Dog-Friendly Pubs in Exeter: Your Complete Guide
Looking for dog-friendly pubs in Exeter? Devon’s historic cathedral city offers exceptional options for dog owners, from unique waterside locations accessible only by boat or foot to cozy city center establishments. With the Exeter Canal, River Exe trails, and countryside walks right on your doorstep, Exeter provides perfect territory for working up a thirst with your four-legged companion before settling into a welcoming pub.
We’ve explored the best dog-friendly pubs in Exeter and surrounding areas, from the legendary Turf Hotel (reachable only by walking, cycling, or boat) to gastropubs in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a local or visiting Devon with your dog, this guide reveals where your pup receives a genuine West Country welcome alongside proper pub hospitality.
Quick Guide: Dog-Friendly Pubs in Exeter
📍 Areas Covered: Exeter city center, Exeter Quayside, Exeter Canal, Exminster, surrounding Devon villages
🐕 Total Pubs Featured: 12
🌳 Perfect After: Exeter Canal walks, River Exe Estuary Trail, Haldon Forest Park, Dartmoor excursions
🏥 Local Emergency Vets: Know where help is available before you head out. Find trusted vets in Exeter and surrounding Devon on Place4Pets for peace of mind.
🚶 Professional Dog Walkers: Need help exercising your pup? Browse experienced dog walkers in Exeter who know the best canal and countryside routes.
🍺 More Dog-Friendly Guides: Explore our complete UK series including London’s dog-friendly pubs across Hampstead, Richmond, and Clapham.
Unique Waterside Dog-Friendly Pubs
The Turf Hotel, Exminster
📍 Turf Lock, Exminster, Exeter, EX6 8EE
Why Dogs Love It: The Turf Hotel is genuinely unique – this Grade II listed pub is completely inaccessible by car. You must walk (about 20 minutes from Exminster car park), cycle, kayak, or take the seasonal ferry from Topsham to reach it. Located at the end of the historic Exeter Ship Canal where it meets the River Exe Estuary, The Turf sits in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Dogs are absolutely welcomed with open arms, and the pub even describes itself as having pine strip floors “making our pub ideal for muddy paws and muddy kids. Both most welcome!”
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout this proper pub with no carpets and a very large beer garden overlooking the estuary. The location between the canal and river is spectacular, with uninterrupted views across to Powderham Estate. The family-run pub serves excellent food including popular Sunday roasts, and they operate BBQ facilities in summer that you can hire for special occasions. St Austell beers and local ciders are on tap.
Nearby: You’re surrounded by the Exe Estuary Trail and nature reserves. The walk from Exminster or cycle from Exeter Quay makes this a proper adventure with your dog before you arrive.
Pro Tip: The journey is part of the experience. Walk along the canal towpath from Exeter Quay (about 5 miles) or from Exminster village (1.5 miles). Arrive at lunchtime, stay for hours – there’s nowhere else your dog would rather be. Check opening times as the pub has seasonal hours. The ferry from Topsham runs seasonally and welcomes dogs on board.
Double Locks, Exeter
📍 Canal Banks, Exeter, EX2 6LT
Why Dogs Love It: Double Locks proudly calls itself “a mecca for dog lovers” and they’re not exaggerating. This famous canalside pub on the Exeter Ship Canal is legendary among Devon dog owners. The location right on the canal with the Exe Estuary Trail running alongside makes it perfect for canal walks finishing with refreshments. The pub has one of the biggest beer gardens in Exeter, perched on the water’s edge with abundant outdoor seating.
What to Know: Dogs are extremely welcome throughout. The pub hosts various dog-friendly events including an Annual Dog Show, showing their genuine commitment to canine customers. The menu offers hearty pub food prepared with fresh, British, seasonal ingredients. You can reach Double Locks by walking or cycling from Exeter city center (about 30 minutes walk), by car with parking available, or even by kayak down the canal. The covered winter garden means it’s excellent year-round.
Nearby: You’re on the Exe Estuary Trail with miles of walking routes along the canal and river. Marsh Barton station is nearby for train access, and the location between Exeter and the estuary makes it ideal for longer walks.
Pro Tip: Visit by kayak or paddleboard if you’re adventurous – there’s mooring available and the pub welcomes water-borne visitors enthusiastically. The summer beer garden gets very busy on sunny weekends, so arrive early or visit weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere. In winter, the fires and covered garden create a cozy retreat after muddy canal walks.
