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You’ll find Devon’s dog-friendly hotels offer more than just a place to rest your head – they’ve become destinations that pamper both you and your four-legged companion. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious countryside manor or a cozy beachfront retreat, these nine properties have mastered the art of pet-friendly hospitality. From gourmet doggy menus to designated walking trails, each hotel brings something unique to your Devon escape. Let’s explore what makes these accommodations stand out from the pack.
Key Points
- Gidleigh Park offers luxury dog accommodations at £20 per night, with access to 107 acres and Dartmoor trails.
- The Cary Arms provides beach-front pet stays with dog beds and bowls, plus year-round beach access at Babbacombe.
- Bovey Castle welcomes dogs in all 60 bedrooms and lodges, offering complimentary walking guides for £25 nightly.
- Fox and Hounds Country Hotel stands out with specialized gourmet pet menus and dog-friendly dining options.
- Hotels typically charge around £25 per dog nightly, including amenities like beds, bowls, and designated exercise areas.
Why Devon Is a Paradise for Dog-Friendly Getaways
While many UK destinations claim to be pet-friendly, Devon distinguishes itself as a genuine paradise for dog owners.
Devon stands out among UK destinations, offering a true haven where dogs and their owners can explore together freely.
You’ll find an impressive variety of landscapes, from sweeping coastlines to rolling countryside, perfect for adventurous walks with your four-legged friend.
The region’s growing popularity for dog-friendly holidays isn’t surprising, with a 36% increase in pet-accommodation bookings recently. Over 55% of visitors enjoy preparing meals in their holiday accommodations rather than dining out.
You can choose from countless walking trails, including the South West Coast Path, and many dog-friendly beaches where your pup can splash in the waves.
Dartmoor National Park offers extensive hiking opportunities, though do check local restrictions.
What makes Devon truly special is its thorough infrastructure for dog owners.
You’ll find everything from veterinary services to pet supply shops, ensuring you’re never far from essential resources during your stay.
Devon boasts some of the top dog-friendly hotels in the UK, with accommodations designed specifically with canine comfort in mind.
Gidleigh Park: Luxury Meets Canine Comfort
Located at the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Gidleigh Park distinguishes itself as Devon’s premier luxury option for discerning dog owners.
For £20 per night per dog, you’ll get access to three dog-friendly rooms, including the exclusive Pavilion cottage with private veranda.
Your four-legged companion will enjoy:
- Premium amenities including “Gidleigh Bark” specialty biscuits, tennis balls, and estate spring water
- Access to heated kennels that double as daytime resting spaces
- High-end dog beds and L’Occitane toiletries paired with canine essentials
- Direct access to 107 acres of estate grounds and Dartmoor trails
The property welcomes dogs of all sizes and breeds, with multiple pets allowed subject to kennel capacity. Guests can enjoy the scenic views while walking their dogs through magical landscape that enriches both human and canine experiences.
You’ll find convenient waste disposal stations throughout the grounds and 24/7 access to exercise areas.
The Cary Arms: Seaside Bliss for Four-Legged Friends
Perched along the South West Coastal Path, The Cary Arms combines seaside luxury with thoughtful pet amenities at its Babbacombe Beach location.
You’ll find multiple dog-friendly accommodation options, from rooms and suites to beach huts and cottages. The Pebble Suite, a two-bedroom cottage, sits right by the beach. Your pup will receive a cozy bed and bowls, though there’s a £25 nightly pet charge. Guests can choose from several unique cottages, including Beach Cottage which features a large garden perfect for pets to roam.
The hotel’s location is perfect for active dogs, with year-round swimming access at Babbacombe Beach. You’ll get a tailored dog walk book to explore local routes, and Torquay harbor is nearby.
After adventures, enjoy dining at the seaside gastro inn or venture to nearby Michelin-starred restaurants like The Elephant. With over 1,480 positive TripAdvisor reviews, this luxury seaside retreat proves popular among pet owners.
Bovey Castle: Royal Treatment for Pets and Owners
Nestled within Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle offers five-star luxury for both you and your four-legged companion across its sprawling 275-acre estate.
For £25 per night, your dog can join you in any of the 60 bedrooms or lodges, with bedding and bowls included. The castle’s commitment to pets earned them the 2020 PetsPyjamas award, and you’ll find plenty of pet-friendly spaces throughout:
- Library and Cathedral Room for dining with your dog
- South Terrace for outdoor relaxation
- Complimentary walk booklet for local trail exploration
- Access to dog-friendly gardens and grounds
While your pup enjoys the expansive grounds, you can indulge in the spa or explore Dartmoor’s scenic trails together. The cozy seating area under the main staircase provides an additional relaxation spot for you and your furry friend.
The castle welcomes dogs in most public areas, making it an ideal base for a Devon adventure.
