Paws by the Sea: Dog-Friendly Sidmouth Breaks
Sidmouth isn’t just a treat for people – it’s a seaside paradise for dogs too. With open beaches in winter months, riverside paths and scenic cliff-top walks, East Devon is one of the best places in Devon for a dog-friendly holiday. Add in welcoming places to stay and cafés that happily serve doggy ice cream, and you’ve got everything you need for a relaxed coastal escape with your four-legged companion.
At The Kingswood Hotel and Dukes Seaside Inn, dogs are genuinely welcomed, not just tolerated. Each canine guest is greeted with treats, a fresh water bowl and a comfy bed waiting in the room. For longer stays or dogs who like a little more space, the cottages and apartment from Self Cater Sidmouth offer privacy, flexibility and the comfort of a true home from home – ideal for families and dogs who need room to unwind after a day of coastal adventures.
Walks and Wags
The Byes Riverside Park
Distance: 2–3 miles
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
A peaceful riverside walk through meadows and shaded trees, perfect for relaxed strolls, sniffing and a bit of fetch. It’s flat, accessible and ideal for dogs of all ages. Finish with coffee and doggy ice cream at Kapes Kiosk — free treats for every pup.
Salcombe Hill and the South West Coast Path
Distance: 4 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
A steady climb rewarded with sweeping Jurassic Coast views. Keep dogs close near the cliff edges, then wind down afterwards with a drink or lunch on the terrace at Dukes Seaside Inn.
Peak Hill to Ladram Bay
Distance: 5 miles
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
A classic coast path walk through fields and along dramatic red cliffs. Stop at Toto’s Dog Shop next door to Dukes before you set off to grab treats and gear.
Sidmouth to Budleigh Salterton (Bus Back)
Distance: 7 miles
Time: 3.5–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
A longer coastal adventure heading east along the South West Coast Path to Budleigh. Expect big sea views and plenty of stopping points. Catch the 9A bus back to Sidmouth, which welcomes dogs. Once back, refuel at Kapes Kiosk with coffee and a canine snack.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
Budleigh Salterton, Branscombe and Beer beaches welcome dogs year-round. Sidmouth’s main beach allows dogs seasonally, but there’s always a stretch of sand or shingle nearby for swimming and exploring.
Dog Essentials in Town
- Toto’s Dog Shop beside Dukes sells natural treats, toys and harnesses.
- Core Hill Unleashed offers a secure, private field for safe, off-lead running.
- Byes Grooming is where Molly turns muddy pups into seaside-ready stars.
- Kapes Kiosk serves artisan coffee, soft serve and doggy ice cream — free treats guaranteed.
Where to Eat
Dine outdoors with your dog at Dukes Seaside Inn or enjoy a relaxed lunch on the patio at Baia Vista, the Italian restaurant at The Elizabeth. Both serve up local ingredients and sea views with plenty of space for paws under the table.
Where to Stay
Book your Sidmouth getaway with The Sidmouth Collection:
- The Kingswood Hotel – elegant seaside comfort with dog-friendly rooms.
- Dukes Seaside Inn – relaxed, coastal inn with terrace dining and beach access.
- Self Cater Sidmouth – dog-friendly cottages and apartments that feel like home.
FAQ
Are Sidmouth’s beaches dog-friendly?
Yes — Sidmouth's main beach allows dogs besides seasonal restrictions from May 1–Sept 30. Budleigh, Branscombe and Beer beaches are open to dogs all year round.
Where can my dog run safely off-lead?
Book time at Core Hill Unleashed for a secure, private field.
What if my dog gets muddy?
Head to Byes Grooming for a wash and pamper session.
Can I eat out with my dog?
Yes — Dukes Seaside Inn and Baia Vista at The Elizabeth both have outdoor seating and water bowls for dogs.
Sidmouth makes travelling with dogs effortless – from coastal walks and dog-friendly beaches to welcoming places to eat and stay. With The Kingswood Hotel, Dukes Seaside Inn or a Self Cater Sidmouth home-from-home as your base, every day ends with sea air and wagging tails.