Dog-Friendly Walks in Cornwall: The Complete Guide

Cornwall offers some of the finest dog walking in Britain. The South West Coast Path traces 300 miles of dramatic clifftops with views that never fail to take your breath away. Ancient woodlands provide shaded trails perfect for hot summer days. The wild expanses of Bodmin Moor deliver a taste of true wilderness just minutes from the coast.

The variety is what makes Cornwall special for dog owners. Morning beach walks where dogs can run free on empty sand. Afternoon woodland rambles through carpets of bluebells in spring. Dramatic clifftop adventures with the Atlantic crashing below. Gentle riverside strolls suitable for older dogs or those new to walking.

When planning your Cornwall holiday, choosing accommodation near good walking makes daily adventures effortless. Many of our favourite walks start from cottage doorsteps, and returning to a cosy base after a long day on the trails is one of life's simple pleasures.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have covered hundreds of miles of Cornish paths over the years. This guide shares our favourite routes organised by type and difficulty, from gentle accessible trails to challenging all-day adventures.

The Camel Trail

Cornwall's most popular recreational route and absolutely perfect for dogs who prefer flat, easy walking.

Overview

The Camel Trail follows a disused railway line for 18 miles from Padstow through Wadebridge and Bodmin to Wenfordbridge. The largely flat, well-surfaced path makes it accessible for all abilities, including wheelchairs and pushchairs. An estimated 400,000 people use the trail each year.

Key Facts:

• Total Distance: 18 miles
• Surface: Smooth, traffic-free (except brief sections through towns)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog Policy: Dogs welcome, leads advised in busy sections

Sections

Padstow to Wadebridge (5.5 miles) The most popular and scenic section follows the Camel Estuary with stunning views across tidal mudflats and salt marshes. Excellent birdwatching with little egrets, herons, oystercatchers and waders visible year-round. This section gets busy in summer, particularly with cyclists, so keeping dogs under close control is sensible.

Wadebridge to Bodmin (6 miles) Quieter than the estuary section, this stretch passes through beautiful wooded valleys alongside the River Camel. The path climbs gently through Hustyns Wood and Bishops Wood before reaching the outskirts of Bodmin.

Bodmin to Wenfordbridge (6.5 miles) The quietest section winds through dense woodland towards the edge of Bodmin Moor. The scenery becomes increasingly wild as you approach Wenfordbridge near the pretty moorland village of St Breward.

Practical Information

• Parking: Available at Padstow, Wadebridge, Bodmin and Wenfordbridge
• Facilities: Toilets at main access points, cafes in towns
• Refreshments: Atlantic Coast Express cafe (halfway between Padstow and Wadebridge), plus numerous options in towns
• Bike Hire: Available at all main starting points

Dog Walking Tips: The Padstow to Wadebridge section can be extremely busy with cyclists in summer. Keep dogs on leads or under very close control, particularly around blind corners. The Bodmin to Wenfordbridge section offers much more peaceful walking with fewer cyclists.

The Camel Trail connects perfectly with dog-friendly pubs in Padstow and Wadebridge for post-walk refreshments.

South West Coast Path

The 630-mile South West Coast Path runs the entire length of Cornwall's coastline, offering unlimited options for spectacular dog walks.

North Coast Highlights

Tintagel Castle Circular (3.5 miles) Starting from Tintagel (PL34 0DA), this walk explores the dramatic coastline around King Arthur's legendary castle. The path winds down to secluded beaches with views of the castle from every angle. Tintagel Castle itself welcomes dogs, making this a perfect day out combining walking and history.

• Difficulty: Challenging (uneven cliff paths, plenty of steps)
• Time: 2 hours
• Highlights: Castle views, secluded beaches, Arthurian legend

Pentire Head and The Rumps (3.4 miles) A circular walk over National Trust land between Polzeath and Port Quin. The route takes in glorious views over The Rumps (an ancient Iron Age hill fort) with Tintagel visible to the north and Stepper Point to the south on clear days.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Highlights: Wildlife spotting (seals, birds of prey), ancient history, panoramic views

Godrevy and Hell's Mouth (5 miles) Starting from Hayle (TR27 5ED), this walk explores the Godrevy headland with its famous lighthouse (inspiration for Virginia Woolf's novel). The heathland-covered cliffs offer stunning views across St Ives Bay.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 3 hours
• Highlights: Godrevy Lighthouse, seal spotting, heathland flowers

Bedruthan Steps to Mawgan Porth (2.5 miles one way) One of Cornwall's most photographed locations, Bedruthan Steps features dramatic rock stacks on a stunning beach. The coastal path walk to Mawgan Porth takes in spectacular scenery throughout.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Time: 1.5 hours one way
• Highlights: Iconic rock formations, dog-friendly beach at Mawgan Porth

