Dog-friendly guide to Cornwall

Let's unleash the best dog-friendly days out in Cornwall

Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other as you unleash the joy of exploring Cornwall with your furry best friend by your side! With endless opportunities to discover breathtaking trails, dog-friendly pubs and picturesque parks, every moment spent with your pup will be filled with tail-wagging excitement. Whether you're strolling along the sandy shores or hiking through rugged cliffs, Cornwall offers the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments with your canine companion. So get out there, soak up the sunshine (fingers crossed), and create memories that will last a lifetime in this dog-friendly paradise. Your pup will thank you for it!

In search of the pawfect place to stay for you and your pooch? Well you're in luck, as we have plenty of choice when it comes to dog-friendly cottages, holiday parks and lodges! Check out our dog-friendly holidays in Cornwall for more inspiration.

Tips for dog owners visiting Cornwall

Cornwall is a fantastic destination for dog owners, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:

• Always keep your dog on a lead unless you’re in a designated off-lead area. This helps protect local wildlife and ensures the safety of your pet.

• Clean up after your dog and dispose of waste properly. This keeps Cornwall’s beautiful landscapes pristine for everyone to enjoy.

• Be respectful of other visitors and keep your dog under control at all times. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, so it’s important to be considerate.

• Never leave your dog unattended in a car or cottage. This can be dangerous for your pet, especially in warm weather.

• Make sure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and medications before traveling. This helps protect your pet’s health and prevents the spread of diseases.

By following these tips, you and your dog can have a wonderful time exploring all that Cornwall has to offer. With its stunning scenery, dog-friendly attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, Cornwall is the perfect place for a memorable holiday with your furry friend.

Popular dog-friendly Cornwall attractions

Get ready to uncover some tail-wagging fun in Cornwall! We'll kick things off by covering the crème de la crème of dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall - all of which offer a great day out for adults and children too! From breathtaking gardens with nature trails to ancient castles with fascinating ruins, this captivating corner of the UK really does have it all.

Tip: Many of these places also feature on our list of the best things to do in Cornwall.

Here are our top dog-friendly places to visit in Cornwall:

Tintagel Castle, Tintagel

Explore the mythical ruins of Tintagel Castle, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Dogs are welcome on leads around the castle grounds and cliff-top paths, providing stunning views of the rugged coastline and seascape. Just keep in mind there are lots of steps and steep paths, so older dogs or those with mobility issues may struggle.

Stay nearby: Lodges and holiday parks in Tintagel

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell

Discover the mysterious Lost Gardens of Heligan, a beautiful estate with over 200 acres of gardens and woodland to explore. Dogs are welcome on leads throughout the gardens all year round, where you can admire the exotic plants, wildlife and restored Victorian-era features.

Stay nearby: Meadow Lakes Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans, lodges and cottages, around 10 minutes' drive from the Lost Gardens of Heligan

Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm, near Perranporth & Truro

Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm is a paradise for cider lovers and dogs alike. Visitors can explore the orchards, sample delicious ciders and enjoy a scenic walk through the stunning countryside, all with your furry friends by your side! With plenty of outdoor space and dog-friendly facilities, Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm is a fantastic option for those looking for dog-friendly days out in Cornwall.

Stay nearby: Perranporth holiday parks and lodges

Roskilly's Farm, Helston

Nestled on The Lizard Heritage Coast, Roskilly's is an organic Cornish dairy farm, famous for its award-winning ice cream! It's free to visit and dogs on leads are welcome in all of the outside areas, including the restaurant's courtyard, making it a great family-friendly and dog-friendly day out in Cornwall. Just make sure your dog is on a short lead around the farm animals.

Stay nearby: Silver Sands Holiday Park, Sea Acres or Lizard Point Holiday Park - dog-friendly caravans and lodges, all around 20 minutes' drive from Roskilly's Farm

Eden Project, St Austell

Yes, that's right - you can take dogs to the Eden Project! Located near St Austell, the Eden Project is a beautiful botanical garden housed in world-famous giant biomes. Dogs are welcome in all of the outdoor areas, including the Core building, but not inside the biomes. Enjoy a walk through the stunning gardens and learn about sustainability and the environment at one of Cornwall's most iconic visitor attractions.

Stay nearby: Green Acres Cottages or Par Sands - dog-friendly cottages and caravans, all around 10 minutes' drive from the Eden Project

Dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall

Get ready to dip your toes and paws into the pristine waters of Cornwall's dog-friendly beaches! From the golden shores of Watergate Bay to the rugged beauty of Perranporth Beach, your furry friend will have a blast splashing around and making new furry pals. Discover the secret coves and hidden treasures where your pup can roam free and run wild - and maybe you will too! Don't forget to pack your beach essentials and a spare towel for sandy paws.

