The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Barnstaple

There are over 35 dog-friendly hiking trails around Barnstaple, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These include 16 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option.

The trails around Barnstaple offer diverse terrain, from flat, accessible paths along the River Taw estuary to more challenging ascents on hills like Codden Hill. You'll find coastal paths, riverside tracks, and routes through ancient woodlands and open moorland, especially along sections of the Tarka Trail.

Yes, Barnstaple offers several excellent circular walks suitable for dogs. For a moderate challenge with panoramic views, consider the Barnstaple Long Bridge – Codden Beacon Viewpoint loop. Another great option is the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop, which combines town and riverside scenery.

The Tarka Trail is a fantastic option for dog walkers, as many sections follow disused railway lines, making them relatively flat and accessible. Popular stretches include the path from Fremington to Barnstaple and the scenic route from Instow to Fremington. These sections offer beautiful estuary views and are perfect for a relaxed walk with your dog.

Many trails offer scenic views and interesting landmarks. You can spot the historic Barnstaple Clock Tower, enjoy tranquil estuary views from Velator Quay, or explore the diverse wildlife at Isley Marsh Nature Reserve. Codden Hill provides panoramic vistas stretching towards Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Lundy Island.

Yes, there are 16 easy dog-friendly routes around Barnstaple. Many sections of the Tarka Trail, particularly those along the River Taw, are flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for beginners, families, and dogs of all ages. The Fremington Quay Café – River Taw loop is a good example of a moderate route with minimal elevation gain, offering pleasant riverside walking.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from coastal views at Baggy Point to the tranquil River Taw estuary, and the accessibility of many trails for dogs. The well-maintained paths and variety of route lengths are also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. While Barnstaple itself is inland on the River Taw, it's a gateway to stunning coastal walks. Areas like Baggy Point offer breathtaking coastal, sea, and farmland views, perfect for a longer circular walk. Further afield, Morte Point and Bull Point provide more strenuous hikes along dramatic cliffs and sandy bays, where you might even spot seals.

Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for dog walks in Barnstaple, with milder temperatures and beautiful natural displays like wildflowers in spring or vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but remember to bring plenty of water for your dog. Winter walks can be invigorating, but some coastal paths might be exposed to stronger winds.

Yes, the diverse landscapes around Barnstaple provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the River Taw estuary and at places like Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, you can observe a variety of birdlife. Coastal areas like Baggy Point and Morte Point are known for seabirds, and on clear days, you might even spot seals near the coast.

Barnstaple and the surrounding villages are generally very welcoming to dogs. Many pubs and cafes, especially those along popular walking routes like the Tarka Trail or in charming towns like Instow, offer dog-friendly seating areas, often with water bowls available. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, especially during peak times.