Ad | Clevedon is a beautiful Victorian seaside town. When Discover Clevedon asked if we wanted to visit, how could I say no? I found myself at the charming seaside in just 50 minutes by road from Cardiff. There are so many outdoor activities, and it is super dog friendly. Here are some things to do in Clevedon Somerset, England, United Kingdom.
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Clevedon is an English town in North Somerset. It is about 30 minutes from Bristol and 25 minutes from Weston Super Mare. Clevedon is even mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086, where Mathew of Mortagne, a Tenant-in-Chief, had eight villagers and ten smallholders.
Things to do in Clevedon with a Dog
As part of our visit to Clevedon, I was asked to write about the dog-friendly things to do when you get there. From exploring scenic coastal pathways to a pup-friendly cafe with doggie treats and even paw-some views from the pier — there’s something for every dog and its owner!
Top Things to do in Clevedon
Clevedon Pier and Heritage Centre
It’s hard to miss the spectacular Clevedon Pier, which is over 150 years old. Did you know it’s the only Grade I listed pier in the country? It has been described as the “most beautiful pier in England”. The pier’s most recent claim to fame is as the backdrop for One Direction’s You and I music video and ITV’s award-winning drama Broadchurch.
Whilst exploring Clevedon, we strolled along the 310-metre wonder to glimpse across the Severn Estuary at the distant Welsh shores. If you are coming from Wales, instead of driving, why not get the Waverly Steamer? It departs from Penarth near Cardiff, Porthcawl or Swansea, and you get off at the end of the pier.
The pier is open daily between 10.30am and 5pm, with the last entry 30 minutes before. It costs £3.50 per adult, £2.35 for children and £10 for a family. Dogs are welcome but do need to be kept on a lead. If you forget your poop bags, there are some available at the Toll House Gallery and Visitor Centre. Here there is an interactive museum showcasing the history of Clevedon.
Clevedon Beach
The Clevedon seafront is a breath of fresh air. I’m lucky to live near over 25 beaches, all 30 minutes from Cardiff, and love walks along the front. The long, pebble and sand shore beach and a promenade overlook the channel. There’s about a mile or so of gorgeous shoreline to amble along between the pier and a pub – The Salthouse Bar and Restaurant. It is a haven for sea glass seekers, and you’ll see plenty scouring the rocks for treasure. Dogs are not allowed on the main beach in Clevedon.
Clevedon Marine Lake
Because there isn’t a family-friendly sandy beach, the Marine Lake was built in 1929. It is the size of two football pitches and is described as the “world’s largest infinity pool”. Here you can swim all year round – if you’re brave enough to do this in winter. There is no need to pre-book. You can also hire sailboats and canoes or even go zorbing. Dogs are not allowed in the lake. I took my shoes and socks off and dipped my toes in the water – it was freezing!
When I told Mum where we were going for the day, she reminded me of a day trip as a child. We purchased some string, and using the chicken from our packed lunch, we went crabbing. (We put them all back.) I remember the ones we caught were huge.
Walton Castle
Walton Castle is now one of Clevedon’s hotels and wedding venue. There’s even a heated pool under the castle! The site dates back to the Iron Age but was developed in the 1600’s as a hunting lodge for Lord Poulett. After the English Civil War, it was abandoned. It was restored to its former glory in the 1950s.
I am a bit of a castle snob; it’s because we are spoilt in Wales. For example, I think Edinburgh Castle should be reclassified as a fort. Walton Castle is beautiful. It takes about 30 minutes to walk to it from the pier, and is the perfect backdrop for your Instagram pictures.
St Andrew’s Church
The church is in a stunning spot on a hill overlooking the Bristol Channel. The surroundings and views from the graveyard are breathtaking. I found it to be a really peaceful place and would be a beautiful final resting place. St Andrew’s Church dates back to the 12th Century. It is the burial place of Arthur Hallam, the subject of the poem In Memoriam A.H.H. The church can easily be found if you follow the sea wall as part of Poet’s Walk.
