Dog-friendly guide to Plymouth: things to do in Plymouth with a dog

If you think Plymouth is only about historic sites and waterfront views, your dog is about to prove you wrong. This city is a pawfect playground for pups, filled with welcoming places that turn every outing into an adventure. 

Get ready for the ultimate dog-friendly guide to Plymouth—featuring beaches, walks, pubs, restaurants, and more! Plus, if you're looking for house sitting opportunities in Plymouth or need a reliable Plymouth pet sitter, read on to find out more!

Best dog parks in Plymouth

Looking for a park where your pup can live their best off-leash life? In these parks, nature is abundant, offering trails and open fields with room to run, roll, and maybe even chase a squirrel or two.

Central Park 

If your dog loves full-speed sprints and making new friends, Central Park is an ideal place to visit. This park is Plymouth’s largest green space, featuring woodland trails, off-leash areas, and various spots to lounge in the sun. Even better? There’s a café nearby, so you can sip your coffee while your furry friend burns off some energy.

Location: Central Park Ave, Plymouth PL2 3DG

Radford Park & Arboretum 

Some dogs prefer a little more culture with their walkies, and Radford Park delivers. With woodlands, meadows, and a historic arboretum, this is an excellent dog-friendly attraction for hounds who appreciate a good sniff through the past. It’s a great choice for those who prefer quiet walks over chaotic playdates.

Location: Plymstock, Plymouth PL9 7NY, United Kingdom

Devil’s Point Park 

Devil’s Point Park is a dream destination for water-loving canines. This coastal gem provides stunning ocean views, fresh sea air, and numerous opportunities for a splashy adventure. Just be warned—your barking bud might have more fun in the water than expected, so bring a towel (or two).

Location: Admiralty Rd, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly restaurants in Plymouth

Why should humans have all the best dining options when canine companions make such great dinner dates? These dog-friendly restaurants in Plymouth welcome four-legged guests, providing water bowls and perhaps even a little treat under the table.

The Dock 

A top choice for both humans and hounds, The Dock serves up fresh seafood and local favorites with a side of ocean breeze. The outdoor seating overlooks the marina, creating a relaxing setting for a meal while your four-legged friend can enjoy the salty sea air and occasional head pats from the welcoming staff.

Location: King Point Marina, Brunel Way, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1 3EF, United Kingdom

The Fig Tree @ 36 

This charming eatery is all about fresh, locally sourced dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Four-legged friends are welcome to relax in the outdoor seating area while their humans savor seasonal delights.

Location: 36 Admiralty St, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1 3RU, United Kingdom

Boston Tea Party 

A favorite among coffee lovers and foodies, Boston Tea Party serves delicious all-day brunches in a relaxed atmosphere. Their outdoor seating area is ideal for sipping a cappuccino while your pup laps up the attention from fellow diners.

Location: Jamaica House, 82-84 Vauxhall St, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth PL4 0EX, United Kingdom

Fun dog-friendly activities in Plymouth

Bored of the usual walk? Shake things up with these activities, where your pup can explore history, splash in the water, and even tag along for a shopping trip!

Plymouth’s Waterfront Walk 

Take in the salty air and ocean views as you and your dog wander through Plymouth’s waterfront. From the iconic Hoe to the lively Barbican, there is much to explore. With cafés and outdoor dining areas along the way, a refreshment break is always within reach.

Cost: Free
Date and Time: Open daily
Location: 9 Grand Parade, Plymouth PL1 3DQ, United Kingdom

Sabrina Boat Dog Cruise 

Who says boats are just for humans? This Plymouth cruise allows your four-legged companion to sail along the waterfront, breathe in the fresh sea air, and perhaps even catch sight of a few seagulls. 

Cost: Varies
Date and Time: Seasonal, check website
Location: Barbican Landing Stage, Plymouth

Drake Circus 

Plymouth’s largest shopping center isn’t just for humans! Many stores here welcome well-behaved pets, meaning your pup can soak up all the attention while you browse. Whether you're looking for fashion, food, or a new toy for your four-legged bestie, it's sure to be a great experience for both of you.

Cost: Free (unless your dog convinces you otherwise)
Date and Time: Open daily
Location: 1 Charles St, Plymouth PL1 1EA, United Kingdom

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Plymouth

If your dog perks up at the word “walk” and expects a full-blown expedition, these dog-friendly walks in Plymouth provide the fresh air, adventure, and sniffing opportunities they crave.

South West Coast Path 

For dogs (and humans) who love a good trek, the South West Coast Path is a top choice. With winding clifftop routes, open fields, and endless sea breezes, this walk is ideal for those who don’t mind the occasional windswept fur moment.

