6th August 2025
Guide to dog friendly Cornwall
Lined with an array of dog-friendly beaches and full of fantastic pup-approved eateries, Cornwall is the pawfect place for a holiday with the hound. The varied landscapes make for the ultimate playground for your adventures, whether you plan to walk, swim, or simply sit back in an enclosed garden with the sun on your face and the dog at your feet.
In this handy guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about dog-friendly holidays in Cornwall. From the best towns and villages to visit to wickedly tail-wagging attractions that welcome four-legged friends with open arms.
Ready to discover the pup-tastic charms of Cornwall? Here’s what you need to know…
Dig a little deeper…
Best dog friendly beaches in Cornwall
Best dog friendly things to do in Cornwall
Best dog friendly walks in Cornwall
Best dog friendly places to eat in Cornwall
Best dog friendly places to stay in Cornwall
An introduction to dog-friendly Cornwall
The most south-westerly county in the UK, Cornwall boasts a beautiful landscape full of golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and patchwork fields that promise all manner of sniffs and scents. The county is famous for many things, including Cornish pasties, cream teas, and a penchant for ice cream parlours around every corner (don’t worry, lots offer lip-smacking dog-friendly options too).
Cornwall is made up of three main areas. South Cornwall is a sun-soaked paradise where calm seas and sub-tropical gardens await, creating a stunning section of coast for relaxed adventures and waterside pub stops. Swinging around the dramatic reaches of the Lizard Peninsula, West Cornwall offers a giddy mix of clifftop landmarks and Instaworthy beaches you won’t want to miss.
And North Cornwall? Well, home to some of the best beaches in the country for surfing thanks to its consistent swell, this rugged stretch of coastline is an adventure playground ready for action-packed holidays with the hound. Not to mention some exceptional dog-friendly pubs that really go all out for their four-legged patrons.
And, of course, the county’s beautiful interior boasts even more breathtaking landscapes to explore. Think rolling farmland dotted with fire-warmed pubs and the rugged wilds of Bodmin Moor. Not to mention the county’s many magical woodlands, which hide winding trails aplenty beneath their dappled canopies.
Best dog friendly beaches in Cornwall
Whether you have a salty sea dog or sand-crazed zoomer, Cornwall is home to over 150 dog-friendly beaches that promise the ultimate day amidst sand, sea, and sun. Don't forget to check out our guide to taking your dog to the beach for some handy tips and tricks!
Beaches in North Cornwall
Not only is North Cornwall a wild wonderland of rugged seascapes, it’s also home to the highest number of dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall. From sprawling sands to surfing favourites, here are just some of our favourite beaches in North Cornwall that welcome dogs all year round…
Fistral Beach - A surfing hotspot that’s famous across the UK, with oceanside restaurants that welcome dogs too!
Watergate Bay - Discover a little slice of wilderness with oodles of space for sandy zoomies, as well as a cosy café that serves epic hot chocolates.
Crantock Beach - A mix of dunes, soft sand, and a summertime coffee van, Crantock has something for all.
Perranporth Beach - A golden haven with a dog-friendly bar in the centre of the beach - what could be better!
Summerleaze Beach - Surf, sea pools, and ice creams await at this family-friendly favourite.
Mawgan Porth - A merry mix of rock pools, excellent surf, and sheltered sands perfect for families.
Holywell Bay - Explore caves, dunes, and sweeping sands at this Insta-worthy beach.
Beaches in West Cornwall
West Cornwall is a wild and wonderful mix of golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, making for a spectacular spot to enjoy a beach day with the pooch. And boy, does this untamed corner of Cornwall promise some corkers.
Prussia Cove - Often listed amongst the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall, this stunning spot is also dog-friendly year-round!
Gwenver - Just around the corner from Sennen Cove, this wild and wonderful haven is perfect for surfers and sun-worshippers.
Hayle Towans - At low tide, this expansive stretch of sand joins with Gwithian and Mexico Towans, creating one of the longest dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall.
Porthkidney Beach - A sandy playground on the edge of St Ives with sweeping views and tufted dunes.
Longrock Beach - Walk your dog throughout the year with the iconic St Michael’s Mount as your backdrop.
Coverack Beach - A family favourite with oodles of space at low tide, this is one of the best dog-friendly beaches on the Lizard Peninsula.
Beaches in South Cornwall
Famed for its near-tropical beaches and gardens, South Cornwall is the perfect place to soak up the Cornish coast with the pooch by your side. Discover hidden coves, dog-friendly beach cafés, and rockpools aplenty…
Kingsand - A little patch of sand and shingle a stone’s throw from some lovely dog-friendly pubs.
