DORSET

Dorset is a dog-walking dream, with a coastline made for sandy paws, rolling countryside begging to be explored and plenty of pubs ready to welcome muddy boots and wagging tails.

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

smugglers inn dorset — The Smuggler’s Inn

The Smuggler’s Inn, Osmington Mills

Tucked into a tiny coastal village between Weymouth and the Jurassic Coast, this characterful inn is the kind of place you stumble upon on a windswept dog walk – which is exactly how we discovered it – and immediately want to return to. There’s eight cosy bedrooms to choose between, a brilliant pub menu, locally brewed Badger Beer and a very warm welcome for four-legged guests.

The Hideaway, Lyme Regis

A dreamy little bolthole for couples and their pooches, The Hideaway has all the ingredients for a proper seaside escape: a spacious living area, conservatory, secure sun-trap garden and Scandi-style hot tub. It’s just a couple of minutes from Lyme Regis beach where you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly cafés, pubs and walks right on the doorstep.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

Dorset’s coast is basically one giant dog-walking playground! For long peaceful off-lead walks head to Cogden Beach, with its wide, unspoilt shingle shoreline. It’s actually part of Chesil Beach, which stretches 18-miles and dogs can be sans lead along most of that, though there are some restrictions around Abbotsbury Swannery area.

Man O’War Beach and Durdle Door meld stunning coastal scenery with memorable cliff and beach walks but can get busy at weekends. Eype Beach is a hidden gem beneath towering cliffs, and Knoll Beach at Studland offers soft sand and scenic dunes (though dogs must be on leads between May and Sept to protect wildlife – if not the nudists! – in some areas).

Dogs are allowed off lead on Monmouth, East Cliff and Church Cliff beaches throughout the year, while you can combine a dog walk with a spot of fossil hunting at Charmouth Beach.

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

Rise Café Bar in West Bay is the spot for good mood food after a coastal walk, perched on its own little island where the River Brit meets the harbour. Come for breakfast classics like smashed avo, eggs and smoked salmon on sourdough, or settle in later for things like Korean wings and burgers. Cowshed Dorset in Lytchett Minster is a two-time Muddy Award winning cafè which welcomes dogs inside and out, serving up generous brunches, Buddha bowls, loaded toasties and more.

The Old Granary in Wareham is a former grain house turned riverside pub, with lovely views over the River Frome, home-cooked food and plenty of nearby walking routes to work up an appetite. And for a proper Dorset experience, The Square & Compass in Worth Matravers delivers hearty pies, pasties and award-winning ciders, with a clifftop setting that’s hard to beat.

DOGGO DAYS OUT

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For an easy family adventure, hop aboard Swanage Railway, where dogs can join you for free on the steam and diesel trains between Swanage and Corfe Castle (they’ll just need to stay on a lead). Corfe Castle is another must, with its dramatic 1,000-year-old ruins, brilliant views and dog-friendly grounds, tearoom and surrounding trails – plus bonus points for the canine treats.

For something a little different, Sculpture by the Lakes, near Dorchester offers a peaceful wander through 26 acres of lakes, wildflower meadows and contemporary sculptures, with dogs welcome in the main park (although the café is strictly humans only).

SOMERSET

Somerset might be best known for cider, rolling hills and postcard-perfect villages, but it’s also a brilliant destination for dogs. With miles of countryside walks, wild landscapes, welcoming pubs and plenty of space to roam – whether your pup prefers muddy trails, market towns or a cosy spot by the fire.

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

The Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham

Set among the rolling hills on the Somerset/Dorset border, this gorgeous family-run pub is as welcoming to muddy paws as it is to their owners. Stay in one of three stylish dog-friendly rooms in The Coach House or book the spacious two-bedroom cottage, perfect for families and four-legged companions.

The Wheatsheaf, Combe Hay, nr Bath

The owners’ cocker spaniels set the tone at this 16th-century farmhouse turned pub with rooms, overlooking the pretty village of Combe Hay. Voted Best Loved Pub in the Muddy Awards 2025, it’s rustic in all the right ways, with a cracking modern British menu and two luxurious dog-friendly rooms.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

From endless sandy sprints to fossil-strewn shores, the West and North Somerset coastline has it all. Dogs are allowed all year round on the vast expanses of flat golden sand and dunes at Berrow Beach (at low tide you can see the 1897 shipwreck of the MV Nornen) and Brean Beach, one of Europe’s biggest.

Don’t go too near the water’s edge though, as the mudflats can be dangerous. For something more rugged, Kilve Beach is perfect for adventurous hounds, with dramatic cliffs, rock pools and ancient fossils. Dogs are welcome all year, although low tide is the best time to visit.

