Cornwall does pubs differently. Perhaps it's the centuries of welcoming weary travellers, fishermen and farmers that created this culture of hospitality. Perhaps it's simply that Cornish folk understand dogs belong in pubs as much as anyone. Whatever the reason, finding a warm welcome with your dog in Cornwall is wonderfully easy.
The variety delights. Ancient harbourside inns where fishermen once gathered still serve local ales to sandy-pawed beach dogs and their owners. Clifftop pubs offer Atlantic views with your Sunday roast. Village locals hidden down country lanes provide the kind of traditional atmosphere that makes you want to stay all afternoon. And increasingly, Cornwall's foodie revolution means dog-friendly dining extends to seriously good restaurants too.
Many of our favourite walks across Cornwall end at a welcoming pub. After miles on the coast path or through woodland, there's nothing quite like settling into a cosy corner with a tired dog at your feet and a proper Cornish ale in hand.
When planning your Cornwall holiday, knowing which pubs welcome dogs makes spontaneous adventures possible. This guide covers the best options across the county, from Rick Stein's famous establishments to tiny village gems most visitors never find.
Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have tested countless Cornish pubs over the years. Here are our favourites, organised by region.
Padstow and the Camel Estuary
Padstow punches well above its weight for dog-friendly dining. Rick Stein's influence has created a foodie culture that welcomes four-legged guests alongside two-legged ones.
The Cornish Arms
St Merryn, near Padstow
Crowned UK's Best Dog-Friendly Pub in 2024, Rick Stein's village local sets the standard. The spacious interior welcomes dogs throughout the bar area, and the huge beer garden provides perfect summer lounging.
What Makes It Special:
- Genuine warmth towards dogs from all staff
- Rick Stein's famous recipes including proper fish and chips
- St Austell Brewery ales (Tribute, Proper Job)
- Ample parking and space
- Perfect after exploring nearby beaches
Location: St Merryn, PL28 8ND
Shipwrights
Padstow Harbour
Originally built to serve the fishermen and tradespeople of Padstow's bustling port, this handsome harbourside pub maintains its welcoming character. The timber-clad bar, rustic beams and slate flooring create authentic atmosphere.
What Makes It Special:
- Harbour views from inside and out
- Award-winning local ales
- Fresh seafood including local mussels
- Mention your dog when booking for bar area seating
- Ferry to Rock departs nearby
Location: North Quay, Padstow, PL28 8AF
The Mariners
Rock
A hop across the estuary on the Black Tor ferry lands you at this Michelin-recognised pub with Paul Ainsworth at the helm. Two dogs welcome per table in the downstairs dining area.
What Makes It Special:
- Michelin Guide recognition
- Estuary views
- Cornish seafood with creative twists
- Locally brewed ales
- Walk to Daymer Bay afterwards
Location: Rock, PL27 6LD
Rick Stein's Cafe
Padstow
More casual than the main restaurant, this relaxed cafe welcomes dogs in the courtyard area. Perfect for a quality meal without formality.
Location: Middle Street, Padstow, PL28 8AP
St Petroc's Bistro
Padstow
Part of Rick Stein's collection, this charming Georgian townhouse bistro offers rustic elegance. Dogs welcome in certain areas.
Location: 4 New Street, Padstow, PL28 8EA
St Ives and West Cornwall
The dramatic coastline between St Ives and Land's End offers some of Cornwall's most memorable pub experiences.
The Gurnard's Head
Between St Ives and St Just
This bright yellow beacon of a pub sits in splendid isolation on the coast road, surrounded by some of Britain's most dramatic walking terrain. Muddy boots and four-legged friends receive genuinely warm welcomes.
What Makes It Special:
- Award-winning food using locally sourced ingredients
- Bookended by spectacular coastal walks
- Proper fires in winter
- Rooms available for overnight stays with dogs
- Sustainable ethos supporting local community
Dog Policy: Book ahead and request dog-friendly table. Dogs welcome in bar areas.