Great and Little Molunan - A series of hidden coves on the Roseland Peninsula that welcome dogs throughout the year and boast views across the water to Falmouth.
Durgan - A shingle oasis perched along the banks of the Helford River at the foot of the dog-friendly gardens at Glendurgan.
Lantic Bay - A clamber to arrive, but once there, turquoise waters and golden sands await.
Whitsand Bay - Almost 4 miles long at low tide, this giant dog-friendly beach is perfect for year-round dog walks.
Talland Bay - A white sandy beach in between two pretty coastal villages within a National Landscape and Heritage Coast - what could be better!
Best dog friendly things to do in Cornwall
Cornwall is home to countless amazing dog-friendly attractions, from family favourites you can spend a day exploring to historic landmarks that make the perfect stop-off during your dog walk.
Historical sites
Boasting rich mining and maritime heritage, Cornwall boasts a number of incredible historic landmarks, from castles to engine houses and even some ancient standing stones.
Tintagel Castle - One of Cornwall’s most iconic clifftop landmarks, the ruins of Tintagel Castle make for a dramatic day out with the hound.
Minack Theatre - Hewn from granite and built into the cliffs above Porthcurno, dogs on leads are welcome to explore the beautiful setting at Cornwall’s famous open-air theatre.
Pendennis Castle - Dogs on leads will love exploring the historic grounds of this fascinating castle overlooking the Carrick Roads.
St Mawes Castle - Twinned to Pendennis Castle, St Mawes offers even more history to uncover while soaking up panoramic views.
Launceston Castle - Dogs on leads are invited to sniff and stroll to their heart’s content at this magical castle in North Cornwall.
Hurlers Stone Circle - Nestled on the edge of Bodmin Moor, this relic of the Bronze Ages is steeped in myth and wonder and is well worth a visit with the pooch.
Family days out
Discover Cornwall’s fun-filled family days out, which invite you to gather the whole pack for a dog-friendly adventure you won’t forget, but will want to repeat every time you visit.
Eden Project - Dogs are welcome in the outdoor gardens at the Eden Project, where winding paths and cafés wait to get those tails wagging.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary - Introduce your dog to the pups of the sea with a visit to Cornwall’s top dog-friendly attraction!
Lappa Valley - Complimentary dog biscuits on arrival and doggy ice cream in the café? Lappa Valley is as dog-friendly as it gets, and boasts steam trains, pedalos, and woodland walks.
Bodmin and Wenford Railway - Another fun-filled day out on the rails, this historic railway is fun for the whole pack.
Lost Gardens of Heligan - On-lead dogs are welcome to explore these magical gardens, where many fascinating secrets await.
Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm - Farm animals, orchards, and cream teas… What more do you need for a dog-friendly day out in Cornwall?
Houses and gardens
Whether it’s bluebell displays in the spring, summer blooms, or autumnal colours that offer the perfect backdrop to your day out, these dog-friendly houses and gardens in Cornwall are perfect for green thumbs and paws.
Glendurgan - One of the many gardens in South Cornwall to enjoy the microclimate, Glendurgan boasts a mix of exotic and sub-tropical plants.
Trebah Garden - Another dog-friendly garden near Falmouth, Trebah offers stunning displays and a lovely dog-friendly beach to explore during your visit.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens - A merry mix of nature and handcrafted art, Tremenheere is a fascinating day out atop the sprawling sights of Mounts Bay.
Lanhydrock - A beautiful slice of Cornish history that welcomes dogs in the gardens, cafés, and surrounding countryside and woodlands.
Enys Gardens - One of the best places to see bluebells in Cornwall, Enys Gardens in spring makes for a spectacular stroll with the dog.
Trelissick Garden - Sprawling meadows, dappled woodlands, and pretty coves... Trelissick Garden has everything you need for your next dog-friendly adventure in Cornwall.
Best dog friendly walks in Cornwall
What’s the best thing to do in Cornwall with dogs, you ask? Well, walking, of course! Home to a seemingly unending supply of breathtaking walks across cliff, field, and moor, dog walks in Cornwall are on a whole other level and must be seen to be believed. Here are some of our favourites to get you started for your next walking holiday with the hound…
Coastal walks
With over 300 miles of the famous South West Coast Path to explore, coastal walks in Cornwall are a dog-friendly dream.
