Dog Friendly Adventures Await in Lynton and Lynmouth 🐾
If you’re anything like me, your pup is part of the family, and no adventure is complete without them by your side! That’s why Lynton & Lynmouth is my favorite go-to for a dog-friendly getaway. With stunning coastal views, epic walks, and plenty of pooch-approved places to relax, it’s truly a doggy dream destination. So, leash up your furry friend and let’s dive into the top dog-friendly activities in this corner of North Devon!
1. Wag-worthy Views at the valley of rocks 🦋
Let’s start with the iconic Valley of Rocks —an absolute must do for you and your family if you’re visiting this area! This dramatic landscape with it’s vast cliffsape and wild goat herds is as magical as it gets. Your dog will love sniffing around(just keep them on a leash near the goats 🐐) while you soak up the spectacular views.
There’s a simple circular walk around the valley that’s perfect for the whole family, with seats to rest and take in the scenery across Lyn bay. Afterward, treat yourself at Mother Meldrum’s Tea Rooms, where your pup can lap up some water while you indulge in a Devonshire cream tea!
2. Doggy Paddle at Lynmouth’s Dog Friendly Beaches
Is there anything better than watching your doggo go ape the moment they realise they’re at the B-E-A-C-H! (my dog can’t spell yet) …It’s like us getting excited at 3pm on a Friday because we know the Weekend is imminent!
Luckily, Lynmouth’s Eastern and Western Beaches welcome well-behaved dogs all year round! No seasonal restrictions here—just plenty of space for your pooch to stretch their legs, splash in the sea, and get their fur wet in time for the car journey back.. but you are pretty much guaranteed some wet hugs and kisses too of course, as a thank you for bringing them!
3. Wonder to Watersmeet from Lynmouth 🏞️
For a breathtaking walk the pooches will love, head to Watersmeet — the walk is directly accessible when staying at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat and is home to cascading streams, steep paths and wooded valleys, making it perfect for an adventurous stroll with your pup.
Start from Lynmouth Holiday Retreat and walk down along the country path to Watersmeet House. This National Trust tearoom is a great pitstop for a well earned rest and a dog friendly welcome before heading down to Lynmouth along the East Lyn River. Here we recommend having a little rest at one of the dog friendly pubs before walking the steep hill back up to the Retreat, or calling one of the friendly lot over at our local taxi branches (that’s what i would do anyway) 🌿
4. Hop aboard the Funicular Cliff railway 🚋🐕
Ah this one’s probably more of a treat for you than it is them.. but did you know that dogs are welcome to ride the famous Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway? This Victorian water-powered marvel is not only the highest and steepest in the world but also a fantastic way to take in the breathtaking views overlooking Lynmouth Bay and it’s beaches.
Larger dogs do require a small fare of £1, but lap dogs and guide dogs ride for free. Once you’ve arrived at the top, pop into the café for a drink and complimentary doggy treat — in the end it is a win-win for everyone!
5. Dog Friendly Dining & Cafes 🥪🐶
No need to leave your four-legged friend behind when grabbing a bite to eat. Lynton and Lynmouth are super dog-friendly, with many cafés more than happy to welcome your pooch. A few of my faves are The Vanilla Pod Café and Charlie Fridays in Lynton, where dogs are welcomed with water bowls and treats, while you indulge in culinary delights of the rainbow. It’s the perfect pitstop after a long walk along the coastal paths.
For evening dining i highly recommend the charming Nartnapa Thai at the Cottage Inn, it’s a quaint blend between country inn and local ales and Thai tastebud heaven… and the best party they allow dogs, as do the Ancient Mariner and the Rising Sun Inn, my advice for all would be to book in advance to avoid any disappointment and there may be rules as to the dogs being in the bar or restaurant.. bon appétit!
6. A Trip to Treat Heaven – Lyn Valley dog House 🦴🎁
After a days adventuring around Exmoor, why not spoil your puppa with something special from the Lyn Valley Dog House? This little gem is packed with everything your dog could ever want (let’s not lie to ourselves it’s definitely not a need!)
From gourmet personalised treats to stylish leads and comfy beds, you’ll be quick to learn they do indeed have everything! Trust me, your doggo will love sniffing the shelves just as much as you love browsing them.. and after all it’s always good to have some bargaining chips waiting in your pocket you never know when they might come in handy on your travels!
7. Head out for a run around the rolling hills of Exmoor 🏔️🐾
Take your dog on an exhilarating moorland adventure across Exmoor’s rolling hills and valleys. There are over 700 miles of footpaths and bridleways to explore, meaning endless opportunities for you and your best fur friend to get lost for a bit (intentionally, preferably with phone signal and an OS map.)
Whether you choose a short scenic walk or a more strenuous hike up to Dunkery Beacon (the highest point on Exmoor) you’ll be treated to luscious landscapes and vast views and hopefully once safely home – a happy, tired dog by the end of it all! Just remember to keep your pup on a lead in areas where livestock roam.
8. Doggy Day out at Arlington Court 🏛️🌳
For a dose of history and a whole lot of fun, head off for the day to Arlington Court, just a short drive from Lynton. This National Trust property welcomes dogs in its vast gardens and estate grounds, making it a perfect day out for everyone. Wander through the picturesque Victorian gardens, explore the woodland trails, and even spot some wildlife along the way. Arlington Court is a great place to mix a bit of culture with outdoor fun—and your dog will love every minute of it.. wait.. was that a squirrr……..
9. A Perfect Pooch Pitstop – The Pub! 🍻🐕
Or should we say ‘The Blue Ball Inn’ – After all that walking around Lynton and Lynmouth, why not treat yourselves and your pooches to a traditional pub lunch at The Blue Ball Inn in Countisbury? This dog friendly pub offers a cosy welcome to dogs of all sizes, with water bowls and plenty of cosy corners for your furry pal to curl up in while you enjoy some locally sourced grub and ales! Plus, the pub is perfectly located along one of the most scenic stretches of coastline, so as we Brit’s love to do – combine your luncheon with an Exmoor ramble and therefor you know you have equally dogs on your hands!
10. Room with a View at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat 🏕️🌟
Cap off your adventure by booking a stay at the award-winning Lynmouth Holiday Retreat, named Dog-Friendly Camping and Caravanning Park of the Year 2022 and 2023!
This peaceful pet paradise welcomes up to 2 dogs per booking of all shapes and sizes. Your pups will love the on-site dog shower (perfect for washing all that brown and bracken off), as well as the fully fenced exercise area where they can run freely.
Heading further afield? – The Retreat offers direct access to some of the best walking trails in the area, including routes leading straight to Watersmeet, Lynmouth and Countisbury Hill. Lynmouth Holiday Retreat hoses the ultimate dog-friendly accommodation, from Bell tents to Glamping Pods and Hot tub lodges! There’s more than one way to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay in this stunning part of North Devon.
To sum up…
Well that’s just the tip-of-the-tail when it comes to dog-friendly activities waiting for you all in Lynton and Lynmouth.
Whether it’s hiking the dramatic coastal paths, lounging on Lynmouth’s beaches, or indulging in Lynmouth’s local history, there’s something for every pup (and their human) to enjoy. So, pack up your dog’s favourite toy, grab their leash and dive nose first into a North Devon adventure you won’t be disappointed in! 🌟
