The Best Dog Walks in Tavistock, Devon

As a local pet shop right here in Tavistock, we at Ron’s Pets are passionate about making sure you and your furry friends get the most out of our beautiful surroundings. Having lived in Tavistock and the surrounding area for nearly 40 years, I have had plenty of opportunities to explore the area with my dogs, and now we’d love to share some of our favourite dog walks that we know your pets will enjoy as much as ours did.

1. Tavistock Canal and Meadows
Living in Tavistock, one of our go-to walks is along the peaceful Tavistock Canal. Starting right from the town centre, it’s an easy and flat route that meanders through lovely shaded areas, perfect for a quiet, relaxing walk with your dog. Once you reach The Meadows, there’s plenty of open space for a good runaround. It’s a popular spot for local dog owners, so your pet will likely make a few new friends along the way!

Autumn- Tavistock Canal

This walk is great if you’re short on time or just fancy a leisurely stroll. Plus, if you pop into town afterwards, plenty of the local cafés are dog-friendly, including some of our favourites where you can sit and enjoy a cuppa with your pup.

2. Whitchurch Down
Whitchurch Down is another favourite among Tavistock locals. Just a short walk from the town centre, this wide, open common land offers stunning views over Dartmoor and beyond. The wide expanse is perfect for dogs to run free, and there’s always something new to explore. On a sunny day, you’ll find locals out walking, running, or just enjoying the fresh air with their pets.

For those who want a longer walk, you can follow the paths leading into the heart of Dartmoor. We often take our dogs here for a more extended adventure, but if you're looking for a shorter trip, just a walk around the Down provides plenty of space and beautiful scenery.

3. The Granite Way
Just outside of Tavistock, the Granite Way is a stunning walk we highly recommend. This flat, easy trail follows an old railway line and is perfect if you want a longer walk without too much effort. The path runs from Lydford to Okehampton, but you can easily start at Lydford, which is a short drive from Tavistock.

Winter - The Granite Way, Lydford

We love this walk for its gorgeous views across Dartmoor, and the dogs adore the wide, open spaces to explore. Don’t worry if your dog isn’t one for long walks – you can turn back at any time, making it a flexible option for all kinds of energy levels.

4. Drake’s Trail and Tavistock Woodlands
Drake’s Trail is another local gem, and it’s one of our personal favourites here at Ron’s Pets. Starting from Tavistock, this trail takes you through beautiful woodlands, old railway tunnels, and across historic viaducts. It’s a fantastic walk for anyone who wants to mix things up a bit and let their dog enjoy a variety of terrains.

This is a shaded route, perfect for those warmer days when you want to escape the heat. Plus, your dog will have plenty of opportunities to explore the wooded areas. It’s also a popular route for cyclists, so it’s always good to keep an eye out when you’re walking with your pup.

5. Lydford Gorge
A little further afield but well worth the drive, Lydford Gorge is a breathtaking National Trust site and one of the most dramatic spots for a dog walk. We love taking our dogs here for a proper day out. It’s a bit more of a challenge, with steep paths and narrow tracks, but the scenery is unbeatable, and your dog will love exploring the woodland and riverside areas.

Autumn - White Lady Waterfall, Lydford Gorge

Make sure to keep your dog on a lead while walking in the gorge, as there are some steep drops and lots of wildlife. But for an adventurous day out, Lydford Gorge is hard to beat.

6. Pew Tor
If you’re looking for those iconic Dartmoor views, head over to Pew Tor, a short drive from Tavistock. It’s a fantastic spot for dogs that love to run and explore, with plenty of open moorland and rocky outcrops to scramble over. The views from the top are absolutely stunning, and on a clear day, you can even spot Cornwall in the distance.

Pew Tor is one of those places we always recommend to visitors who want to experience the rugged beauty of Dartmoor while still being close to Tavistock.

Ron’s Tips for Dog Walkers
Weather: Dartmoor weather can change quickly, so always be prepared with waterproofs and a warm layer for you and your dog.
Lead Regulations: Make sure to check signage for areas where dogs need to be kept on leads, especially around livestock.
Dog Supplies: At Ron’s Pets, we stock a range of leads, harnesses, and outdoor gear for dogs, so if you need anything before your walk, feel free to pop in!
Conclusion
Tavistock is truly a dog lover’s paradise, with an array of beautiful walks right on our doorstep. From peaceful riverside strolls to the rugged beauty of Dartmoor, there’s something for every dog and owner to enjoy. We’re always happy to chat about our favourite walks when you visit us at Ron’s Pets, so don’t hesitate to ask us for more local tips next time you pop in!