Location: Zennor, TR26 3DE
The Tinners Arms
Zennor
At the other end of the Gurnard's Head walk, this traditional village pub serves the best local ales and proper pub grub. Dogs must remain on leads but are genuinely welcome.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic village setting
- Local ales including Tinners and Mermaid
- Zennor lager on hot days
- Vegan and gluten-free menus available
- Mermaid legend connections
Location: Zennor, TR26 3BY
The Sloop Inn
St Ives
One of Cornwall's oldest pubs (originally built 1312), the Sloop sits just back from the harbour in prime position. Dogs welcome in areas of the pub and the cobbled outside courtyard.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic atmosphere with low ceilings
- Harbour views from outside seating
- Fresh Cornish seafood from local merchants
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner served
- Year-round popularity with locals and visitors
Location: The Wharf, St Ives, TR26 1LP
Pedn Olva
St Ives
Perched on granite boulders between Porthminster Beach and St Ives Harbour, this hotel bar offers eye-popping bay views alongside exceptional dog hospitality.
What Makes It Special:
- Doggie beer, water bowls, treats and blankets provided
- Stunning coastal views
- Local beers on tap
- Seasonal Cornish produce menu
- Beach access nearby
Location: West Porthminster Beach, St Ives, TR26 2EA
Hub Box
St Ives
Modern American-style restaurant where dogs receive water and treats at the table. Harbour views from indoor seating and roof terrace.
What Makes It Special:
- Genuinely dog-enthusiastic staff
- Great burgers and BBQ
- Harbour location
- Vegan options available
Location: 4 Wharf Road, St Ives, TR26 1LF
Falmouth and the South Coast
The south coast offers a gentler character with creekside pubs and harbour haunts.
The Pandora Inn
Mylor Bridge
Parts of this stunning pub have stood since the 13th century. Positioned on the water at Restronguet Creek, arrive by foot, bicycle, or boat for the full experience.
What Makes It Special:
- Waterside location with pontoon seating
- 13th-century origins
- Award-winning food using local produce
- Cosy atmosphere with dog-friendly bar
- Accessible by ferry from Falmouth
Dog Policy: Dogs welcome in bar area. Book ahead.
Location: Restronguet Creek, Mylor Bridge, TR11 5ST
The Working Boat
Falmouth
Underneath the Greenbank Hotel on Falmouth's waterfront, this pub offers prime boat-watching territory. Biscuits and water bowls await furry visitors.
What Makes It Special:
- Waterfront location
- Sunday roasts
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Ferry connections to Flushing and coast path walks
Location: Greenbank Hotel, Harbourside, Falmouth, TR11 2SR
Harbour House
Flushing
A recent addition to Cornwall's dog-friendly dining scene, this sustainably-driven pub already features in the Michelin Guide. Arrive by ferry from Falmouth or walk from Mylor.
What Makes It Special:
- Michelin Guide recognition
- Waterfront setting
- Fresh produce from surrounding sea, rivers and fields
- Accessible by ferry or coastal walk
Location: Flushing, TR11 5TY
Beerwolf Books
Falmouth
A quirky combination of pub and bookshop where you can peruse shelves of second-hand books while sipping real ale. Bring your own food if you fancy.
What Makes It Special:
- Unique bookshop-pub concept
- Real ale selection
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Near Pendennis Castle walks
Location: 3 Bells Court, Falmouth, TR11 3AZ
INDIDOG
Falmouth Harbour
Harbourside eatery with views across Falmouth harbour and the Fal Estuary. Dogs welcome at any table before 6pm; bar or outdoor tables in the evening.
What Makes It Special:
- Harbour views
- All-day menus
- Fresh seafood focus
- Relaxed waterfront atmosphere
Location: 28a Market Street, Falmouth, TR11 3AT
Newquay and the North Coast
Cornwall's surf capital offers everything from beach bars to traditional village pubs.
The Watering Hole
Perranporth Beach
The UK's only bar actually on the beach. After a long beach walk across Perranporth's golden sands, there's nowhere better to reward yourselves.
What Makes It Special:
- Literally on the sand
- Unique beach bar atmosphere
- Dog-friendly throughout
- Live music events (dogs no longer permitted at events)
- Accessible from beach walks
Location: Perranporth Beach, TR6 0JL
The Bowgie Inn
Crantock
Dramatic clifftop location with stunning views over Pentire Bay. Classic English menu with vegetarian, vegan options and treats for dogs at the bar.
