Exmoor National Park is one of the most peaceful and varied walking destinations in the UK. Rolling moorland, deep wooded valleys, open coastal views and historic villages come together to create a landscape that feels made for adventures with your dog. The quieter trails, gentle gradients and wide open spaces give dogs plenty of room to explore, while the coastline and river valleys offer new scents and experiences at every turn.
Below you will find ten dog friendly walks across Exmoor that offer something for everyone. Some are short and relaxed for an easy weekend stroll, while others are long and rewarding routes that will challenge more active dogs and owners. Each walk explains why it is great for dogs and what to expect underfoot, so you can pick the right trail for your next outing.
Tarr Steps Circular
Tarr Steps – Photo Credit: Lewis Clarke
Distance: 2.4 miles | Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots | Parking: Yes
Tarr Steps is one of Exmoor’s most iconic spots and a great choice for an easy, dog friendly day out. This circular route follows the River Barle through peaceful woodland, giving you a gentle walk with plenty of shade and cool areas for dogs to paddle. The historic clapper bridge is a lovely focal point and the surrounding nature is usually quiet enough for relaxed exploring.
Dogs tend to love this route because of the mix of riverside scents, open areas and shallow water. It is ideal for dogs that enjoy splashing or sniffing along woodland paths. Much of the trail is safe for off lead walking although you may encounter ponies, so good recall is helpful.
Valley of Rocks Coastal Loop
Valley of Rocks – Photo Credit: Jim Osley
Distance: 3 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
The Valley of Rocks is famous for its dramatic rock formations and the feral goats that live among them. This walk follows the cliffs above the sea, giving incredible views and some exciting terrain without being overly difficult. The path is well marked and offers sweeping panoramas of the North Devon coastline.
Dogs will enjoy the open stretches, fresh sea air and unique smells across the valley. Because of the steep drops in some areas and the presence of goats, you may need to keep dogs on lead at points. For attentive walkers this is a stunning and memorable route.
Heddon’s Mouth Trail
Heddon’s Mouth – Photo Credit: Michael Garlick
Distance: 2 miles | Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
This short out and back route follows a gentle riverside path from Heddon Valley to a secluded pebble beach at Heddon’s Mouth. Surrounded by dense woodland and steep valley sides, the walk feels peaceful and sheltered even on windy days. The path is mostly level which makes it suitable for all abilities.
Dogs appreciate the soft underfoot terrain and the chance to explore woodland scents along the way. The beach at the end is a rewarding spot for dogs to sniff, paddle or rest before heading back. This is a relaxing and accessible walk for any dog friendly outing.
Dunkery Beacon from Dunkery Gate
Dunkery Beacon – Photo Credit: SnowdropofIvyBirch
Distance: 5 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots | Parking: Yes
Dunkery Beacon is the highest point on Exmoor and this route from Dunkery Gate offers one of the most straightforward ways to reach it. The walk rises steadily across open moorland with far reaching views in every direction. The summit gives a breathtaking panoramic reward and plenty of space to sit and take in the landscape.
Dogs will love the freedom of the open moor, especially when the weather is clear and visibility is high. There are usually plenty of opportunities for off lead exploring, although Exmoor ponies and livestock can be present so awareness is important.
Horner Wood Circular
Horner Wood – Photo Credit: Retox
Distance: 4 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots | Parking: Yes
Horner Wood is one of the largest ancient oak woodlands in the UK, filled with rich scents, mossy trails and winding paths. This circular route explores the heart of the woodland, mixing gentle slopes with peaceful riverside sections. It feels magical in all seasons and is especially beautiful after rain when the forest floor glistens.
Dogs tend to thrive in Horner Wood thanks to its mixture of open woodland, shaded trails and constant sensory interest. With good recall, many areas are suitable for off lead adventures. It is a great option for dogs that love natural woodland environments.
Porlock Weir and Porlock Marsh
Porlock Weir – Photo Credit: Herbythyme
Distance: 3.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
Starting from the picturesque harbour at Porlock Weir, this route takes you around Porlock Marsh with views across the Bristol Channel. The path is mostly flat and passes through saltmarsh, shingle and open fields, giving a calm coastal walk with big sky scenery.
Dogs enjoy this route for its salty smells, open paths and quieter feel compared to some of Exmoor’s inland routes. Some areas may require leads due to wildlife, but large parts of the walk offer relaxed movement.
Watersmeet to Ash Bridge
Watersmeet – Photo Credit: Chris McAuley
Distance: 3 miles | Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
Watersmeet is a beautiful meeting point of rivers with a historic tea garden and lush woodland. This walk follows the river to Ash Bridge along well maintained trails with gentle inclines. The scenery is calming and features waterfalls, deep pools and a canopy of trees overhead.
Dogs will love the riverside smells and the many chances to splash or drink from running water. The trail is popular but wide enough to pass others easily. It is a great option for an easy nature focused walk with plenty to keep dogs engaged.
Selworthy Beacon Coastal Loop
Selworthy Beacon – Photo Credit: Lewis Clarke
Distance: 6 miles | Difficulty: Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
This is a more challenging route that climbs steeply up to Selworthy Beacon and follows the South West Coast Path for sections. The effort is rewarded with incredible views over Porlock Bay and the surrounding hills. The combination of steep slopes, open ridges and coastal exposure makes it ideal for experienced walkers.
Dogs that enjoy long and energetic days will love this one. There are exciting changes in terrain and plenty of open sections, although some coastal edges require leads for safety. It is a brilliant adventure for active dogs with good stamina.
Wimbleball Lake Loop (Full)
Wimbleball Lake – Photo Credit: Lewis Clarke
Distance: 9 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
Wimbleball Lake offers a choice of gentle lakeside paths, you can tailor to your preferred distance but 9 miles is the full loop. The trails are mostly even and provide beautiful views across the reservoir. The full loop is long but rewarding, while shorter sections are great for relaxed weekend walks.
Dogs enjoy the open space, fresh water smells and calm surroundings. There are often designated lead zones around wildlife areas, but many sections are open and offer good freedom for confident walkers.
Lynton, Lynmouth and Watersmeet Circular
Distance: 7 miles | Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some | Parking: Yes
This longer circular route links the coastal towns of Lynton and Lynmouth with the wooded trails of Watersmeet. It mixes coastal paths, riverside scenery and historic viewpoints which creates one of the most varied walks in Exmoor. The climb between the towns is fairly steep but the views are wonderful.
Dogs will find this walk exciting due to its variety of terrain and constant new smells. There are paths through woodland, open stretches and sections close to water which keeps the walk stimulating from start to finish.
Map of Dog Friendly Walks in Exmoor National Park
Explore these amazing dog friendly walks on our handy map below. Simply click the pins to uncover more information as well as directions to the nearest car park.
Looking for more dog friendly adventures across the UK? Our Wildpack Map is a curated list of some of the most amazing dog friendly locations, including hikes, camping spots, road trips and more.
Handy tips for walking dogs in Exmoor
- Check the Exmoor National Park website before you go for any access changes, seasonal restrictions or path closures.
- Keep your dog on lead around Exmoor ponies, sheep and cattle, even if they are usually reliable off lead.
- Pack the essentials: Ensure you’re prepared for quick weather changes as conditions on the high moor can shift from clear skies to fog or rain in no time.
- Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl so your dog does not have to rely on streams or standing water.
- Use a sturdy harness for coastal or steep valley walks to give you more control on exposed or slippery sections.
- In tick season, give your dog a quick check after walks, especially after moving through bracken or long grass. And make sure you know how to prevent and treat ticks.
- Be mindful of other visitors on narrow paths and pass calmly, recalling or clipping your dog on lead where needed.
- Leave no trace by bagging and binning dog waste and taking all litter home, even on remote stretches of moorland.
What’s Nearby?
If you’re exploring Exmoor with your dog, these nearby adventures pair perfectly with time on the moor:
- Dog friendly beaches in Somerset – Wide tidal sands and long, open coastal walks make Somerset a great choice for beach loving dogs.
- Dog friendly walks in Somerset– Ideal if you’re approaching Exmoor from the east or planning a multi-county walking trip.
- Dog friendly walks in Devon – Woodland trails, river walks and gentler countryside routes beyond Exmoor’s upland paths.
- Dog friendly beaches in Devon – Long sandy beaches and dramatic coastal stretches that sit right on Exmoor’s northern edge.
- Dog friendly walks in Dartmoor National Park – A natural extension to Exmoor, offering vast open moorland, tors and river valleys with a wilder feel.
Final thoughts
Exmoor National Park is an incredible place to explore with your dog. From shaded riverside trails and ancient woodland to open moorland summits and coastal viewpoints, there is a huge variety of landscapes packed into a relatively small area. That mix means you can tailor each outing to suit your dog, whether they prefer gentle sniffy strolls or longer, more challenging hikes.
By choosing the right route, planning ahead and following simple countryside etiquette, Exmoor becomes a relaxed and rewarding destination for both you and your dog.