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

At the Chapel, in Bruton is a Muddy favourite for good reason – part restaurant, part artisan bakery and wine shop, all set inside a beautiful converted chapel. Dogs can join you in the gallery, clubroom and outside, while overnight guests even get their own doggy goody bag.

The Sheppey nr Glastonbury brings quirky interiors, modern European food, great beers and ciders and live music to the Somerset Levels, with dogs welcome inside and out. Hall & Wood in Portishead is a cool dog-friendly pub made from 28 converted shipping containers, with marina views, cosy interiors and a terrace perfect for watching the world go by.

The Three Horseshoes in Batcombe pairs acclaimed chef Margot Henderson’s cooking with a beautiful country pub setting – think seasonal dishes, brilliant bar snacks and a gorgeous walled garden. And The Swan in Wedmore is a former Georgian coaching inn where dogs are welcome almost everywhere, alongside a menu that’s a cut above your average pub grub.

DOGGO DAYS OUT

Mendip Basecamp, Mendip Activity Centre Somerset dog friendly — Mendip Activity Centre

Mendip Activity Centre in Churchill is made for outdoorsy types, with more than 20 activities in the Mendip Hills National Landscape and dogs welcome to join in with walks, orienteering and frisbee golf. Cheddar Gorge & Caves is a Somerset classic, with dogs welcome on leads to explore the caves, gorge and surrounding walks (just keep them close on the cliff paths). Dunster Castle & Watermill delivers medieval drama, woodland walks and brilliant views, with dogs welcome in the parkland, River Garden, watermill and South Terrace. The village of Dunster is well worth a look too while you’re at it!

CORNWALL

With over 200 beaches, dramatic coastal paths and an endless supply of dog-friendly places to eat and stay, Cornwall is a canine paradise. Whether your dog is happiest chasing waves, exploring cliff paths or snoozing after a long walk, this is a county made for four-legged adventures.

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

Dog inside at Fowey Hall Hotel Cornwall — Fowey Hall

Budock Vean Hotel & Spa, Helford River

Set in 65 acres of gardens and countryside on the banks of the Helford River, Budock Vean is a peaceful Cornish escape made for dogs (and their owners) who like to explore. There are woodland trails, riverside walks and a private cove to sniff out, plus dog-friendly rooms and cottages with beds, bowls and dining options. Book the Tails & Trails stay and your four-legged friend gets treats, a toy and their very own Harbour Hounds dry robe for post-walk warming up.

Fowey Hall Hotel, Fowey

A lovely choice for a family- and dog-friendly stay, Fowey Hall is a grand Cornish country house hotel overlooking the pretty harbour town of Fowey. Best known as a family favourite, with plenty of space, gardens to explore and beaches and coastal walks nearby, dogs can even eat in the dining room.

Watergate Bay Hotel, near Newquay

If you’re after a family beach escape with your dog, it’s hard to beat Watergate Bay Hotel. With dog-friendly rooms, two miles of beach on the doorstep, coastal paths to explore and dog-friendly dining options, it’s made for sandy paws and sea-air adventures.

The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth

For a stylish dog-friendly escape by the sea, but one that is adult only, The Scarlet combines eco-luxury with a spectacular coastal setting. Dogs are welcome in selected rooms, with thoughtful touches including beds, bowls and towels, while Mawgan Porth beach and the South West Coast Path are right on the doorstep for coastal adventures.

Pedn Olva, St Ives

Perched above St Ives Bay, Pedn Olva offers some of the best views in Cornwall and plenty of opportunities for walkies. With beaches, coastal paths and the famous St Ives to Zennor route nearby, it’s a brilliant base for adventurous dogs and owners who like their walks with a side of sea views.

Duchy of Cornwall Holiday Cottages

Many of the Duchy of Cornwall‘s characterful holiday cottages welcome well-behaved dogs, with countryside and coastal locations offering plenty of opportunities for scenic walkies.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

Cornwall is paradise for dogs who love sand between their paws. Just bear in mind that seasonal restrictions apply on some beaches between May and September, so it’s always worth checking before you set off.

For year-round beach zoomies, Watergate Bay near Newquay is hard to beat, with two miles of golden sand, while Harlyn Bay, near Padstow is another favourite for long walks, rock pooling and a post-stroll pit stop at THE PIG at Harlyn Bay or Bar Harlyn. Looking for somewhere a little quieter? The hidden Polridmouth Cove near Fowey pairs a woodland walk down to one of Cornwall’s prettiest little beaches, while Perranuthnoe Beach, near Marazion, offers peaceful, year-round dog walks.