Head over to our blog on the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall for the full low-down, including handy tips like seasonal restrictions, or browse our collection of UK dog-friendly beach holidays.

Dog-friendly walks in Cornwall

There's no doubt about it, one of the best ways to soak up Cornwall's stunning scenery with your faithful pup by your side is by getting out and about on a pawsome walk! From lush woodland trails to breathtaking coastal paths, there's something for every dog and their human companion to enjoy. Discover hidden gems, historic landmarks and panoramic views that will leave you both in awe.

Here are some of our favourite places to go walking with your dog in Cornwall:

South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path welcomes dogs along its entire 630-mile trail - almost half of which runs along the beautiful Cornish coastline - making it the perfect trail to explore with your furry friend. Take in breathtaking views of the sea as you walk along rugged cliffs and dramatic headlands, past sandy beaches and intimate coves, and through pretty coastal towns and bustling harbours. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks and dolphins playing in the waves at certain spots!

Tehidy Country Park

The beautiful 250-acre Tehidy Country Park is the largest woodland in West Cornwall and features a network of walking trails through ancient oak and beech trees. Dogs are welcome to roam off-lead in most areas, and the park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, badgers and a wide array of bird species.

Stay nearby: Gwel an Mor resort - dog-friendly hot tub lodges just outside of Tehidy Country Park

Cardinham Woods

Located near Bodmin, Cardinham Woods is a dog-friendly forest with several walking trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The park is known for its vibrant bluebells in the spring and offers picnic areas, a café and plenty of opportunities for your pup to splash around in the river - just don't forget a towel!

Stay nearby: Bodmin Holiday Park - dog-friendly villa, 15 minutes' drive from Cardinham Woods

Bodmin Moor

This rugged and wild landscape offers endless opportunities for walking with your dog, with vast expanses of open moorland, ancient stone circles and historic monuments to explore. Keep an eye out for the resident ponies and sheep that graze the moors, and don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy against the picturesque backdrop of the rolling hills.

Golitha Falls

Located near Liskeard, Golitha Falls is a tranquil woodland walk along the River Fowey, with cascading waterfalls, ancient oak trees and a variety of wildlife to spot. Dogs are welcome on a lead, and the area is known for its diverse plant life, including rare ferns and mosses that thrive in the damp woodland environment.

Stay nearby: Liskeard lodges and holiday parks

Camel Trail

This scenic multi-use trail follows the Camel River from Padstow to Bodmin, providing a lovely route for walking or cycling with your dog in tow. With beautiful countryside and waterside views, plus a largely traffic-free trail, the path is a scenic and safe way to explore the Cornish landscape with your pooch.

Dog-friendly National Trust sites in Cornwall

Get ready to wag your tails in excitement as we unveil the top dog-friendly National Trust sites in Cornwall! These historic treasures offer a blend of natural beauty and rich heritage for you and your furry friend to explore. From the enchanting Lanhydrock with its sprawling gardens to the majestic Trelissick boasting breathtaking riverside walks, each site promises an unforgettable adventure. Learn interesting titbits about Cornwall's past, sniff out hidden nooks and bask in the serenity of these glorious spaces.

Tip: Make the most of the National Trust's handy Pawprint Rating to help you gauge the most dog-friendly places to visit in Cornwall.

Let's explore some of the best National Trust sites in Cornwall where you can take your dog:

Lanhydrock, Bodmin

The estate surrounding this stunning Victorian mansion and garden in Bodmin is one of the most dog-friendly National Trust sites in Cornwall, boasting a Pawprint Rating of 3/3. Dogs on leads are welcome in the cafés, second-hand bookshop, courtyard and visitor centre, and the site offers dog-friendly maps to help you find waste bins and dog bathing locations. There are also plenty of dog-friendly walking trails throughout the surrounding parkland.

Trelissick, Feock, near Truro

With expansive gardens and a picturesque estate overlooking the Fal River, Trelissick is a great dog-friendly National Trust site in Cornwall. Dogs are welcome on leads in the parkland, the shop and the café courtyard, whilst the many miles of woodlands walks and open countryside provide a beautiful setting for a mooch with your pooch!

Godolphin, Helston

The historic Godolphin estate near Helston boasts over 500 acres of gardens, fields and woodland, providing ample space for you and your dog to explore together. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leads throughout the gardens and outbuildings, including the café, and on the surrounding farmland and fields.

Trengwainton Garden, Madron, near Penzance

Located near Penzance, in West Cornwall, Trengwainton is a lovely dog-friendly and family-friendly garden with 25 acres to wander around. Dogs are welcome on leads in the shop and the gardens, inlcuding the café garden, and there are handy areas where you can tie up your dog next to a water bowl if you want to pop inside the café or have a nosey in the second-hand bookshop.

