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🌲 Woodlands & ForestsOff-lead areasEasy to Challenging

Haldon Forest Park

5 miles from Exeter β€’ Multiple trails from 1km to 10km+

Haldon Forest Park is 3,500 acres of woodland just 15 minutes from Exeter, off the A38. Miles of walking trails with expansive views. The dog-friendly Ridge Cafe even sells homemade doggy treats! The Forest Walkies trail features Wallace & Gromit theming.

Gruffalo Spotters Trail at Haldon Forest Park

Β© Derek Harper, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph

Difficulty

Easy to Challenging

Distance

Multiple trails from 1km to 10km+

Off-lead

Yes

Parking

Pay & display (card only). Annual membership Β£40 for unlimited parking.

Overview

Haldon Forest Park is 3,500 acres of woodland just 15 minutes from Exeter, off the A38. Miles of walking trails with expansive views. The dog-friendly Ridge Cafe even sells homemade doggy treats! The Forest Walkies trail features Wallace & Gromit theming.

What to Expect

Extensive trail network through mixed woodland. Drinking water for dogs available next to the toilet building. Many picnic tables have dog tie-ups. Discover miles of paths with something for every ability level.

Best For

  • βœ“Long forest walks
  • βœ“Off-lead freedom
  • βœ“Dog-friendly cafe
  • βœ“All abilities
  • βœ“Family outings

Not Ideal For

  • ⚠Those needing cash payment (card only)
  • ⚠Dogs reactive to mountain bikers

Things to Be Aware Of

  • ⚠Parking machines are CARD ONLY - no cash accepted
  • ⚠Mountain bikers on some trails
  • ⚠Keep on lead near forest roads

Local Tips from Evie

The Ridge Cafe does excellent homemade doggy treats! Arrive before 10am or after 4pm at weekends to avoid crowds. Consider the Β£40 annual pass if you visit regularly. Contact rangers on 0300 067 5826.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Haldon Forest Park dog-friendly?

Very! Dogs can be off-lead on most trails, there's a water station, dog bins on trails, and the Ridge Cafe welcomes dogs and sells homemade doggy treats.

How much is parking at Haldon Forest?

Pay & display (card/contactless only - no cash). Annual membership is Β£40 for unlimited parking.

How do I find Haldon Forest Park?

Turn off the A38 at the Exeter Racecourse exit. Follow signs to Haldon Forest Park. Use postcode EX6 7XR or What3Words: chuck.kicks.ruffling

Practical Information

Address

Haldon Forest Park, Bullers Hill, Kennford

EX6 7XR

Parking

Main visitor car park with approximately 200 spaces (4 disabled), plus overflow. Card/contactless payment only - NO CASH. Sat nav to EX6 7XR or use What3Words: chuck.kicks.ruffling

Facilities
Ridge Cafe (dog-friendly with doggy treats)toilets200+ parking spacesdog water stationdog waste bins on trailspicnic tables with dog tie-ups
Terrain
forest tracksgravel pathssome steep sections
Off-Lead Info

Mostly off-lead walking possible. Put on lead near forest roads. Lots of squirrels! Dogs love the sights, sounds and smells.

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Need a Dog Walker?

I walk dogs at Haldon Forest Park regularly. Get in touch if you need help.

Contact Me