A holiday is always better when every member of the family can come along – and that includes the dog. If you’re planning a getaway to South Devon, you’ll be pleased to know that the English Riviera is one of the UK’s most welcoming destinations for four-legged visitors.

From year-round dog-friendly beaches and spectacular coastal walks to pet-friendly attractions, cafés and restaurants, there are endless opportunities for adventures together. Better still, at Beverley Holidays in Paignton, dogs are just as welcome as their owners.

Whether you’re pitching your own tent, arriving in a motorhome, touring caravan or settling into one of our luxury sea-view hot tub lodges, you’ll find plenty of facilities designed to help both you and your canine companion enjoy a relaxing stay.

So grab the lead, pack the treats and discover our complete dog-friendly guide to the English Riviera.

Dog-Friendly Stays at Beverley Holidays

Located on the beautiful English Riviera coastline, Beverley Holidays offers a range of dog-friendly accommodation options to suit every type of holidaymaker.

If you love the freedom of the outdoors, our camping and touring pitches provide plenty of space for tents, motorhomes and touring caravans. For those looking for extra comfort, our dog-friendly caravans and luxury lodges offer a wonderful base for exploring South Devon, with selected lodges featuring private hot tubs and stunning sea views.

We understand that dogs deserve a holiday too, which is why we’ve created facilities specifically with them in mind.

• Pawadise Park – One of our most popular dog-friendly features is Pawadise Park, our secure dog exercise area. This enclosed space gives dogs the chance to stretch their legs, enjoy some off-lead playtime and burn off energy while taking in wonderful views across the surrounding area.
• Warm Doggy Shower – After a muddy woodland walk or a splash in the sea, our warm doggy shower is a welcome sight. It provides a dedicated space to rinse sandy paws and muddy coats before heading back to your accommodation.
• Dog-Friendly Dining and Facilities – Dogs are welcome in selected areas across the park, including The Jetty Lounge, Bar and Terrace, Saltwater Kitchen Terrace & Bar, the Boulevard Café and other designated areas. Water stations, lead points and dog-friendly touches throughout the park help make every stay comfortable and convenient.

The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches on the English Riviera

One of the biggest advantages of holidaying in South Devon is the incredible choice of beaches where dogs can enjoy the sand and sea.

• Goodrington North Sands – Just a short distance from Beverley Holidays, Goodrington North Sands is one of the area’s most popular year-round dog-friendly beaches. With plenty of soft sand exposed at low tide, it’s perfect for games of fetch and seaside zoomies.
• Elberry Cove – Hidden between Paignton and Brixham, Elberry Cove offers a peaceful escape from the busier beaches. The shingle cove is surrounded by woodland and forms part of the South West Coast Path, making it ideal for combining a beach visit with a scenic walk.
• Babbacombe Beach – another fantastic year-round dog-friendly option. Nestled beneath dramatic cliffs, it offers lovely views across Lyme Bay and is a favourite with local dog walkers.
• Fairy Cove – Tucked beside Paignton Harbour, Fairy Cove feels like a hidden gem. This small beach of red sand and shingle is dog-friendly throughout the year and offers a quieter alternative to some of the larger beaches nearby.
• Saltern Cove – Nature-loving dogs and owners will enjoy exploring Saltern Cove. Known for its fascinating rock pools and coastal scenery, it’s another beach where dogs are welcome all year round.

Winter Beach Freedom

While some beaches have seasonal restrictions during the summer months, these are lifted during the winter period. From October through to April, dogs can enjoy access to virtually all beaches across the English Riviera, making off-season breaks particularly appealing for dog owners.

