Dog-Friendly Cornwall | Complete Guide

Cornwall might just be the most dog-friendly county in England. With over 300 miles of coastline, year-round beaches, world-class walking trails, and a culture that genuinely welcomes four-legged visitors, it's no wonder nearly a third of visitors bring their dogs along.

I've explored Cornwall countless times with my pack—from Charlie's gentle strolls along Harlyn Bay to watching Buster and Ember sprint across the endless sands of Watergate Bay. Whether you're after dramatic cliff walks, tucked-away coves, or a cream tea with your dog at your feet, Cornwall delivers.

This guide covers everything you need for the perfect dog-friendly holiday: the best beaches (and when dogs can use them), dog-friendly towns, spectacular walks, attractions that welcome paws, and the pubs and restaurants where your dog will be treated like a VIP.

Why Cornwall Is Perfect for Dogs

Cornwall's appeal for dog owners goes beyond beautiful scenery:

Year-round beaches – While some beaches have seasonal restrictions, plenty remain fully dog-friendly 365 days a year. Even restricted beaches typically allow dogs before 9am and after 6pm in summer.

The South West Coast Path – Over 300 miles of this spectacular trail runs through Cornwall, and almost all of it welcomes dogs. It's arguably the finest coastal walking in Britain.

Dog-friendly culture – Cornish businesses genuinely embrace dogs. You'll find water bowls outside shops, dog menus in pubs, and a warm welcome almost everywhere.

Variety – From the rugged north coast to the sheltered south, from traditional fishing villages to surf towns, Cornwall offers something for every dog (and owner).

Space to run – Unlike crowded city parks, Cornwall's beaches and moors give dogs the freedom they crave. Watching a dog run flat-out across Perranporth's two miles of sand is pure joy.

The Best Dog-Friendly Towns in Cornwall

St Ives

St Ives' artistic charm and stunning harbour make it one of Cornwall's most popular destinations. Despite being busy in summer, it's surprisingly dog-friendly.

Why dogs love it: Bamaluz Beach allows dogs year-round and has a wonderfully friendly canine community. At low tide, Lambeth Walk Beach opens up too. The town's cobbled streets are perfect for exploring, and many galleries and shops welcome well-behaved dogs.

Best beaches: Bamaluz (year-round, hidden gem), Porthkidney Sands (year-round, vast at low tide), Carbis Bay (restricted May-September)

Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants:

• The Sloop Inn – One of Cornwall's oldest pubs, dating to 1312, welcomes dogs in the bar area. Fresh seafood and harbour views
• Pedn Olva – Stunning bay views, dogs get beds, treats, water bowls, and even doggy beer
• Hub St Ives – Relaxed atmosphere, great burgers
• The Rum and Crab Shack – Elevated harbour views, fantastic seafood

Top tip: Visit outside peak summer. St Ives gets extremely crowded July-August, which isn't ideal for dogs. Spring and autumn offer the best experience.

Padstow

Padstow is perhaps Cornwall's most dog-friendly town—and that's saying something. The harbour-side setting, excellent restaurants, and surrounding beaches make it a top choice for dog owners.

Why dogs love it: Multiple year-round beaches within easy reach, the 18-mile Camel Trail for traffic-free walks, and an extraordinary number of dog-friendly restaurants. The town itself is compact and walkable.

Best beaches: Harlyn Bay (year-round, perfect for families and dogs), Hawker's Cove (year-round, quieter), Constantine Bay (year-round)

Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants:

• The Cornish Arms – Rick Stein's pub in nearby St Merryn, huge garden, excellent food, very dog-friendly
• Shipwrights – Harbour views, award-winning beers, dog-friendly bar area
• Caffè Rojano – Paul Ainsworth's Italian restaurant welcomes dogs
• The Mariners – Modern British classics, let them know when booking
• Greens of Padstow – Harbour views, locally sourced produce

Unique experience: Take your dog on the Jubilee Queen boat trip from Padstow harbour—dogs sail free and love the sea air.

Falmouth

Falmouth combines a working harbour, excellent restaurants, and easy access to some of Cornwall's finest gardens. It's a great base for exploring the south coast.

Why dogs love it: Fal River Ferries welcome dogs free of charge, opening up adventures to St Mawes, Flushing, and beyond. The surrounding National Trust properties are largely dog-friendly.

Best beaches: Swanpool (restrictions apply), Gyllyngvase (restrictions apply), Helford Passage (year-round)

Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants:

• Chain Locker – Historic harbour-front pub, serves doggy beer
• Gylly Beach Cafe – Sea views, relaxed atmosphere
• The Working Boat – Waterside dining
• The Meat Locker – Excellent burgers in the town centre

Must-visit: Trebah Garden is famously dog-friendly—one of the few sub-tropical gardens where dogs can explore the winding paths alongside you.

