Favourite dog-friendly cottages in Devon
Devon is one of our favourite locations for dog-friendly cottages – its mix of sprawling beaches, rolling countryside and charming towns make it the perfect choice for a weekend away with your best friend. We’ve rounded up six of our favourite places to rest tired feet and paws after a day of exploring this beautiful and diverse county. Expect waterside retreats, sunny terraces and quirky boltholes hidden down country lanes.
Philham Water Cottage
This charming little one-up, one-down is one of our more traditional dog-friendly cottages in Devon. Staying here is like living in a fairytale, perched between a leafy path and a stream, with a roaring wood burner and welcome basket of locally-sourced delights. From the cottage, you can explore the Hartland Peninsula on foot, passing through dense forest and spectacular craggy coastline. Hartland town is just two miles away for shopping, dog-friendly pubs, restaurants and potteries, or trek a little further to the harbour village of Clovelly for postcard-perfect scenery and hilly cobbled streets winding down to sea. Return to snuggle up in the rustic living room with a hot drink and your best friend by your side.
Fingals Folly
A quirky cottage set over two storeys, close to Dartmouth in South Devon. This beautiful space is full of light, with big windows and a balcony overlooking the lawn. The back deck overlooks a babbling brook, and it’s the ideal spot for catching some rays while keeping an eye out for kingfishers. Outdoorsy types will love the abundance of picturesque dog walks nearby – explore Green Lanes AONB, or venture further to Dartmouth or Brixham to breathe in lungfuls of salty air. If you’re craving a buzzing atmosphere, head to the eclectic weekend market in Totnes to browse an array of food, crafts, clothes, plants and antiques stalls. It’s also the perfect place to stock up on local produce for dinner, or if you don’t fancy cooking then walk 30 minutes to the dog-friendly Ferry Boat Inn in Dittisham for delicious pub food by the river Dart. The beauty of Fingals is while it’s hard to get bored, it’s also very easy to relax and do nothing – days spent reading on the daybed or taking a dip in the pool are every bit as fulfilling as long beach walks and day trips.
Horry Mill
A rural haven deep in Devon countryside and hidden away in award-winning woodland. This cottage exudes classic country style from every angle, nook and cranny – from the classic kitchen to the old fireplace and patches of exposed brickwork. Dogs stay for free, and you’ll all feel right at home here, with previous guests describing the area as a ‘dog paradise’. Dig out one of many maps in the cottage and set off on walks from your doorstep, or hop in the car to reach the Tarka Trail in 20 minutes. If you’re craving blue seas and coastal breeze, the north Devon coast isn’t far either. Spend winter evenings keeping toasty by the fire, and summer nights making the most of the barbecue in the sunny south-facing garden.
The Stables at Coombe Farm Goodleigh
This beautifully-restored old stable is located between Exmoor and the sea, so it’s perfect for those who love exploring both countryside and coastline in one trip. The interiors are gorgeous, the lovely private terrace is a secure area for dogs, and there’s an endless choice of walks and activities on the farm and in the local area. Make the most of the picturesque gardens and stream onsite, or take a day trip to Exmoor for bracing walks, pretty moorland and dramatic scenery. There are plenty of dog-friendly pubs in and around the national park if you need a pitstop. If you prefer a slower pace, pack a picnic and a tennis ball and seek out one of the many nearby beaches. Your dog will love running themselves to exhaustion at Saunton Sands, a three-and-a-half mile long stretch of dog-friendly heaven. Whatever you fill your days with, your hosts will be happy to help you plan – they know the area inside out and can provide maps and advice. Once you and your dog are suitably tuckered out, head back to the cottage to get the wood burner going and cook up a feast in the very well-equipped kitchen – owner Lisa is a serious cook so you’ll have everything you need and more.
Orchard House Cider Barn
This riverside holiday cottage is surrounded by lush woodland and overlooks the Dart. It’s ideal for those who love being by the water, with amazing views of boats bobbing by on the estuary and a private jetty winding down from the garden if you fancy canoeing. The interiors are spacious and full of light, with a fully-equipped kitchen for keen cooks and an amazing rain shower in the bathroom. You’re in a beautiful part of South Devon, surrounded by rolling countryside, sparkling estuaries, wild moors and sprawling beaches, so you and your dog will be spoilt for walks. Explore local lanes from your door, hop in the car to the South West Coast Path for long walks with coastal views, or visit Tuckenhay for lunch and a pint in a riverside pub. Return to your cosy cottage for a fireside dinner with far-reaching views of the estuary.
Written by
Claire Maguire
Claire combines her twin loves of writing and travel to create inspiring blog content. Rudi combines his twin loves of baths and chasing squirrels to excuse getting as muddy as possible whenever he can. He hates missing out, so finding dog-friendly places is an absolute must. Claire loves a place with a stunning interior and is thankful Rudi is well-behaved enough to leave it the way they find it, unless there are slippers to be eaten.
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