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πŸ₯Ύ Trails & RoutesOff-lead areasModerate to Challenging

Castle Drogo

12 miles from Exeter β€’ Over 1,000 acres to explore in Teign Gorge

Castle Drogo is the last castle built in England (completed 1930s), with spectacular walks into the Teign Gorge. Two pawprint rated by National Trust with over 1,000 acres to explore. Follow the Hunters Path down to the River Teign, or wander around the top of the gorge for incredible Dartmoor views.

Castle Drogo National Trust

Β© Mr Eugene Sheridan Birchall, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph

Difficulty

Moderate to Challenging

Distance

Over 1,000 acres to explore in Teign Gorge

Off-lead

Yes

Parking

Non-members: Β£2 for 2 hours or Β£6 all day. Free for NT members.

Overview

Castle Drogo is the last castle built in England (completed 1930s), with spectacular walks into the Teign Gorge. Two pawprint rated by National Trust with over 1,000 acres to explore. Follow the Hunters Path down to the River Teign, or wander around the top of the gorge for incredible Dartmoor views.

What to Expect

Dramatic 20th century castle with woodland walks into the stunning Teign Gorge. Miles of dog-friendly routes from gentle strolls around the grounds to challenging walks down to Fingle Bridge. Dogs welcome on short lead in formal gardens, shop and reception. Outdoor cafe seating welcomes dogs.

Best For

  • βœ“Teign Gorge walking
  • βœ“Castle and estate experience
  • βœ“Fingle Bridge walk
  • βœ“National Trust members
  • βœ“Dramatic scenery

Not Ideal For

  • ⚠Easy access (steep paths to gorge)
  • ⚠Quick visits
  • ⚠Dogs not allowed inside castle

Things to Be Aware Of

  • ⚠Steep paths to Teign Gorge
  • ⚠Keep dogs on lead March-July (ground nesting birds)
  • ⚠Only assistance dogs allowed inside castle
  • ⚠Narrow approach lanes - motorhome size limits apply

Local Tips from Evie

Walk down to Fingle Bridge via Hunters Path (steep!) for one of Devon's best walks. The Fingle Bridge Inn is dog-friendly. The cafe outdoor seating welcomes dogs. Shop and reception are dog-friendly too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed at Castle Drogo?

Yes, it's two pawprint rated! Dogs on short leads welcome in grounds, formal gardens, shop and reception. On lead in car park and around livestock. Only assistance dogs inside the castle itself.

Can I take my dog into Teign Gorge?

Yes! Over 1,000 acres to explore. Keep on lead March-July for ground nesting birds. Follow the Hunters Path for stunning walks.

Is the cafe at Castle Drogo dog-friendly?

Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating areas at the cafe.

Practical Information

Address

Castle Drogo, Drewsteignton

EX6 6PB

Parking

National Trust car park, pay and display. Drop-off point on entering main car park to the left. Motorhomes welcome in overflow car park (not overnight) - max 10.5m long, 2.39m wide due to narrow approach lanes. From A30: exit Whiddon Down, follow brown signs. From A38: exit Bovey Tracey, A382 north.

Facilities
National Trust cafe (dogs in outdoor seating)toiletsparkingshop (dogs welcome)reception area (dogs welcome)
Terrain
woodlandgorgeparklandformal gardens
Off-Lead Info

Two pawprint rated by National Trust - water bowls, dog bins and dog-friendly walks. Dogs welcome on short lead in castle grounds including formal gardens, shop, reception. Keep on lead in car park and around livestock. On lead March-July in Teign Gorge (ground nesting birds). Only assistance dogs allowed inside Castle Drogo itself.

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Need a Dog Walker?

I walk dogs at Castle Drogo regularly. Get in touch if you need help.

Contact Me