Cotehele, St Dominick, near Saltash

Cotehele is a stunning Tudor mansion near Saltash, known for its beautiful gardens and riverside walks. This National Trust site allows dogs on the extensive grounds around the estate, as well as in the Barn Café, the shop, the plant centre and the Bull Pen Gallery. With picturesque views of the Tamar Valley and plenty of open spaces to roam, Cotehele is a great choice for a day out with your dog in Cornwall. Don't forget to visit the charming quay and medieval dovecote during your visit.

Stay nearby: Holiday cottages in Saltash

Dog-friendly pubs in Cornwall

As you continue your pawsome adventure in Cornwall, don't miss out on the chance to relax and refuel at some of the most enchanting dog-friendly pubs in the area - a great option if you're after some indoor dog-friendly places too! Picture cosy interiors, crackling fires, and a warm welcome for you and your furry sidekick. From traditional ale houses tucked away in quaint villages to seaside gems offering stunning views, Cornwall has a plethora of options for you to enjoy with your canine companion by your side. Get ready to sip on local brews, savour delicious pub grub, and soak in the convivial atmosphere of these tail-waggingly wonderful establishments.

We've sniffed out a few of our favourite dog-friendly pubs in Cornwall:

The Smugglers Den Inn, near Newquay

The Smugglers Den Inn near Newquay is a cosy pub with a great atmosphere for both humans and their four-legged friends. They offer water bowls and treats for dogs, as well as a dog-friendly bar area, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day at the beach.

Stay nearby: Lodges and holiday parks in Newquay

The Blue Peter Inn, Polperro

The Blue Peter Inn in Polperro is a charming pub with a beautiful outdoor seating area where dogs are more than welcome. With an endless supply of dog treats - and extras on "Woof Wednesdays" - your furry friend will be well taken care of while you enjoy a drink or some tasty pub food.

Tip: The Blue Peter Inn is located right on the South West Coast Path, so you can combine your pub trip with a lovely dog walk.

The Tinners Arms, St Ives

Steeped in over 700 years of history, The Tinners Arms in St Ives is a traditional Cornish pub with a dog-friendly bar area and outdoor seating, overlooking the picturesque town. Dogs are greeted with a warm welcome and can enjoy a chilled out atmosphere, whilst their owners tuck into hearty locally-sourced pub grub.

The Harbour Inn, Padstow

The Harbour Inn in Padstow is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with a welcoming atmosphere for both two-legged and four-legged guests. Dogs are invited to relax in the bar area or out on the terrace, as their owners enjoy a delicious meal or a drink by the water.

Stay nearby: Padstow lodges and holiday parks

The Springer Spaniel, Launceston

As the name suggests, dogs are welcome at this traditional country pub and restuarant in Launceston - and not just spaniels! The Springer Spaniel Pub in Launceston is a charming, dog-friendly establishment, perfect for enjoying a cosy pint with your furry companion by your side. With a welcoming atmosphere and a tempting menu, this pub is a must-visit for dog owners exploring North Cornwall.

The Watering Hole, Perranporth

Situated right on the beach, this pub and bar is a popular spot for dog owners looking to enjoy a drink by the sea with their furry friend. Dogs are welcome inside and out, and there are dog-friendly events held throughout the year.

Fun fact: This is the UK's only bar on the beach!

Stay nearby: Perranporth holiday parks and lodges

Pandora Inn, Restronguet Creek, near Falmouth

This picturesque waterside pub is a haven for dog owners, with a spacious beer garden and scenic walking routes nearby. Dogs are allowed in the downstairs bar area and can even enjoy a dip in the water while you dine!

Packing essentials for dog owners

When planning a dog-friendly holiday in Cornwall, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are a few must-haves to pack for your trip:

• A comfortable dog bed or blanket to ensure your pet feels at home

• Food and water bowls for mealtime convenience

• A sturdy lead and collar for safe walks

• Plenty of poo bags to keep Cornwall’s beautiful landscapes clean

• A first-aid kit for any minor emergencies

• Your dog’s favourite toy or treat to keep them happy and occupied (especially handy for the pub!)

Book the pawfect adventure in Cornwall

With an abundance of wag-worthy wonders waiting to be discovered, Cornwall is the ultimate haven for you and your furry sidekick. From sandy shores where your pup can frolic freely to cosy cafés offering puppuccinos, every corner of this captivating county is brimimng with exciting spots for your dog-friendly holiday. So, leash up your four-legged friend and get ready to immerse yourselves in the enchanting beauty of Cornwall. Let the adventures begin!

Book your dog-friendly holiday in Cornwall now, or check out our full choice of dog-friendly holidays in the UK for more pawsome destination inspiration.

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Image credits: Pandora Inn - Tim Green from Bradford, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons