Stretching roughly 170 miles along the A39 from Somerset through Devon to Cornwall, The Atlantic Highway is one of the most scenic and varied road trips in the UK. Hugging the rugged north coast for much of its length, it delivers an ever-changing backdrop of beaches, cliffs, and surf towns that make it ideal for a camper van journey with your dog.
Whether you start in Bath or Barnstaple, this route is all about slowing down, exploring coastal gems, and discovering the South West’s wilder side. For those travelling with dogs, it’s one of the best road trips in Britain, with countless walking trails, beaches and dog-friendly campsites along the way.
Overview of the Route
Distance: Around 170 miles (Bath to Newquay)
Recommended duration: 3–5 days
Best for: Coastal scenery, beach stops, surf towns and dog-friendly adventures
The Atlantic Highway follows the A39 almost all the way from Bath in Somerset, through North Devon, and down into Cornwall, finishing near Newquay. While you could drive it in a day, this is a route best enjoyed slowly, taking time to stop and explore the villages, coves and viewpoints along the coast.
For camper van travellers, there are plenty of well-located campsites, coastal lay-bys, and hidden detours where you can park up and wake to the sound of the sea.
Key Stops and Highlights
1. Barnstaple and the North Devon Coast
Barnstaple marks the first major stop once you have left Somerset behind. From here, head towards Croyde Bay and Woolacombe Beach (one of many dog friendly beaches in Devon) two of the most popular surf and dog-walking destinations in Devon.
Highlights:
- Croyde Bay: Golden sands and rolling waves, dogs welcome October to April.
- Saunton Sands: Vast beach ideal for off-lead runs (dog restrictions apply in summer zones).
- Exmoor National Park: A short detour inland gives access to moorland hikes and peaceful woodland trails.
Campsites nearby:
- Bay View Farmers Campsite, Croyde (dog-friendly, walking distance to the beach)
- Lobb Fields Caravan & Camping Park, Braunton (great facilities, close to Saunton)
2. Bude, Cornwall
As you cross into Cornwall, Bude is your first major coastal town and a favourite among campervan travellers. It is a relaxed surf town with canal walks, beaches, and clifftop trails leading out toward Widemouth Bay.
Highlights:
- Bude Sea Pool: Natural tidal pool, ideal for a dip.
- South West Coast Path: Stunning cliff walks in both directions.
- Widemouth Bay: Popular beach that is dog-friendly year-round on its southern section.
Campsites nearby:
- Wooda Farm Holiday Park: Dog-friendly site with ocean views.
- Widemouth Fields Caravan Park: Peaceful rural setting just minutes from the beach.
3. Tintagel and Boscastle
A short drive south brings you to Tintagel, steeped in Arthurian legend and perched high on the cliffs. Nearby Boscastle offers a charming harbour and river walk that is perfect for dogs.
Highlights:
- Tintagel Castle: Dogs welcome on lead, explore medieval ruins and the dramatic footbridge.
- St Nectan’s Glen: A mystical waterfall walk through woodland, dog-friendly throughout.
- Boscastle Harbour: A great stop for a pub lunch and a stroll.
Campsites nearby:
- Headland Caravan Park, Tintagel (sea views and great access to the coast path)
- Trebyla Farm, Boscastle (quiet rural site ideal for campers and dogs)
4. Padstow and the Camel Estuary
Heading further south, the route weaves inland slightly toward Padstow, one of Cornwall’s best-known harbour towns. It is a foodie destination but also has brilliant dog-friendly beaches nearby.
Highlights:
- Padstow Harbour: Bustling waterfront lined with restaurants, many of which welcome dogs.
- Daymer Bay and Rock Beach: Both dog-friendly year-round and great for coastal walks.
- Camel Trail: A flat 18-mile trail linking Padstow and Bodmin, ideal for cycling or long walks.
Campsites nearby:
- Padstow Touring Park: 5-star dog-friendly facilities with excellent views.
- Dennis Cove Campsite: Walkable to town and access to the Camel Trail.
5. Newquay and the Cornish Coast
The final stretch of the Atlantic Highway leads you to Newquay, a lively surf hub with long beaches and dramatic cliff-top walks. While it is busier than earlier stops, it is a great place to relax before heading home.
Highlights:
- Fistral Beach: Famous surf beach, with seasonal dog zones.
- Crantock Beach: Quieter and dog-friendly all year.
- Holywell Bay: Iconic twin cliffs and film location for Poldark.
Campsites nearby:
- Trethiggey Holiday Park: Excellent facilities and close to Newquay town.
- Trevornick Holiday Park: Family and dog-friendly, overlooking Holywell Bay.
Suggested Itinerary
| Day | Route | Key Stops | Overnight Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bath to Barnstaple | Croyde Bay, Saunton Sands | Lobb Fields, Braunton |
| 2 | Barnstaple to Bude | Clovelly, Bude Sea Pool | Widemouth Fields |
| 3 | Bude to Tintagel/Boscastle | Tintagel Castle, Boscastle Harbour | Headland Caravan Park |
| 4 | Tintagel to Padstow | Port Isaac, Camel Trail | Padstow Touring Park |
| 5 | Padstow to Newquay | Crantock Beach, Holywell Bay | Trevornick Holiday Park |
Tips for Travelling the Atlantic Highway
- Avoid peak arrival times: The A39 can become congested near Padstow and Newquay in summer. Early starts make all the difference.
- Plan for narrow lanes: Some sections, especially near Boscastle and Port Isaac, are single-lane with tight corners.
- Pack effectively: Make sure you have all of the vanlife essentials to keep your dog happy and comfortable.
- Pack your hiking boots: If you enjoy a hike, Cornwall is rich with dog friendly walks to enjoy with your pup.
- Bring change for parking: Many coastal car parks still use pay-and-display systems.
- Mind beach restrictions: Check seasonal dog bans (usually between May and September). Review our post on dog friendly beaches in Cornwall for more information.
- Use local produce: Many farm shops and markets along the route are campervan-friendly and stock local Cornish goods.
- Safety first: Take precautions to ensure you and your dog are safe whilst undertaking a road trip.
Final Thoughts
The Atlantic Highway captures everything that makes a UK road trip special. Sweeping coastlines, charming villages and endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. Travelling with your dog makes it even better, with plenty of open spaces and welcoming campsites along the way.
Whether you take a long weekend or a week to enjoy it, this journey through the South West will reward you with sea views, fresh air and that unmistakable sense of freedom that only comes from life on the road.