by Exmouth is a fantastic destination for dog owners, offering a variety of dog-friendly activities. This charming seaside town has a long sandy beach, a marina, and a variety of attractions, walks and pursuits for you and your furry friend.
The historic town of Exmouth is a lovely place where I often take my dogs for a fun day out. Here are some reasons why Exmouth is a great place to visit with your dog.
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The Exmouth Dog-Friendly Beach
Exmouth Beach is one of the few beaches in Devon that allows dogs all year round. Dogs are permitted on Exmouth Beach’s main beach during the winter months. Between 1 May and 30 September dogs are only allowed at each end of the beach. You can walk along the shore, play fetch in the sand, or splash in the waves with your pup. There are also plenty of cafes and pubs along the seafront that welcome dogs, so you can grab a bite or a drink while enjoying the views.
I like winter walks on the beach with my dogs and it’s a pleasant change from muddy tracks. One of my favourite walks is along the east beach when the tide is low, we can walk around Orcombe Point to Sandy Bay and then return via the coastal path along the clifftops.
For Dog-Friendly accommodation stay at Exe View, Exmouth
Phear Park
Exmouth has a large and beautiful park called Phear Park, which is ideal for dog walking. The park has open grassland, woodland, and a stream, as well as a skate park, a golf course, and a bowling green. There is also a dog exercise area where you can let your dog off the leash and run around with other dogs. I like to take my dogs to Phear Park during the summer months to avoid the busy seafront.
Dog-Friendly Trails Surrounding Exmouth
Exmouth is surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife, and there are many trails that you can explore with your dog.
Exe Estuary Trail
One of my favourite dog-friendly trails follows the Exe Estuary Trail, which runs along the river Exe and has pleasant views of the wetlands and birdlife. The Exe Estuary Trail is a 22.5-mile cycle route and walkway that encircles the entire Exe Estuary, linking Exmouth, Exeter, and Dawlish. I particularly enjoy this walk during the winter months, as the trail has a good surface. You can find a leaflet about the Exe Estuary Trail here.
For Dog-Friendly accommodation stay at Waterside, Lympstone
South West Coast Path
Another excellent option is the South West Coast Path, which leads to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, where you can see fossils and unique rock formations. I love walking along the South West Coast Path from Exmouth to Sidmouth, where this beautiful and dramatic stretch of coastline features a rugged cliff-top trail and stunning views. In the spring the field are full of petty wild flowers.
For Dog-Friendly accommodation stay at Willow Cottage, Otterton
Woodbury Common
A short drive from Exmouth, Woodbury Common boasts expansive heathlands and woodland trails. It’s a dog-friendly area perfect for exploring nature. I enjoy observing the autumn colours of the pink heather and watching my dogs chase the golden leaves.
Dog and Children Friendly Walking Trails In Exmouth
If you are looking for walking trails to entertain both your children and dog, consider trying these:
RNLI Welly Trail
Follow the RNLI Welly Trail and find 15 wellies along the 2.5-mile route.
Both your kids and furry friends will adore this activity, and the views are lovely too! You can pick up a trail map at the Exmouth Tourist Information Centre or from The Exmouth Lifeboat Organistion. Each welly bears the name of an Exmouth Lifeboat Coxswain. Write their name on your leaflet to reveal a message and claim your reward from the RNLI shop.
The Exmouth Dinosaur Trail
Another great family trail where dogs are welcome features 15 dinosaur brass rubbing plaques. Along both paths, you will spot many life-size dinosaurs. Trail packs are available from the Exmouth Tourist Information Centre on The Strand.
Dog-Friendly Attractions In Exmouth
Exmouth has a range of attractions that are dog-friendly or have dog-friendly areas.
Stuart Line Cruises
The Stuart Line Cruises offers a variety of sightseeing trips and day trips, all of which are dog-friendly. I enjoy the year-round river cruise where I can relax and take in the scenery while my dogs sniff the salty estuary breeze.
Top Tip for Travelling With A Dog!
When I travel with my dogs on a boat or public transport, I use a hiking harness. This helps me lift and guide them, ensuring their safety during our adventures. The Kurgo Journey Air Harness is an excellent choice for your dog.
A La Ronde
You can also visit the A La Ronde, which is a quirky 18th-century house with a circular design and a collection of art and curiosities. This attraction has designated areas where my husband, Austin, and I waited with our dogs while taking turns exploring.
Manor Gardens
A peaceful garden near the busy seafront. It is a beautiful place where I love to relax with my dog in a calm environment. It’s particularly beautiful when the flowerbeds are freshly planted with spring flowers.
Dog-Friendly Cafes and Eateries in Exmouth
There are many dog-friendly cafés and eateries in Exmouth where you can enjoy refreshments. Here are some of my top recommendations:
The Grove Pub
Located at the west end of the Esplanade, this pub offers delicious home-cooked food and a range of craft and cask ales. The seafront garden is a lovely place to sit with my dogs and watch the world go by.
Bumble and Bee Cafe
As I mentioned, I enjoy the tranquil setting of Manor Gardens, and the Bumble and Bee Café is perfect for enjoying hot drinks and one of their award-winning homemade cakes while my dogs relax in the shade.
Otterton Mill Cafe and Restaurant
Just outside of Exmouth, Otterton Mill is a historic working mill with a delightful café and restaurant serving locally sourced dishes. It also features a farm shop, artisan bakery, and gallery to browse. Set beside the River Otter, it’s located in one of Devon’s beautiful valleys, where otters, beavers, and a wealth of birdlife are regular visitors to the nature reserve. I enjoy stopping here after completing the Otterton Mill Circular Walk.
Wrapping it Up
As you can see, Exmouth is a dog lover’s paradise, with plenty of activities and sights to enjoy with your four-legged companion. If you plan to visit Exmouth with your dog, be sure to check out local accommodations that are dog-friendly, including hotels, B&Bs, cottages, and campsites. Exmouth awaits you and your dog to discover its charms!
