Exploring Devon on Foot with Your Dog

Devon is one of those places that seems to offer a bit of everything, especially for people who enjoy spending time outdoors with their dog. Located in the south west of England, Devon is bordered by the Bristol Channel to the north and the English Channel to the south, giving it two very different coastlines alongside a large and varied countryside inland.

This combination of coast, countryside, rivers and open moorland makes Devon a particularly rewarding destination for dog walking holidays, offering variety without the need to travel far between locations.

A Landscape Full of Variety

One of Devon’s greatest strengths is the diversity of its terrain. In a single trip, you can experience wide sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, rolling farmland, woodland trails and open moorland. This variety keeps walks interesting for dogs and owners alike, with new sights, smells and textures to explore each day.

The terrain ranges from gentle, easy paths suitable for relaxed walks, to more open and exposed areas where dogs can stretch their legs and enjoy a sense of freedom. Many routes are well-marked and maintained, making it easy to plan days that suit different energy levels.

Open Moorland and Wide Horizons

Much of Devon’s inland walking appeal comes from its national parks.

Dartmoor
Dartmoor is known for its wide, open landscapes, granite tors and sweeping views. Dogs are welcome across much of the moor, and the sense of space makes it a favourite for longer walks. The terrain here is open and rugged, with plenty of room to explore, while quieter valleys and rivers provide calmer routes when needed.

Exmoor National Park
Exmoor offers a different feel, combining moorland with wooded valleys and coastal views. Walks here often feel more sheltered, with a mix of open ground and shaded paths. It’s an area that suits dogs who enjoy variety without long stretches of steep terrain.

Coastal Walking With a Change of Pace
Devon’s coastline is one of its biggest attractions for dog walkers. With long stretches of beach and dramatic cliff paths, coastal walks can be as gentle or as challenging as you like.

Saunton Sands
Saunton Sands is a popular spot thanks to its vast, open beach and relaxed atmosphere. Large areas allow dogs throughout the year, making it ideal for long walks where dogs can enjoy space and fresh sea air.

South West Coast Path
Sections of the South West Coast Path run along both the north and south Devon coastlines. These routes offer changing scenery, from high cliffs to sheltered coves, and provide plenty of options for shorter out-and-back walks or longer routes spread over several days.

Morte Point
Morte Point is one of North Devon’s most dramatic coastal walks, offering a real sense of wildness and space. Located near the village of Morte Point, this rugged headland juts out into the Bristol Channel and follows a section of the South West Coast Path. The route is exposed and windswept, with rolling grass underfoot, steep cliffs and uninterrupted sea views in every direction. It’s a rewarding walk for dogs that enjoy open terrain and fresh coastal air, while walkers are treated to a constantly changing landscape shaped by wind and waves. On clear days, the views stretch far out to sea, making Morte Point a memorable and invigorating coastal walk that truly showcases Devon’s untamed shoreline.

Rivers, Woodlands and Gentle Walks

Devon’s river valleys add another layer to its walking appeal. Paths alongside rivers tend to be calmer and more sheltered, making them ideal for quieter days.

River Dart
Walks along the River Dart combine woodland, water and peaceful surroundings. These routes are particularly enjoyable in warmer months, offering shade and a slower pace that many dogs enjoy.
Woodland walks throughout Devon also provide variety, with soft ground underfoot and natural shelter from wind and sun.

Well-Known Names From Devon

Devon has long inspired writers, explorers and creatives, and over the years it has been home to many well-known figures. Its coastline, countryside and slower pace of life have shaped people whose work is recognised far beyond the county itself.

One of Devon’s most famous literary connections is Agatha Christie, who was born in Torquay. Her love of the coast and countryside influenced many of her stories, and parts of Devon are still closely associated with her life and work today.

Devon is also the birthplace of Sir Francis Drake, the Elizabethan sea captain and explorer born in Tavistock. The county’s strong maritime history and rugged coastline played an important role during this period, and echoes of that heritage can still be felt along Devon’s shores.

In more recent times, Devon has produced well-known artists and entertainers such as Chris Martin, the lead singer of Coldplay, who grew up in Exeter. The area’s creative atmosphere and connection to nature are often credited as influences on those who spend time here.

These links to history, literature and music add another layer to Devon’s character. When walking its coastal paths, moorland trails or riverside routes, it’s easy to see why so many people have felt inspired by this part of the south west — a place where landscape, heritage and everyday life blend naturally together.

Places to Visit Along the Way

Devon’s towns and villages often sit close to walking routes, making it easy to combine a walk with a relaxed stop. Many cafés, pubs and local shops are dog-friendly, especially in coastal and rural areas where dogs are a familiar sight.

Small harbour towns, countryside villages and market towns all offer opportunities to pause, refuel and enjoy the local atmosphere without needing to plan far in advance.

A Destination That Encourages Exploration

A dog walking holiday in Devon doesn’t need a strict plan. You can choose a coastal path one day, head inland the next, and finish with a riverside walk without repeating the same scenery twice. This flexibility makes Devon a destination that rewards curiosity and exploration.

With its welcoming atmosphere, varied terrain and abundance of dog-friendly routes, Devon offers a walking holiday experience that feels balanced and unforced — a place where dogs can explore comfortably and owners can enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.

Dog Transport to Devon from Across the UK

Travelling to Devon or the South West with your dog? We provide a door-to-door road transport service for dogs travelling from across the UK to destinations throughout Devon, with owners welcome to travel alongside their dog at no extra charge. It’s a calm, comfortable way to reach coastal towns, countryside locations and dog-friendly accommodation across Devon.

UK Nationwide & Europe Luxury Dog Transport

Telephone: +44 (0)20 3951 3030