About
If you’re visiting North Devon with your dog, the Valley of Rocks deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just outside Lynton, this spectacular stretch of coastline combines huge rocky outcrops, open grassland, sea views and the South West Coast Path — making it a brilliant place for a proper dog walk.
Valley of Rocks is particularly good if your dog enjoys having plenty to sniff and explore. It feels wild and dramatic without necessarily needing to commit to a long coastal hike, although there are plenty of opportunities to extend your walk if you want to.
The valley is surrounded by impressive rock formations, with rugged cliffs rising above the landscape and the Bristol Channel stretching out beyond them.
For dogs, there’s lots going on. Grassy paths, rocky surroundings, interesting smells, and plenty of new places to explore.
And because the South West Coast Path runs through the Valley of Rocks, you can make your visit as short or as long as you like. You can walk around the valley itself, or continue towards Lynton and along the coast if your dog still has plenty of energy.
Dog Access and Rules
Is the Valley of Rocks dog friendly? Yes, and it’s a fantastic place for an adventurous dog walk.
The Valley of Rocks is open access, and the surrounding walking routes make it easy to explore with your dog. The main thing is to remember that this is a rugged coastal landscape rather than a managed park. Keep your dog under control, particularly around cliff edges and livestock, and follow any local signs you come across.
Things To See & Do
One thing we really like about the Valley of Rocks is that it doesn’t feel like somewhere you simply arrive, take a photo, and leave.
There’s space to wander and explore, with the dramatic rocks providing a brilliant backdrop as you make your way through the valley. You can take a leisurely stroll around the main area or use it as the starting point for something longer.
If you’re staying in Lynton or Lynmouth, you can also incorporate the Valley of Rocks into a longer coastal walk, giving your dog a much more satisfying day out.
Even if your dog isn’t particularly impressed by dramatic coastal scenery, you certainly will be.
The Valley of Rocks is surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery around Lynton, with huge rocky formations rising from the valley and wonderful views towards the sea.
On a clear day, it’s the sort of place where you’ll find yourself stopping regularly just to look around.
If you’re looking for more than a gentle stroll, the Valley of Rocks is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding coast.
The South West Coast Path lets you head further along the cliffs, although the terrain gets more challenging as you go. North Devon’s coastal paths can be steep and uneven, so make sure your dog is comfortable with longer walks and varied terrain.
Good footwear is a must, and I’d take plenty of water for both of you.
Access and Facilities
You can park in several places around the Valley of Rocks, including the upper car park or the main Lynton pay-and-display.
The Valley of the Rocks car park has toilets, and there’s a seasonal cafe with outdoor seating.
There is no water along the route, so carry supplies for yourself and your dog.
Our Tips for Visiting with a Dog
This is one place where I’d definitely recommend keeping your dog under close control.
The landscape is rugged, with steep drops and exposed sections around the rocks and cliffs. The wider North Devon coast also has livestock in places, so keep your dog close and be prepared to put them on a lead.
It’s very easy to get distracted by the views, but this isn’t somewhere I’d let a dog wander freely near the cliff edges.
