Looking for a dog-friendly hotel in North Devon? We recently stayed at The Mole Resort with our rescue dog, Ivan. It turned out to be the perfect place to relax. Surrounded by rolling countryside and packed with activities, this stylish resort offers spacious bedrooms, pool and spa facilities, an off-lead dog field, and plenty of space to unwind. We genuinely had a lovely time here. We’re already looking to book a return visit.
Mole Resort in North Devon
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The Mole Resort
After a few days exploring Cornwall, we booked a one-night stay at The Mole Resort to break up the long drive home. Honestly, we wish we’d stayed longer. The resort is found in Umberleigh, a former large manor that is now a small village in North Devon. This sprawling resort feels like somewhere designed for slowing down, switching off, and letting your dog have a proper holiday too.
Regular readers will know I’m usually not one for revisiting places – there are simply too many new places to explore – but this is one stay we’re already talking about returning to.
Our Estate Deluxe Room
We stayed in an Estate Deluxe Room. The first thing that struck us was the amount of space. The room had a king-size bed, a separate living area, an en-suite bathroom, a garden view, tea and coffee facilities, an ironing board, a hairdryer, free parking, and free WiFi.
For dog owners, the welcome pack was a lovely touch. Ivan was treated to a blanket, a bowl, a toy, and poop bags, which instantly made the stay feel genuinely dog-friendly rather than just “dogs tolerated.”
The room itself was spotless and comfortable. There was more than enough room for both humans and four paws to spread out. After several days of travel, it was exactly what we needed. With all the space to choose from, Ivan decided he wanted to sleep under the vanity desk.
That said, the bathroom was underwhelming compared to the rest of the accommodation: modern and bright, but the narrow bath and weak shower pressure might disappoint if you enjoy a soak after a countryside walk. And if I had to wash my long hair, I’d have been there for a long while.
Parking Could Be Clearer
One small frustration was parking near our section of rooms. The parking layout had some awkward angles, and it wasn’t clear which spaces guests should use. Clearer instructions at check-in about designated parking areas would have helped and likely prevented guests from parking inconsistently.
It’s a minor thing overall. However, after hours of travel with luggage, dog beds, and an overexcited mutt, clear parking instructions make a big difference.
Breakfast With a Beautiful View
Breakfast was included in our rate and turned out to be one of the highlights of the stay.
The breakfast room overlooks rolling countryside, which feels calm and relaxing. There was an excellent continental selection, including fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereals, pastries, quality bread with real butter, and a range of spreads.
You could also order hot dishes from the kitchen. Mum opted for a full English while I went for eggs royale, which was genuinely delicious.
Dogs are allowed in a section of the breakfast area. We left Ivan settled in the room while we ate. Technically, dogs aren’t supposed to be left unattended, but he was calm, relaxed, and, quite frankly, wanted a nap after several busy days away.
The Mole Resort Activities
One of the biggest selling points of The Mole Resort is its impressive range of activities. There are so many things to do! You can play tennis, schedule archery sessions, explore woodland trails, work out in the gym, or enjoy the outdoor or indoor pool. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities, plus seasonal outdoor games. With these options, a holiday here can easily fill several days without leaving the resort.
Unfortunately, the weather absolutely poured down on the day we arrived, so we didn’t get to explore the grounds properly.
Mole Resort Swimming Pool
We did, however, make use of the gym and spa facilities. The pool itself was nice. My Mum found it far too cold and retreated to the sauna and jacuzzi instead.
The main downside was the changing rooms. They felt neglected during the day. The floors were wet and grubby. The small space could use more frequent cleaning checks. It felt noticeably below the resort’s standard.
You also need to rent towels for £1 each. They aren’t very big – they certainly didn’t cover me. While it’s not exactly expensive, at a spa-style resort you’d naturally expect towels to be included. Robes would’ve also been appreciated.
The Off-Lead Dog Field Was Brilliant
Before checking out, Ivan had the best possible send-off: a proper zoomie session in the resort’s enclosed off-lead dog field.
Honestly, this alone makes such a difference when staying somewhere with a dog. Being able to let them burn off energy before a long car journey home is such a thoughtful addition and something more places should offer.
Don’t Get Caught Short 💩
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Evening Drinks at The Cellars
In the evening, we headed to the Cellars bar for drinks. The venue itself is lovely and completely dog-friendly. Despite it being Bank Holiday Sunday, it was surprisingly quiet. The lack of atmosphere was noticeable, though the staff were super friendly.
Poor Ivan spent most of the evening sulking in the corner. There weren’t any other dogs around for him to make friends with. Not being particularly hungry, we chose loaded chips instead of a big meal, and perhaps one too many gins.
If you do fancy venturing out, we’d also recommend The Exeter Inn in the nearby village. It is around a 10-minute walk away. This beautiful 16th-century family-run pub is known for its handmade pizzas and Sunday roasts.
Dog Charges
Dogs are charged at £20 per dog per night.
For a short one-night stay, that felt manageable, especially considering the welcome pack and facilities provided. However, if you were staying for several nights as a family with multiple dogs, the cost would add up very quickly. It could become quite expensive. It’s probably the only part of the stay that felt a little excessive.
Two dogs can stay in the Mole Resort Lodges, and one dog can stay in the Estate Rooms. The Manor House Rooms are not dog-friendly.
Ivan’s Dog Bed
I always get asked about Ivan’s dog bed whenever we share photos from our stays, and it’s the Origin CosyPaws™ Dog Bed. We take it everywhere with us because it’s lightweight, easy to transport, waterproof, machine washable, and gives Ivan a familiar place to settle while we’re away. It also features orthopaedic HexaGrid™ foam for pressure relief, supportive raised sides, temperature-regulating technology, and a non-slip base, making it ideal for nervous dogs who like a cosy, secure space to relax.
The Mole Resort Reviews
Despite a few niggles, we genuinely had a brilliant time at The Mole Resort. The setting is picturesque, the accommodation is spacious and comfortable, and the resort offers plenty of activities for humans and dogs alike.
Would we go again? Absolutely. Prices vary by night, but for your reference, we paid £130.93 for a bed and breakfast, including the dog charge, for a one-night stay in May 2026 via Booking.com. I’m a Genius Level 2 Member, and it was significantly cheaper than booking directly. I also got a free breakfast!
At check-out, I saw someone ask about the Mole Resort Discount Code, which is available to those rebooking. I believe it is 10%.
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The Mole Resort Address
📍 Chittlehamholt, Umberleigh EX37 9HD
///bluff.shunted.pram
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Our Other Hotel Reviews
Want some more inspiration on where to stay with your dog?
- Nancecliff Holiday Cottage in Looe, Cornwall
- Looe Bay Holiday Park, Cornwall
- Ship & Castle St Mawes, Cornwall
- The Old Inn Mullion, Cornwall
- The 18 Bucklands in Bideford, North Devon
- Cliffden Hotel in Teignmouth, South Devon
- Tiverton Hotel & Lounge, Mid Devon
- Bell Inn Broadway in Ilminster, Somerset
- Stannylands in Wilmslow, near Manchester
- Swallow Falls Inn, Betws-y-Coed, North Wales
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