Newquay

Newquay's reputation as a party town obscures how dog-friendly it actually is. The beaches are magnificent, many allow dogs year-round, and the surrounding coastline offers spectacular walks.

Why dogs love it: Fistral, Crantock, Watergate Bay, and Mawgan Porth all allow dogs throughout the year. The beaches connect via the South West Coast Path, so you can walk for miles. Great Western Beach, right in town, is also year-round dog-friendly.

Best beaches: Watergate Bay (year-round, two miles of sand), Fistral (year-round), Crantock (year-round), Mawgan Porth (year-round)

Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants:

• The Bottle – Stylish wine bar and eatery in Newquay centre
• Lewinnick Lodge – Stunning clifftop location on Pentire Headland, dogs welcome in bar and outdoor areas
• The Fox's Revenge – 400-year-old pub near Newquay, excellent Sunday roasts
• The Beach Box – Casual beachside dining at Watergate Bay

Best walk: The five-mile coastal path from Watergate Bay to Bedruthan Steps is spectacular—dramatic cliffs, iconic rock formations, and sea views throughout.

Other Dog-Friendly Towns Worth Exploring

Fowey – Charming harbour town with waterside walks and dog-friendly ferries to Bodinnick and Polruan.

Mousehole – Picture-perfect fishing village. The Ship Inn and Old Coastguard welcome dogs. Mousehole Deli & Kitchen even has a dog menu.

Polperro – Steep streets, historic harbour, and the Three Pilchards pub welcomes dogs.

Rock – Across the estuary from Padstow, accessible by dog-friendly ferry. Quieter and more upmarket.

Bude – North Cornwall surf town with year-round dog access at Summerleaze and excellent canal walks.

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Cornwall

Cornwall has over 300 beaches, and navigating the rules can be confusing. Here's what you need to know:

Understanding Beach Restrictions

Most beach restrictions run from Easter (or 1st May) to 30th September (or 1st October). During these periods, dogs are typically:

• Banned completely from some beaches during daylight hours
• Allowed before 9am and after 6pm on others
• Required to be on leads on some beaches

The good news: Plenty of beaches have no restrictions at all. Focus on these and you'll never struggle to find somewhere to take your dog.

Best Year-Round Dog-Friendly Beaches

North Cornwall:

• Harlyn Bay (near Padstow) – Excellent family beach, great swimming, rock pools, lifeguarded in summer
• Watergate Bay – Two miles of golden sand, surf-friendly, dramatic cliffs
• Fistral – Cornwall's famous surf beach
• Crantock – Voted Britain's Best Beach by BBC Coast, framed by dunes and the River Gannel
• Mawgan Porth – Quieter alternative to Newquay's town beaches
• Constantine Bay – Beautiful, slightly wilder feel
• Summerleaze (Bude) – Town beach with tidal sea pool
• Sandymouth – National Trust beach, dramatic cliffs, wild atmosphere
• Trebarwith Strand – Sandy cove with dog-friendly Port William Inn above

South Cornwall:

• Lantic Bay – Hidden gem, steep access but worth it
• Polridmouth Cove – Near Fowey, peaceful and picturesque
• Gorran Haven – Sandy beach in charming village
• Porthcurnick – Roseland Peninsula, year-round access

West Cornwall:

• Porthkidney Sands – Vast beach near St Ives, rarely crowded
• Long Rock – Between Penzance and Marazion, views of St Michael's Mount
• Gwynver – Near Sennen, wild and beautiful
• Nanjizal – Near Land's End, spectacular rock formations

The Lizard:

• Poldhu Cove – Seasonal restrictions July-August only
• Mullion Cove – Year-round, picturesque harbour
• Kynance Cove – Restrictions 1st July-31st August, 10am-6pm only

Beach Safety for Dogs

Cornwall's beaches are generally safe, but keep these tips in mind:

Tides – Cornwall has significant tidal ranges. Check tide times, especially at beaches like Perranporth where the sea can come in quickly. Several people and dogs get caught out each year.

Currents – Strong rip currents occur at surf beaches like Fistral and Perranporth. Keep dogs close if they're swimming, and don't let them swim where you wouldn't swim yourself.

Hot sand – Summer sand can burn paw pads. Test with your hand—if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them. Stick to wet sand near the waterline on scorching days.

