Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk
Devon
The coast path between Bolt Head and Bolt Tail traces one of the most dramatic stretches of the South Devon coastline near Salcombe, with 576 m of cumulative climbing packed into a 9.7 km circuit that undulates constantly between headlands. The route follows the South West Coast Path across exposed clifftops where the Atlantic crashes against the rocks below, through coastal scrub and rough grassland, with far-reaching views across the open sea. The two headlands that bookend the walk are genuinely impressive, with sheer drops and the kind of raw, windswept landscape that makes you feel properly at the edge of things. The inland return leg passes through gentler farmland before dropping back to the coast.
This is a dog friendly walk that demands real fitness from both dog and owner. The constant ascents and descents add up to serious climbing over the full distance, and the clifftop paths are unfenced in places with significant drops, so dogs need reliable recall or a lead near the edges. Off-lead potential is moderate on the open coastal sections, though livestock graze the surrounding fields and leads should be carried throughout. There is limited water access along the clifftop, so carrying water is essential. The rough, uneven terrain suits dogs comfortable on natural ground, and the sustained effort will tire most dogs properly. A walk for days when you want coastal drama and a genuine physical challenge rather than a gentle stroll.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.7 km (6.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 4 hr
- Walk Type
- Coastal
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Pubs and cafes in Salcombe and Hope Cove
- Parking
- National Trust car parks at both ends - charged for non-members
Dog Friendly Stays Nearby
Make a weekend of it. These are the closest dog friendly places to stay to Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk, each one checked for its dog policy before we listed it.
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All dog friendly stays in DevonFrequently Asked Questions
Is Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk dog friendly?
Yes, this is a dog-friendly walk and it earns a strong 9/10 rating. That said, it's a genuinely demanding route , 9.7 km with 576 m of cumulative climbing , so it's best suited to fit, confident dogs rather than puppies or those who struggle with rough, uneven terrain.
Can dogs be off lead at Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk?
Off-lead potential is moderate on the open coastal sections, but there are important caveats. The clifftop paths are unfenced in places with serious drops, so dogs without reliable recall should be kept on a lead near the edges, and leads are essential around the surrounding fields where livestock graze.
What should I know before visiting Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk with my dog?
Water is the big one , there's limited access along the clifftop route, so bring enough for both of you. It's also worth knowing that parking is available at National Trust car parks at both ends of the walk, though charges apply for non-members, and if you're looking for post-walk refreshments, pubs and cafes can be found in both Salcombe and Hope Cove.
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What’s Nearby?
Beach0.3 mi awaySalcombe North Sands
Devon
A shallow, year-round dog-friendly sandy beach a mile from Salcombe, popular with locals and visitors, with a well-regarded dog-friendly restaurant directly overlooking the beach.
Beach0.6 mi awaySalcombe South Sands
Devon
A Blue Flag beach a short walk or ferry ride from Salcombe, dog-friendly outside the summer months but with a complete ban from May to September -- one of the stricter South Devon restrictions.
Beach1.8 mi awaySoar Mill Cove
Devon
A wild, foot-access-only cove near Salcombe with year-round dog access, soft sand, and a remote feel that rewards those prepared for the coastal walk to reach it.
Beach3.8 mi awayHope Cove
Devon
Two sheltered sandy coves in an old smuggling village, with year-round lead-on access at Harbour Beach and seasonal restrictions only on Mouthwell Sands.
Beach4.1 mi awayThurlestone Sands
Devon
Year round access on a National Trust beach with rock pools, clear water and a direct link to the South West Coast Path in both directions.
Beach5.1 mi awayBantham Beach
Devon
The main beach is closed to dogs all summer, but the year-round estuary beach at low tide is a sandy, sheltered alternative with views across to Burgh Island.