Land’s End - If you want drama, head to Land’s End, where rugged cliffs and the crashing waves of the Atlantic form the ultimate backdrop to your coastal dog walk.
Lizard Peninsula - With places like Kynance Cove and Lizard Point to explore, the UK’s southernmost tip is a must-visit when staying in Cornwall.
Godrevy Head - A lovely short walk with stunning views across the sea to Godrevy Lighthouse. Visit in the summer for ice creams, or pop into the beach café for a hot chocolate in the cooler months.
Roseland Peninsula - A place for peaceful walks by the water with myriad dog-friendly coves to discover.
Pentire Point West - Visit in the summer for vibrant displays of poppies and turquoise waters - not to mention an excellent dog-friendly pub with incredible views.
River walks
Perfect for adventures under dappled shade, these river walks in Cornwall offer a wonderful place for a relaxed dog walk.
Hall Walk - This charming walk from the pretty waterside town of Fowey to Polruan is a lovely dog-friendly stretch. Think woodlands, fields, and plenty of spots for a refreshing swim.
Helford River - Secluded coves, ancient woodlands, and Helford’s famous dog-friendly pubs and cafés? Sign us up!
Bude Canal - A lovely, wheel-friendly river walk, Bude Canal offers a pretty backdrop a ball’s throw from the dog-friendly charms of Summerleaze Beach.
Camel Trail - Close to 18 miles long, the Camel Trail is ideal for those who fancy a leisurely stroll with an on-lead dog. Or, you can hire a bike and trailer and give the pooch a rest!
Penrose - Technically a lake more than a river nowadays, Penrose near Helston is still top dog for pretty strolls by the water’s edge.
Rural walks
Nothing beats stepping out into the fresh, country air as your dog bounds happily beside you, and in Cornwall, you have the pick of the rural litter with moorland, countryside, and woodland walks to choose from.
Tehidy Woods - A series of interwoven paths trail through Tehidy Woods Country Park, promising the perfect place to explore with the dog - especially during bluebell season!
Bodmin Moor - Whether you want to hike or sit atop a tor and take in the views, Bodmin Moor is home to some of the best rural walks in Cornwall, from the ancient Cheesewring stones to the lofty heights of Brown Willy.
Cardinham Woods - Another popular woodland waiting to be explored on two legs and four, Cardinham Woods is ideal for dappled days out.
Golitha Falls - Waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and tangled trees? Golitha Falls is for all who want an enchanting setting for their next dog walk.
Argal Reservoir - A lovely circular walk the whole pack can enjoy, with pretty views across the reservoir and the vibrant town of Falmouth nearby for post-walk refuels.
Best dog friendly places to eat in Cornwall
When it comes to dining out with the dog, Cornwall has you totally covered. Discover cosy cafés, historic pubs, and glorious restaurants with sweeping sea views, all welcoming your furry best friend.
Cafés in Cornwall
Whether you fancy a chilled-out coffee or an ice cream by the beach, these dog-friendly cafés in Cornwall are sure to get the tails wagging and mouths watering.
Muddy Beach - Perched by the water in Penryn, Muddy Beach boasts vibrant food and vibes, and monster milkshakes you can’t resist.
Godrevy Café - Perfectly placed for a coffee or hot chocolate after a wintry walk along the beach at Godrevy.
The Cabin - Sea views, epic ice creams, and delicious lunches? The Cabin is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike!
The Beach Hut - One for all the hot chocolate lovers out there, nothing beats a run on the dog-friendly sands below, followed by a refuel in this fantastic beach café full of soul.
The Hidden Hut - Whether you visit for lunch, Sunday breakfast, or their famous feast nights, The Hidden Hut and the beach below are wonderfully dog-friendly.
Pubs and restaurants in Cornwall
Whether you love a historic inn that serves hearty roasts and refreshing pints or a Michelin restaurant that welcomes muddy paws, Cornwall is home to a mouthwatering selection of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants you can sink your teeth into.
The Logan Rock Inn - A 16th-century favourite that boasts local ales, crackling fires, and a sun-drenched seating area.
The Watering Hole - A dog-friendly bar in the middle of a dog-friendly beach? You simply can’t beat The Watering Hole for pup-approved feasting.
Gurnard’s Head - An award-winning pub in a spectacular setting that offers Michelin meals you can enjoy with the dog by your side.
St Kew Inn - One of Cornwall’s oldest pubs, muddy boots and paws are welcome here, perfect for a post-moor refuel.