Blue-green algae – Occasionally appears in freshwater lakes and estuaries during warm weather. Avoid if water looks unusual or has a greenish scum. It's toxic to dogs.

Rinse after swimming – Salt water can irritate skin and upset stomachs if dogs lick themselves dry. A quick freshwater rinse helps.

Jellyfish – Keep dogs away from jellyfish on the beach, even dead ones can sting.

Palm oil – Occasionally washes up on beaches and looks like white waxy lumps. It's harmful if ingested—keep dogs away and report sightings to the council.

Beach Essentials to Pack

• Fresh water and collapsible bowl (sea water causes dehydration)
• Poo bags (more than you think you'll need)
• Towel for drying off
• Sun shade or beach tent (dogs overheat easily)
• Dog-safe sun cream for pink noses and ears
• Lead (even for beaches without restrictions—useful for encounters with other dogs)
• First aid kit including tick remover
• Cooling mat for hot days
• Life jacket if your dog loves swimming but isn't confident

Best Dog Walks in Cornwall

Cornwall offers everything from gentle strolls to challenging all-day hikes. Here are our favourites:

Coastal Walks

Padstow to Harlyn Bay (6.9 miles, moderate) This South West Coast Path section includes dog-friendly beaches at Harbour Cove and Hawker's Cove, plus acres of sand at low tide. Finish with lunch at one of Padstow's many dog-friendly pubs.

Zennor to Gurnard's Head (4.2 miles, strenuous) Wild, beautiful, and bookended by two excellent dog-friendly pubs—The Tinners Arms in Zennor and The Gurnard's Head. The narrow coastal path offers dramatic views and fascinating history.

Constantine Bay to Harlyn Bay (6 miles, moderate) A circular walk taking in several of the "Seven Bays" near Padstow. Start at Constantine, walk to Booby's Bay, round Trevose Head, through Mother Ivey's Bay to Harlyn. The Beach Box café at Harlyn welcomes dogs.

Kynance Cove to Lizard Point (3.5 miles, moderate) Britain's most southerly point, with stunning coastal scenery. Keep dogs on leads—there are cliffs and occasional livestock. Look for seals, choughs, and basking sharks.

Trebarwith Strand to Tintagel (4 miles, moderate) Combine beach time with dramatic castle views. The Port William Inn at Trebarwith welcomes dogs, as does the café at Tintagel Castle.

Fowey to Polridmouth Cove (3 miles, easy-moderate) A lovely walk from Fowey along the coastal path to a secluded cove, perfect for a peaceful swim.

Woodland and Countryside Walks

Cardinham Woods (various routes, 2-6 miles, easy-moderate) Four waymarked trails through beautiful woodland near Bodmin. Excellent café for post-walk cream teas. One of the best wet-weather options.

Tehidy Woods (various routes, up to 9 miles of paths, easy) West Cornwall's largest woodland, with multiple access points. The North Cliffs circular walk is signposted throughout. Café and picnic areas available.

Lanhydrock (various routes, easy) National Trust estate near Bodmin with 900 acres of parkland and woodland. Dogs welcome on leads in gardens.

Bodmin Moor – Rough Tor and Brown Willy (6 miles, challenging) Scale Cornwall's two highest peaks for coast-to-coast views. Keep dogs on leads March-July for ground-nesting birds, and watch for sheep and wild ponies.

The Saints Way (27 miles, challenging) Ancient pilgrim route from Padstow to Fowey. A two-day adventure crossing moors, woodlands, and countryside. Break at The Old Engine House in Lanivet.

Easy Walks for Older or Less Mobile Dogs

If you have a dog like Charlie who needs gentler terrain (he has hip dysplasia), these walks work well:

Camel Trail – Traffic-free path along an old railway line. Flat, well-surfaced, beautiful scenery. You can walk as much or as little as you like. Runs from Padstow to Bodmin (about 18 miles total) but easily broken into shorter sections.

Penrose Estate – National Trust property near Porthleven with flat woodland tracks and Cornwall's largest natural lake (Loe Pool). Multiple easy routes, all well-maintained.

Trelissick – 375 acres of parkland, woodland, and shoreline near Truro. Mostly gentle terrain with scenic estuary views. Dogs welcome on leads in the gardens too.

Gannel Estuary (near Newquay) – Easy walk along the tidal estuary from Crantock. Keep dogs on leads near wildlife. Flat and scenic.

Loe Bar to Porthleven (2 miles one way) – Easy walk along the shingle bar separating Loe Pool from the sea. Beautiful views, minimal climbing.

