Why Autumn is the Perfect Season for a Dog-Friendly Holiday in North Devon
As the clocks turn back and the summer sun fades to a distant memory, you may find yourself longing for a relaxing autumn break before the Christmas party season begins. North Devon is the perfect autumn getaway destination with the fresh sea air and the stunning natural landscapes that will do wonders for your wellbeing as the daylight hours shorten.
Cooler days, crisp sea air and calmer beaches make this time of year the ideal time to relax and explore North Devon with your four‑legged friend. Your dog can roam without the hustle of high‑season crowds, and you can savour the scenery on slow strolls before enjoying cosy evenings in our dog-friendly hotel in North Devon.
Whether it’s a harbour promenade at dusk or a bracing walk along the South West Coast Path, there’s plenty to do on a dog-friendly holiday in North Devon and we can help you find moments of calm, clarity and connection at The Carlton. So, let’s plan your holiday in Ilfracombe together.
Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in North Devon
Whilst many beaches are off-limits to dogs through the spring-summer season, restricting the fun for your furry friend, this is not an issue through autumn and winter as many North Devon beaches welcome dogs in the colder months. Below are some of our favourite beaches that will make your dog-friendly holiday in North Devon all the more fun for you and your canine companion.
Ilfracombe Beaches
Ilfracombe has several beaches, all quite different. Rapparree Cove is a small secluded beach mainly of shingle, next to the Ilfracombe harbour. Ilfracombe harbour has a sandy beach among the moored boats. Wilder Beach is along the coast beside the Landmark Theatre. Dogs are allowed after 31st October each year, just in time for your dog-friendly holiday this autumn.
Saunton Sands
Saunton Sands is a three-mile-long sandy beach popular with dog walkers, as dogs are allowed all year round. Facilities include a large car park, toilets, shops, and cafes.
Watermouth Beach
A sheltered harbour overlooked by Watermouth Castle, Watermouth Beach is situated two miles east of Ilfracombe and is a mix of shingle and sand with a stream running along it. Dogs are allowed all year round.
Hele Bay
On the outskirts of Ilfracombe, Hele Bay is a small, quiet beach, with shingle at high tide becoming sandy as the tide goes out revealing rockpools to explore. Visiting is easy with a large car park above the beach and toilets and refreshments easily accessible.
We recommend packing a towel for your pup so you can dry them off after they enjoy frolics in the shallows.
Best Walks and Attractions for Dog-Friendly Holidays in North Devon
When you stay at The Carlton for your dog-friendly holiday in North Devon, you’re in the heart of an area rich with dog‑friendly walking trails:
Harbour Promenade, Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe is the largest harbour on the North Devon coast and is just a short walk from the Carlton Hotel. Stroll past the boats, enjoy the sea air and pop into the many independent shops, cafes and galleries that surround the harbour.
South West Coast Path
For a more energetic dog walk along the North Devon coast, the South West Coast Path from Ilfracombe to Morte Point allows you to tackle 6.6 miles of cliff‑top paths through rare coastal heathland allowing you to spot dolphins and seals if you’re lucky. This walk is particularly good for dogs as it passes Lee Bay beach and pubs where dogs are welcome.
Exmoor National Park
With nearly 700 square kilometres of rolling hills, countryside, lakes, rivers and streams Exmoor National Park is a fantastic destination for your dog. They will have endless fun exploring the landscape of this truly dog-friendly spot with you right alongside them.
Dog‑Friendly Attractions & Gardens in North Devon
Beyond beaches and walks, there is a whole host of dog-friendly attractions waiting to be discovered on your autumn break in North Devon. These are some of our favourite places for your pooch.
Arlington Court & National Trust Gardens
Arlington Court is an intriguing Regency house and impressive collection of horse-drawn vehicles, set in a picturesque garden with more than 20 miles of footpaths to explore. Dogs are welcome on lead outside the house in the wider estate.
Clovelly Village
Known as being one of Devon’s most picturesque villages, Clovelly is a beautiful fishing village, steeped in maritime atmosphere and history. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the village. Be aware that there is an admission fee to enter the village.
Lynmouth to Lynton Cliff Railway
Take a ride on the Lynmouth to Lynton Cliff Railway, a 19th Century funicular which is the highest totally water powered railway in the world, and bask in its incredible views of the North Devon coast. Well-mannered dogs can travel too if kept on a short lead and a £1 fee applies. Assistance dogs travel free, and we provide water bowls on-site for them.
Stay at a Dog-Friendly Hotel in North Devon This Autumn
If an escape to the coast for an autumn break filled with crisp air, golden‑light walks and cosy evenings with your four‑legged friend sounds appealing, come and visit us at The Carlton. Our dog‑friendly stays in North Devon are designed so you, and your pup, can make the most of the quieter season and enjoy a gentle getaway on the coast.
What Makes The Carlton Hotel Truly Dog‑Friendly?
When it comes to a dog‑friendly hotel in North Devon, The Carlton ticks every box:
- Well‑behaved dogs (and their owners!) are welcome in most communal areas, including the lounge and the dining spaces.
- We offer special dog amenitie, including bowls, treats on arrival, and optional dog beds in our rooms.
- We’re centrally located for beach, harbour and countryside access. You can explore the area either by foot or with a short drive.
- We have cosy indoor spaces for when the autumn light fades: our Brasserie, and lounge are perfect spaces to enjoy after‑walk meals and drinks with your furry friend at your feet.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Stay with Your Dog
- Let us know you’re bringing a dog when you book so we can prep the room.
- Pack your dog’s favourite toy and a lead—many local walks are off‑lead outside high seasons.
- Pack layers: mornings by the sea can be brisk, and evenings are longer.
- Bring a towel and wipe‑down kit for your dog after beach walks.
- Ask at reception for local dog‑friendly pubs or cafés — some may serve treats or water bowls.
- Check local beach and path rules (e.g., dogs on‑lead at certain times) and make the most of the quieter season.
Book Your Autumn Break with your Dog in North Devon Today
Autumn rooms fill faster than you might expect. Whether you’re after a mid‑week escape or a long weekend away, now is the moment to plan. Bring yourself and your dog for a memorable coastal escape. We’ll bring the sea, sand, walks and warmth.
Call 01271 862446 or email eliot@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk to book your dog-friendly hotel break today.
Need more convincing? Find out why our guests rate us as one of the best hotels in North Devon.