Fantastic Dog Walks Near Beverley Holidays

The English Riviera offers a wonderful variety of walks for dogs and their owners. As well as exploring the ‘Local Walks‘ section of the Beverley Holidays App we recommend the following dog-friendly walks –

• South West Coast Path – The South West Coast Path is undoubtedly the region’s most spectacular walking route. Stretching along dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, it offers endless opportunities for scenic adventures. Popular sections include walks between Paignton and Brixham, where you’ll pass beaches, woodland and breathtaking sea views.
• Occombe Valley Woods – For shady woodland strolls, Occombe Valley Woods provides peaceful trails, wildlife and plenty of interesting scents for curious dogs. The network of paths is ideal for shorter walks close to Paignton.
• Manscombe Woods – another excellent woodland escape. Quiet paths weave through mature trees and provide a cool retreat during warmer weather.
• Churston Woods and Fishcombe Cove – Combining woodland and coastline, the walk through Churston Woods to Fishcombe Cove is one of the area’s hidden treasures. The route offers beautiful sea views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Dog-Friendly Attractions on the English Riviera

The fun doesn’t stop at beaches and walks. Many of the English Riviera’s most popular attractions welcome dogs too.

• Dartmouth Steam Railway – One of South Devon’s most famous attractions, the Dartmouth Steam Railway allows well-behaved dogs on board, making it easy to enjoy a nostalgic journey through beautiful countryside together.
• Cockington Country Park – With charming thatched cottages, woodland trails and open parkland, Cockington Country Park is a wonderful destination for dog walkers and one of Torbay’s most picturesque locations.
• Babbacombe Model Village – Dogs are welcome to explore the miniature world of Babbacombe Model Village alongside their owners, making it a great family day out.
• Greenway House – Owned by the National Trust, the former holiday home of Agatha Christie offers beautiful gardens and woodland walks where dogs can accompany visitors through much of the estate.
• Babbacombe Cliff Railway – This historic cliff railway provides an enjoyable way to travel between the clifftop and beach while saving tired legs from the steep climb.
• Western Lady Ferry – The Western Lady Ferry provides a scenic crossing between Torquay and Brixham, with dogs welcome on board to enjoy the coastal views.
• Berry Pomeroy Castle – Widely regarded as one of England’s most atmospheric and haunted castles, Berry Pomeroy Castle is surrounded by woodland and countryside that dogs will love exploring.
• Paignton Pier – A classic seaside attraction, Paignton Pier offers traditional holiday fun and makes a lovely stop during a stroll along the seafront.
• Coleton Fishacre – This stunning National Trust property combines beautiful gardens with spectacular coastal views. Dogs are welcome throughout much of the grounds, making it a rewarding visit for nature lovers.

Dog-Friendly Pubs, Cafés and Restaurants

After a busy day exploring, both dogs and owners deserve somewhere comfortable to relax and refuel.

• The Jetty Lounge, Bar & Terrace – Located at Beverley Holidays, The Jetty offers a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy drinks and meals while spending time with their dogs.
• Saltwater Kitchen, Terrace & Bar – Another convenient on-site option, Saltwater Kitchen provides a relaxed setting with dog-friendly outdoor seating areas.
• Cantina – A popular choice in the local area, Cantina welcomes dogs and serves a range of food and drinks in a relaxed environment at Goodrington Sands.
• The Guardhouse Café – Situated in Berry Head Nature Reserve, The Guardhouse offers stunning sea views and a warm welcome for walkers and their dogs.
• Rockfish, Brixham – Located on the waterfront in Brixham, Rockfish is one of the area’s best-loved seafood restaurants and is known for being welcoming to dogs.
• The River Shack – Overlooking the River Dart, The River Shack offers a laid-back atmosphere and waterside dining that’s ideal after a day crabbing in Stoke Gabriel.
• The Prince William – Located near Brixham Marina, The Prince William pub combines great harbour views with a dog-friendly welcome.
• Harbour Light – Popular with locals and visitors alike, Harbour Light is another excellent option when exploring Paignton with your dog.

Why the English Riviera is Perfect for Dog Owners

Few destinations offer such a fantastic combination of dog-friendly beaches, scenic walks, welcoming attractions and places to eat. Whether your ideal day involves exploring hidden coves, strolling through woodland, riding a steam train or simply relaxing beside the sea, the English Riviera provides endless opportunities for memorable adventures with your canine companion.