Location: South West Coast Path, Plymouth
Length: Various trails available

Saltram Park walk 

A mix of open parkland, shady woodlands, and riverside paths, Saltram is a dream for dogs who love to roam. Whether it’s a gentle stroll or a high-energy run, this heritage trail ticks all the boxes for a relaxed but rewarding walk.

Location: Saltram House, Plymouth
Length: 5 km

Cann Woods

If your dog prefers the crunch of leaves under their paws, Cann Woods is the place to be. With towering trees, hidden trails, and ample room for off-leash fun, it’s a natural playground that guarantees happy, tired pups by the end.

Location: Sparkwell, Plymouth PL7 5ED, United Kingdom

Length: Various trails available

The best dog-friendly cafes in Plymouth

Coffee always tastes better with your best bud by your side. These dog-friendly cafes in Plymouth roll out the red carpet for caffeine lovers and their four-legged sidekicks.

Rhubarb & Mustard

Right in the center of Plymouth, this stylish café is a popular choice for pet parents who love a good brunch. Four-legged friends are welcome inside, where they’ll find water bowls, friendly staff, and maybe even a sneaky treat while you sip your flat white.

Location: studio 5/11, 7a Millbay Rd, Plymouth PL1 3LF, United Kingdom

The Flower Café 

Tucked away in the Barbican, this charming café serves rich coffee, homemade cakes, and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff are always happy to greet furry visitors with fresh water and a few well-earned head scratches.

Location: 46 Southside St, Plymouth PL1 2LD, United Kingdom

The Caffeine Club 

Open 24/7, this laid-back café is a lifesaver for anyone in need of a coffee fix, no matter the hour. Canines are welcome both inside and out, making it a great stop after an evening stroll.

Location: 46 Tavistock Pl, Plymouth PL4 8AX, United Kingdom

Annual dog events in Plymouth

Plymouth doesn’t just tolerate dogs - it throws them the kind of events humans could only dream of. From wag-tastic festivals to holiday dress-up parades, these gatherings are the real social season for dogs who love attention (so, all of them).

Plymouth dog festival & fun dog show

If your pup has been practicing their zoomies, this is their time to shine. The festival is packed with agility courses, fun contests like Waggiest Tail, and a market offering everything from gourmet treats to fancy collars.

Date & Time: June (Annually)
Location: Plymouth Hoe, Plymouth Devon, PL1 2PA
Cost: Free

Santa Paws Christmas Walk

It’s a fact - dogs look better in Christmas jumpers than humans do. This festive dog walk through Plymouth City Centre features pups dressed in their holiday best, raising money for local rescues. Expect jingling collars, excited woofs, and at least one dog dressed as a reindeer.

Date & Time: December (Annually)
Location: Plymouth City Centre
Cost: Donation-based (proceeds support local animal charities)

Ships Tavern Companion dog show

If your barking bestie is more of a social butterfly than an obedience school graduate, this fun show is their time to shine. With categories like Most Handsome, Best Rescue, and Golden Oldies, every four-legged contestant gets a chance to take the stage—no formal training required.

Date & Time: Summer (Annually)
Location: The Ships Tavern, Arcadia Road, Elburton, Plymouth, PL9 8EG
Cost: £1 per dog per class

The best dog-friendly pubs in Plymouth

A night out is always better with your four-pawed pal by your side—especially when the pub staff greet your pup before acknowledging you. These dog-friendly pubs in Plymouth, Devon, are where the real locals have fur, the bartenders carry treats, and the beer gardens double as off-leash social clubs.

The Fisherman’s Arms

Hidden near the Barbican, this classic South Devon watering hole is full of charm, friendly faces, and an unofficial policy that all well-behaved canines are entitled to belly rubs on arrival. The beer garden is ideal for pups who like to people-watch (aka beg for chips).

Location: 31 Lambhay St, Plymouth PL1 2NN, United Kingdom

The Fortescue 

This legendary alehouse is a favorite among craft beer lovers and their four-legged drinking buddies. Expect an impressive lineup of ales, a warm, old-school atmosphere, and a regular crowd that firmly believes canines make the best drinking companions. 

Location: 37 Mutley Plain, Mutley, Plymouth PL4 6JQ, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly wineries in Plymouth

While Plymouth may not have an abundance of vineyards, wine lovers and their furry companions can still indulge. These pet-friendly establishments serve excellent wines and have a welcoming atmosphere.

Le Vignoble 

Nestled in the Royal William Yard, Le Vignoble is a stylish wine lounge where hounds are just as welcome as humans. With an impressive selection of wines available by the glass and cozy seating, it’s a great place for a laid-back tasting session. The staff are always happy to bring over a water bowl, ensuring everyone stays hydrated!

