Devon is built for walking with a dog. From long coastal paths that cling to red cliffs, to quiet river valleys and open moorland where the land feels endless, the county offers a huge amount of variety without ever feeling overcrowded. It’s a place where you can switch between sea air and woodland shade in the space of a day.
These walks explore different sides of Devon, taking in coast, countryside and moorland through routes that are well suited to four-legged companions. Some are easy-going and ideal for slower days, others ask a bit more of you, but all offer space, scenery and the kind of routes that reward taking your time.
Teign Gorge Circular Walk (Dartmoor Fringe)
Teign Gorge is one of Devon’s most underrated walking landscapes. This circular route follows the River Teign as it cuts through a steep-sided wooded gorge, creating a walk that feels secluded, immersive, and surprisingly wild given how close it sits to Dartmoor. The combination of rushing water, mossy woodland, and elevated viewpoints makes it one of the most atmospheric valley walks in the county.
The paths are well established but can be uneven and muddy in places, especially after rain, so it suits dogs that are confident on varied terrain. There are short climbs and descents as the route moves between river level and higher woodland paths, but the effort is rewarded with quieter trails and far fewer crowds than many better-known Devon walks.
- Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Woodland paths, riverside trails, uneven ground
- Dog restrictions: Steep drops in places, dogs should stay under close control
Beer to Branscombe Coastal Walk (East Devon)
This classic stretch of the Jurassic Coast offers some of the finest walking in East Devon. Starting in the village of Beer, the path climbs steadily onto the cliffs before rolling west towards Branscombe, delivering sweeping views across Lyme Bay for much of the route.
It’s a brilliant walk for dogs that enjoy longer distances and sea air, with enough space to keep things relaxed even on busier days. The climbs are steady rather than steep, and the reward comes in the form of quiet coves, grassy headlands, and a proper sense of journey from village to village.
- Distance: 5.5 miles / 8.8 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Cliff paths, grass tracks
- Dog restrictions: Seasonal livestock in fields
Haldon Forest Discovery Trail (Near Exeter)
If you’re after a calmer woodland walk with reliable paths and year-round accessibility, Haldon Forest is a strong choice. This circular route winds through tall conifers and mixed woodland, with plenty of shade in summer and firm ground in wetter months.
It’s an especially good option for dogs that prefer predictable terrain and owners who want a stress-free walk close to the city. Waymarking is clear, gradients are gentle, and there are plenty of variations if you want to extend the route.
- Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Forest tracks, compacted paths
- Dog restrictions: Dogs should be kept under control around cyclists
Sharpham Estate and River Dart Walk (South Devon)
This peaceful riverside walk explores the Sharpham Estate above the River Dart, combining gentle woodland paths with open meadows overlooking the water. It’s a quieter alternative to some of the busier Dart Valley routes and feels wonderfully secluded once you’re away from the access points.
The route suits relaxed walking, with plenty of places to pause and take in the views. Dogs can enjoy woodland scents and open stretches, but care is needed near the riverbanks, particularly after heavy rain.
- Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Woodland paths, grassy fields
- Dog restrictions: Livestock present on parts of the estate
Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk (South Devon)
This section of the South West Coast Path delivers everything you’d expect from Devon’s coastline. Rugged headlands, turquoise water on calm days, and a sense of exposure that makes the walk feel adventurous without being extreme.
It’s a longer, more energetic route that suits dogs used to sustained walking. The path is generally clear but undulates constantly, so it’s worth pacing yourself. On quieter days, it feels wonderfully remote despite being close to Salcombe.
- Distance: 6 miles / 9.6 km
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Terrain: Coastal paths, uneven ground
- Dog restrictions: Cliffs and livestock in places
Fernworthy Reservoir Circular Walk (Dartmoor)
Fernworthy Reservoir sits on the edge of Dartmoor and offers a gentler introduction to the moor compared to the more exposed tors. This circular walk loops the water through ancient woodland and open moorland edges, with a real sense of space without constant climbing.
It’s ideal for dogs that enjoy variety and water-side wandering. Unlike many Dartmoor routes, this one feels contained and sheltered, making it a good option in less settled weather.
- Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Woodland trails, moorland paths
- Dog restrictions: Ground-nesting birds seasonally
Otterton Mill and River Otter Walk (East Devon)
This gentle riverside walk follows the River Otter through meadows and quiet countryside near the coast. It’s a relaxed, low-level route that works well year-round and is particularly good for older dogs or recovery walks.
The path is mostly flat and well-trodden, with plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the slower pace. After wetter periods, some sections can be muddy, but it adds to the rural feel rather than detracting from it.
- Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Riverside paths, fields
- Dog restrictions: Livestock in surrounding fields
Avon Dam Reservoir Circular Walk (South Dartmoor)
Avon Dam sits high on the southern edge of Dartmoor and offers a more contained, quieter moorland experience than many of the classic tor routes. This circular walk loops the reservoir before pushing gently out onto open moorland, where wide views stretch across the surrounding hills and valleys.
The route feels remote without being overwhelming. Paths are generally clear, gradients are manageable, and the reservoir edge provides a calm contrast to the exposed sections beyond. It’s a good option if you want a sense of Dartmoor’s scale without committing to a long or technical hike. Dogs will enjoy the space, but should remain under close control due to grazing livestock.
- Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Moorland paths, reservoir tracks
- Dog restrictions: Sheep and ponies present, control required
Tarka Trail: Fremington Quay to Instow (North Devon)
This section of the Tarka Trail follows a disused railway line along the Taw and Torridge estuaries, delivering a flat, traffic-free walk with wide open views across mudflats, saltmarsh and tidal water. It’s a very different Devon experience to moorland or cliffs, with big skies, birdlife, and a calm, unhurried feel.
The surfaced path makes this route ideal for relaxed walking and for dogs that prefer predictable footing. Despite its accessibility, it never feels urban, and the estuary setting changes constantly with the tide. It also works well year-round and is easy to shorten or extend depending on energy levels.
- Distance: 4.5 miles / 7.2 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Flat, surfaced trail
- Dog restrictions: Dogs should be on lead around wildlife and cyclists
Hartland Quay to Speke’s Mill Mouth Walk
This rugged coastal walk explores one of the wildest sections of the North Devon coastline, following the South West Coast Path south from Hartland Quay. The route passes sheer cliffs, folded rock formations, and crashing surf, delivering a dramatic walk that feels properly remote.
It’s a demanding but rewarding route, with steep ascents and descents that will suit confident walkers and energetic dogs. Paths are generally clear but exposed, and conditions can change quickly, making this best tackled in settled weather.
- Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Terrain: Coastal paths, steep gradients
- Dog restrictions: Cliffs and livestock present, close control required
Torrington Commons Circular Walk (Great Torrington)
Torrington Commons offers a quieter, inland North Devon walking experience, with a network of woodland paths and open commons overlooking the Torridge Valley. The landscape feels spacious but sheltered, providing a strong contrast to the exposed coastal routes elsewhere in the county.
The terrain is varied but manageable, making this a good everyday walk for local exploration or a gentler option alongside more demanding coastal hikes. Dogs will enjoy the woodland trails and open ground, though care is needed around livestock grazing areas.
- Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Woodland paths, open commons
- Dog restrictions: Grazing livestock present
Map of Dog Friendly Walks in Devon
Our interactive map of these walks will help you plan routes, parking, and nearby adventures across the county, simply click the pins to uncover more information.
Torrington Commons offers a quieter, inland North Devon walking experience, with a network of woodland paths and open commons overlooking the Torridge Valley. The landscape feels spacious but sheltered, providing a strong contrast to the exposed coastal routes elsewhere in the county.
The terrain is varied but manageable, making this a good everyday walk for local exploration or a gentler option alongside more demanding coastal hikes. Dogs will enjoy the woodland trails and open ground, though care is needed around livestock grazing areas.
Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Woodland paths, open commons
Dog restrictions: Grazing livestock present
This rugged coastal walk explores one of the wildest sections of the North Devon coastline, following the South West Coast Path south from Hartland Quay. The route passes sheer cliffs, folded rock formations, and crashing surf, delivering a dramatic walk that feels properly remote.
It’s a demanding but rewarding route, with steep ascents and descents that will suit confident walkers and energetic dogs. Paths are generally clear but exposed, and conditions can change quickly, making this best tackled in settled weather.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Terrain: Coastal paths, steep gradients
Dog restrictions: Cliffs and livestock present, close control required
This section of the Tarka Trail follows a former railway line along the Taw and Torridge estuaries, delivering a flat, traffic-free walk with wide open views. The landscape feels calm and expansive, changing constantly with the tide.
The smooth surface makes it ideal for relaxed walking and dogs that prefer even footing. Despite its accessibility, the estuary setting keeps the route feeling open and connected to nature.
Distance: 4.5 miles / 7.2 km
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat, surfaced trail
Dog restrictions: Dogs should be on lead around wildlife and cyclists
Avon Dam sits high on the southern edge of Dartmoor, offering a quieter and more contained moorland experience than many tor-based routes. The walk loops the reservoir before extending onto open ground with wide views across the surrounding hills.