Clevedon Walks
One of the free things to do in Clevedon is explore the parks, countryside and coastline. Walkers are spoilt for choice with numerous routes on offer. Fresh air and getting your steps in for the day are among the most popular Clevedon things to do. Discover Clevedon have put together a list of the most popular walks with easy-to-download maps.
Salthouse Fields
Behind the Marine Lake is Salthouse Fields. There is a skate park, children’s playground, crazy golf and tennis courts. So, there is plenty to do for all ages. Running around the perimeter is a miniature railway. I’m sure it will be back up and running when COVID restrictions begin to ease. There is plenty of space to stretch your legs or even cycle. The weekly Clevedon Salthouse Fields ParkRun – the free 5km timed run – takes place here on Saturdays at 9am.
Poets Walk Clevedon
Here is where you can retrace the steps of the famous poets Tennyson and Coleridge. The clifftops have picture-postcard views. I’d recommend comfy shoes as there is a gently sloping climb to the top. It is about 2.5km, 1.5 miles in total.
From the Marine Lake, take the stone steps into the woodland, and keep right. The first stop on Poet’s Walk is a big stone circle. Sugar Lookout – the perfect place for that Instagram grid picture – is next. It dates from 1835 when merchant Conrad Finzel used to survey the ships sailing up the Bristol Channel carrying sugar back from the West Indies. You will also discover an Iron Age fort, and Second World War shelter and pass St Andrew’s Church. The walk continues up the coastal path up to Portishead.
Lovers Walk Clevedon
For those who want a longer stroll, Lover’s Walk is about 10km – 6.5 miles. It follows the coastal path of the River Severn to Portishead. Along the way is Layde Bay which is perfect for dogs who love to swim or get their paws wet. Here I put Ivan on the long lead so he could run around and bounce with excitement.
Clevedon Town Centre
Independent Shops in Clevedon
On Hill Road and Alexander Road, you’ll find the local shops, art galleries and restaurants. Some of the ones that I had a rummage around in were Luna which sells ladies’ contemporary jewellery, fashion accessories and beautiful scarves. Lolly and Moo Cosmetics has everything from bath bombs to wax melts. And Store For The Curious, which has eclectic gifts, furniture, homeware and art.
Places to Eat in Clevedon
Find Murrays of Clevedon, a family-run deli and Italian restaurant, which has been open for more than 30 years. The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable about the food, which is all freshly prepared. Indoor seating was still closed when we visited, so we only popped into the deli. The reviews of the food online are five stars.
Clevedon Sunday Market takes place on the first Sunday of the month between April and September. I’ll have to revisit Clevedon, as the market has more than 40 stallholders. You can pick up some homemade Scotch eggs, artisan sausages, jam and preserves, charcuterie, cheese and cakes.
A true Clevedon institution is Pullins Bakery, which was founded in 1925. It remains a family business to this day. You could order a thick-crusted sourdough, plump cheddar plaits, or a balboa bar, a square of Belgian chocolate, cherries, marshmallows, and digestive biscuits. Why not grab a Ploughman’s sandwich and an award-winning lemon macaron? Which I can confirm is incredible!
Looking for something quirky? Barista Barber is a popular spot for gents who can get a new haircut. Everyone can enjoy a coffee and homemade cake.
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Dog-friendly Pubs and Restaurants
Luckily, there are plenty of dog-friendly establishments. The Little Harp on the seafront is full of unique character, beautiful views of the beach, and an ideal spot to watch the sun go down. The Salthouse Bar and Restaurant has been in the area for over 20 years and serves homemade food and local ales.
The Black Horse is a proper rustic pub with flagstone floors, winged settles and built-in wall benches around narrow dark wooden tables. It used to be a petty sessions gaol. Expect cask ales, farm ciders and classic pub grub. If it’s cocktails you fancy or modern British cuisine, The Limehouse is a great place to stop with your dog. There are even dog treats behind the bar.
