Dartmoor is a fantastic place for enjoying walks in nature and experiencing the best of the British countryside. This makes Dartmoor an amazing place to visit with the whole family – dogs included!
If you’re looking to stay in Dartmoor, you’ll want to know where you can visit in the area with your pup. We’ve put together a few of our favourite things to do and places to go when the dogs are in tow!
Walking on the Moors
Dartmoor is renowned for its open spaces, moorland, and woodlands that make for fantastic walks with dogs. Whether you prefer an easy stroll or a more challenging hike, the National Park provides a variety of trails that are perfect for dogs and their owners. Dartmoor National Park covers 368 square miles or 954 square kilometres, providing plenty of opportunity for walkies.
While walking on the moors is an ideal activity for you to enjoy with your pup, it’s important to remember that Dartmoor is a working landscape, with grazing cattle, sheep and ponies, so keeping your dog on the lead is required.
Hay Tor & Hound Tor
One of the most popular walking routes is Haytor and Hound Tor, a moderate circular walk that takes in two of Dartmoor’s most famous tors. The panoramic views from the top of Haytor are spectacular, and the area provides plenty of open space for dogs to explore. Hound Tor is another fascinating location, featuring the medieval ruins of Hundatora, which add a sense of mystery and history to the walk.
Bellever Forest
Another excellent dog-friendly destination is Bellever Forest, a fantastic spot for woodland walks. Here, dogs can enjoy off-lead opportunities in designated areas, while their owners take in the beauty of the East Dart River. The forest offers several marked trails suited to different fitness levels, making it a great location for both leisurely walkers and experienced hikers.
Fernworthy Reservoir
For those who prefer a waterside walk, Fernworthy Reservoir is an excellent choice. This peaceful area offers a mixture of woodland and open spaces, providing an ideal environment for dogs to explore. While off-lead opportunities are available, owners should be mindful of bird nesting areas to protect the local wildlife.
Fingle Bridge to Castle Drogo
For those who enjoy riverside walks, Fingle Bridge and Castle Drogo provide a perfect setting. The path along the Teign Gorge is particularly scenic, with plenty of shaded sections that are ideal for warm days. The nearby Castle Drogo, a National Trust property, also offers dog-friendly walks within its estate. Fingle Bridge is close to us here at Mill End Hotel, so pop in for a cream tea at our dog-friendly hotel on Dartmoor, or stay with us to explore more of the area.
Dog-Friendly Attractions on Dartmoor
Dartmoor is home to several attractions that welcome dogs, making it an excellent destination for a day out with your furry companion.
Castle Drogo Estate
This National Trust property welcomes dogs into the estate, where you can explore the ancient gorge and follow trails along the river. Only assistance dogs are permitted inside the actual Castle, as well as the cafe and formal gardens, but the estate grounds are open for all dogs to enjoy a walk.
Castle Drogo is only a 25-minute walk from Mill End Hotel, making us the perfect base for exploring Dartmoor on foot with the dogs!
Canonteign Falls
Canonteign Falls Estate sits on 90 acres of land, providing plenty of space for you and the pups to roam. See the South West’s highest waterfall, explore the magical fern gardens and experience the epic designs of Victorian gardens as you walk through the estate.
Canonteign has many different walks on offer, through ancient woodland, across meadows, or around lakes. There are nature trails and walking routes for various abilities and lengths, and dogs are welcome on leads.
River Dart Country Park
Providing fun for the whole family – pooch included – River Dart Country Park is a dog-friendly day out on Dartmoor. With plenty of space to enjoy long walks by the river with the whole family, the River Dart Country Park is an ideal place for keeping both kids and pups entertained. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times on site.
Roadford Lake
A lakeside walk surrounded by stunning countryside awaits at Roadford Lake. Nestled amongst the Wolf Valley with a backdrop of Dartmoor’s dramatic tors, Roadford Lake is a stunning spot to go for a walk and can be a great place to go with your pup in tow.
Becky Falls
Becky Falls is a stunning natural attraction featuring waterfalls, woodlands, and scenic trails. Dogs are welcome on a lead, and there is plenty of shade and water access, allowing them to stay cool during the walk. The area’s rugged beauty makes it a popular choice for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Dartmoor’s natural wonders.
Lydford Gorge
Lydford Gorge is home to the stunning White Lady Waterfall. This dramatic location offers a beautiful walk through ancient woodland and alongside the river. Dogs are welcome on short leads, and the paths provide plenty of variety, including stepping stones and bridges that add a sense of adventure to the experience.
Dartmoor Whisky Distillery
Dartmoor Whisky has a distillery in Bovey Tracey – the only whisky distillery in Devon – which you can visit and learn all about how single malt whisky is made, as well as enjoy a whisky-tasting experience. Dogs are allowed in the distillery, so you can bring them along while you enjoy a sip or two!
Dartmoor Whisky is inspired by the rugged landscape of Dartmoor National Park and is a single malt distilled in an ex-Cognac, Bourbon or Sherry cask, made using Dartmoor barley for a smooth and sweet spirit.
Dog Friendly Holidays in Dartmoor
If you’re looking for a dog friendly hotel, Dartmoor, then Mill End Hotel is the perfect place for you and the pups to stay! There are plenty of amazing dog-friendly walks on Dartmoor, right on our doorstep, and we’re close to all of the above-mentioned attractions.
While staying with us, we can provide dog towels and a complimentary pack of poop bags to help keep the dogs clean and protect the local environment.