Our favourite dog-friendly beaches in North Devon
5 minute read
Putsborough & Woolacombe
Restrictions? No dogs at northern end between stream & rocks
There’s well over three kilometres of sand at Putsborough and Woolacombe beaches, so the fact that dogs aren’t allowed at its northernmost point is of little consequence. This wonderful stretch of sand, which is essentially a merging of Woolacombe and Putsborough beaches, is backed by sand dunes and a sloping grassy hill that leads onto the South West Coast Path. There’s parking at the northern and southern ends of this beach, and plenty of space for all even in the height of summer.
Stay at: Amity
Blacklands Beach, Lynmouth
Restrictions? None
For those who’d rather not come home covered in sand, Lynmouth’s Blacklands Beach might be a savvy option. It’s a rock-strewn landscape, with large pebbles and patches of sand, and has wonderful views of the wooded cliffs across the estuary towards Lynton. Let the dog sniff around and explore the rock pools at low tide, and if you come when conditions are perfect, you might get to watch surfers scooting into land on the waves. From here, head over the West Lyn River and take the dog-friendly cliff railway to Lynton, where you can enjoy a cracking walk across the Valley of the Rocks.
Stay at: Aylesbury Cottage, Peacock Cottage, Bantam Cottage, or Old Farmhouse
Hele Bay, Ilfracombe
Restrictions? None
If your dog needs a vast swathe of beach this isn’t for you: quaint little Hele Bay is a small shingle and sand beach backed by jagged cliffs and a tiny little village. Come here for swimming time in the ocean, which is sheltered thanks to the rocky coastline surrounding the bay, and ice cream on the beach from the little café that overlooks the sand. Up on the verdant cliffs you’ll find trails – including the South West Coast Path – and the Hillsborough nature reserve, ideal for walking the dog.
Stay at: Skylark
Wildersmouth Beach, Ilfracombe
Restrictions? None
The coastline around Ilfracombe is all drama: striking, slate-grey rocks jut out of the sand and ocean, and tall cliffs surround the shingly grey sand that gives the beach an almost otherworldly feel. Rock pools abound here, as the beach is hidden at high tide, so when the sea retreats it leaves plenty of intriguing holes and miniature caves to sniff around. From the beach, you can take the dog for a wander up on Capstone Hill for glorious views out across the coast and Ilfracombe town.
Stay at: Skylark
Crow Point, Braunton
Restrictions? On leads on the footpath towards beach
Sitting right on the Taw and Torridge estuary, opposite the delightful town of Appledore, Crow Point is a spectacular swathe of sand. At low tide, you’ll often find boats of various sizes strewn across the soft yellow sand, which stretches almost as far as the eye can see, and dogs with high energy will love racing around on this vast beach. There’s lots of wildlife here, from seabirds to waders like spoonbills, egrets and plover, and on the nearby Braunton Burrows nature reserve you might even spot an osprey.
Stay at: Amity
Welcombe Mouth Beach, Bideford
Restrictions? None
If it’s geology that fascinates you, Welcombe Mouth has some of the most captivating rock formations. Layers of sedimentary rock in near perfect parallel lines run off from the beach into the ocean, creating a truly mesmerising sight. These are home to countless rock pools and make for exciting climbing for both dogs and kids. This beach is one of Devon’s most secluded, with no facilities and a very small car park on the clifftop, so come here if you’re looking for a quiet afternoon on the coast.
Stay at: Nest Treehouse, Cosy Cowshed, or Hideout Treehouse
