Ilfracombe Loves Dogs...

…and other animals!

Information for Dog Owners

Ilfracombe is a very dog friendly town. Most of the pubs allow well behaved dogs on a lead and under their owner’s control. Many of the shops also allow dogs and so do some of the restaurants, cafes and tea rooms, particularly if they have outside eating space.

If you see this symbol associated with accommodation providers or other establishments it means that dogs and other pets are welcome.

There may be restrictions so please check with the establishment first. In the case of accommodation providers there may be a small surcharge for pets.

There are plenty of places to walk your dog in and around the town. Here are a few:

Bicclescombe Park: Ilfracombe’s premier park lies approximately one mile south of the town centre. Several routes around the park, all on pathways. Dogs need to be kept on leads.

Capstone Hill and Parade: A steep grassy area with plenty of walkways. Some are also quite steep but there is a level walkway all the way around.

Harbour Beach (Strand Beach): Yellow sandy beach on the inner harbour itself. No sand or access at very high tide (check tide times). Sheltered water but be aware of boats at all times and note that the RNLI lifeboat can access via the slipway at no notice and very quickly in an emergency. Visit Ilfracombe advises that you stay away from the slipway at all times.

Hillsborough: Is a popular local nature reserve, with numerous paths. Some of the routes are steeps but others are more gentle. If walking along the cliff edge keep dogs on leads.

Rapperee Beach: Access via a steep walkway but fairly isolated and mostly used by dog owners. Beware of allowing dogs into the water if it is very rough.

Torrs: Zig-zagging coastal paths and spectacular cliff views. Watch out for sheep.

Wildersmouth Beach: Rocky with black sand and a stream running through. Right on the seafront and next to Capstone Hill. Accessible at all but the higher Spring tides. Beware of allowing dogs into the water if it is very rough.

Please be a responsible owner and pick up after your dog. There are plenty of bins so it is easy to dispose of waste. Please also be aware of other users when taking your dog onto the beach or into the park.

Vets: There is a hospital on the outskirts of the town.