Planning a dog-friendly holiday on Exmoor? This breathtaking National Park is made for walking adventures with your four-legged companion. Think dramatic coastal cliffs, peaceful river valleys, ancient woodland, and wide-open moorland where dogs can explore alongside you.
Exmoor is one of the best places in the UK for dog-friendly walking, and the South West Coast Path provides access to some of its most spectacular scenery. All of the walks featured below follow sections of the South West Coast Path, combining varied terrain, incredible views, and welcoming pubs along the way.
At Exmoor Cottages, we’ve selected six of our favourite dog-friendly walks on Exmoor along the South West Coast Path. Ranging from those perfect for a gentle woodland stroll to those suited for a more adventurous coastal hike.
Heddon’s Mouth – A peaceful riverside walk to the sea
Tucked within one of Exmoor’s most beautiful valleys, this gentle walk follows the River Heddon through ancient woodland before opening onto the dramatic rocky cove at Heddon’s Mouth.
Dogs love the mix of woodland scents, riverside splashing spots, and open coastal views at the end. The nearby Hunter’s Inn is dog‑friendly and makes a perfect stop for refreshments.
This walk is perfect for children of all ages. In addition, a ‘tramper’ all terrain mobility scooter can be booked in advance from the National Trust at Heddon Valley – find out more here.
Ideal for: relaxed dog walks, families, woodland lovers, and scenic coastal views
Distance: approx. 2.2 miles return
Route info: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/252/
Image by Neville Stannikk via Exmoor Commons
Valley of the Rocks – Wild goats, dramatic cliffs, and unforgettable views
This iconic Exmoor walk offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Devon. Starting near Lynton, the route winds through the famous Valley of Rocks, where wild Exmoor goats roam freely.
This is another easy walk, with the surface finished with tarmac. Perfect for those with limited mobility or families with pushchairs.
Dogs will love exploring the open terrain, while you’ll enjoy sweeping views across the Bristol Channel. It’s one of Exmoor’s most memorable walks — dramatic, wild, and uniquely beautiful.
Ideal for: adventurous dogs, families, photography, and iconic Exmoor scenery
Distance: approx. 2.9 miles
Route info: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/247/
Hillsborough Nature Reserve – A short but rewarding coastal adventure
Although technically just outside Exmoor’s boundary, this short, but slightly more challenging, walk near Ilfracombe is well worth including. Known locally as the “Sleeping Elephant,” this hill offers incredible coastal views and fascinating wildlife.
Dogs love the varied terrain, and the nearby dog-friendly beach and pubs make it a perfect short outing. The elevated position provides panoramic views across the Bristol Channel and Lundy Island.
Ideal for: shorter walks, coastal views, and combining with beach time
Distance: approx. 1.4 miles
Route info: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/104/
Porlock Woodland Walk – Woodland trails and coastal views
Starting from the picturesque village of Porlock, this walk combines woodland trails with beautiful views across Porlock Bay.
The mix of woodland, open hillside, and coastal scenery provides plenty of variety. Dogs will enjoy the changing terrain, and the village itself is extremely dog-friendly, with cafés and pubs welcoming canine visitors.
It’s an excellent option for a relaxed half-day adventure.
Ideal for: varied scenery, village cafés, and relaxed exploration
Distance: approx. 4.2 miles
Route info: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/230/
Watersmeet – Ancient woodland and riverside tranquillity
A more challenging adventure, this enchanting walk follows the East Lyn River through one of Exmoor’s most peaceful wooded valleys. The path weaves through ancient woodland, with plenty of shade and river access for dogs to cool off.
Watersmeet, a National Trust tea room, welcomes dogs outdoors and provides a lovely midway rest point.
This is an ideal walk if you’re looking for somewhere calm, scenic, and rich in wildlife. However, do note that there is quite a lot of ascent and descent, some of it steep and exposed. A shorter version of the route is also available.
Ideal for: gentle dog walks, more experienced walkers, shaded woodland, and peaceful surroundings
Distance: approx. 9 miles
Route info: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/255/
Watersmeet Image by Neville Stannikk via Exmoor Commons
Caffyns Heanton Wood – Quiet woodland and hidden Exmoor charm
This lesser-known Exmoor walk offers peaceful woodland paths and open countryside, away from the busier coastal routes. It’s ideal if your dog prefers quieter environments; however, it is another more challenging route.
The route takes you through beautiful woodland and rolling Exmoor landscape, with varied terrain and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. In Spring & Summer the woods are carpeted with stunning bluebells.
This is Exmoor at its most tranquil.
Ideal for: quieter walks, more adventurous walkers, nervous dogs, and woodland exploration
Distance: approx. 6 miles
Route info: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/242/
Bluebells on Exmoor Image by Neville Stannik via Exmoor Commons
Before You Go: Walking Exmoor with Your Dog
To make the most of your Exmoor adventure, we recommend bringing:
- Plenty of water for both you and your dog
- A lead (especially important during livestock and nesting seasons)
- Dog waste bags
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Snacks and treats
Exmoor is home to sheep, ponies, and wildlife, so keeping your dog under control helps protect the environment and ensures everyone can enjoy the landscape safely.
The Perfect Base for Dog-Friendly Walking Holidays on Exmoor
From dramatic coastal cliffs to peaceful woodland valleys, Exmoor offers endless opportunities to explore with your dog. Whether you’re enjoying a gentle riverside stroll or a more adventurous coastal hike, every walk offers something unique.
At Exmoor Cottages, many of our properties welcome dogs and provide the perfect base for exploring Exmoor’s incredible landscapes. After a day on the trails, there’s nothing better than returning to a cosy cottage, relaxing, and planning tomorrow’s adventure.
From dramatic coastal cliffs to peaceful woodland valleys, Exmoor offers endless opportunities to explore with your dog. All of these trails follow sections of the South West Coast Path, and as proud Waymakers, we love helping families discover the joy of walking in this beautiful part of the world. After a day of exploring, our handpicked Cottages on the Coast provide the perfect base to rest and refuel—whether you’re waking up to sea views, enjoying countryside tranquillity, or simply relaxing with tired legs and a well-earned hot chocolate as you plan tomorrow’s adventure.
