The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Exmoor

Exmoor offers a wide variety of dog-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 60 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging adventures.

Exmoor's diverse landscape means you'll encounter a mix of terrains. Expect open moorland, ancient woodlands, sheltered river valleys, and dramatic coastal paths. Many trails feature natural surfaces, and some may include springs or river crossings, so appropriate footwear for both you and your dog is recommended.

Yes, Exmoor has many excellent circular routes perfect for dog walkers. For example, the Wheal Eliza mine ruins – Simonsbath Village loop from Simonsbath offers a pleasant easy circular walk. Circular routes are ideal for exploring without retracing your steps.

Exmoor is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking with dogs, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be warm, especially on open moorland, so consider early morning or late afternoon walks. Winter walks are also possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.

Absolutely. Our guide includes 16 easy dog-friendly routes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or for those with less hiking experience. These trails typically have minimal elevation gain and are well-suited for families with dogs. An example is the Wheal Eliza mine ruins – Simonsbath Village loop from Simonsbath.

Exmoor's trails offer stunning natural features and historical landmarks. You might encounter dramatic gorges like Glen Lyn Gorge, impressive natural monuments such as Dunkery Beacon Summit, or the unique rock formations of the Valley of Rocks. Don't miss the ancient Tarr Steps clapper bridge.

Exmoor is generally very dog-friendly, and many pubs and cafes welcome well-behaved dogs, especially in outdoor seating areas or designated indoor sections. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand, particularly during peak seasons, to ensure they can accommodate your dog.

The komoot community highly rates Exmoor's dog-friendly trails, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to tranquil woodlands, and the sense of wildness and peace. The well-maintained paths and the opportunity to explore with their dogs are also commonly highlighted.

When hiking with your dog in Exmoor, it's important to keep them under close control, especially around livestock and ground-nesting birds. During lambing season (typically March-July), dogs should be kept on a lead in areas with sheep. Always pick up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly. Check the Exmoor National Park website for the most current guidelines.

While many trails in Exmoor are best accessed by car, some routes, particularly those starting from villages or towns, may be reachable by local bus services. It's advisable to check local bus timetables and routes in advance, and confirm if dogs are permitted on board, as policies can vary.

Yes, Exmoor's landscape is crisscrossed with rivers and streams, offering plenty of opportunities for dogs to cool off. The River Barle and East Lyn River, for instance, wind through ancient woodlands, providing picturesque settings with water access. Always be mindful of currents and water quality.