Somerset might be best known for Cheddar cheese, cider and iconic Abbeys, but it’s stunning landscape, seaside scenery and spectacular countryside walks makes it a top holiday destination for anyone wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. With three designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Exmoor National Park and a stunning coastline, you and your four-legged friends will be spoilt for choice with the huge variety of beautiful walks to explore. Let your dog run free on the beach, explore wild heathland and ancient woodlands or the visit the dramatic gorges and historic landmarks. The charming villages, picture-perfect pubs and large number of dog friendly cottages to rent are the icing on the cake in this beautiful part of the world. Read more
Exmoor National Park is a dog walker’s paradise. The combination of oak woodlands, stunning coast, heather-covered moorland and meandering rivers means your four-legged friend can enjoy racing across the moor and splashing about in the sea all in the same day. Whether you are looking to embark on a long distance hike or you prefer a short amble through beautiful countryside there is plenty to keep everyone entertained. The short circular walk across the clapper bridge at Tarr Steps is a fantastic family day out. Let the dogs run along the river whilst the kids can keep their eyes peeled for the variety of fascinating wildlife including red deer, otters and the unusual Barbastelle Bat.
Combine a walk with a spot of history in the charming medieval village of Dunster. Explore Roman settlements and enjoy stunning views across Exmoor and out to sea on a 4.5 mile circular walk before visiting the infamous Dunster Castle. Your dog will love exploring the wooded pathways, river garden, 18th century watermill and parkland of this breathtakingly beautiful castle and grounds. Round the day off with an ice cream and paddle at dog friendly Dunster beach.
As beautiful as it is there is more to Somerset than Exmoor. Explore the vast heathlands and the Juarrasic coast of the Quantock Hills or the dramatic gorges and far reaching views in the Mendip Hills. If you have got a head for heights don’t miss the spectacular Cheddar Gorge and Caves. You and your dog can climb the 274 steps to the top of Jacob’s ladder and enjoy a stunning cliff top walk or head underground where you will be wowed by the incredible stalagmites and stalactites. Or if you are looking to really stretch your legs the 13 mile Castles and Coast Way walk links the villages and castles of Nether Stowey and Stogursey via the England Coast Path.
If you want to enjoy the beautiful Somerset scenery at a more leisurely pace, hop onboard the dog friendly steam powered train at West Somerset Railway. Stop off at Washford to visit Cleeve Abbey, Watchet to explore a pretty harbour town or Blue Anchor to let your dog have a run on the beach and a splash in the sea. No trip to Somerset would be complete without visiting the infamous Glastonbury Abbey and climbing to the top of Glastonbury Tor. Whilst both have a huge spiritual and historical significance, the climb to the top of the Tor is worth it for the magnificent views alone.
From dramatic seascapes and wide-open vistas to iconic landmarks and picture postcard villages, Somerset is a beautiful place to come on holiday. Whether you are looking for somewhere with walks from the door in Exmoor National Park or a coastal retreat near the pretty towns of Minehead, Porlock or Dunster, the excellent choice of dog friendly cottages to rent is sure to get those tails wagging.
