Best Dog Walks Starting from Devon Beaches

Best Dog Walks Starting from Devon Beaches

Devon's beaches are often the starting point for some extraordinary walking rather than just the destination. The South West Coast Path connects virtually every beach in Devon, and the estuaries and headlands provide some of England's finest circular walking routes. Here are the best dog walks that start from Devon beaches. For specific beaches along the way, use our beach search page.

North Devon Walks

Saunton Sands to Croyde via Baggy Point

Starting at Saunton Sands, this walk follows the coast path north around Baggy Point (a dramatic headland with views to Lundy Island) and drops down into Croyde Bay. Return the same way or arrange a car at Croyde. Distance: approximately 6 miles round trip. Difficulty: moderate. Dogs must be on leads on the National Trust headland during bird nesting season (April to July).

Instow to Appledore via the Estuary Path

Starting at Instow Beach, follow the Tarka Trail along the estuary to Bideford and across to Appledore. Entirely flat, excellent for dogs, and rich in estuary birdlife. The trail is part of the long-distance Tarka Trail and can be extended as far as you want. Distance: 5 miles to Appledore one way. The Wayfarer Inn at Instow is a good start or finish point.

South Devon Walks

Bantham to Thurlestone via the Avon Estuary

Starting at Bantham Beach, cross the Avon estuary at low tide (or take the seasonal ferry) to Bigbury-on-Sea, then follow the coast path south to Thurlestone. Return via inland paths through the South Hams. This is genuinely spectacular walking with great dog beaches at both ends. Distance: 7 miles round trip. Moderate difficulty.

Blackpool Sands to Strete Gate

Starting at Blackpool Sands, follow the coast path south along the cliff tops to Strete Gate and the start of Slapton Sands. Excellent clifftop views, manageable difficulty, and dogs welcome along the route. Distance: 4 miles one way.

East Devon Walks

Sidmouth to Ladram Bay via the Jurassic Coast Path

Starting from Sidmouth Beach, head east along the South West Coast Path, passing the extraordinary red Triassic cliffs and reaching Ladram Bay with its distinctive sea stacks. The walking is spectacular and one of the finest sections of the entire South West Coast Path. Distance: 4 miles one way. Dogs on leads near cliff edges.

Budleigh Salterton Otter Estuary Walk

Starting at Budleigh Salterton Beach, follow the Otter estuary inland through the RSPB reserve. Excellent birdwatching, easy walking, and dogs will love the estuary smells. Return the same way or loop through Otterton village. Distance: 5 miles round trip. Easy.

Tips for Walking with Dogs in Devon

• Livestock: Much of the coastal path crosses farmland with livestock. Keep dogs on leads whenever livestock are present, regardless of your dog's obedience.
• Cliff edges: Keep dogs away from cliff edges, particularly at Baggy Point, the Jurassic Coast, and anywhere on eroding red sandstone cliffs.
• Tides: Some walks involve beach sections that are impassable at high tide. Check tide tables on our beach pages before setting out.
• Water: Carry sufficient water for your dog. The South West Coast Path has very few water points. Full kit advice in our beach packing guide.
• Heat: On hot days, watch for signs of overheating. Our heatstroke guide covers what to look for and what to do.
• Maps: OS Explorer maps (OL9 for Exmoor and North Devon, OL20 for South Devon) are essential for any extended walk.