As dog lovers and furniture makers, we at The Pet Carpenter understand the importance of creating spaces where our pets feel comfortable, whether at home or on the move. With our workshop based on the outskirts of Plymouth, we invite you to book a visit to see what we do and explore the wonderful landscapes that make Devon and Cornwall such a dream for dog-friendly adventures.
Whether you’re planning a full holiday in Devon or simply stopping en route to Cornwall, there are plenty of fantastic walking trails, beaches, and nature spots to explore with your four-legged friend. Many of these walks are personal favourites of ours, having grown up in Devon and spent countless hours out with our dogs.
Here’s a list of our top 20 dog-friendly walks near Plymouth, from moorland rambles to coastal strolls and riverside retreats.
Best Woodland & Moorland Walks in and around Plymouth
1. Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk (Dartmoor)
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This scenic loop takes you around the stunning Burrator Reservoir, surrounded by Dartmoor’s rugged beauty. If you’re up for an extra adventure, take a detour up Sheepstor for breathtaking panoramic views. After your walk, stop at The Royal Oak in Meavy, a charming dog-friendly pub with a cosy atmosphere and great food.
2. Shaugh Bridge & Dewerstone Woods (National Trust)
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This circular walk winds through ancient woodland, offering a mix of shady paths and riverbank strolls. The River Plym provides plenty of spots for dogs to paddle, making it a great choice for adventurous pups. Nearby, Shaugh Prior has a welcoming village pub where you can relax with a drink in the beer garden.
3. Cadover Bridge & Dewerstone Rock Circular (Dartmoor)
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This walk combines open moorland, woodland trails, and riverside paths for a varied and exciting adventure. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter Dartmoor ponies, sheep, and even cattle, so keeping your dog on a lead in certain areas may be necessary.
4. Plymbridge Woods & Plym Valley (National Trust)
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Following the River Plym, this well-maintained woodland walk offers multiple trails of varying difficulty. Whether you choose an easy stroll or a longer loop, it’s a fantastic place for dogs who love to explore new scents. The old railway bridges and viaducts add a touch of history to the route.
5. West Down & Double Waters (Tamar Valley)
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This peaceful riverside and moorland walk near Tavistock is a hidden gem. With fewer crowds, it’s ideal for dogs that enjoy space to roam. Be mindful of livestock in the area, especially during lambing season.
6. Noss Mayo & Revelstoke Drive (South West Coast Path)
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This picturesque coastal walk offers stunning sea views and a mix of woodland and cliffside paths. The charming village of Noss Mayo is a perfect place to end your walk, with The Ship Inn and The Swan Inn both welcoming dogs for a well-earned rest by the water.
7. Saltram House (National Trust)
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A gentle, well-pathed circular walk along the Plym Estuary makes this a great option for all fitness levels. There are wide open spaces for dogs to run, and National Trust members benefit from free parking.
8. Shipley Bridge to Avon Dam (Dartmoor)
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This stunning valley walk leads to the Avon Dam, with beautiful views along the way. You can opt for a simple there-and-back route or take one of the connecting trails for a longer circular walk. Either way, it’s a peaceful and scenic choice.
9. Buckland Abbey (National Trust)
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With three different woodland trails to explore, Buckland Abbey offers a fantastic day out for dog owners. There’s plenty of space for off-lead adventures, and after your walk, Ox Yard Café is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink with your four-legged friend.
Best Dog-Friendly Beaches & Coastal Walks in and around Plymouth
10. Wembury Beach (National Trust)
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Dogs are welcome from 1st October – 30th April, making it a great autumn and winter destination. The beach is perfect for swimming, rock pooling, and coastal walks. Year-round access to the South West Coast Path means you can always enjoy a scenic walk, even outside of dog-friendly months.
11. Bovisand Beach
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A fantastic sandy beach that is dog-friendly all year round. With calm waters, it’s a great spot for pups who love to splash and swim. In the warmer months, it’s also popular for snorkelling.
12. Mothecombe Beach (Flete Estate)
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This stunning beach welcomes dogs from 1st October – 30th April. If you’re looking for a year-round dog-friendly spot, Wonwell Beach (https://w3w.co/beginning.attracts.carpets) and Coastguards Beach are nearby alternatives. Be mindful of the tides here, as they can dramatically change accessibility.
13. Jennycliffe & Mount Batten
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Just outside Plymouth, this peaceful coastal walk leads from Jennycliffe Beach to Mount Batten, offering stunning sea views. The area is dotted with coffee spots, making it a great place for a relaxed stroll.
14. Plymouth Hoe & The Barbican
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Walking along the UK’s first National Marine Park, you’ll be treated to incredible views across Plymouth Sound. The Hoe and Barbican are lined with dog-friendly cafés, pubs, and ice cream parlours, making it a vibrant and welcoming destination for both you and your pup.
Top Dog Walking Spots Just Over the Border in Cornwall
15. Mount Edgcumbe Country Park
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Easily accessible from Plymouth via the Cremyll Foot Ferry (https://w3w.co/oath.person.cake), Mount Edgcumbe offers a mix of coastal, woodland, and garden walks with breathtaking views. The historic grounds make for a truly special outing.
16. Churchtown Farm Nature Reserve (Saltash)
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This Cornwall Wildlife Trust nature reserve boasts stunning shoreline views and open fields for dogs to explore. The estuary offers plenty of opportunities for a paddle.
17. Whitsand Bay
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A vast sandy stretch that is dog-friendly all year round. Popular access points include Tregantle, Sharrow Point, Freathy, and Tregonhawke. Be sure to check the firing range times at Tregantle Fort, as access may be restricted during training exercises.
18.Seaton and Downderry Beach
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Another fantastic year-round dog-friendly beach, this quiet spot features a mix of grey sand, shingle, and rock pools. It’s a great place for dogs that love to explore.
19. Rame Head to Kingsand
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This stunning South West Coastal Path walk takes you to the charming seaside villages of Cawsand (https://w3w.co/submitted.future.pampering) and Kingsand. While Kingsand Beach welcomes dogs year-round, Cawsand has seasonal restrictions. Be sure to walk out to Rame Head Chaple, a special place near where Harry and his wife got married, with breathtaking views perfect for a memorable photo stop.
20. Cotehele (National Trust)
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With miles of trails through woodland and countryside, Cotehele is a haven for dog walkers. The Barn Café and The Edgcumbe at the Quay both welcome dogs, making it a great mix of history, nature, and pet-friendly exploring.
Secure & Enclosed Dog Walking Fields
For those needing a safe and enclosed space, these local hire fields offer a stress-free environment for dogs that may need a controlled setting:
Plan Your Visit to The Pet Carpenter
We’d love to welcome you to our Plympton-based workshop—just a short drive from these fantastic walks. Whether you’re planning a trip to Devon or stopping en route to Cornwall, why not book a visit and see how we create bespoke pet furniture that seamlessly blends into your home?
📍 Book your visit to The Pet Carpenter Workshop – Email [email protected]
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📞 Contact Us: 07791 477864 or drop us a message
We hope you and your furry friends enjoy these stunning walks—see you soon in South Devon! 🐾
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