Adventuring with dogs in South Devon – here’s what to do
Canonteign Falls, Exeter
There are 90 acres of estate to explore at Canonteign, which sits on the edges of Dartmoor National Park. The highlight, of course, is the eponymous waterfall which tumbles over a 70-metre-high rock that lords over the estate. The climb to the top is easy, if a little tiring for littler legs, but well worth it for the views across the South Devon landscape.
Dogs will love sniffing in the ferns and woodland as you wander up, while for kids the rewards are at ground level with an extensive playground. Don’t miss lunch in the dog-friendly café on site, too, and pick up a bag of treats at the door as you enter – all good dogs get a free pack.
The Golden Hind, Brixham
This one’s for small dogs only, as while the Golden Hind is a life-size replica of the famous ship Sir Francis Drake sailed on in the 1500s, it’s a little pokey inside at times. Pick up an audio guide and make your way along its wooden decks and down into the belly of the ship where Drake and his sailors would have eaten and slept for their 1,020 days on board.
Sir Francis was born and raised in Devon and spent much of his life working in the region too, and this replica of his ship came to Brixham after a television series was filmed about his life in the 1960s. It can often be dark inside the ship, so nervous dogs are best left at home for this one.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, Budleigh Salterton
Whether you’re a keen gardener looking for inspiration or you simply want a sedate and pleasant stroll somewhere lovely, Bicton Park is a wonderful place for all. You’ll find a huge variety of plantings here, from English borders to elegant landscaped gardens with water features and lush lawns, plus a host of enticing attractions for kids too.
There are rare species to seek out, as well, and excellent tree collections including one of the finest coniferous collections in Britain. Ride their woodland railway, have lunch in the dog-friendly Orangery restaurant, and pick up a few bits in the garden centre before you head home.
The South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh
Travel back in time to the first half of the 20th century on this wonderful heritage railway, where rolling stock of retro and vintage carriages are pulled along by chugging steam engines and diesel locomotives. Once part of the Great Western Railway network, the line between Buckfastleigh and Totnes closed in 1958 to passengers, but was later saved by a group of businessmen who wanted to run it as a tourist service.
Today, it’s a thrilling day out for all, offering a pleasant trip through the South Devon countryside with the dog, where you can hop off at Totnes for walks along the river or a mooch in its open-air market. At Buckfastleigh, where the line begins, don’t miss a stroll around the town’s abbey, too. Dogs can board the trains for just £2.50.
Pecorama, Beer
There’s more rail fun just outside the charming village of Beer, where the delightful Pecorama park has its own fleet of steam trains to chug along a 7.25-inch railway. Dogs on leads are welcome to join you as you ride its miniature rails, picnic in the parkland, grab homemade snacks from the kiosks or explore its award-winning gardens. There are extensive play areas for the kids, plus a mini-golf course for family fun. After, head down to Beer’s lovely pebble beach that’s got a dog-friendly section year-round.