The route feels remote without being overwhelming, with clear paths and manageable gradients throughout. Dogs should be kept under close control due to grazing livestock across the moor.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Moorland paths, reservoir tracks
Dog restrictions: Sheep and ponies present
This gentle riverside walk follows the River Otter through quiet East Devon countryside near the coast. It is a low-level route with a relaxed feel, ideal for older dogs or easy-going days out.
The path is mostly flat and well used, though sections can become muddy after wet weather. The peaceful surroundings and steady pace make it a reliable year-round option.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Riverside paths, fields
Dog restrictions: Livestock in surrounding fields
Fernworthy Reservoir sits on the edge of Dartmoor and offers a more sheltered moorland walk than many exposed routes. The circular path loops the water through ancient woodland before opening out onto moorland fringes.
It is a varied and manageable route that works well in less settled weather. Dogs will enjoy the mix of terrain, though they should be kept under control during ground-nesting bird season.
Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Woodland trails, moorland paths
Dog restrictions: Ground-nesting birds seasonally
This rugged section of the South West Coast Path links two dramatic headlands near Salcombe, delivering classic South Devon coastal scenery. The route undulates constantly, with far-reaching sea views and an exposed coastal feel.
It is a more demanding walk that suits dogs used to sustained effort. Paths are clear but uneven in places, and extra care is needed near cliff edges, particularly in windy conditions.
Distance: 6 miles / 9.6 km
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Terrain: Coastal paths, uneven ground
Dog restrictions: Cliffs and livestock in places
This peaceful walk explores the Sharpham Estate above the River Dart, combining woodland paths with open meadows overlooking the water. The setting feels tranquil and rural, offering a quieter alternative to busier Dart Valley routes.
The paths are generally gentle and well defined, making this a good option for a slower-paced walk. Dogs will enjoy the mix of woodland and open ground, though care is needed near riverbanks and grazing livestock.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Woodland paths, grassy fields
Dog restrictions: Livestock present on parts of the estate
Haldon Forest offers a calm, accessible woodland walk just outside Exeter, with wide forest tracks and well-maintained paths. Tall conifers provide shelter year-round, making this a reliable option in all seasons.
The Discovery Trail is ideal for relaxed walking, with gentle gradients and clear waymarking throughout. It suits dogs that prefer predictable terrain and owners looking for an easy, low-stress route.
Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Forest tracks, compacted paths
Dog restrictions: Dogs should be kept under control around cyclists
This classic East Devon walk follows the South West Coast Path between the villages of Beer and Branscombe, offering sweeping views across Lyme Bay. The route climbs steadily onto the cliffs before rolling along grassy headlands with the sea never far from sight.
It is a rewarding walk that balances effort with scenery, making it ideal for dogs used to longer distances. Paths are generally clear, though there are sustained climbs and exposed sections along the cliffs.
Distance: 5.5 miles / 8.8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Cliff paths, grass tracks
Dog restrictions: Livestock present in fields at certain times of year
Teign Gorge is one of Devon’s most atmospheric valley walks, following the River Teign as it winds through steep-sided woodland on the fringe of Dartmoor. The route feels secluded and surprisingly wild, with moss-covered paths, rushing water and dense tree cover creating a real sense of immersion.
The walk includes uneven ground and short climbs as the path rises above the river before dropping back down, but the effort is rewarded with quiet trails and elevated viewpoints. It is best tackled in drier conditions, as sections can become muddy after rain.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Woodland paths, riverside trails
Dog restrictions: Steep drops in places, dogs should stay under close control
Find even more dog friendly walks across the UK on our Wildpack Map, as well as beaches and other points of interest.
What’s Nearby?
- Dog Friendly Walks on Dartmoor National Park – deep-dive guide to forest trails, tors and moorland routes
- Dog Friendly Walks in Exmoor National Park – Spoilt for choice on National Parks with Exmoor nearby too
- Dog Friendly Beaches in Devon – coastal options for post-walk swims
- Dog friendly walks in Dorset – Explore chalk hills, wooded valleys and coastal paths
- Dog Friendly Walks in Cornwall – perfect if you’re extending your trip west
- Dog Friendly Beaches in Cornwall – Exmoor and countryside routes to the north
- Dog Friendly Beaches in Somerset – A short drive brings you to Somerset’s open, less crowded beaches
- Dog Friendly Walks in Somerset – A varied mix of hill walks, canals and flat wetland trails
Final Thoughts
Devon’s strength lies in its variety. You can tailor walks to the weather, your dog’s energy levels, or simply the kind of day you want to have. Whether that’s a quiet riverside wander, a lung-filling coastal hike, or a moorland ramble with space to breathe, there’s always another route waiting.
If you’re planning to explore Dartmoor in more depth, our dedicated guide dives deeper into its forests, tors and wide-open landscapes, making it easy to build longer adventures around this list.