Location: New Cooperage, Royal William Yard, Stonehouse, Plymouth PL1 3RP, United Kingdom

HonkyTonk Wine Library 

Part wine bar, part deli, HonkyTonk Wine Library is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts who can’t bear to leave their pup behind. Its riverside location offers stunning views, an extensive wine list, and a welcoming atmosphere for well-behaved dogs. Bonus: They also serve cheese and charcuterie boards, so you and your furry friend can indulge.

Location: N E Quay, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth PL4 0BN, United Kingdom

Dog-friendly beaches in Plymouth

No dog should miss out on the joy of sandy paws, salty fur, and chasing waves like they’re in a slow-motion movie scene. These dog-friendly beaches in Plymouth are perfect for zoomies, splashes, and digging holes they’ll never fill back in.

Bovisand Beach 

Golden sand? Check. Stunning bay beach views? Check. Endless space for your dog to channel their inner lifeguard? Double check. While summer restrictions require them to sit out the peak season, the off-season is theirs to rule. Expect serious tail-wagging as they dash through the waves and ignore every recall command you ever taught them.

Location: Wembury, Bovisand, Plymouth PL9 0AE, United Kingdom

Mothecombe Beach 

Unlike some beaches that enforce ridiculous “no dogs” policies (how dare they?!), Mothecombe Beach in South Devon is a year-round paradise for pups. Soft sand, gentle waves, and zero restrictions mean your dog can dig, roll, and run to their heart’s content—because nothing says "best day ever" like covering every inch of fur in wet sand.

Location: Mothecombe Beach, Plymouth PL8 1LB

Bigbury-on-Sea 

If your dog is the 'never-stops-moving' type, Bigbury-on-Sea is the place to be. With vast open sands, rock pools to explore, and a walk to Burgh Island when the tide is out, it’s a top pick for adventurous pups. Just be prepared for them to insist on swimming—even when they definitely weren’t planning on it.

Location: Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge TQ7 4AZ

Tips for pet parents in Plymouth

Have we convinced you that Plymouth is the place to be for dog-friendly fun? Before you hit the town, here are some top tips to make sure your visit all goes smoothly:

Tip 1: Try to stick to your dog’s routine

Dogs love routine. So when you’re both visiting Plymouth, try to stick to their home routine as much as possible – while also experiencing what dog-friendly Plymouth has to offer, of course! Bringing your pup’s favorite toy or blanket with you can also make them feel more at ease on vacation.

Tip 2: Have a “pup emergency” plan

Sure, you hope everything goes smoothly, but just in case, make sure you have the essentials with you: a local vet’s number, a list of nearby pet shops, and some extra snacks for those hangry pups.

Tip 3: Get some sea air!

Plymouth has beautiful waterfront paths, scenic parks, and countryside trails perfect for exploring with your pup. Bear in mind that some beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, so always check before heading to the sand and sea. Plus, Plymouth’s coastal weather can change quickly, so make sure to bring water, a towel for muddy paws, and a raincoat for wet days.

Tip 4: Find some dog-friendly accommodation in Plymouth

There are numerous options for dog-friendly accommodation in Plymouth, from pet-friendly hotels to cozy coastal cottages your pet companion will love.

But what about when the time comes for you to go on vacation without your furry friend? Pets are happiest at home, and vets agree–so why not consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to keep your home and pets safe while you're away? To find out more, click below:

Tips for pet sitters in Plymouth

Pet sitting in Plymouth? Lucky you. You get a built-in adventure buddy and access to all the dog-friendly places Plymouth has to offer. But this isn’t just a vacation with a side of dog cuddles. You’re stepping into a pup’s routine, and they’re expecting VIP treatment (Very Important Pup, obviously).

Want to be the sitter they beg their owner to invite back? Follow these tips:

Tip 1: Get the lowdown on their quirks

Every dog has their thing. In Plymouth, that could mean a non-negotiable daily stroll along Hoe Park or a suspicious growl whenever the ferry horn sounds. Knowing these quirks ahead of time means fewer surprises – and a much more chilled-out pup.

Tip 2: Keep the human updated

Let’s face it – while their humans are off on their own vacation, their thoughts will still be on their beloved pooch. So send them a daily “pupdate”: a windswept photo from Jennycliff Beach, a video of their pup trotting through Saltram woods, or a quick message saying all is well. It’s a simple way to build trust and show you care.

Tip 3: Leave the place better than you found it 

You’ve had the dog cuddles and coastal views – now finish strong. Before you go, make sure to leave the home as pampered as the pup. Go the extra mile, and you’ll be top of their list for future sits!

Useful resources

The UK's most dog friendly cities