Rocks, Hound Tor, and the summits of Yes Tor and High Willhays. The coast offers dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations, especially along the South West Coast Path.

The komoot community highly rates dog-friendly hiking in Devon, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 14,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from rugged moorlands to stunning coastlines, and the abundance of trails that welcome dogs, making it a perfect destination for outdoor adventures with pets.

When walking your dog on Dartmoor, it's important to be aware of livestock, including the famous Dartmoor ponies, cattle, and sheep. Always keep your dog under close control, preferably on a lead, especially during lambing season or near grazing animals. Some areas may also have ground-nesting birds, so sticking to marked paths is advisable.

Yes, a significant portion of Devon's coastline is part of the South West Coast Path, offering numerous dog-friendly sections. These routes provide breathtaking sea views, cliff-top walks, and opportunities to explore hidden coves. Always check local signage, as some beaches may have seasonal dog restrictions.

For a comfortable dog-friendly hike in Devon, pack essentials like water for both you and your dog, a portable water bowl, waste bags, and a lead. Depending on the weather, consider waterproofs for yourself and perhaps a dog coat for colder conditions. Snacks for both of you are always a good idea, especially on longer routes.

Devon is generally very dog-friendly, and you'll find many pubs and cafes that welcome well-behaved dogs, especially in popular hiking areas like Dartmoor and along the coast. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, particularly if you're planning to dine indoors.

Devon offers great dog walking opportunities year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and milder temperatures, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer is popular for coastal walks, but be mindful of heat and potential seasonal dog restrictions on some beaches. Winter walks can be invigorating, especially on the moors, but require appropriate gear for potentially wet and windy conditions.

Devon is full of hidden gems. While specific 'hidden' routes are best discovered through local exploration, many trails off the main tourist paths offer incredible views without the crowds. Look for routes around less-frequented tors on Dartmoor or quieter sections of the South West Coast Path, such as the Hartland Quay & Hartland Point loop, which provides dramatic coastal vistas.