The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Exmoor

Exmoor offers a wide selection of routes suitable for you and your dog. Our guide features over 100 dog-friendly hiking trails, ensuring plenty of options for exploration across the national park's diverse landscapes.

Yes, Exmoor has many easy dog-friendly walks perfect for beginners or families. You'll find over 30 routes classified as easy. A great option is the Dunster Castle, Bat's Castle & Gallox Bridge loop from Dunster, which is just over 6 km long and offers gentle terrain around historic sites.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure with their canine companion, Exmoor provides 11 difficult dog-friendly routes. These often involve greater distances and elevation changes, taking you through rugged moorland or along the dramatic coastline.

Many of Exmoor's dog-friendly trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Tarr Steps & Withypool loop offers a beautiful circular route through riverside woodlands and open countryside.

Exmoor's dog-friendly trails traverse a remarkable variety of landscapes. You can explore wide-open, heather-clad moorland, peaceful ancient woodlands, tranquil river valleys, and the dramatic, rugged coastline. This diversity ensures a new experience with every walk.

Exmoor is rich in natural and historical attractions that you can enjoy with your dog. You might encounter the unique geological formations of the Valley of Rocks, or enjoy panoramic views from Dunkery Beacon Summit. Many trails also pass through charming villages like Lynmouth or near historic sites like Dunster Castle (check specific access rules for dogs within castle grounds).

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Exmoor, with an average score of 4.67 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the sense of tranquility, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks with their dogs.

Exmoor is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and newborn wildlife, while summer offers long daylight hours for extended walks. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and winter provides crisp air and quiet trails, though some paths can be muddy. Always check weather conditions, especially on the exposed moorland or coastal paths.

When hiking with your dog in Exmoor, it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially in areas with livestock like Exmoor ponies, sheep, and cattle. The park is also home to red deer and diverse birdlife. Always follow the Countryside Code, keep your dog on a lead near livestock, and ensure they don't disturb wildlife. Be aware of ground-nesting birds during spring and early summer.

Yes, Exmoor boasts a dramatic coastline with sections of the South West Coast Path that are dog-friendly. These routes offer breathtaking sea views and rugged cliff paths. A notable section is the North Walk (South West Coast Path), providing stunning vistas. Always be mindful of steep drops and coastal erosion.

Exmoor is renowned for its panoramic viewpoints. Many dog-friendly trails lead to elevated spots offering spectacular vistas. For example, the area around Dunkery Beacon Summit, Exmoor's highest point, provides expansive views across the national park and beyond. Selworthy Beacon is another excellent spot for coastal and moorland views.

Many pubs and cafes in Exmoor are dog-friendly, especially in the smaller villages. After a walk, it's often possible to find establishments that welcome well-behaved dogs in their bar areas or outdoor seating. It's always a good idea to check with the specific venue beforehand to confirm their dog policy.

For a full day's adventure, consider routes that combine different landscapes. The Tarr Steps & Withypool loop is a moderate 11.8 km hike that takes around 3.5 hours, offering a good distance through varied scenery. Many of the longer coastal paths also provide excellent full-day options, though they can be more challenging.