For drinks, pop into the cosy micro-pub, The Fallen Tree. Ale and ciders come straight from the barrel. There is a small wine selection, five different gins, and the occasional whiskey to try. They are so dog-friendly they even feature all the canine guests who are barking up the right tree on Instagram.
Fun Things to do in Clevedon
Curzon Cinema
The Curzon Clevedon Cinema is the oldest in the world. It opened in 1912, and its first show raised money for the survivors and relatives of those killed in the Titanic disaster. To this day, you can still see the bomb damage to the façade done in the Second World War. Curzon shows new Hollywood blockbusters and live recordings from the Royal Ballet and Royal Opera. Plus, one-off events, live comedy and music performances.
Clevedon Court
The medieval manor house and spectacular terraced garden are available to visit between April and September. The architectural building dates back to the 13th Century, and the garden is spread over six levels. Now it is a National Trust property, and as a member, I get free entry. It is a peaceful paradise to pause and recharge. However, unlike most trust properties, Clevedon Court is not dog-friendly.
However, Tyntesfield House and Gardens, another National Trust property, is a 15-minute drive from Clevedon. Other than the manor house, it is super dog-friendly. Perfect for a walk, picnic or pitstop.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
One of the things to do near Clevedon is Noah’s Ark Zoo. Set in 110 acres of countryside, there are over 100 different species – including lions, tigers, African elephants, giraffes and rhinos. There are play zones for children, a zip wire, a sandpit, outdoor trampolines and the largest hedge maze in the UK. Open 7 days a week, and tickets start from £13 for children and £18 for adults.
Clevedon Golf Club
One way to appreciate the hilly terrain and coastal views in Clevedon England is on a golf course. From the 8th tee, beside Walton Castle, you can look out to the hills of South Wales across the estuary. Green fees start from £45.
North Somerset Bird Of Prey Centre
A 10-minute drive from Clevedon is the Bird of Prey Centre. The centre is open on selected dates throughout the year. It allows you to see over 60 resident birds, exotic mammals and reptiles. Experience Days can also be booked.
Places to Stay in Clevedon
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices tend to rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Cottages and Houses
The award-winning business, Sykes Cottages, has properties across the UK, and the ones near Clevedon are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offer 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.
The Surrounding Areas
Don’t be afraid of staying out of Clevdon either. Portishead, Saltford and Cirencester are the surrounding areas connected by regular buses and trains. You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.
Hotels in Bristol
Bristol is around a 30-minute drive from Clevedon. Bristol offers a range of unique visitor attractions, world-class entertainment, quality shopping, innovative architecture and historic buildings – all within walking distance.
Best Western Henbury Lodge Hotel
The Best Western Hotel is a country house hotel in a city! They even have a resident King Charles Spaniel. (However, they don’t have any dog-friendly rooms.) Choose from twin, double or superior bedrooms with luxury bedding, toiletries and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel has free WiFi and free parking.
Radisson Bristol
The Radisson Blu Hotel Bristol is in the city centre. The 4-star hotel is an iconic 18-storey high-rise within Bristol’s Harbourside. The hotel is within walking distance of popular attractions. The hotel offers unlimited free WiFi. Alongside the 176 modern bedrooms, there’s a restaurant serving gastropub-style food, gym facilities and an outdoor terrace.
Radisson Hotel Discount Code
Get 15% off 3 or 4-night stays, 20% off 5 or 6-night stays, or 25% off for 7 or more nights in luxury rooms and suites. When you use the Radisson Hotel Promo Code LONGER, you’ll also receive complimentary high-speed WiFi on unlimited devices. More information
When are you Visiting Clevedon?
Is Clevedon worth visiting? I thoroughly enjoyed our day out. Clevedon is a pleasant, friendly place to while away some time along the prom. There are lots of places to eat and drink, tourist attractions and shops to keep you entertained. Is it cliché to say that Clevedon is a hidden gem?
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