The beautiful but small seaside village is an ideal spot whether you fancy a pint with stunning views of Instow Beach or a hearty meal at a cosy place. Found along the Torridge Estuary in North Devon, there are plenty of exciting dog friendly pubs in Instow.
Pubs where Dogs are Welcome in Instow
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Instow Pubs and Restaurants
Instow is a picturesque village with a rich maritime history. Once an important port, it now offers a tranquil escape for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of North Devon. The village boasts stunning views across the estuary to Appledore, and Instow Beach is a favourite for dog walkers thanks to its golden sands and gentle waters. With a mix of charming cottages and a historic railway station on the Tarka Trail, Instow is a wonderful destination to explore.
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The Boathouse
A staple of Instow’s pub scene, The Boathouse is a brilliant place to enjoy delicious food with a side of estuary views. The Boathouse Instow menu is packed with fresh, locally sourced dishes that specialise in seafood. Think cider battered haddock, Devon crab and prawn linguine and Porthilly Cornish mussels.
There are dog-friendly seating areas at the Boat House Pub; dogs are welcome in the bar area and outside on the Top Deck. If you make a reservation, make sure you book one of these areas. Plus, you can place your order at the bar, and the team will bring your order to you – so you don’t have to juggle glasses, snacks and your dog.
📍 Marine Parade, Instow, Bideford EX39 4JJ
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Instow Arms
Another beloved spot is the Instow Arms, renowned for its laid-back vibe and breathtaking waterfront location. The Instow Arms menu is a delightful mix of classic pub fare, with sandwiches and jacket potatoes available during the day, and hearty main courses like beer-battered fish and chips, roast chicken supreme, sausage and mash, steak and pasta for dinner.
If you’re craving a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings, this one was spectacular. And it’s served in the evening! We both opted for the topside of beef, which was cooked to perfection. The roast potatoes were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. And the Yorkshire pudding? Absolutely massive and delightfully airy. The seasonal vegetables were impressive: sautéed leeks and peas, creamy cauliflower cheese, spiced red cabbage, and a delightful carrot mash. We also had a side of pigs in blankets and requested extra gravy and mint sauce.
There is a warm welcome for dogs, with water bowls dotted around the pub and treats behind the bar. This is a must-visit.
📍 Hatton Croft, Marine Parade, Instow, Bideford EX39 4JJ
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Wayfarer Inn
If you’re looking for a traditional pub with character, The Wayfarer Inn ticks all the boxes. Located just a short stroll from the quay, this cosy spot offers a welcoming atmosphere and great food. The Wayfarer Instow menu includes jacket potatoes, sandwiches and baguettes, loaded nachos, filthy fries, burgers, and fish and chips. There are sharing platters in the evening, plus lasagne, steak and fajitas.
With its friendly staff, hearty portions, and relaxed vibe, it’s easy to see why dogs and their owners keep coming back!
📍 Lane End Rd, Instow, Bideford EX39 4LB
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The Quay Inn
With its prime location near the quay, The Quay Inn is another fantastic place to stop for a drink or a bite to eat. Known for its great food and relaxed setting, this pub is a favourite for those exploring Instow Beach and the surrounding areas. The Quay Instow menu offers homemade curry, pasta dishes, burgers, fish dishes and light bites. Plus, a traditional Sunday lunch on the weekend.
We stopped here to watch the Six Nations rugby. It was popular with locals and visitors watching the sport, as they also show football games. You can’t go wrong here if you’re looking for a dog-friendly place to refuel.
📍 Marine Parade, Instow, Bideford EX39 4HY
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Why Visit Dog Friendly Pubs in Instow?
Instow is home to some of the best dog-friendly pubs in Bideford, making it a perfect destination for dog owners. Whether you’re enjoying a walk along Instow Beach, taking in the views of the Bideford Bar, or hopping over to Appledore on the ferry – where you can also try the pubs in Appledore – you’ll never be far from a welcoming pub.
Many venues allow you to book a table in advance, ensuring you and your pup get the best spot in the house. Don’t forget to double-check the opening hours, as they may change out of season. With homemade food using local produce, which is served all day and plenty of places to explore, it’s no wonder Instow gets glowing reviews from visitors.
Cheers to good times and wagging tails! Why not plan your visit to one of these dog-friendly pubs in Instow today?
Dog Friendly Places to Stay near Instow
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets. Find great places to stay on booking.com.
18 Bucklands at Bideford Bay
Our recent stay at 18 Bucklands, a luxury dog-friendly retreat at Parkdean Bideford Bay Holiday Park, was a unique experience. With its modern comforts and decor, this chalet offers a range of pet-friendly amenities, including spacious bedrooms, free parking, free WiFi, and a prime location.
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offers a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. Sleeping 2 – 12 guests, they have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
Travelling with your Dog
FunnyFuzzy is a brand that offers stylish and practical accessories for travelling with pets, focusing on comfort, safety, and convenience. Their product range includes cosy pet carriers and cushioned car seat covers designed to make journeys more enjoyable for pets and their owners. These accessories often feature durable materials, easy-to-clean fabrics, and thoughtful design elements like secure fastenings and ventilation to ensure pets are comfortable and safe on the go.
Things to do near Instow
Instow is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding villages and countryside. It offers a mix of quaint shops, coastal views, and dog friendly pubs, making it suitable for families and couples.
Appledore
Appledore is renowned for its narrow winding streets, colourful houses, and rich maritime heritage. Visitors can enjoy simple seaside pleasures such as days at the beach, crabbing, boat trips, cream teas, and fish and chips.
Clovelly
Clovelly is utterly charming. It looks untouched by the modern world with winding cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and captivating views. The entire village is a tourist attraction and a truly unique experience. Spend the day and enjoy the dog friendly places to eat in Clovelly.
Barnstable
Barnstable is the largest town in North Devon and a riverport. It is known for its Victorian, Medieval, and Georgian architecture. The historic Pannier Market is a highlight. Here, you can browse a wide range of local produce, crafts, and antiques. The Museum of Barnstable and North Devon is also a highlight.
Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe is a charming seaside resort and civil parish located on the North Devon coast of England. The town features a small harbour surrounded by cliffs. In recent years, Ilfracombe has become known for Damien Hirst’s statue of Verity, which has become a point of interest. There are so many things things to do in Ilfracombe with your dog, as well as dog friendly pubs in Ilfracombe.
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