When you stay at Beverley Holidays, everything is in place to make travelling with your dog simple and enjoyable. From Pawadise Park and our warm doggy shower to nearby beaches, attractions and dog-friendly dining, you’ll have everything you need for a tail-wagging holiday on the South Devon coast.

So pack the lead, bring the tennis ball and get ready to discover why the English Riviera is one of the UK’s best destinations for dogs and their owners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Holidays on the English Riviera

Are dogs allowed on beaches in Paignton?

Yes, there are several dog-friendly beaches in Paignton where dogs are welcome throughout the year, including Goodrington North Sands, Fairy Cove and Saltern Cove. Some of the larger beaches have seasonal restrictions during the summer months, but these are lifted in winter, meaning dogs can enjoy all beaches across Torbay from October to April.

Which beaches are dog-friendly all year round on the English Riviera?

Some of the best year-round dog-friendly beaches include Goodrington North Sands, Elberry Cove, Babbacombe Beach, Fairy Cove and Saltern Cove. Each offers something a little different, from sandy stretches perfect for games of fetch to quiet coves ideal for a peaceful coastal walk.

Can I stay at Beverley Holidays with my dog?

Absolutely. Beverley Holidays offers a range of dog-friendly accommodation, including camping and touring pitches, selected caravans and luxury sea-view hot tub lodges. This means you can choose the type of holiday that suits you while bringing your four-legged companion along too.

What dog-friendly facilities does Beverley Holidays offer?

Dogs are made to feel just as welcome as their owners at Beverley Holidays. Facilities include Pawadise Park, a secure exercise area where dogs can enjoy some off-lead play, a warm doggy shower for washing sandy paws after the beach, and dog-friendly areas within selected bars, restaurants and outdoor seating spaces across the park.

What are the best dog walks near Paignton?

The South West Coast Path offers some of the most spectacular coastal walks in the country, with routes connecting Paignton, Brixham and Torquay. If you prefer woodland scenery, Occombe Valley Woods and Manscombe Woods provide peaceful walking trails with plenty of shade and wildlife to enjoy.

Are there dog-friendly attractions on the English Riviera?

Yes, many of the area’s most popular attractions welcome well-behaved dogs. You can enjoy a journey on the Dartmouth Steam Railway, explore Cockington Country Park, visit Berry Pomeroy Castle, wander around the gardens at Coleton Fishacre, ride the Babbacombe Cliff Railway and even discover the miniature world at Babbacombe Model Village.

Are there dog-friendly pubs and restaurants nearby?

There are plenty of places where your dog can join you for a meal or drink. At Beverley Holidays, dogs are welcome in designated areas of The Jetty Lounge, Bar and Terrace and Saltwater Kitchen Terrace & Bar. Nearby favourites also include Cantina, The Guardhouse Café, Rockfish in Brixham, The River Shack, The Prince William and Harbour Light.

Can dogs travel on the Dartmouth Steam Railway?

Yes. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the Dartmouth Steam Railway, making it one of the most enjoyable ways to explore South Devon together. It’s a fantastic day out, especially when combined with a visit to Dartmouth or a cruise on the River Dart.

When is the best time to visit the English Riviera with a dog?

The English Riviera is a fantastic destination throughout the year. Summer offers long days for beach walks and outdoor dining, while autumn and winter are ideal if you want quieter beaches. From October until April, seasonal beach restrictions are lifted, giving dogs access to all of Torbay’s beaches.

Why choose Beverley Holidays for a dog-friendly holiday in Devon?

Beverley Holidays combines comfortable dog-friendly accommodation with facilities designed specifically for canine guests. With Pawadise Park, a dedicated doggy shower, nearby year-round dog-friendly beaches, coastal walks and a wide choice of attractions and places to eat, it’s an ideal base for exploring the English Riviera together.