Many people ask us – is Exmoor dog-friendly? Can you take dogs to Exmoor National Park? The answer is a resounding YES! As dog-friendly destinations go, you really can’t beat Exmoor.
Firstly, Exmoor offers, hands down, the best walking in the country if not the world. Ok, well, obviously, there is room for personal opinion here… But most would firmly agree that Exmoor options exceptional walking. And as most waggers would have it, that is unquestionably a plus.
Secondly, dogs are well-loved here. There are many residents and visitors of the four-legged variety, so most spots are dog-friendly. So whether you’re looking for a spot for lunch or to see the sights, the whole pack can stick together – tails included.
Here are a few ideas for dog-friendly options when out and about on Exmoor…
Top Dog-Friendly Exmoor Sites & Days Out
Tarr Steps & Nature Reserve
Combine ancient history with scenic woodland walking at Tarr Steps. Dating back thousands of years, you can walk over this iconic bridge or paddle in the waters underneath it (Perhaps a few four-legged takers for the latter..?). From here, there are various walking options; choose from a shorter or longer circular route
Lynton & Lynmouth and the Cliff Railway
For a nicely novel mode of transport, try this water-powered railway cart. Both Lynton and Lynmouth are well worth visiting, but separated by a steep hill; this cliff railway is the perfect (dog-friendly, of course) means of accessing the two. Whilst offering a spectacular view! Even soggy dogs are most welcome on board. A small charge is made for larger dogs; lapdogs and guide dogs go free.
Porlock Weir & Beach
Take a stroll around the Weir – one of my favourite spots ever. An authentic, picturesque harbour hamlet with bits and bobs to see, buy, eat, or sniff, whatever takes your fancy. Take the dogs out onto the marsh for a runaround, or down to the sea for a splash. Find out more in this post on Porlock Weir
Dunster Village & Castle
The medieval village of Dunster is gloriously charming, with an abundance of dog-friendly cafes and pubs. The Castle (a National Trust property) and its grounds are one of the most visited attractions on Exmoor, and quite rightly so. There’s plenty to walk around for a good sniff and some exploring – with dogs allowed almost everywhere except the furnished rooms in the main building.
West Somerset Railway
Get out across Exmoor while ditching the car in this steam-powered heritage railway train. Run by volunteers, there is a sense of genuine enthusiasm and nostalgia for the railways of old. You can jump on and off at stops that take your fancy, so allow plenty of time to explore. Dogs are not permitted in the buffet car or on dining services but are otherwise welcome.
Heddon’s Mouth and Valley
For a coastal day out, Heddon’s Mouth has it all. Incredible coastal paths, towering cliffs, wooded valleys and secluded coves… with a little beach and ancient lime kiln to finish things off! Heddon’s Mouth is only accessible by foot, adding to the feeling of satisfaction of exploring around here. Leave the car at the National Trust car park near The Hunters Inn, for a leisurely walk down the Heddon Valley to the sea. Alternatively, park up near Woody Bay and enjoy stunning sea views via a 6 mile circular walk.
Click here to explore Exmoor Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages
Top Dog-Friendly Exmoor Beaches
Porlock (/Bossington) Bay
A mile-long shingle expanse, this beach sweeps the giant curve of Porlock Vale. The south/easterly aspect is a simple, majestic stretch of pebbles – perhaps a little tottery for the paws, but a tranquilly beautiful dog walk nonetheless. Heading north/west takes you on a (non-pebbly) path via an ancient submerged forest to the salt marsh. The fascinating ecosystem here has plenty to admire for dogs and their people.
Blue anchor bay
Blue Anchor Bay is a large flat beach with a mix of shingle and sand. When the tide is out, there is a vast area to charge around over. Parking is easy right on the beach, with toilets handy and a small (dog-friendly) cafe.
Kilve beach
Rock pools galore, Kilve beach is dog-friendly for those who are agile and interested; there are plenty of puddles and slabs for clambering over. Not the easiest terrain for good sprinting (or the less mobile), but there’s a grassy stretch above the beach to make up for it.
Minehead beach
An attractive sandy beach, backing straight onto the edge of the town. Dogs are allowed on the whole beach from October through to April. From May to September, dogs may be walked on the stretch of beach east of the golf course (towards Dunster) and west of the harbour (towards Porlock)
Dunster beach
Popular with walkers, Dunster beach is a wide mix of sand and pebbles. Dogs are welcome but asked to be kept on the lead at the top area (above the tideline, near the chalets). There are a few handy dog waste bins about, and a car park (a small charge applies).
Top Dog-Friendly Exmoor Pubs
The Royal Oak, Withypool
Top marks for doggy delight, the Royal Oak goes above and beyond when it comes to canines. With its very own special Doggy Snack and Dinner Menu, why not try out the ‘Duck & Parsely Biscuit Bites,’ the ‘Waggy Doggy Old Smelly Sock Icecream’, or even ‘Woof Dog Beer’ (alcohol-free, in case you were worried they’d taken it one step too far..)
The Ship Inn (Bottom Ship), Porlock Weir
This traditional pub has plenty of outside seating for sunny days, or a cosy bar otherwise. You are highly likely to spot a few tails here – very dog-friendly vibe.
The Ship Inn (Top Ship), Porlock
Another classic pub, open for food and drink seven days a week. Many folk will have walked these floors, thirteenth century
White Horse, Exford
A family-run establishment in the heart of Exmoor. Dogs aren’t permitted in the restaurant, but food can be served in the dog-friendly bar area.
Castle Hotel Restaurant, Porlock
Try out this family-run pub and restaurant in the heart of Porlock village. Good pub grub with generous portion sizes – handy after the long Exmoor walks.
The Blue Ball Inn, Countisbury
A very dog-friendly traditional inn. Drive west from Porlock (up the infamous hill!), and you will wind along the incredible coastal road to the Blue Ball Inn. Proudly supporting local producers.
The Exmoor Forest Inn, Simonsbath
For fabulous food, head to the Exmoor Forest Inn – serving organic beef, lamb and venison from their very own farm reared with exceptional welfare standards. There’s great walking from here too… Very dog-friendly, but a fair request of only one dog per table booking. 
Top Dog-Friendly Exmoor Accommodation
After exploring all these doggy delights, you’ll need a good spot to stay for the whole pack. Thankfully, there is a fantastic selection of dog-friendly cottages at The Best of Exmoor.
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