Mill on the Exe, Exeter
📍 Bonhay Road, Exeter, EX4 3AY
Why Dogs Love It: This beautifully converted former paper mill sits right on the River Exe with tranquil waterside gardens overlooking Blackaller Weir and the Millstone footbridge. Despite being only a stone’s throw from Exeter city center and St David’s Station, the setting feels remarkably peaceful. Dogs receive water bowls immediately and are genuinely welcomed throughout this St Austell Brewery pub.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in the bar and on the riverside terrace. The contemporary menu offers reimagined pub classics alongside award-winning ales and expertly roasted coffee. The pub also offers dog-friendly accommodation with characterful rooms overlooking the river – perfect for a Devon break with your dog. The location makes it incredibly convenient while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.
Nearby: You’re walking distance from Exeter city center, the university, and St David’s Railway Station. The riverside walks along both banks of the Exe are accessible directly from the pub.
Pro Tip: Book one of their dog-friendly rooms if you’re visiting Exeter and want a proper base for exploring Devon with your dog. The rooms have views across the river and bags of character. For day visits, the waterside terrace in good weather is unbeatable, but the interior is equally appealing with its mill heritage preserved beautifully.
Exeter Quayside Dog-Friendly Pubs
Samuel Jones, Exeter Quayside
📍 Exeter Quayside, Exeter, EX2 4AN
Why Dogs Love It: Perched on the edge of the historic Exeter Quayside in a magnificent 19th-century warehouse, Samuel Jones welcomes dogs and offers comfortable casual dining with contemporary urban style. The large outdoor terrace wraps around the waterfront, providing excellent views of the Quay while your dog relaxes by your feet.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in designated areas and on the waterfront terrace. The pub serves award-winning beers and delicious food made from locally sourced Devon produce. The Quayside location means you’re in the heart of Exeter’s historic maritime area with independent shops, cafes, and the canal towpath right there.
Nearby: Exeter Quayside offers excellent walking routes along the canal toward Double Locks and beyond. The Custom House visitor center is nearby, and the whole Quayside area is dog-friendly with multiple establishments welcoming canine visitors.
Pro Tip: Combine a visit with exploring Exeter’s historic Quayside area. Many independent businesses here welcome dogs, making it perfect for a dog-friendly day out. The Quayside is also the starting point for longer canal walks if your dog needs serious exercise before settling down.
Exeter City Center Dog-Friendly Pubs
The Exeter Phoenix Café Bar
📍 Gandy Street, Exeter, EX4 3LS
Why Dogs Love It: Located in Exeter’s vibrant arts center, this café bar offers a lovely menu with extensive vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options alongside wines, beers, ales, cocktails, coffees, and cakes. Both the bar and terrace welcome dogs, and staff are happy to provide water for doggy patrons. The cultural location means you’re in one of Exeter’s most interesting streets.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in the bar and on the terrace. Gandy Street is one of Exeter’s quirkiest, most characterful streets with independent shops and cafes. The Phoenix is an arts venue, so there’s always something cultural happening alongside your pint. The diverse menu means everyone in your group (human) will find something appealing.
Nearby: You’re in the heart of Exeter city center with the Cathedral nearby and all shopping facilities accessible. While the immediate area is urban, you’re within walking distance of riverside paths and the canal.
Pro Tip: Check what’s on at the Phoenix – catching a film or exhibition and combining it with drinks makes for a cultural day out. Not all venues would welcome your dog for the whole experience, but the café bar ensures they’re included in part of your visit.
Mount Radford
📍 Exhibition Way, Exeter, EX1 2RS
Why Dogs Love It: Mount Radford welcomes dogs with genuine enthusiasm, offering water bowls and treats to all visiting pups. The pub has both indoor space and outdoor areas, giving flexibility depending on weather and your dog’s preferences. Staff members are described as animal-loving, and the pub creates a family-friendly atmosphere that extends to four-legged family members.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in designated areas at the manager’s discretion. The pub serves good vegetarian and vegan food alongside traditional options, and there’s free Wi-Fi throughout. Greene King pub with reliable quality and consistent welcome for dogs. The pub requests that owners help keep barking to a minimum out of consideration for other guests.
Nearby: Located near Exeter’s retail and commercial areas with good parking available. While more suburban than waterside locations, it’s convenient for locals and those combining shopping with dog-friendly pub visits.
Pro Tip: This is an excellent choice if you want reliable, consistent dog-friendly hospitality without the walk to waterside locations. Perfect for local residents wanting their regular spot or visitors staying in Exeter who need somewhere close to accommodation.
