Dog-friendly North Devon

The combination of wild coastline, open moorland and a relaxed local culture makes North Devon genuinely good for dog owners rather than just tolerant of them. The South West Coast Path threads along the clifftops from Minehead all the way to Poole, and in North Devon it passes through some of its most dramatic scenery: the headlands above Woolacombe, the dunes at Braunton Burrows, and the wooded valleys of Exmoor. Dogs are welcome on the path throughout, though leads are expected near cliff edges and farmland.

Beaches are the other draw. Several North Devon beaches allow dogs year-round or with only partial seasonal restrictions, which is better than many busier holiday coasts. That said, restrictions do apply on some beaches between May and September, and they can change from year to year. Always check signage at the beach on the day rather than relying on information from the previous season.

Woolacombe makes a strong base. The village is compact and walkable, the coast path sets off in both directions from the beach, and Barricane and Combesgate beaches are both dog-friendly year-round. Read the full Woolacombe with a dog guide.

Woolacombe works particularly well as a dog-friendly base. Barricane and Combesgate beaches are open to dogs year-round, giving you a proper beach option even at the height of summer. The main South Bay has seasonal restrictions on a designated area, but the beach is large and off-season it is hard to beat: a three-mile arc of sand with hardly anyone on it and a dog that can sprint the full length.

The South West Coast Path runs in both directions from the village. Heading north takes you out to Morte Point, one of the best short headland walks on the whole coast. Heading south along the dunes towards Croyde is a longer outing that rewards with varied scenery. Dogs should be kept on leads on the path itself, but there is space to let them run on the beach sections. See the Morte Point walk guide and the Woolacombe to Croyde route for detail. For everything specific to bringing a dog to the main beach, the dogs on Woolacombe Beach page covers all the rules.

North Devon has a strong supply of dog-friendly holiday cottages, B&Bs and campsites, and the area around Woolacombe is particularly well served. Most self-catering cottages in the area accept dogs, though some charge a small supplement per dog. Dog-friendly properties tend to book out earlier than standard options, so booking well ahead is worthwhile if you are travelling in peak season.

Campsites are a natural fit for dog holidays: space to run, easy access to walks from the pitch, and no worry about muddy paws on someone's carpet. Several sites near Woolacombe are geared towards dog owners.

• Bring water and a bowl. Coastal walks in North Devon can be long between villages and fresh water sources. Carry enough for the whole walk.
• Keep dogs on leads near cliff edges. The South West Coast Path has unfenced sections above high drops. Even confident dogs can slip on wet grass.
• Check tide times before beach-access walks. Access to Combesgate and Barricane can be affected at high tide. Check today's tide times before you set out.
• Verify beach restrictions on the day. Summer rules can change between seasons and are not always updated online promptly. The signs at the beach are the definitive source.
• Nearest vets. If you need veterinary care during your stay, there are practices in Barnstaple and Braunton. It is worth noting the location of the nearest vet before you arrive.