5 days out with a dog in Devon

Continuing on my mission to supply useful dog friendly information, I bring you my latest blog.

Our dog friendly caravan parks provide a great base to explore Devon's exciting outdoors and there are a vast amount of places that welcome dogs with open arms.

Here are 5 days out in Devon that'll help you create long-lasting memories of your pet friendly holidays UK...

South Devon Railway

If you're looking for a unique day out with your pooch from South Bay Holiday Park, the South Devon Railway is a splendid choice.

It's the longest established steam railway in the south west, but far more than just a train ride.

The seven mile line treats you to unspoilt Devon countryside and rich wildlife as you travel through the valley of the River Dart, from Buckfastleigh to Totnes. At Buckfastleigh station there is a historic museum, play area, picnic spots, gardens and riverside walks to explore with your dog. Trains also stop at Staverton where you have another opportunity to walk the river and enjoy the quaint village.

Saunton Beach

What holiday is complete without a day out at the beach?

Our North Devon holiday parks are just a short drive around the coast from the golden Saunton Sands.

Three and a half miles of beach lie before a backdrop of one of the most impressive dune systems in the UK, the perfect playground your four-legged friend.

Saunton beach welcomes dogs everyday of the year and the simple zoning system means you only have him/her on a lead for the first 5 minutes. After that the beach and dunes are free to discover – keep your eyes peeled, you might even stumble across a pop star.

Arlington Court

On the outskirts of Exmoor lies the marvellous family estate, Arlington Court.

After 500 years in the Chichester family, the estate is now owned and run by the National Trust and open to all, including dogs.

There is plenty to see and do around Arlington Court. The Carriage Museum houses a rare coach, last used at the Wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana; exotic Victorian gardens flourish in sun and there is over 20 miles of footpaths to walk, including a cracking two mile tour of the man-made lake and bridge.

Greenway – Home Of Agatha Christie

Another dog friendly day out near South Bay Holiday Park is Greenway House and Garden – the beloved holiday home of famous author Agatha Christie.

You can take an extraordinary glimpse into the 1950's set house and gardens, where Agatha and friends would spend the summer down at the river or playing croquet. Don't leave without seeing the Boathouse, scene of the crime in Dead Man's Folly.

Although dogs aren't allowed in the house, there is a lot to do outside to keep them busy. Take a stroll down to the river's edge or around the beautiful woodland. There's also a comfortable one mile walk that provides fantastic views over Dartmouth.

Clovelly

Although Clovelly is 30 miles from our dog friendly accommodation, I just had to feature this timeless village on my 5 days out.

The traffic-free, historic fishing village is set into a cleft of a 400ft cliff, with cobbled streets leading down to the 14th century working harbour. Whitewashed, flower-strewn cottages line the streets that still feature donkeys to this day.

Explore the village and enjoy its glorious wooded cliff-top walks. It's a place man's best friend can enjoy just as much.

The modest visitor charge covers entry to the must-see audio-visual film of the village's history, two museums, Clovelly Court Gardens, parking and a contribution to the maintenance of the village to preserve its timeless charm and magic. Dogs are very welcome.

Nearby C12th Hartland Abbey, set in a beautiful valley leading to the sea, also welcomes dogs on leads in the grounds.