Otter Estuary Nature Reserve

This stunning landscape in Budleigh Salterton forms part of the Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve, and is classed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is known for its saltmarsh, mudflats, and reedbeds that support diverse and unique wildlife, especially birds. This site has undergone a major recent project known as the Lower Otter Restoration Project, which has reconnected the historic floodplain to the estuary and completely transformed the landscape. With over 5km of pathed footpaths and multiple routes to explore this site offers plenty of viewpoints to pause and enjoy the landscape and watch the wildlife from up close, creating a truly unique walking location for your and your dog.

Whilst dogs are welcome off-lead it is important to ensure paws on paths at all times and to keep your dog under close control throughout this walk to avoid disturbance to wildlife. The Otter Estuary is home to a wide variety of important species including various wader birds such as Curlew, Dunlin and Oystercatchers, and also many other native spectacles including beavers, Hares and otters. It is also important to be mindful of other visitors to keep your dog close by when sharing the space especially in areas where the paths can be narrow.

It is vital that as dog owners we respect and nurture the land and wildlife that we are fortunate enough to explore with our dogs. For guidance on how to do this always be sure to follow our Four Paws Code so that we can continue to enjoy these incredible spaces.

  • P&D parking (Lime Kiln or Otter Estuary Car Park)
  • Wheelchair and pushchair accessible (subject to flooding during high tide)
  • Dogs welcome under close control
  • Food, beverage and toilet facilities along the beach promenade