The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in North Devon

North Devon offers a fantastic selection of dog-friendly hiking trails, with over 75 routes available on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging coastal paths, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in North Devon, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of landscapes from beaches to moorlands, and the opportunity to explore with their canine companions. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths and the chance to discover hidden coves and natural landmarks.

Yes, North Devon has plenty of easy dog-friendly walks. Approximately 25 of the trails are rated as easy, perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog. These often include gentle riverside paths or sections of the Tarka Trail, which is largely traffic-free and flat, making it ideal for families and less strenuous walks.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, North Devon offers 7 difficult dog-friendly hikes. These often involve significant elevation changes and longer distances, particularly along the dramatic coastal paths. An example is the challenging Ilfracombe & Woolacombe loop of the South West Coast Path, which provides rewarding views for you and your energetic dog.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails in North Devon are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Bull Point & Morte Point loop from Woolacombe offers a fantastic coastal circular walk, perfect for exploring the dramatic headlands with your dog.

North Devon's dog-friendly trails often lead to spectacular natural landmarks. You can explore the dramatic rock formations of the Valley of Rocks, or discover the unique sand-dune systems of Northam Burrows. Some routes also offer views of impressive features like Glen Lyn Gorge or the rugged cliffs around Glenthorne Beach. Keep an eye out for the iconic Coast Path and View of Woody Bay.

Yes, parts of Exmoor National Park extend into North Devon, offering stunning moorland and woodland walks that are dog-friendly. These areas provide a different landscape experience compared to the coast, with ancient woodlands and tranquil riverside paths. Always check specific trail guidelines within the National Park for any seasonal restrictions or areas where dogs need to be on a lead.

North Devon is renowned for its breathtaking coastal paths, many of which are dog-friendly. The iconic South West Coast Path traverses this region, providing endless opportunities for walks with panoramic sea views. Consider the Morte Point & Damagehue Rock loop from Mortehoe for dramatic cliff-top vistas and chances to spot local wildlife.

Yes, you can find dog-friendly walks that include serene bodies of water. The Wistlandpound Reservoir area, for example, offers accessible paths through lush woodlands, making it a peaceful spot for a walk with your dog and a haven for birdwatchers. Other highlights include Isley Marsh Nature Reserve and Crook Pool.

North Devon is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking with dogs. The weather is generally milder, and the trails are less crowded than in peak summer. During summer, be mindful of hot sand on beaches and ensure your dog has access to plenty of water. Winter walks can be invigorating, but some coastal paths may be exposed to strong winds, so always check the weather forecast.

While many trails in North Devon are well-maintained, some rural paths may include stiles. If you prefer to avoid stiles, look for routes that follow disused railway lines, such as sections of the Tarka Trail, or designated accessible paths in areas like Wistlandpound Reservoir. These often provide gate access or flat, open terrain suitable for all dogs.

North Devon is generally very dog-friendly, and many pubs, especially in rural areas and coastal towns, welcome well-behaved dogs. It's always a good idea to check with the specific establishment beforehand, but you'll often find pubs with water bowls and designated dog-friendly areas, perfect for a post-hike refreshment.