Polgoon Inn - Offering toys, chews, and even a doggy menu, you don’t get much more dog-friendly than this pub in South Cornwall.
INDIDOG - With a name like INDIDOG, it’s of little surprise our furry friends are welcome in the Falmouth favourite, where seafood and Sunday roasts shine.
Best dog friendly places to stay in Cornwall
Cornwall’s towns and villages are a bone-a-fide treasure trove of dog-friendly holiday musts. From harbourside favourites to rural escapes, these are our favourite dog-friendly places to stay…
North Cornwall
Unleash your dog in the wilds of North Cornwall, the ultimate dog-friendly playground.
Newquay - Oh yes, home to seven beaches that welcome dogs throughout the year - with many more along the surrounding coast - Newquay is a paradise for pups. Spend your days soaking up the sea views before piling into a pup-approved pub for a Sunday roast and a glass of something Cornish.
Bude - Charming cafés, pretty walks, and a giant beach that welcomes dogs throughout the year, Bude is a firm favourite when it comes to dog-friendly holidays in Cornwall.
Perranporth - Sand, surf, and beachfront bars? Holidays in Perranporth are as dog-friendly as they come! Fill your days with coastal stomps, or visit the nearby Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm for a family-friendly day out with the pooch.
Padstow - Who can resist the quaint charms of Padstow and its beautiful harbour? There are lots of excellent eateries that welcome four-legged friends, and the nearby Camel Trail promises 18 miles of flat walking and cycling.
West Cornwall
Discover iconic seaside towns, dramatic coastlines, and seriously breathtaking beaches with a dog-friendly holiday in West Cornwall.
St Ives - Known far and wide for its beautiful beaches and cobblestone streets, St Ives is as picturesque as it is dog friendly. There are two beaches that are dog-friendly throughout the year, and many of the pubs, restaurants, and cafés welcome dogs - there are even some fabulous pup-approved shops if you fancy some retail therapy!
Mousehole - Nestled on the edge of West Penwith, the pretty harbour village of Mousehole promises a rather photogenic holiday destination with the hound. Think golden beaches, views of St Michael’s Mount, and an endless supply of walks along the South West Coast Path.
Lizard Peninsula - Holidays on the Lizard Peninsula are made for walking, with incredible coastal paths winding around the rugged cliffs. You’ll also find some lovely dog-friendly cafés with enviable views, and the famous Kynance Cove, which welcomes dogs during the spring, autumn, and winter months.
Marazion - A lovely little village at the foot of Cornwall, Marazion boasts iconic castles, pretty nature reserves, and easy access to a smorgasbord of lovely beaches. Nearby Penzance is another great place for a dog-friendly adventure - the famous Jubilee Pool even hosts a doggy day at the end of each summer!
South Cornwall
Home to serene shores and vibrant gardens, a dog-friendly holiday in South Cornwall is the perfect antidote to a busy life.
Truro - Enjoy a dog-friendly city break in Truro, where cobblestone streets, pup-approved pubs, and beautiful river walks await. You’re also a stone’s throw from some beautiful gardens, such as the sprawling grounds at Trelissick, which promise woodlands and river views galore.
Falmouth - From its almost surreal number of dog-friendly places to eat to the captivating coastline that surrounds it, Falmouth is a dog owner’s dream. You can even join a boat trip and take your salty sea dog on an adventure into open waters, or across to the picturesque village of St Mawes.
Polperro - Another handsome harbour the hound will love, Polperro promises quaint cottages amidst an unspoilt setting full of breathtaking beaches. Talland Bay is a year-round favourite with furry friends, while the Polperro Heritage Coastline invites you to soak up an array of spectacular views during your stay.
Rame Peninsula - Home to the expansive sands of Whitsand Bay, as well as the pretty twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand, the Rame Peninsula is a magical holiday destination for your next dog-friendly escape. Visit Mount Edgcumbe for a lovely stroll through the deer park, or visit Rame Head for panoramic views across the bay and Plymouth Sound.
Charlestown - Fancy a little history during your holiday with the hound? Charlestown’s historic harbour is absolutely stunning, especially when the tall ships take refuge in the waters. Nearby Pentewan Valley Trail and Luxulyan Valley offer dappled walks aplenty, while the coast promises a whole host of coastal walks and dog-friendly beaches.
Excited to embark on a dog-friendly holiday in Cornwall? Explore our beautiful pet-friendly holiday cottages and start planning an escape that’s sure to get those tails wagging!