What Makes It Special:
- Clifftop panoramic views
- Sun terrace overlooking the bay
- Near Crantock Beach (15-minute walk)
- App-based ordering
Location: West Pentire, Crantock, TR8 5SE
The Fort Inn
Newquay
Family and dog-friendly pub with views across Newquay harbour. Indoor and outdoor play areas keep children occupied while dogs enjoy the bar area welcome.
What Makes It Special:
- Harbour and coastal views
- Expansive outdoor terrace
- Classic pub menu
- Near Newquay's beaches
Location: Fore Street, Newquay, TR7 1HN
The Red Lion
Newquay Harbour
Traditional pub overlooking Newquay's harbour with everything you'd want from a proper local. Dogs welcome in the bar and beer garden, with a special dog menu featuring fish and chips and paw-star martinis for your furry friend.
What Makes It Special:
- Dedicated dog menu
- Harbour views from traditional setting
- Real ales with cask mark approval
- Live music at weekends
- Pool, darts and games
- Charming beer garden
Location: North Quay Hill, Newquay, TR7 1HE
The Farmers Arms
St Columb Minor
One of Newquay's most popular dog-friendly pubs, set in the heart of picturesque St Columb Minor village. Worth the short journey from town for genuine Cornish hospitality.
What Makes It Special:
- Real Cornish village atmosphere
- Local ales and ciders
- Freshly made food using local ingredients
- Friendly welcome for dogs
Location: St Columb Minor, TR8 4BQ
The Smugglers Den Inn
Near Newquay
Beautiful thatched 16th-century pub in tranquil countryside, listed in both the CAMRA guide and AA Good Pub Guide. Dog-friendly section inside plus garden and terrace with countryside views. Gets busy despite the hidden location.
What Makes It Special:
- Thatched historic character
- CAMRA and AA recognition
- Award-winning ales
- Countryside views from terrace
- Ample parking
Location: Trebellan, Cubert, TR8 5PY
Tom Thumb
Newquay
Sophisticated speakeasy-style bar that surprisingly welcomes dogs with water before you've even ordered. Small and intimate with no bookings taken.
Location: Newquay town centre
Lost Brewing Co.
Newquay
The coolest place in town with huge stock of craft beer including their own brews. Eclectic food from breakfast burritos to buddha bowls. Plenty of vegan options.
Location: Newquay town centre
The Old Albion
Crantock
Traditional village pub welcoming dogs inside and out. Cosy fires, woodburner, and honest British food make this perfect after Crantock Beach visits.
What Makes It Special:
- Traditional village atmosphere
- Home-cooked British food
- Fires and woodburner
- Walking distance from beach
Location: Langurroc Road, Crantock, TR8 5RB
Driftwood Spars
St Agnes
Brewpub in iconic Trevaunance Cove with its own brewery on site. The beach at St Agnes remains a well-kept secret.
What Makes It Special:
- Own brewery producing unique ales
- Beachside location
- Historic building with character
- Live music events
Location: Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes, TR5 0RT
Bude and North Cornwall
The Devon border brings dramatic cliffs, surfing culture and characterful pubs with genuine community spirit.
The Brendon Arms
Bude
Family-owned since 1872, this proper community pub overlooks Bude's inner harbour just 200 yards from Summerleaze Beach. Dogs welcome in the bar area. The same family have run this pub for almost 150 years, and it shows in the warmth of welcome.
What Makes It Special:
- 150+ years of family ownership
- Harbour views from outdoor seating
- Homemade pub menu using local ingredients
- Community atmosphere with locals and visitors mixing
- Walking distance to beach and historic canal
Location: The Strand, Bude, EX23 8QU
Life's A Beach
Bude
Known as L.A.B to locals, this family-run spot perches above picturesque Summerleaze Beach. Open every day for lunchtime grazing with views that make you want to stay all afternoon.
What Makes It Special:
- Beach views from elevated position
- All-day opening
- Family-run atmosphere
- Dog-friendly throughout
- Steps from the sand
Location: Summerleaze Beach, Bude, EX23 8HN
The Olive Tree
Bude Canal
Located beside Bude's famous canal, this restaurant offers lots of outdoor seating with parasols and a menu filled with Cornish produce. Perfect for a relaxed meal after canal-side walks.