The Old Firehouse
📍 New North Road, Exeter, EX4 4HF
Why Dogs Love It: This characterful pub welcomes dogs and offers excellent live music and entertainment alongside its pub offerings. The quirky, eccentric atmosphere combined with casual dining makes it popular with locals who appreciate somewhere different from standard chain pubs.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in bar areas. The pub describes itself as “rad little bar” with music, diversity, and friendly, funky atmosphere. Beautiful pints served by staff who care about their craft. The independent, locally-owned nature means personality and individuality that chain pubs lack.
Nearby: New North Road is well-connected with good transport links. You’re close to Exeter St David’s station and within reach of city center attractions.
Pro Tip: Check their events calendar for live music nights – if your dog is comfortable with music and crowds, these nights offer great atmosphere. The independent status and local ownership mean you’re supporting Exeter businesses when you visit.
Dog-Friendly Pubs Near Exeter
The Saint George and Dragon, Clyst St George
📍 Old Rydon Lane, Clyst St George, Exeter, EX3 0QH
Why Dogs Love It: This Vintage Inns pub just outside Exeter explicitly welcomes four-legged friends with water and treats available. Located in the village of Clyst St George, it offers a more rural setting than city center options while remaining easily accessible from Exeter.
What to Know: Dogs are allowed in the bar area, which is designated as the most friendly environment for dogs and their owners to feel relaxed, safe, and happy. The pub asks that dogs are kept on leads. Vintage Inns chain means reliable quality food with seasonal British menu. The village setting provides more peaceful atmosphere than busy city locations.
Nearby: Clyst St George is a short drive from Exeter, and the village offers pleasant walking routes through Devon countryside. Exeter Airport is nearby if you’re arriving or departing with your dog.
Pro Tip: Book ahead for weekend meals as Vintage Inns’ Sunday roasts are consistently popular. The village location makes this perfect if you’re staying in rural Devon but want reliable pub food with your dog welcome.
The Bowling Green, Exeter
📍 Blackboy Road, Exeter, EX4 6ST
Why Dogs Love It: Originally an 18th-century pub called The Ropemakers, The Bowling Green is a cozy local situated away from the main city center close to Exeter City Football Club at St James Park. The traditional pub atmosphere with real fires, real ales, and real food creates the kind of authentic Devon pub experience that dog owners appreciate.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in this community pub on the borders of Foxhayes and Exwick. The real fires make it particularly welcoming in winter after muddy walks. The pub focuses on proper pub basics done well rather than trying to be trendy.
Nearby: Close to St James Park football ground, so be aware of match day crowds if your dog is nervous. The residential location means good local walks in surrounding neighborhoods.
Pro Tip: Visit on non-match days for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere perfect for dogs. The real fires in winter create exactly the cozy pub atmosphere you want after a wet Devon walk.
The Thirsty Scholar, Exeter
📍 28 Isca Road, Exeter, EX2 6AQ
Why Dogs Love It: The Thirsty Scholar in the St Thomas area of Exeter welcomes dogs and offers a proper local pub experience. The owner’s Yorkshire terrier called Gilly is a regular fixture, showing the pub’s genuine dog-friendly credentials. Good food, great ales, and a community atmosphere make this worth seeking out.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. St Thomas is a bit out of the main tourist center, giving this pub an authentic local feel. The owner breeds rare breed pigs for pub grub, showing commitment to quality ingredients and local sourcing that Devon does so well.
Nearby: St Thomas is across the river from Exeter city center, easily accessible via bridges. The area offers residential walking routes away from tourist paths.
Pro Tip: Chat with the owner if Gilly is around – fellow dog owners always have the best local knowledge about dog-friendly spots and walking routes you might miss otherwise.
Planning Your Dog-Friendly Pub Visit in Exeter
Best Times to Visit
Quieter Times:
- Weekday lunchtimes (Monday to Thursday)
- Early weekday evenings
- Sunday evenings after 6pm
- Winter months generally (except Christmas season)
Busier Times to Expect:
- Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes (especially sunny weather)
- Summer weekends at waterside pubs (Double Locks, Turf Hotel, Mill on the Exe)
- Bank holiday weekends
- Exeter City match days at pubs near St James Park
- University term time at pubs near campuses
Getting There & Around
By Train:
- Exeter St David’s – Main station with excellent connections across UK
- Exeter Central – City center station
- Marsh Barton – New station near Double Locks
- Dogs travel free on trains throughout UK
By Car:
- M5 motorway provides excellent access to Exeter from north and south
- Parking available at most pubs, though waterside locations may require walks
- The Turf Hotel has parking at Exminster (then walk)
By Bus: Stagecoach Devon operates extensive bus network. Dogs allowed on buses at driver’s discretion.
Walking/Cycling: Exeter’s canal and river paths create excellent car-free routes to waterside pubs.
