Set across West Somerset and North Devon, Exmoor National Park is a picturesque patchwork of open rolling moorland. In short, it’s one big play area for families and their doggies. Pet friendly holidays on Exmoor mean finding your favourite corner of the park and enjoying it with your pooch, as the space is dotted with different towns, villages and landscapes just waiting to be discovered.
Pet friendly walks on Exmoor
Where to start…Exmoor’s pretty much one big pet friendly walk. Home to more than 1000km of footpaths and bridleways, you’re definitely going to need your walking boots and your lead for this holiday. Dogs are welcome to walk on Exmoor, but owners are asked to keep them close at all times, and look out for signs warning of livestock and wildlife so that you can pop your pet on his lead.
Exmoor Walking Festival takes place every April, and it’s a great way to explore the park on foot if you’re not sure where to start. Dogs are welcome to walk with you, and you can choose from a packed programme of different walks and trails. The walks are led by local guides too, so you’ll learn everything there is to know about the route.
Pet friendly places to eat and drink on Exmoor
Part of the fun of visiting Exmoor is sampling all that local produce, and the national park’s home to a whole selection of pet friendly places to eat and drink. If you like to huddle up in a cosy pub with your dog at your feet, you’re in luck…the place is packed with pubs and restaurants offering a warm welcome and country charm.
There’s The Royal Oak in Minehead…which has all the charm you’d expect from a 12th century farmhouse. The Bridge Inn in Dulverton sits beside the river, so it’s a peaceful setting for lunch during a day exploring. Then there’s The Blue Ball Inn in Lynmouth, which makes a great place for a stop off during a visit to Lynmouth or neighbouring Lynton.
Pet friendly Exmoor days out
There’s a day out on Exmoor for every kind of visitor, and many of them are pet friendly. The West Somerset Railway at Minehead, welcomes visitors aboard to experience the golden age of steam, and dogs are welcome on all normal carriages (just not on the buffet cars). Dunster Castle is another pet friendly day out on Exmoor, and dogs are welcome throughout the year. Take time to explore the village of Dunster while you’re there too, as it’s beautiful.
If you love nothing more than to get outside and take in dramatic scenery, head to the Heddon Valley. Owned by the National Trust, this valley’s made up of looming cliffs, sleepy coves and a sun-dappled wooded valley…so it’s the perfect terrain for a day out with the dog.
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