Stepper Point from Padstow (7 miles circular) For those wanting a longer day walk from Padstow, this route follows the coast path to Stepper Point with magnificent views across the estuary. Can be shortened to 4 miles via Hawker's Cove, or extended to include Harlyn Bay.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 3 to 4 hours
• Highlights: Estuary views, lighthouse, dog-friendly beaches at Harbour Cove and Hawker's Cove

Constantine Bay and Trevose Head (6 miles circular) Starting from Treyarnon Bay car park, this stunning walk takes in some of the Seven Bays near Padstow. Walk across Constantine Bay (hunting for sea glass) to Booby's Bay, then follow the coastal path around dramatic Trevose Head to the lighthouse before returning via quieter inland paths.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 3 hours
• Highlights: Multiple dog-friendly beaches, lighthouse, rock pools, sea glass hunting

Port Isaac to Port Quin (4 miles circular) Starting from the picturesque fishing village of Port Isaac (famous from Doc Martin), this walk follows dramatic coastline past Lobber Point, Varley Head and Pine Haven where seals often hide in secluded coves. Descend to the sleepy cove of Port Quin before returning through woodland and fields.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2 hours
• Highlights: Seal spotting, secluded coves, TV filming locations, quiet beach at Port Quin

South Coast Highlights

Hall Walk, Fowey (4 miles circular) A sublime walk starting with a ride on the Bodinnick Ferry from Fowey. The route climbs to Penleath Point, traces the scenic tree-lined Pont Pill, and returns via Polruan with another ferry crossing. Spectacular views throughout.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2.5 hours (plus ferry crossings)
• Highlights: River views, woodland, historic ferry crossings, King of Prussia pub in Fowey

Fowey to Polridmouth Cove (3 miles return) A beautiful undulating walk along the coast path from Fowey to a secluded cove. Polridmouth (pronounced Pridmouth) is dog-friendly year-round with two distinct beaches at low tide.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 1.5 hours return
• Highlights: Secluded beach, woodland sections, Daphne du Maurier connections

Lizard Point to Kynance Cove (3 miles circular) Starting from Kynance Cove car park, this walk takes in Britain's most southerly point. The dramatic coastline features serpentine rock formations, hidden coves and opportunities to spot choughs, seals and even basking sharks.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2 hours
• Highlights: Most southerly point in Britain, stunning rock formations, Kynance Cove cafe

Rame Head and Whitsand Bay (5 miles) A varied circular walk through woodland, past Penlee Point (views of Eddystone Lighthouse on clear days), around Rame Head with its tiny chapel, and along Whitsand Bay where dogs are welcome year-round.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
• Highlights: Lighthouse views, historic chapel, year-round dog-friendly beach

Lantic Bay from Polruan (3 miles circular) From the village of Polruan (reached by ferry from Fowey), climb the hill and follow the coastal path to spectacular Lantic Bay. The pristine beach tucked inside the bay is dog-friendly year-round. Return via woodland paths for a perfect circular route.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2 hours
• Highlights: Stunning bay views, dog-friendly beach, ferry adventure, Fowey pubs for afterwards

Mullion Cove from Poldhu (3 miles one way) Starting from Poldhu Beach Cafe, this coastal path section heads south past Polurrian Cove to the picturesque fishing hamlet of Mullion Cove. Stop at the Halzephron Inn (awarded Cornwall's Most Dog Friendly Pub 2019) en route for generous plates of seasonal fare.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 1.5 hours one way
• Highlights: Dog-friendly pub, fishing harbour, excellent cafe at start

West Cornwall

Zennor to Gurnard's Head (4.2 miles circular) A strenuous but rewarding loop along the South West Coast Path, bookended by two excellent dog-friendly pubs. The route follows narrow cliff paths with crystalline waters, dramatic zawns and secret coves throughout.

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
• Highlights: The Tinners Arms (Zennor), The Gurnard's Head, Iron Age cliff fort, mermaid legend

Sennen Cove to Porthcurno (6 miles one way) Taking in Land's End, this spectacular stretch of coast path passes Enys Dodnan Arch and some of the most dramatic clifftop scenery in Cornwall. Can be walked as a long one-way route or extended into a circular.

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Time: 4 hours one way
• Highlights: Land's End, natural arches, Minack Theatre views

Woodland Walks

Cornwall's woodlands offer perfect walking on hot days or when coastal winds are fierce. Many are managed by Forestry England or the National Trust with well-maintained trails and facilities.

For those staying near Bodmin, the concentration of excellent woodland walks makes this an ideal base. Cardinham Woods, Lanhydrock and connections to the Camel Trail are all within easy reach.

Cardinham Woods

Probably the most popular woodland walk in Cornwall, and deservedly so.