Walks by Difficulty

Easy (under 3 miles, minimal climbing):

• Camel Trail sections
• Penrose Estate circuits
• Trelissick gardens
• Loe Bar to Porthleven
• Cardinham Woods (shorter routes)

Moderate (3-6 miles, some climbing):

• Padstow to Harlyn Bay
• Constantine Bay to Harlyn Bay circular
• Kynance Cove to Lizard Point
• Fowey to Polridmouth Cove
• Poldhu to Mullion Cove

Challenging (6+ miles or significant climbing):

• Zennor to Gurnard's Head
• Rough Tor and Brown Willy (Bodmin Moor)
• The Saints Way (27 miles, 2 days)
• Lizard Peninsula circular (11km+)
• Coast path: Watergate Bay to Bedruthan Steps (5 miles)

Dog-Friendly Attractions

Cornwall has more dog-friendly attractions than almost anywhere in Britain. Here are the highlights:

Gardens

Trebah Garden (near Falmouth) – One of Cornwall's most dog-friendly gardens. Sub-tropical plants, winding paths, and a private beach. Dogs welcome throughout on leads.

Lost Gardens of Heligan (near Mevagissey) – Over 200 acres of romantic gardens and woodland. Dogs welcome on leads.

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens (near Penzance) – Combine art and nature with stunning views over Mount's Bay. Dogs welcome, café has outdoor seating.

Eden Project (near St Austell) – Dogs welcome in outdoor gardens but not inside the famous biomes. Best visited in a group so someone can stay with the dog while others explore inside.

Lanhydrock (near Bodmin) – National Trust estate with magnificent gardens. Dogs on leads welcome.

Trelissick (near Truro) – Beautiful National Trust garden overlooking the Fal estuary. Dogs welcome.

Castles and Historic Sites

Tintagel Castle (English Heritage) – Dramatic clifftop ruins linked to King Arthur legend. Dogs welcome on leads. The new footbridge is spectacular.

Pendennis Castle (near Falmouth) – Henry VIII fortress with panoramic views. Dogs welcome throughout grounds and inside most buildings.

St Mawes Castle (near Falmouth) – Sister castle to Pendennis, overlooking the Fal estuary. Dogs welcome on leads.

Restormel Castle (near Lostwithiel) – Atmospheric circular ruins. Dogs welcome on leads.

Museums and Unique Attractions

Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum (near St Austell) – UK's only china clay museum, plus 26-acre country park with woodland walks. Dogs welcome throughout outdoor areas.

Geevor Tin Mine (near Penzance) – Fascinating mining heritage site. Dogs welcome everywhere except underground tour.

Bodmin Keep – Cornwall's Regimental Museum with 12,000 military exhibits. Extremely dog-friendly—they even have resident dogs (Django, Spingo, and Nessie).

PK Porthcurno (Telegraph Museum) – Story of global communications from a Cornish valley. Dogs welcome in museum and café.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary (Gweek) – Unusual for a wildlife attraction to allow dogs, but they do (on leads). Learn about seal rescue and rehabilitation.

The Minack Theatre (Porthcurno) – Incredible outdoor theatre carved into the cliffs. Dogs welcome for tours (not performances). Stunning views.

Boat Trips

Jubilee Queen (from Padstow) – Harbour cruises and coastal trips. Dogs welcome.

Fal River Ferries (Falmouth) – Services to St Mawes, Flushing, and Truro. Dogs travel free.

Looe to Polperro boat – Scenic coastal trip. Dogs welcome.

Steam Railways

Bodmin & Wenford Railway – Heritage steam railway through countryside. Dogs welcome in some carriages.

Lappa Valley (near Newquay) – Narrow-gauge railway plus 35 acres of trails and attractions. Dogs welcome throughout the outdoor areas.

Launceston Steam Railway – Victorian locomotive rides. Dogs welcome.

Family Activities

Hidden Valley Discovery Park (The Puzzle Park) – Family attraction with activities and nature trails. Dogs welcome on leads.

Healey's Cornish Cyder Farm – Free entry, cider tasting (for adults), farm animals, tractor rides. Dogs welcome everywhere except jam kitchen and restaurant.

Roskilly's Farm (The Lizard) – Ice cream farm with animals and walking trails. Dogs welcome.

Cornwall Gold (Redruth) – Shopping, history, entertainment centred on mining heritage. Dogs welcome including in restaurant.

Dog-Friendly Pubs and Restaurants

Cornwall's food scene has exploded in recent years, and thankfully many top establishments welcome dogs. Here's a selection beyond what's covered in the town guides:

Destination Dining (Dog-Friendly)

The Gurnard's Head (near St Ives) – Striking yellow pub on the coast path between St Ives and St Just. Exceptional food using local, seasonal, sometimes foraged ingredients. Dogs welcome throughout. Worth going out of your way for.

