The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Exeter

There are over 60 dog-friendly hiking trails around Exeter, catering to various difficulty levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and some more challenging routes to explore with your canine companion.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails around Exeter, with an average score of 4.58 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to woodland trails, and the general accessibility for dogs.

Yes, Exeter offers many easy dog-friendly walks perfect for all abilities, including those with less experienced hikers or older dogs. Over 30 routes are classified as easy. For example, the River Exe at Brampford Speke – Exe Valley Railway Path loop from Brampford Speke is a gentle 5 km walk with minimal elevation.

The Exe Estuary Trail is largely dog-friendly, offering flat and accessible paths with scenic views and excellent birdwatching opportunities. However, always keep your dog under close control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and be mindful of other users. Sections around Topsham Dock are particularly popular.

Haldon Forest Park, just southwest of Exeter, is a fantastic dog-friendly destination. It features a network of well-marked trails, from easy, family-friendly routes to more challenging options. Dogs are generally welcome but should be kept on a lead in designated areas or where wildlife is present. There are often specific off-lead zones too.

Dartmoor National Park is easily accessible from Exeter and offers a vast, wild landscape for dog walking. It's crucial to be aware of livestock (sheep, ponies, cattle) and ground-nesting birds, especially during nesting season (March-July). Dogs must be kept on a lead on open moorland. Many wooded valleys and specific trails allow for more freedom, but always check local signage.

Yes, the historic Exeter Ship Canal offers popular dog-friendly strolls. The Exeter Ship Canal shared path provides a flat, accessible route. You can enjoy walks extending along the canal, which was Britain's first canal, offering a peaceful escape close to the city. The Exeter Ship Canal shared path – Riverside Valley Park loop is a great option.

Exeter boasts several urban green spaces perfect for dog walks. Mincinglake Valley Park, Barley Valley Park, and Ludwell Valley Park all offer peaceful trails, open meadows, and woodland areas within the city limits. These parks are great for a quick local walk with your dog.

While many areas require dogs to be on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife, places like Haldon Forest Park often have designated off-lead areas. Many of the larger woodlands and less populated sections of the Exe Estuary Trail or Dartmoor (where safe and permitted) can also offer opportunities for off-lead exercise, provided your dog has excellent recall and you are aware of your surroundings.

Exeter and its surrounding villages are generally very dog-friendly. Many pubs and cafes, particularly in areas like Topsham, along the Exe Estuary, or near Haldon Forest Park, welcome well-behaved dogs. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, especially if you plan to dine inside.

Yes, several trails pass by interesting points. Along the Exeter Ship Canal, you can see the historic Exeter Ship Canal itself and the Countess Wear Bridges. The Exe Estuary Trail offers views of Topsham Dock and the charming Topsham Town Centre, which are great for a stroll with your dog.

Many of the easy-grade trails are suitable for families with dogs. Haldon Forest Park is a prime example, with its well-maintained paths and facilities. The flat sections of the Exe Estuary Trail and walks through urban green spaces like Ludwell Valley Park also provide safe and enjoyable experiences for families and their dogs.