Teign Valley: Dogmarsh Bridge and Fingle Bridge Circular

The Teign Valley circular from Dogmarsh Bridge follows the north bank of the River Teign downstream through the National Trust's Castle Drogo estate to Fingle Bridge, then returns via Drewston Wood and Hunter's Tor on the south bank. At 9.6 km with around 200 metres of climbing, this is the quieter, less-visited approach to the gorge compared to the Castle Drogo car park route. Starting from roadside parking near the Mill End Hotel on the A382, the path joins the Two Moors Way to Iron Bridge before continuing along the Fishermans Path through the narrowest section of the gorge, where the oak canopy closes overhead and Sharp Tor rises steeply above. Fingle Bridge itself is a handsome stone packhorse bridge and a natural turning point.

Dogs respond strongly to the river environment here — the Teign runs cold and clear over granite with accessible banks at several points, and the enclosed gorge concentrates the scent of damp oak bark, river mud and mineral-rich water. Salmon and brown trout run this section in autumn, occasionally visible at the weirs. This dog friendly walk does require leads through National Trust estate sections to protect ground-nesting birds and deer. The Fishermans Path around Sharp Tor includes rocky terrain with steep steps demanding careful footing from both dog and walker. The full circuit is a solid half-day out suited to dogs with good stamina and confidence on rough ground.