South Devon strolls: where to walk the dog
Noss Mayo & Revelstoke Drive
Start point: Warren Car Park, PL8 1EW
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 6.8km/90 mins
Directions: SWCP
This easy-to-follow walk takes in a beautiful section of the South West Coast Path, almost as far south as you can get in Devon without venturing into neighbouring Cornwall. It begins and ends in the village of Noss Mayo (take note of the two dog-friendly pubs for refuelling when you finish), and follows the River Yealm to the coast before heading back inland across farmland. Look out for porpoise and dolphins in the sea, and you might even spot a few lolling seals on the rocks below the coastal cliffs.
Bellever Tor, Dartmoor
Start point: Bellever or Postbridge car park
Type: There-and-back
Distance/time: 4km/60 mins
Directions: Waymarkers on the ground
Starting in the thick Bellever Forest, a Forestry Commission plantation of tall, lanky conifers, this trail takes you over some seriously storied ground. Once out of the woodland you’ll find yourself on an open moorland, peppered with seemingly random stones. There’s little random about it though – these stones are the remains of ancient roundhouses from civilisations gone by.
It’s out here where you might also spot the famous Dartmoor ponies, as well as grazing livestock (dogs on leads is essential if present). Once you reach the top of Bellever Tor you’ll enjoy wonderful views across Dartmoor. You can then return the way you came.
Kingswear & Waterhead Creek
Start point: Darthaven Marina car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 3km/45 minutes
Directions: South Devon National Landscape
If it’s a quick but pretty stroll you’re after, this 45-minute walk on the edges of the River Dart is a lovely little excursion (which also happens to link with the ferries to Dartmouth across the river, and the Dartmouth Steam Railway – a wonderful day out with the dog).
The trail starts from the marina and heads alongside Waterhead Creek, then onto a woodland path high above the river. You’ll then take a track that descends to the riverside and wander back along the water to the marina again. A short but sweet walk, with plenty of exciting things to do nearby.
Sidmouth & Budleigh Salterton circular
Start Point: Peak Hill Road, Sidmouth
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 18.5km/6hrs
Directions: AllTrails
Bring a picnic for this all-day walk on the coast between Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton – there are plenty of scenic spots to stop for your sandwiches. The first half of the route follows winding country lanes (these can be busy during peak season so only take on this hike in quieter periods when there’s less traffic), which pass over farmland and through the small village of Otterton.
Once you reach the River Otter, you’ll then turn to the ocean and hit the undulating South West Coast Path for the trek back to Sidmouth. Enjoy spectacular coastal views of reddish cliffs and rocky outcrops all the way.
The Red Route at Parke, Bovey Tracey
Start point: Parke car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: Approx. 8km/2hrs
Directions: Waymarked on the ground
There are myriad footpaths on this handsome National Trust estate near Bovey Tracey (and you can even extend your stroll by walking there from the town centre along a 1.5km footpath), but follow the red route that’s waymarked on the ground and you’ll see all the estate’s highlights in one go. Taking in a former railway track and a variety of pretty woodlands, this excellent walk also has fabulous views of the main house and orchard from Blackmoor Copse.
Dogs can be off the lead but need to remain under close control due to wildlife (there are nesting birds from March through September). If you want them to be able to run free without worry, there’s an enclosed dog field between the river and old railway tracks. Handily, dogs are welcome in the Long Room at the onsite cafe so you can stop for a scone at the end.