I recently said that after this Covid-19 lockdown, I’m looking forward to going away again. I’ve started planning my visit and thought you might like some ideas of dog friendly places in Devon for you to visit.
Dog Friendly Places in Devon
Devon is located in the southwest of England and is a great place for visiting with dogs and children making for some great family holidays. With its stunning coastline and beautiful dog-friendly beaches, there are also some great attractions to visit.
Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat
There is nothing quite like being on a boat or train and watching the world go by. You often see so many things that you wouldn’t normally see when you’re in the car.
The Dartmouth Steam Railway runs seven miles along the English Riviera coast starting at the seaside town of Paignton. Stopping at Goodrington and Churston before heading onto Greenway Halt. The station is used to access Greenway, the holiday home of the late Dame Agatha Christie. Dogs are welcome in the gardens at Greenway, but not into the house. From here, it is then onto Kingswear which is the final stop.
There are a choice of river cruises for you to take. The circular Dartmouth River Cruise or the Dartmouth to Totnes River Cruise. They give you the chance to see Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dittisham Village, Greenway Quay, and The Estate of the late Dame Agatha Christie.
Click here for more information about Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Company
Babbacombe Model Village
Dogs are welcome throughout the gardens and indoor displays at this award-winning miniature world and gardens. The model village is set in 4.5 acres and portrays English life over the past six decades and is loved by adults and children alike,
Wander through the Village and see models of houses, stately homes, shops, factories, railways, famous landmarks and so much more. Kids (big or small) can grab a spotter sheet at the entrance to see what they can find.
Click here for more information about Babbacombe Model Village
Dartmoor Prison Museum
A fascinating insight into 200 years of prison life – and you can take your dog! Find out the history of the prison from a Prisoner of War Depot, American prisoners, the Victorian convict era through to the present day. A great chance to learn about famous prisoners, escapes, the prison uniforms, and how Dartmoor is run today.
Located near Princetown, high on Dartmoor National Park, it is easy enough to get to whether you are staying in North or South Devon. The museum itself is located in the old dairy buildings.
Click here for more information about Dartmoor Prison Museum
Bygones
A deceptively spacious building over three floors near to Babbacombe is where you’ll find Bygones.
The Cumings family have created quaint shops that line a recreated Victorian street scene, including a blacksmith, milliner, sweet shop, and much more. There are themed Victorian rooms to browse as well as the chance to dress up and take a selfie.
There is also the chance to explore the story of the railway with a 27-ton steam engine and a model railway based on the two World Wars.
Journey through life as it was during the war, from Waterloo through to the Gulf War. See an Anderson shelter, as well as hear the sounds or the air siren and walk through the trenches.
This is a great place to visit with the kids to bring to life Victorian Britain and Wartime Britain.
Click here for more information about Bygones
Cockington Court
As a previous award winner for being a dog-friendly business, you can be guaranteed a warm welcome when you visit Cockington Court.
Located just one mile from Torquay seafront, Cockington Court mansion house now houses arts and crafts workshops and studios. Discover glass blowers, blacksmiths, and a chocolatier as well as many other creative studios.
As well as the arts and crafts centre, there is also the opportunity to explore the gardens. From formal landscaped areas. wild woodlands, ornamental ponds, and arboretum — a great chance for your dog to have a good sniff around!
There is also a play area for the children and there are a number of self-guided walks through the park. Obtain details from the court of Cockington Visitor Centre.
Click here for more details about Cockington Court
Milky Way Adventure Park
If you are looking for dog-friendly places to visit in Devon that the kids will love – this could well tick the box.
There are a few places where dogs are not permitted, such as the birds of prey centre and on the rides, but on the whole, this is a great family day out. There are plenty of rides and attractions to keep the kids entertained, or why not try a new sport or craft.
Click here if you would like to see more information about The Milky Way Adventure Park
Morwellham Quay
Step back in time to enjoy this working village near Tavistock in the Tamar Valley.
This former copper mine site has an underground railway and museum. Dress like a Victorian and attend the Victorian school. Try panning for gold, rope making or make a visit to the traditional brewery. If you fancy trying something different – unleash your hidden talents and take one of the craft courses.
Click here to go to Morwellham Quay
River Dart Country Park
Dogs are very welcome at the River Dart Country Park. After all, you wouldn’t want them to miss out on the family fun, would you?
There is so much space for riverside walks and woodland strolls for you and your dogs. Kids will love the park activities that are available – from adventure playgrounds to bike trails. Toddlers don’t get forgotten either, with their beach and playground.
There are water bowls dotted around the park for the dogs and cafes for the humans to grab a drink and a snack. Or take your own picnic and enjoy it at the many outdoor picnic tables.
Click here to learn more about the River Dart Country Park
The Best Dartmoor Walks
Some of the great dog-friendly places in Devon can be found on Dartmoor. This vast moorland with its rocky landscape is home to the Dartmoor ponies. With plenty of forests, rivers, wetlands, and tors spread across the area there are plenty of walks to be had with your dogs.
There are plenty of ways to explore Dartmoor National Park, but the best has to be walking. Circular walks are plentiful and range from a couple of miles to 12 miles and over. Some routes are easy and some will be more difficult.
Click here to go to Walking on Dartmoor for walk details
Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Opened in 1890, this water-powered Victorian railway connects Lynton & Lynmouth. The track rises 500ft providing stunning views over Lynmouth Bay.
At the top of the cliff, not only do you have spectacular views but there is also a dog-friendly cafe. What a great place to enjoy a Devon Cream Tea!
Plan your visit for a Tuesday or Wednesday during the summer and enjoy the Summer Market at the top station. The market offers a range of local crafts, food and drink, and general interest items.
Click here to find out more about the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway and the events available
Dog Friendly Holidays
So now that we’ve given you just a few ideas of dog friendly places in Devon to visit, you are going to need somewhere to stay.
There’s plenty of choice of dog friendly holidays in Devon for you to choose from. Whether it’s a self-catering cottage, hotel, or holiday park you’re after, you can find details on our Devon page at www.dogsinvited.co.uk.