The UK is a nation of dog lovers, and we love to get outdoors and explore with our four-legged friends. Thankfully there is a huge array of incredible places to take our pups, including breathtaking dog-friendly beaches, many of which are found in Devon.
Though every month is one to celebrate our four-legged friends, January officially marks ‘Walk Your Pet Month’, so pack the lead and don’t let the winter temperatures stop you from sharing the magnificent coastal sights with your pooch.
Home to over 120 miles of coastline Devon also boasts 130 beaches, but which ones are you and your companion allowed to visit, and more importantly which would your dog enjoy the most?
Exmouth Beach, East Devon
Kicking off with 2 miles of golden sand, this East Devon-based beach definitely provides enough space for a few rounds of fetch. If your dog enjoys a large space to run around, a day playing in the shallow waters will be sure to tire them out.
Though being a popular beach in Devon, due to its size Exmouth is ideal for nervous dogs looking for their own space.
Dogs are allowed all year at either end of the beach, from the third breakwater East and from the Octagon café west.
Churston Cove, Brixham
For those looking for a long walk through a mixture of woodland and beach, venture to The Grove and adjoining Churston and Marridge Woods, and walk along a network of footpaths surrounded by 100 acres of nature.
Known for its birdwatching and wildlife, continue through the woods before taking the path down to Churston Cove, an all-year-round small dog-friendly beach, for a post-walk paddle.
With a moderately difficult route to the beach, this walk is best suited for dogs and owners with endurance, and no accessibility needs.
Broad Sands Beach, Combe Martin
One for the adventurers, Broad Sands beach, located on the border of Exmoor National Park, is off the beaten track, perfect for dogs and walkers who are capable of steep inclines and a more challenging climb.
With over 200 steps to walk down and back up, find yourself between heavily wooded cliffs and trees before reaching a quiet, curved beach sheltered by breathtaking cliffs and foliage. Full of caves and crannies nearby, your dog has plenty of new places to investigate, making it a brilliant place for curious dogs.
Before going, research the low tide to make use of the space.
Branscombe Beach. East Devon
Pet-friendly all year round, Branscombe beach allows dogs to walk and swim whenever their heart desires. It’s a wonderful place for dogs and owners to visit, with pristine towering cliffs and hills, giving ample opportunity for new smells and sights.
Post paddle, stop for a drink at the nearby dog-friendly café before heading home. Note, Branscombe is pebbled, so for those who want to avoid a sandy car, this one might be for you!
Woolacombe Beach, Woolacombe
Always a firm favourite, a trip to Woolacombe beach is a day out the dogs won’t forget! Expanding over 400m, this long expanse of the beach gives dogs the chance to explore if they aren’t quite ready to free roam but are comfortable on long leads.
Although there are restrictions in peak summer months, clearly marked dog zones are easy to locate because the beach is so huge, but it still gives ample space to play in the sand.
When the fresh air takes its toll and the novelty of fetch wears off, book a table for two at one of many dog-friendly pubs in the charming town of Woolacombe, a short distance from the beach.
For a break away in Devon with your pup, there is a huge range of dog-friendly holiday cottages in Devon from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays which are still available this month from £416 per week.
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