If you’re heading west, Porthkidney Sands at St Ives Bay is a vast dune-backed beach that’s a brilliant summer alternative when other beaches have restrictions, while Gwynver Beach, near Sennen remains a favourite with local dog walkers thanks to its wild Atlantic scenery and dramatic coastal views. Daymer Bay, and neighbouring Rock are ideal for paddling, picnics and coastal walks.

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

The Hidden Hut, Photo Credit: Danny North

Cornwall is packed with dog-friendly places to refuel after a coastal stomp. The Gurnard’s Head near Zennor is a favourite with walkers, serving seasonal food, local ales and a warm welcome for muddy paws after exploring the dramatic cliffs nearby. For something more casual, The Hidden Hut on the Roseland Peninsula is the ultimate beachside pit stop, where you can tuck into fresh, seasonal dishes with sea views and your dog by your side. Or, if you’re after a long lunch with a side of spectacular scenery, head to The Old Coastguard, in Mousehole, where dogs are welcome in selected areas and the views are every bit as good as the food.

DOGGO DAYS OUT

dog jubilee pool — Jubilee Pool Dog Day, Penzance

Find out all about Cornwall’s tin mining past in the new Tolgus Mill interactive exhibition at Cornwall Gold, Redruth, and then try panning for gold yourself, free to enter and dogs very welcome. Or head for Troon at Camborne, where the 22 acre site with nature trail, and community hub for the Cornish Mining World Heritage area at King Edward Mine is open Sun – Weds.

At the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek, near Helston, visitors and dogs on leads can explore the woodland site on the edge of the Helford River, observing the rescue seals and the permanent residents. In Padstow, dogs on leads are also welcome at the National Lobster Hatchery, where baby lobsters are nurtured until release.

The Trebah Gardens in Helford, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan, both welcome dogs, and in the gardens at The Eden Project, near St Austell, but not the biomes. Dogs are also welcome for one day only at the annual Jubilee Pool Dog Day, Penzance, usually at the very end of October when on the last day of the season, dogs take over the pool.

DEVON

From wild Dartmoor landscapes to sweeping beaches and charming coastal villages, Devon is packed with places to explore with your dog. Add in welcoming pubs, scenic walking routes and plenty of dog-friendly stays, and you have all the ingredients for a very happy holiday companion.

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

Doh in shepherds hut — Dittisham Hideaway, Dittisham

Two Mill Cottage, Kenn

A stylish three-bedroom cottage from The Ley Arms, Kenn, this luxurious countryside retreat comes complete with antique furnishings, plush interiors, rolling Devon views and a private hot tub. Up to two dogs are welcome, with their own bed, bowl and treats provided, plus they can even join you for a drink at the village pub, where resident hound Bertie is always happy to say hello.

Canine Cottages, Devon and UK-wide

With thousands of dog-friendly properties across Devon and beyond, Canine Cottages takes the stress out of finding a stay where the whole pack is welcome – seriously, up to six dogs can stay at some properties! From enclosed gardens to pup-friendly extras and loads of local walking advice, it’s a handy option for everything from countryside escapes to coastal breaks.

Dittisham Hideaway, Dittisham

This award-winning collection of Devon Tourism Award-winning treehouses, shepherd’s lodges and an iconic 1950s American Airstream near Dartmouth offers the perfect dog-friendly escape. Dogs can stay for free in nine of the ten properties (excluding Buzzard Treehouse) and receive a free welcome hamper with a Sleepeezee dog bed, towel, bowls, poo bags and Pooch & Mutt treats. Owl and Pheasant Treehouses have an outdoor dog wash on the deck, with Woodpecker Treehouse and the shepherd’s lodges set to follow.

Sleepy Owl Devon, Hartland

Set in 20 acres of the North Devon Biosphere Reserve, the Muddy Award winning Sleepy Owl’s luxury treehouses and converted barn offer a seriously special escape for humans and hounds. Alongside romantic extras for you like private cinema screenings and an indoor-outdoor bath, dogs (up to two) get their own welcome pack, cosy bed and even a light-up collar for evening adventures.

Boringdon Hall Hotel & Spa, Plymouth

For a touch of five-star luxury with your four-legged friend in tow, head to Boringdon Hall’s enchanted castle setting. Dogs are welcomed in courtyard rooms with treats, beds and bowls, and can join you for a cosy snooze by the fire in the Great Hall while you enjoy a cocktail, though they aren’t allowed in the restaurant. Dartmoor walks are just the ticket for stretching everyone’s legs afterwards.

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

Devon’s coastline is a dream for dogs, with everything from huge sandy beaches to hidden coves and wild coastal walks. Exmouth Beach is a crowd-pleaser for dog walks, with two miles of sand to explore. Out of season (Oct–May), it’s a total free-for-all, while in summer dogs are steered towards the quieter stretch near Orcombe Point; still a great spot for off-lead runs. Easy access, plenty of parking and nearby cafés (hello Heydays) make it an effortless, dog-friendly day out.

