Dog-Friendly Cottages in Devon — Beaches, Moors and 150+ Miles of Coast
Devon has more dog-friendly holiday cottages and accessible coastline than almost anywhere else in England. The North Devon coast runs from Hartland Point down through Croyde, Saunton Sands, and Woolacombe — all dog-friendly outside the summer season restrictions. On the South Devon coast, Blackpool Sands, Bantham, and Wonwell Beach welcome dogs year-round. Between the two coastlines sits Dartmoor National Park, where dogs can go off-lead across most of the open moorland — 954 square kilometres of granite tors, river valleys, and ancient drovers' paths. The South West Coast Path runs 630 miles in total, much of it through Devon, and dogs are welcome on virtually every section.
This page shows dog-friendly cottages in Devon with the pet-friendly filter applied. For all Devon holiday cottages including non-pet-friendly options, or dog-friendly cottages in the UK across all regions, those pages cover the wider picture.
Beach note: Seasonal restrictions apply on some Devon beaches between May and September. Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe Main Beach all have restricted sections during this period. Year-round dog-friendly beaches include Blackpool Sands, Bantham, and Wonwell Beach. Always check local council guidance before you travel.
Are dogs allowed on Devon beaches?
Many Devon beaches allow dogs year-round, but seasonal restrictions covering May to September apply on some of the most popular stretches — including sections of Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe Main Beach. Year-round dog-friendly beaches include Blackpool Sands in South Devon, Bantham Beach, and Wonwell Beach. Always check with the relevant local authority before you travel, as rules vary by section of beach and can change.
Which areas of Devon are best for dog walking?
Dartmoor National Park is the standout — dogs can go off-lead across most of the open moorland, covered by the Dartmoor Commons Act. The North Devon coast around Croyde and Saunton is excellent outside the summer restrictions. Haldon Forest near Exeter and Cookworthy Forest in North Devon offer woodland walks with good off-lead sections. The South West Coast Path runs through Devon for approximately 150 miles and is open to dogs throughout.
Do dog-friendly cottages in Devon charge extra for pets?
Most do — a typical charge is £20–40 per dog per stay, though some properties charge per night at £5–10. Many cap the charge at two dogs and will ask you to ring ahead if you have three or more. A growing number of Devon cottages advertise no pet surcharge as a selling point, particularly in rural Dartmoor locations. Check the listing before booking.
Can dogs go on Dartmoor?
Yes — Dartmoor is one of the best destinations in England for dogs. The open moorland is covered by the Dartmoor Commons Act, giving access to dogs and walkers across most of the high moorland. Dogs can go off-lead on the open moor but must stay on leads near livestock. Dartmoor ponies are semi-wild — keep dogs away from them at all times, regardless of how friendly the dog is.
What Devon beaches allow dogs year-round?
Year-round dog-friendly beaches in Devon include Blackpool Sands (near Dartmouth), Bantham Beach (South Hams), Wonwell Beach (South Hams), Westward Ho! in North Devon, and most of Slapton Sands. Seasonal restrictions change — check Visit Devon or the relevant district council website for current rules before your trip. Arriving off-season (October to April) avoids restrictions on virtually every Devon beach.
What should I look for in a dog-friendly cottage?
An enclosed or fenced garden is the most useful feature if your dog can't be left unsupervised. Ground-floor bedrooms avoid problems for older or arthritic dogs. Outdoor taps and washing stations are practical after Dartmoor or coastal walks. Check the maximum number of dogs the property accepts — most Devon cottages take one or two; places accepting three or more are less common. For dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall just over the Tamar, the Cornwall dog-friendly page covers the full range.