Mothecombe Beach
Devon
Mothecombe, also known as Meadowsfoot, is a privately owned beach on the Flete Estate at the mouth of the River Erme, one of the more unspoilt stretches of sand on the South Devon coast. The estate opens the beach to the public daily, and there is a large grass car park, a tea shop and toilets on the estate grounds, though access to the beach itself involves a walk along a narrow wooded path through the valley. At very low tide the beach extends across the estuary to connect with Wonwell on the opposite bank, where the two beaches form a substantial combined area of sand. The setting is quiet, the facilities are simple, and the beach sees nothing like the footfall of the more famous spots nearby.
Dogs are not permitted from 1 May to 30 September, which is one of the standard South Hams seasonal restrictions. For the rest of the year it is an outstanding off-season beach, particularly in autumn when the estuary light and the wooded valley behind are at their best. Dog owners visiting outside the restricted season should note that the car park closes at 5pm and gates are locked at 7pm, so plan accordingly. At complete low water it is possible to wade the River Erme across to Wonwell Beach on the far bank, though the window is narrow: allow no more than one hour either side of low tide before the risk of being cut off becomes real.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Seasonal Restrictions
- No dogs from 1 May to 30 September. At complete low water, the River Erme can be waded to reach Wonwell Beach on the opposite bank.
- Beach Type
- Sand
- Tide Notes
- At complete low tide the beach connects to Wonwell via a river crossing. 150 acres of sand exposed at low water. Check tide times before visiting.
- Facilities
- Tea shop on the Flete Estate, toilets at the car park. Schoolhouse Restaurant nearby.
- Parking
- Pay parking in estate grass field (space for around 500 cars). Last entry 5pm, gates locked at 7pm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mothecombe Beach dog friendly?
Mothecombe is a great choice for dog owners visiting outside the summer months, earning a 7/10 dog-friendly rating. It's a beautifully unspoilt beach on the Erme estuary with a quiet, unhurried atmosphere , exactly the kind of place dogs (and their owners) tend to love. Just be aware that there is a seasonal restriction in place, so timing your visit correctly is key.
Are dogs allowed at Mothecombe Beach year round?
Dogs are not permitted on the beach between 1 May and 30 September, which is a standard South Hams seasonal restriction. Outside of those months, however, it's an excellent off-season destination , particularly in autumn, when the estuary light and the wooded valley behind the beach are especially beautiful.
What should I know before visiting Mothecombe Beach with my dog?
A few practical things worth knowing: the estate car park closes at 5pm with gates locked at 7pm, so plan your visit accordingly. Access to the beach involves a walk along a narrow wooded path through the valley, so keep that in mind if your dog isn't great on a lead. At very low tide it's possible to wade across the River Erme to Wonwell Beach on the opposite bank, but the window is tight , no more than one hour either side of low tide , so don't linger if you cross.
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