For something a little more adventurous, Ness Cove in Shaldon feels like a secret escape, reached via the atmospheric Smuggler’s Tunnel and more than 100 steps down to the sand. The effort is worth it for this peaceful beach, where seals are often spotted basking on the rocks. Dawlish Warren is another great option, with a dedicated dog-friendly section of beach, nearby countryside walks and plenty of cafés and pubs for a post-walk pit stop.

If you’re after wild and windswept, head to Welcombe Mouth, a secluded beach surrounded by rugged countryside and dramatic coastal views. It’s not the easiest spot to reach, but that’s part of its charm. Further north, Lee Bay, near Ilfracombe offers a sheltered cove with a mix of sand, shingle and rock pools, plus a pretty village backdrop for a gentle wander after a seaside stroll.

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

The Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe-in-the-moor

After a moorland stomp, head to The Chagford Inn in the heart of pretty Chagford, nr Dartmoor, where dogs are welcome alongside walkers looking for seasonal dishes, local ales and a relaxed gastropub atmosphere. There are even two dog-friendly rooms if you want to make a weekend of it.

Perched above the coast, The Bucket & Spade in Shaldon combines panoramic sea views with locally sourced dishes, a sunny terrace and a relaxed all-day dining vibe. Further along the coast, Heydays sits right on Exmouth seafront and is made for post-beach pit stops, serving excellent coffee, locally sourced food and cocktails with your dog happily by your side.

For a classic Dartmoor pub experience, The Rugglestone Inn in Widecombe-in-the-Moor is hard to beat. Set beside a babbling stream, this characterful spot welcomes dogs inside (on leads) and in the garden, with roaring fires, hearty home-cooked food and a picture-perfect moorland setting.

And over in Appledore, The Seagate pairs quayside views with a stylish pub-with-rooms feel. Dogs can join you while you eat and drink, while overnight stays come with thoughtful extras including a cosy bed, bowl and treats.

DOGGO DAYS OUT

RHS Rosemoor - Spring Walks — RHS Rosemoor, Torrington

The South West Coast Path is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure, with miles of dramatic coastline, hidden coves, beach stops and dog-friendly pubs along the way. Most sections welcome dogs, with plenty of brilliant walks to enjoy – just keep an eye out for livestock in some areas! RHS Rosemoor near Torrington is a treat for green-fingered dog owners, opening parts of its beautiful grounds to dogs on short leads on selected days as part of its ‘Paws on Paths’ initiative. Explore the Formal Gardens, woodland walks and lakeside areas before stopping for coffee and cake at the designated dog- friendly outdoor seating on the restaurant terrace or around the Otter Café.

For a walk with a wow factor, Canonteign Falls near Exeter combines woodland trails, lakes and the highest man-made waterfall in England. Dogs on leads are welcome across much of the 90-acre estate, with plenty of scenic routes to explore and a café stop where pups are welcome too. Devon icon, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a fun way to see the coast with your dog. This historic water-powered railway welcomes well-behaved dogs on board, and once you reach the top there are clifftop views, coastal walks and a dog-friendly café waiting.

And for a feel-good day out, The Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth is hard to beat. Set in beautiful East Devon countryside, it welcomes dogs on leads across much of the site, with scenic walking trails through paddocks, woodland and open countryside alongside the resident donkeys.

DORSET

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

The Smuggler’s Inn, Osmington Mills

The Hideaway, Lyme Regis

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

DOGGO DAYS OUT

SOMERSET

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

The Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham

The Wheatsheaf, Combe Hay, nr Bath

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

PAWFECT ​PLACES TO EAT

DOGGO DAYS OUT

CORNWALL

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

Budock Vean Hotel & Spa, Helford River

Fowey Hall Hotel, Fowey

Watergate Bay Hotel, near Newquay

The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth

Pedn Olva, St Ives

Duchy of Cornwall Holiday Cottages

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

PAWFECT ​PLACES TO EAT

DOGGO DAYS OUT

DEVON

DOG-FRIENDLY STAYS

Two Mill Cottage, Kenn

Canine Cottages, Devon and UK-wide

Dittisham Hideaway, Dittisham

Sleepy Owl Devon, Hartland

Boringdon Hall Hotel & Spa, Plymouth

DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES

PAWFECT ​PLACES TO EAT

DOGGO DAYS OUT

IN THE MOOD FOR MORE?

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

PAWFECT PLACES TO EAT

Paw-fect! The ultimate dog-friendly guide to the South West

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