Location: Bude Canal, EX23 8LG
The Falcon Hotel
Bude
The oldest coaching house in North Cornwall, established in 1798 and run for most of its history by the Brendon family. Moments from the beach with rich history throughout.
Location: Breakwater Road, Bude, EX23 8SD
King Arthur's Arms
Tintagel
In the heart of Tintagel, this friendly pub offers good food, local beer and genuine cheer. Pet-friendly rooms available if you want to make a night of it. Perfect after exploring the legendary castle.
What Makes It Special:
- Central Tintagel location
- Dog-friendly accommodation available
- Local Cornish ales
- Hearty food after castle walks
- Welcoming staff
Location: Fore Street, Tintagel, PL34 0DA
The Coombe Barton Inn
Crackington Haven
Cosy and stylish pub nestled in the beautiful seaside village of Crackington Haven. The setting alone makes it worth the visit, but the food and welcome seal the deal.
What Makes It Special:
- Stunning village location
- Stylish yet welcoming interior
- Quality food
- Near spectacular coast path walking
Location: Crackington Haven, EX23 0JG
The Preston Gate Inn
Near Bude
Traditional 17th-century inn offering warm welcomes, low ceilings with oak beams, and a log burner for colder months. Beer garden for sunnier days. Food served Wednesday to Sunday.
What Makes It Special:
- 17th-century character
- Seasonal, locally sourced food
- Log burner for winter visits
- Traditional country pub atmosphere
Location: Preston, near Bude
Looe, Polperro and the South East
Traditional fishing villages with authentic pub culture and genuine welcomes.
The Blue Peter Inn
Polperro
Perched between fishermen's cottages overlooking Polperro's harbour, this award-winning pub greets dogs with treats, cuddles and water bowls. The atmosphere here is unique, cosy and utterly Cornish.
What Makes It Special:
- Harbour views from historic setting
- Traditional pub ambience with real character
- Excellent real ale selection
- Live music regular throughout the week
- Staff genuinely love dogs
Location: Quay Road, Polperro, PL13 2QZ
The Jolly Sailor Inn
Looe
Recently refurbished into one of Looe's most desirable pubs, with real ales, food, music, quiz nights, rock and roll bingo, themed nights and comedy events throughout the year.
Location: Princes Square, West Looe, PL13 2EP
The Fishermans Arms
Looe
Claimed to be Looe's oldest pub (16th century), this traditional drinkers' establishment serves cask ales with live music at weekends. A proper local atmosphere.
Location: Higher Market Street, East Looe, PL13 1BS
The Ship Inn
Fowey
Historic pub in picturesque Fowey offering traditional pub fare with an opulent twist. Known for Cornish hospitality and welcoming atmosphere for dogs and their owners.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic harbourside location
- Traditional Cornish hospitality
- Quality food using local ingredients
- Near the Hall Walk start point
Location: Trafalgar Square, Fowey, PL23 1AZ
The Ship Inn
Mevagissey
Another historic Ship Inn in the picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey. Traditional charm, cosy atmosphere and excellent hearty food make this a must-visit.
Location: Fore Street, Mevagissey, PL26 6UQ
The Rashleigh Inn
Charlestown
Set just up from the historic harbour seen in Poldark, Doctor Who and many other productions, this dog-friendly bar champions local produce. Sit outside and soak up the atmosphere of a place unchanged for 150 years.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic harbour setting
- Film location connections
- Local produce focus
- Authentic atmosphere
Location: Charlestown, PL25 3NJ
The Lizard and Helford
Cornwall's most southerly point offers unique pub experiences.
Halzephron Inn
Gunwalloe
Awarded Cornwall's Most Dog Friendly Pub 2019, this clifftop gem offers generous seasonal fare with stunning views or warming fires depending on the season.
What Makes It Special:
- Award-winning dog welcome
- Coastal path location
- Seasonal local produce
- Views or cosy fires
- Near Gunwalloe Beach
Location: Gunwalloe, TR12 7QB
The Ship Inn
Porthleven
Historic harbour pub in this characterful fishing port. Traditional atmosphere with local ales and fresh seafood.