The Best Dog Walks Before Your Pub Visit
Exeter Canal to Double Locks (3 miles one way): Start at Exeter Quayside, walk along the historic canal towpath to Double Locks. Flat, easy walking with interesting industrial heritage. Continue further to The Turf Hotel for a longer adventure (5 miles total from Quay).
River Exe Estuary Trail (Various distances): The trail follows the Exe from Exeter to Exmouth. The section from Double Locks toward Topsham is particularly beautiful. Your dog can enjoy riverside walking with wildlife spotting before returning to any waterside pub.
Exminster to The Turf Hotel (1.5 miles): Park at Exminster and walk along the canal towpath to The Turf. Flat, easy route but the remote location and estuary views make it feel like a proper adventure. Perfect for dogs of all fitness levels.
Haldon Forest Park (15 minutes from Exeter): If your dog needs serious exercise before the pub, Haldon offers miles of forest trails with marked routes. Afterward, return to Exeter for your chosen pub. Brightside Roadside café near Haldon is also dog-friendly for post-walk refreshments.
City Center River Walks (1-2 miles): Walk along the Exe through Exeter’s city center, taking in the weir and riverside parks. Finish at Mill on the Exe or continue to the canal for Quayside pubs.
Essential Pet Services in Exeter
Local Veterinary Practices
Exeter and surrounding Devon have excellent veterinary facilities. Before embarking on canal walks or countryside adventures, it’s wise to know where help is available. Active dogs in Devon’s countryside occasionally encounter hazards, from ticks to minor injuries.
Find comprehensive listings of Exeter vets including:
- Emergency 24-hour services across Devon
- Specialist practices for complex needs
- Local surgeries with extended hours
- Contact details for quick access when needed
Having veterinary contacts saved before you need them provides peace of mind while exploring Devon with your dog.
Professional Dog Walking Services
Exeter’s canal paths, river trails, and surrounding countryside make it excellent dog walking territory. If you’re working or unable to provide the exercise your dog needs, professional dog walkers in Exeter know the best routes, understand seasonal conditions (the Exe can flood in winter), and have experience with Devon’s wildlife and livestock.
Browse qualified dog walkers in Exeter offering:
- Canal and riverside specialist routes
- Countryside walks with livestock awareness
- Solo and group walk options
- Flexible scheduling for busy owners
- Local knowledge of dog-friendly pubs and rest stops
Dog-Friendly Etiquette in Exeter
Devon pubs have built their dog-friendly reputations on responsible ownership. Help maintain these excellent relationships:
Do:
- Keep dogs on leads in pubs (unless told otherwise)
- Bring a towel after canal or river walks (Devon mud is legendary)
- Clean up immediately anywhere – city streets, canal paths, countryside
- Ask permission before allowing dogs to interact
- Respect countryside codes when walking in Devon’s beautiful rural areas
Don’t:
- Allow dogs on furniture without explicit permission
- Let your dog beg from other diners
- Assume your dog can approach every dog you see
- Block narrow canal towpaths with your dog off-lead
- Let dogs disturb wildlife or chase livestock in countryside areas
Devon Countryside Specific:
- Always clean up after your dog on canal paths and trails
- Keep dogs under control near livestock
- Be aware of wildlife – otters, herons, and various waterfowl along the Exe
- Respect seasonal restrictions on some paths during bird nesting
Beyond the Pubs: Dog-Friendly Exeter & Devon
Exeter Canal & River Exe
The historic Exeter Ship Canal and River Exe provide miles of dog walking with easy access to multiple dog-friendly pubs. The towpath is flat and accessible year-round (though can flood in winter). Your dog can enjoy off-lead walking in many sections while you take in industrial heritage and natural beauty.
Haldon Forest Park
About 15 minutes from Exeter, Haldon offers extensive forest trails perfect for energetic dogs. Various marked routes accommodate different fitness levels. The forest is beautiful year-round and provides proper countryside exercise before returning to Exeter’s pubs.
Dartmoor National Park
Within 30 minutes of Exeter, Dartmoor offers some of Britain’s finest dog walking. The open moor allows off-lead walking in most areas (respect livestock and nesting birds). After a Dartmoor adventure, return to Exeter’s dog-friendly pubs to recover. Note: Dartmoor has specific regulations regarding dogs near livestock during lambing season.
Exeter Quayside
The historic Quayside area is extensively dog-friendly with multiple cafes, restaurants, and shops welcoming dogs. It’s perfect for urban dog walks combined with independent shopping. The starting point for canal walks makes it ideal for varying your route.