Essential Pet Amenities at Devon’s Top Hotels
While Bovey Castle sets a high standard for luxury pet stays, many Devon hotels offer impressive amenities that’ll make your dog feel right at home.
You’ll find essentials like comfortable dog beds, fleeces, and water bowls available upon request at check-in. Hotels like Arundell Arms provide complimentary chews and beds.
Most properties feature fenced areas where your four-legged friend can run freely off-leash, and many provide direct access to beaches and walking trails.
You’ll appreciate the thoughtful touches, like dedicated relief areas with both grass and concrete surfaces, plus dog towels stationed at entrances for muddy paws.
When booking, consider going direct with the hotel – you might score better rates and even free pet stays.
Just remember to check each property’s specific pet policies, as some don’t allow dogs to stay unattended in rooms.
Exploring Devon’s Pet-Friendly Walking Trails From Your Hotel
Thanks to Devon’s diverse landscape, you’ll find an incredible variety of pet-friendly walking trails right from your hotel doorstep.
Whether you’re staying at coastal properties like Langstone Cliff or inland retreats near Dartmoor, you can access scenic paths without driving.
- The South West Coast Path offers dramatic ocean views and year-round beach access, with hotels like Harbour Hotel Sidmouth providing direct trail connections.
- Dartmoor trails span 107 acres of private grounds near luxury hotels, perfect for off-leash adventures.
- Protected woodland paths and arboretum trails near Sawday’s properties combine shade with safe exploration zones.
- The Tarka Trail, accessible from The Royal Hotel, provides riverside walks through North Devon’s countryside.
Most hotels offer trail maps and dedicated walking gates to make accessing these routes convenient and stress-free. The highly-rated Langstone Cliff Hotel lies within walking distance of these beautiful coastal paths, making it an ideal base for daily adventures with your pet.
Year-Round Pet Activities at Devon’s Finest Hotels
Devon’s top hotels go beyond basic pet accommodations by offering extensive year-round activities for your four-legged companions. The Mole Resort leads the pack with dedicated dog parks featuring agility equipment, group walks, and seasonal scavenger hunts, plus indoor comfort in dog-friendly lodges with heated floors. Each stay includes a thoughtful Welcome Dog Pack filled with treats and essentials.
You’ll find varied options across the region. Bovey Castle organizes training sessions and agility workshops, while providing mapped walking routes and dog-friendly dining.
Cary Arms offers beach access with rinse stations and complete pet amenities for a £25 nightly fee. For winter activities, The Grand Hotel in Torquay features special dog-walking packages, and Weeke Barton provides farm-based scent trails.
Most properties connect directly to year-round attractions, from Dartmoor’s rugged paths to the South West Coast Path.
Dining With Your Dog: Hotel Restaurants That Welcome Pets
Food-loving dog owners will find several welcoming dining options across Devon’s pet-friendly hotels.
You’ll enjoy dining with your furry friend at places like Cary Arms, where dogs are welcome in the main restaurant and lounge, or Fox and Hounds Country Hotel, which offers a unique dining experience for both you and your pet. The Headland Hotel & Spa offers guests amazing terrace views perfect for outdoor dining with your dog.
Here’s what you can expect when dining with your dog:
- Specialized pet menus featuring gourmet doggy dishes and treats at Fox and Hounds
- Multiple seating options including main restaurants, lounges, and outdoor terraces
- Thoughtful amenities like water bowls and comfortable beds in dining areas
- Budget-friendly options with most hotels including pet dining access in their standard £25 per night pet fee
Remember to book ahead and confirm specific pet policies, as access and restrictions can vary by hotel.
Planning Your Perfect Pet-Friendly Devon Holiday
When planning a pet-friendly Devon holiday, you’ll find countless options that cater to both your comfort and your dog’s needs. Coastal cottages and rural escapes make up the majority of bookings, with beach-proximity stays offering direct access to the South West Coastal Path. Forty-eight percent of visitors pre-book dog-friendly activities before their trip.
Consider the season for your visit – spring and autumn provide quieter trails and better value, while summer offers prime beach access.
Winter travelers should look for heated accommodations with enclosed gardens. Most properties provide essential pet amenities like beds and bowls, saving you packing space.
You’ll pay around £25 per dog per night at pet-friendly venues, but you’ll get access to tailored walking maps, grooming facilities, and emergency vet contacts.
For multiple dogs, seek out properties that welcome two or more pets to guarantee a stress-free stay.
Final Words
You’ll find Devon’s dog-friendly hotels offer more than just a place to crash with your pup. From Gidleigh Park’s heated dog beds to Cary Arms’ beach access, you’re getting real value for your money. Don’t overthink it – book a room, pack some treats, and let your four-legged friend live like royalty without breaking the bank. These hotels prove you don’t need to leave Fido at the kennel to enjoy a proper holiday.