Location: Near Bodmin (PL30 4AL) Size: 650 acres Parking: Pay and display car park

Walking Trails:

• Lady Vale Walk (1.5 miles): Easy, flat, accessible route alongside the river. Perfect for all abilities including wheelchairs.
• Lidcutt Valley Trail (2.5 miles): Moderate route with some ascents offering views over the forest.
• Wheal Glynn Walk (4 miles): Challenging route climbing to the old lead and silver mine. Steep ascents rewarded with forest views.
• Callywith Wood Trail (2 miles): Moderate woodland circuit.

Facilities:

• The Woods Cafe (dog-friendly, serves Tregothnan tea and homemade cakes)
• Toilets
• Picnic areas and barbecue area
• Mountain bike trails

Best For: Families, all abilities (on Lady Vale), bluebells in spring, river swimming for dogs

Lanhydrock Estate

The National Trust's magnificent Victorian house is surrounded by 900 acres of woodland and parkland perfect for dog walking.

Location: Near Bodmin (PL30 5AD) Parking: National Trust car park (free for members)

Walking Options:

• Respryn Ramble (1 mile): Short circular walk from Respryn car park through ancient woodland along the River Fowey. Crosses a beautiful five-arched medieval bridge.
• Estate Walks: Multiple longer trails through parkland and woodland. Pick up trail maps from the gatehouse, reception or shop.
• River Fowey Walks: Paths follow the river with opportunities to spot kingfishers and otters.

Dog Policy: Dogs welcome throughout the parkland and woodland. Not permitted in the main house or formal gardens. Five designated dog bathing areas along the river. Dog-friendly seating at the Stables Tearooms and Park Cafe.

Best For: River walks, historic atmosphere, wildlife spotting, cafe stops

Trelissick Gardens Estate

While dogs cannot enter the main gardens, the wider estate offers beautiful woodland walking.

Location: Near Truro (TR3 6QL) Parking: National Trust car park

The Walk: Follow woodland paths from the gardens through historic parkland, along an oak-fringed creek, over a timber-framed bridge to the promontory fort at Roundwood. Stunning views across the River Fal throughout.

Best For: River views, peaceful atmosphere, autumn colours

Tehidy Country Park

The largest woodland area in West Cornwall with over 9 miles of paths.

Location: Near Camborne Size: 250 acres Parking: Free at several car parks

Important Note: The south woods around the lakes are NOT dog-friendly. Park at North Cliffs car park near Portreath for dog walking in the north woods.

Trails: Multiple waymarked routes through varied woodland including sea-stunted trees at North Cliffs, cathedral-like beech glades, and ancient yews (one reportedly 400 years old).

Best For: Long walks, varied woodland types, friendly squirrels

Idless Woods

Beautiful woodland just north of Truro, listed by Forestry England as one of their top ten bluebell sites in the UK.

Location: 2 miles north of Truro Parking: Free car park Facilities: Woodman's Cabin cafe, toilets

The Walk: Around 5km of trails with plenty of open woodland to explore between paths. A stream runs along the bottom of the woods providing water for dogs. The remains of a gunpowder factory add historical interest.

Best For: Bluebells (spring), peaceful atmosphere, stream paddling

Other Woodland Options

• Luxulyan Valley: UNESCO World Heritage Site combining woodland with industrial history. Historic tramways and leats wind through lush woodland. River Par provides excellent paddling opportunities. Allow 2 to 3 hours for the full circular walk.
• Golitha Falls: Ancient woodland with cascading waterfalls near Liskeard. The 6-mile circular connects to Siblyback Lake for an epic day out. Inkie's Smokehouse near the car park offers post-walk BBQ treats.
• Trewardreva Mill: Pretty circular walk near Constantine through woodland to a disused water mill. Stunning in bluebell season with wildflowers carpeting the forest floor. The Waymarker restaurant nearby welcomes dogs on the veranda.
• King's Wood: Near St Austell, this Woodland Trust reserve follows the St Austell River through serene broadleaf woodland to the historic village of Pentewan. Around 3 miles, easy terrain.
• Ladock Woods: Tranquil circular walk near Truro, perfect for winding down after busy beach days. The Holy Well of St Ladock adds historical interest.

Bodmin Moor

For a taste of true wilderness, head to Cornwall's only remaining area of open moorland.

Brown Willy and Rough Tor (4.5 miles circular)

A dramatic circular walk between Cornwall's two highest peaks.

Start Point: Rough Tor car park Distance: 4.5 miles Time: 2 to 2.5 hours Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (rough terrain, navigation required)

The Walk: From the car park, climb Rough Tor (400m) first, enjoying views that expand with every step. Descend and cross to Brown Willy (420m), Cornwall's highest point, where coast-to-coast views stretch from the north to the south coast on clear days. Return via ancient stone circles, Bronze Age hut circles and neolithic sites scattered across the moor.