Location: Mount Pleasant Road, Porthleven, TR13 9JS
Ferry Boat Inn
Helford Passage
Stunning views across Helford Passage from this gorgeous location. Accessible by foot ferry for added adventure.
Location: Helford Passage, TR11 5LB
Inland Gems
Sometimes the best pubs hide away from the coast.
The Springer Spaniel
Treburley
With a name like that, you know dogs are welcome. Charming pub and restaurant offering excellent food in a lovely setting near Launceston.
Location: Treburley, PL15 9NS
The Plume of Feathers
Mitchell
16th-century coaching inn positioned uniquely over a natural spring well (visible through glass floor). Convenient A30 location between Newquay and Truro.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic spring well feature
- Creative pub fare
- Central location for exploring
- Character and charm
Location: Mitchell, TR8 5AX
The Old Ale House
Truro
Perhaps Truro's best pub and certainly its most handsome, this Skinner's Brewery taproom welcomes dogs to join their humans for proper old-school boozing.
Location: 7 Quay Street, Truro, TR1 2HB
The Punch Bowl and Ladle
Feock
Gorgeous thatched-roof pub on the outskirts of Truro that takes dog-friendliness seriously, even serving doggy beer alongside impressive Cornish ales.
What Makes It Special:
- Doggy beer available
- Thatched historic building
- Cornish beers and local wines
- Classic dishes with creative twists
Location: Penelewey, Feock, TR3 6QY
What to Expect
Typical Dog Policies
Most Cornish pubs follow similar patterns:
- Dogs welcome in bar areas, often not in restaurant sections
- Some require booking dog-friendly tables in advance
- Water bowls usually provided
- Treats often available
- Leads expected in busy periods
- Well-behaved dogs expected (no begging from other tables)
Booking Advice
- Always mention your dog when booking. This ensures seating in appropriate areas.
- Book ahead for popular pubs, especially weekends and summer.
- Be flexible with times. Lunch often easier than dinner for dog-friendly tables.
- Check current policies. Rules can change between seasons.
Pub Etiquette
- Settle dogs under tables, not in walkways
- Bring a towel for wet or sandy dogs
- Keep dogs on leads in busy areas
- Clear up any accidents
- Don't let dogs beg from other diners
- Thank staff who make a fuss of your dog
Book Your Stay
Ready to explore Cornwall's welcoming pubs? Find your perfect dog-friendly cottage near the best establishments.
Book Your Dog-Friendly Cornwall Stay
Choose accommodation near walking routes that end at great pubs. The combination of morning beach, afternoon walk and evening pub makes for perfect holiday days.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed in pubs in Cornwall?
+Do I need to book dog-friendly tables in Cornwall pubs?
+Which Cornwall pub is best for dogs?
+Can dogs go in Rick Stein's restaurants?
+Are there dog-friendly pubs on the beach in Cornwall?
+Do Cornwall pubs provide water and treats for dogs?
+Can I eat with my dog in Cornwall restaurants?
+What's pub etiquette with dogs in Cornwall?
+Final Thoughts
Cornwall's pubs embody everything wonderful about this corner of Britain. The combination of historic buildings, dramatic locations, genuine hospitality and increasingly excellent food creates experiences you'll remember long after the holiday ends.
What strikes us most is the authenticity. These aren't pubs grudgingly accepting dogs because it's good for business. From the warm greetings at the door to the biscuits produced from behind the bar, you sense that dogs have always been welcome here and always will be.
Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have their favourites. The Gurnard's Head for that sense of wild isolation and seriously good food. The Blue Peter Inn for pure Cornish character. The Watering Hole for the novelty of drinking on the actual beach. But really, we've rarely been disappointed by a Cornish pub, and the worst that happens is you discover somewhere new to add to the list.
Find accommodation near your favourite pubs and prepare for sandy paws, satisfied appetites and the kind of relaxed contentment that only comes from a proper pub with a happy dog at your feet.
Cheers to that.
Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke
Continue Planning Your Trip
Discover more about dog-friendly Cornwall: beaches, walks, cottages and attractions.
For pubs elsewhere in the UK, explore our guides to the Lake District, Yorkshire and Scotland.
Pub policies can change. Always call ahead or check websites for current dog policies, especially for dining reservations.
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