Beaches Near Exeter
Devon’s coastline is easily accessible from Exeter:
- Exmouth (20 minutes) – Several dog-friendly beaches, some with seasonal restrictions
- Dawlish (20 minutes) – Beach and seafront walks
- Budleigh Salterton (30 minutes) – Pebble beach allowing dogs year-round
Check beach-specific regulations before visiting as many have seasonal dog bans.
Dog-Friendly Cafés & Restaurants in Exeter
Beyond pubs, Exeter offers numerous dog-friendly dining options:
Exeter Quayside: Multiple independent cafes welcome dogs in outdoor seating areas. The Quay’s pedestrianized nature makes it easy to explore with your dog.
Brightside Roadside (near Haldon Forest): Perfect brunch stop after forest walks with your dog. Proper hospitality for roadside dining with quality food.
Cosy Club, Exeter: Quirky restaurant welcoming dogs in designated areas. Offers casual dining in homely, family-friendly environment.
Greendale Farm Shop & Kitchen: Farm café serving food made from ingredients sourced directly from the farm. Dogs welcome, especially after walks in surrounding Devon countryside.
Seasonal Highlights in Exeter
Spring (March-May)
Canal paths burst with wildflowers. The Exe Estuary Trail shows Devon’s natural beauty awakening. Waterside pub gardens open up. Ideal time for longer walks before busy summer season.
Best pubs: Mill on the Exe (riverside gardens), Double Locks (canal setting)
Summer (June-August)
Peak season for waterside pubs. The Turf Hotel and Double Locks get extremely busy on sunny weekends. Book ahead or arrive early. Canal and river walks are at their most beautiful.
Best pubs: The Turf Hotel (estuary views), Double Locks (biggest garden)
Top tip: Visit waterside pubs on weekday evenings when locals are at work – you’ll get the best tables and more relaxed atmosphere.
Autumn (September-November)
Devon’s countryside shows spectacular autumn colors. Quieter than summer but still pleasant weather. Ideal for longer Dartmoor or coastal walks before returning to Exeter pubs.
Best pubs: The Bowling Green (real fires), traditional city pubs become cozy
Winter (December-February)
Canal and river walks can be muddy but atmospheric. Pubs with fires become essential. Double Locks’ covered winter garden extends the outdoor season. The Turf Hotel has reduced winter hours – check before traveling.
Best pubs: The Bowling Green, Mill on the Exe (riverside but sheltered), Double Locks (covered garden)
Top tip: Bring towels for post-walk pub visits. Devon mud requires preparation!
Special Events & Activities
Double Locks Annual Dog Show: Check their calendar for this popular event celebrating canine customers. Great way to meet local dog owners and enjoy pub atmosphere.
Exeter Canal Heritage: Learn about the canal’s history while walking to pubs. The industrial heritage adds interest to your journey.
Seasonal Festivals: Double Locks hosts Cider Festivals and various seasonal events, many of which welcome dogs.
River Exe Boat Trips: Some operators welcome dogs on estuary trips, offering a different way to reach The Turf Hotel.
Why Exeter is Perfect for Dog Owners
Exeter uniquely combines historic city with exceptional countryside access. The canal and river provide car-free walking routes connecting multiple dog-friendly pubs, creating pub-crawl potential without driving concerns. Devon’s reputation for outdoor living means dogs are genuinely welcomed rather than tolerated – locals understand that dogs are family members.
The Turf Hotel alone makes Exeter special for dog owners – how many cities offer a pub you can only reach by foot, bike, or boat? The adventure of getting there with your dog creates memories beyond just the pub itself.
Devon’s countryside surrounding Exeter means you’re minutes from Dartmoor, forests, beaches, and rural walking that rivals anywhere in Britain. After proper countryside exercise, returning to Exeter’s dog-friendly pubs provides the perfect end to adventures.
Whether you’re a local enjoying weekend canal walks or visiting Devon specifically for dog-friendly holidays, Exeter’s pubs offer West Country hospitality at its finest. From legendary waterside locations to cozy city locals, you’ll find establishments that celebrate dogs rather than reluctantly accommodate them.
So grab the lead, choose your walking route (easy canal stroll or challenging Dartmoor expedition), and discover why Exeter and Devon are considered among Britain’s finest regions for dog-loving pub-goers. Your dog will adore the adventure, and you’ll understand why Devon residents are so passionate about their county’s dog-friendly culture.
Exploring more of the UK with your dog? Check our guides to dog-friendly pubs across London including Hampstead, Richmond, and Clapham. Find comprehensive pet services including vets, groomers, and dog walkers across the UK at Place4Pets – your complete guide to UK pet services.