Important Notes:

• Livestock and ponies roam free on the moor. Keep dogs on leads or under very close control.
• Weather can change rapidly. Bring waterproofs and check forecasts.
• Some dangerous bogs exist. Stick to established paths.
• Navigation skills useful, particularly in poor visibility.

Best For: Adventurous dogs, panoramic views, ancient history, sense of wilderness

Loe Pool and Penrose Estate (5 miles circular)

Cornwall's largest natural lake surrounded by the National Trust's Penrose Estate.

Start Point: Penrose car park or Helston Distance: 5 miles (full circuit) Time: 2.5 to 3 hours Difficulty: Easy to moderate

The Walk: A gorgeous circular route around Loe Pool through Victorian-landscaped and semi-natural woodland. Points of interest include Loe Bar (the sand bank separating the lake from the sea) and the stables and walled gardens at Penrose House where refreshments are available.

Warning: Loe Bar beach has dangerous rip currents. No swimming for dogs or humans.

Best For: Lakeside walking, varied woodland, birdwatching

Practical Information

When planning walking holidays, consider what type of terrain suits your dog best. Energetic young dogs thrive on challenging coastal paths, while older dogs appreciate the gentle gradients of woodland trails or the Camel Trail.

Safety on Cliff Paths

The South West Coast Path offers spectacular scenery but requires sensible precautions:

• Keep dogs on leads near cliff edges. Excited dogs chasing birds or rabbits can go over without warning. Even the most obedient dog can be startled by wildlife.
• Watch for erosion. Cliff paths change constantly; what was safe last year may not be now. Recent storms can undermine sections overnight.
• Check weather forecasts. Strong winds make exposed sections genuinely dangerous. Coastal gusts can be much stronger than inland conditions suggest.
• Carry water. Coastal paths can be exposed with limited shade. Dogs overheat quickly, especially dark-coated breeds.
• Know your dog's limits. Some sections involve steep climbs and descents that can exhaust smaller or older dogs.
• Check tide times. Some beach access points are cut off at high tide. Getting stranded can be dangerous.
• Wear appropriate footwear. Rocky sections and uneven ground require sturdy walking boots.

Livestock

Much of Cornwall's farmland has livestock. Legal requirements:

• Dogs must be on leads around livestock
• Farmers can legally shoot dogs worrying sheep
• Even well-behaved dogs can cause sheep to abort lambs through stress
• Ponies on Bodmin Moor should be given wide berth

Seasonal Considerations

Spring:

• Bluebells in woodlands (April to May)
• Lambing season, extra care around livestock
• Wildflowers on clifftops
• Migrating birds

Summer:

• Busy coastal paths, especially weekends
• Heat can be challenging for dogs
• Early morning or evening walks recommended
• Adders active in long grass and heathland

Autumn:

• Quieter paths
• Autumn colours in woodlands
• Migrating birds
• Mushrooms in forests (some poisonous to dogs)

Winter:

• Shortest days but often dramatic weather
• Quietest trails
• Some woodland paths muddy
• Coastal paths may be slippery

What to Bring

Essentials:

• Water and collapsible bowl
• Poo bags
• Lead (even if walking off-lead, needed for livestock areas)
• Treats
• Basic first aid kit

Recommended:

• OS map or downloaded route
• Waterproof jacket
• Sturdy footwear
• Sun protection (for you and pink-nosed dogs)
• Towel for wet dogs

Book Your Stay

Ready to explore Cornwall's incredible walking? Find your perfect dog-friendly cottage near the best trails.

Book Your Dog-Friendly Cornwall Stay

Choose accommodation with direct walking access to make the most of your time. Many cottages sit right on the coast path or have woodland walks from the door.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Cornwall rewards dog walkers like few other places. The combination of dramatic coastal scenery, ancient woodlands, wild moorland and gentle riverside trails means there's perfect walking whatever the weather, season or your dog's energy levels.

The South West Coast Path alone could occupy months of exploration, with each section revealing new views and hidden coves. The Camel Trail offers effortless miles for days when gentle walking suits. Cardinham Woods and Lanhydrock provide shaded retreats when summer sun beats down. Bodmin Moor delivers wilderness adventures when you crave wide open spaces.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have their favourites. The Hall Walk from Fowey for that ferry ride adventure. Cardinham Woods when bluebells carpet the forest floor. The Lizard coastal path for pure dramatic beauty. But really, we've never had a bad walk in Cornwall, just different flavours of wonderful.

Find accommodation near your chosen walks and prepare for tired legs, muddy paws and memories that will have tails wagging for years to come.

Happy trails.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke

Continue Planning Your Trip

Discover more about dog-friendly Cornwall: beaches, cottages, pubs and attractions.

For walks elsewhere in the UK, explore our guides to the Lake District, Yorkshire and Scotland.

Walking conditions can change. Check local signage, weather forecasts and tide times before setting out on coastal walks.