Our favourite dog-friendly pubs in Devon

Where to go for a warm welcome with your four-legged friends

Encompassed by sandy beaches, historic towns, and national parks, it’s no surprise that Devon is a magnet for dog-lovers. Whether your four-legged friend enjoys meandering through green pastures or prefers the sand beneath their paws, we’ve put together six of the best dog-friendly pubs in Devon, guaranteed to welcome you with open arms after a busy day exploring coast and country.

South Devon

The Victoria Inn, Salcombe

© The Victoria Inn via Instagram (left)

A stone’s throw from the banks of the Salcombe-Kingsbridge estuary, this award-winning pub is perfectly positioned for exploring one of Devon’s most cherished coastal towns. With a menu designed to showcase local suppliers and produce, expect to find dishes packed with seasonal goodness and firm pub favourites such as ale battered fish and chips and steak frites, guaranteed to satisfy the taste buds of the whole family.

A perfectly formed shoppers paradise, spend days venturing Salcombe’s winding streets before retiring to The Victoria Inn with your four-legged friend in tow for a relaxing waterfront dining experience. For a thirst-quenching treat, grab a pint of alcohol-free Proper Dog and be sure to ask behind the bar for a selection of dog goodies. 

The Thatched Tavern, Maidencombe

© The Thatched Tavern via Instagram (left)

Far removed from its bustling neighbouring towns, Maidencombe is a quiet haven home to dog-friendly beaches and picturesque coastal walks. With roots dating back to 17th century, this quintessential thatched pub is the perfect place to unwind after long walks across red sandstone cliffs and vast woodland.

Serving light bites, pub classics and daily specials, its menu changes with the seasons and takes advantage of its proximity to fresh fish and kitchen garden goodness. Expect pan seared hake paired with saffron potatoes followed by poached pear frangipane. With plenty of spots to shade from the sun, kick back in the ambrosial English gardens before heading inside for an apéritif beside the log fire.

Bayard's Cove Inn, Dartmouth

© Bayard's Cove Inn via Instagram (left)

If rustic classics and British favourites packed with nostalgia are what you crave, then this boutique inn is the place for you. Located in the market town of Dartmouth, West Country growers and farmers are at the heart of its carefully curated menu, featuring dishes like Devon sirloin steak with all the trimmings and Elston Farm lamb koftas. Whether you’re an early riser looking for a wholesome farm style breakfast or a cream tea loving fair-weather walker, head to the banks of the River Dart for your favourites.

Dedicated to ensuring your dog is as equally comfortable, beds and bowls are provided, and staff are always on hand to offer advice on the best walking trails that lie close by.

North Devon

The Beaver Inn, Appledore

© Jess Forsdyke via Flickr (left) | Peter Dean via Flickr (right)

Having successfully retained much of its original maritime charm, this quaint village is rich in coastal heritage. Once a hub for local fisherman, The Beaver Inn occupies an idyllic spot in the heart of Appledore. With an outdoor patio that overlooks the estuary, take in the fresh sea air as you cast your eye over a menu packed with fresh fish specials, charcuterie boards and vegetarian delights, created using the finest local ingredients. Stroll through a maze of pastel-coloured streets before pulling up a chair in the bar to rest weary paws accompanied by a well-deserved pint of locally brewed ale.

The Thatch, Croyde

© The Thatch via Instagram (left)

With inside and outside dining options, find a shady spot and quench your thirst at this thatched picture-postcard retreat. Pre-book your dog-friendly spot and soak up a unique atmosphere from the heart of Croyde. Taking inspiration from cuisines across the world, expect warm Moroccan lamb flatbreads, burrito bowls and Balinese fish curries, using produce sourced from Exmoor National Park’s rolling pastures and fresh catches from nearby waters. Be sure to try the self-titled Thatch Burger before heading to Croyde Bay for days in the sand. 

The Instow Arms, Instow

© The Instow Arms via Instagram (right)

This old fishing village filled with beauty sits on the bank of the estuary where the rivers Taw and Torridge meet. Lying footsteps from calm waters, this welcoming rest-spot is situated on the waterfront, perfect for admiring passing fishing vessels and pleasure boats. Influenced by its surroundings, seafood lovers can expect classics such as moules mariniere, garlic butter prawns and salt and pepper squid.

After days spent on Instow’s dog-friendly beach, head to the gardens and dine al fresco from the self-contained heated huts, perfect for when you need a little extra leg room to relax. 

More for dog-lovers

To view our dog-friendly holiday homes in Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, click here and start planning your break.

Then, with the perfect home booked, take a look at our guide to the best dog-friendly restaurants, pubs and cafés in Cornwall, or ask our Concierge team for dog-friendly recommendations nearby.
 

Fall in love with Devon

From waterside boltholes perfect for a couple’s getaway to beachfront Scandi-inspired havens, our collection of homes in Devon promises unforgettable moments with the whole family. 

Image credits: The Victoria Inn via Instagram | The Thatched Tavern via Instagram | Bayard's Cove Inn via Instagram | Jess Forsdyke via Flickr | Peter Dean via Flickr | The Thatch via Instgram | The Instow Arms via Instagram | All other images are our own.