The Old Coastguard (Mousehole) – Beautiful position overlooking the harbour, excellent cooking, genuinely dog-friendly. One of Cornwall's finest gastropubs.

Paul Ainsworth at No6 (Padstow) – Dogs welcome at lunchtime at this Michelin-starred restaurant. Book ahead and mention your dog.

Prawn on the Lawn (Padstow) – Outstanding seafood from the fish counter, cooked simply. Dogs welcome. Opened by Rick and Katie Toogood.

The Driftwood (Portscatho) – Dogs welcome in certain areas of this Michelin-starred hotel restaurant on the Roseland Peninsula.

Outlaw's New Road (Port Isaac) – Nathan Outlaw's more casual restaurant. Dogs welcome in bar area.

Cosy Pubs

The Halzephron Inn (Gunwalloe) – Awarded Cornwall's Most Dog-Friendly Pub 2019. Generous portions, open fires, stunning clifftop location near the Lizard.

The Ferry Boat Inn (Helford Passage) – 300-year-old pub overlooking Helford River. Excellent food, lovely waterside terrace.

The Springer Spaniel (Launceston) – The name says it all. Proper dog pub.

Pandora Inn (Mylor) – 13th-century thatched pub on the water. Arrive by foot, bike, or boat (limited parking). Dogs welcome in bar.

The Plume of Feathers (Mitchell) – Historic coaching inn between Newquay and Truro, restaurant built over a spring.

The Ship Inn (Mousehole) – Traditional harbourside pub in one of Cornwall's prettiest villages.

Angarrack Inn (Hayle) – Quintessential neighbourhood pub, family and dog-friendly, excellent home-cooked food.

Castle Inn (St Ives) – Over 200 years of history, 30+ Cornish gins, dog treats and water provided.

Pet Shops

If you've forgotten supplies or want to treat your dog, Cornwall has excellent pet shops:

Pets At Home – Branches in Penzance, Truro, Falmouth, and Camborne

Independent pet shops – Found in most Cornish towns, often with local treats and quality supplies

Where to Stay with Your Dog

Cornwall has excellent dog-friendly accommodation across all budgets. Here are some standout options:

Hotels

Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate – Eight luxury beach lodges with direct beach access (seasonal restrictions apply). Dogs welcome in lodges with private gardens.

Padstow Townhouse – Paul Ainsworth's boutique hotel, two ground-floor dog-friendly suites (Rhubarb and Custard, Popcorn). Treats provided.

The Greenbank Hotel (Falmouth) – Historic waterfront hotel with nine dog-friendly rooms. Fleece blanket, bowls, and treats from Bob and Lush provided.

Fowey Hall – Grand country house hotel welcoming dogs in certain rooms. Beautiful grounds to explore.

Budock Vean Hotel – 65 acres of grounds including golf course and gardens, very dog-friendly.

Hotel Tresanton (St Mawes) – Chic boutique hotel, dogs welcome in certain rooms and restaurant.

The Alverton (Truro) – Elegant hotel in former convent, dog-friendly rooms available.

Unique Stays

Rick Stein's Shepherd's Huts (near Padstow) – Charming glamping with dog-friendly units.

Forest Holidays (various locations) – Woodland cabins with hot tubs, many dog-friendly.

Three Mile Beach (Hayle) – Stylish beach huts with dog-friendly amenities, saunas, and beach access.

Cottages

For self-catering cottages, check our Book Your Stay page for specialists including:

• Canine Cottages – Dog specialist, quality properties
• Dog Friendly Cottages – Extensive Cornwall selection
• Dog Friendly Retreats – Premium properties
• Sykes Cottages – Large selection across Cornwall
• Sally's Cottages – Good range, particularly south Cornwall
• holidaycottages.co.uk – Lots of options, varying quality

What to look for: Enclosed gardens are essential for Cornwall where livestock often graze nearby. Ground floor access matters for older dogs. Check how many dogs are allowed—some properties accept multiple dogs.

Planning Your Dog-Friendly Cornwall Trip

Best Time to Visit

Peak season (July-August): Busiest period. Beach restrictions in force on some beaches. Popular towns like St Ives and Padstow get extremely crowded, which isn't ideal for anxious dogs. Accommodation prices at their highest. That said, the weather is typically best and all attractions are open full hours.

Shoulder season (May-June, September): Our recommended time. Weather generally good (September often has the best weather), fewer crowds, more beaches accessible towards end of restrictions. Better accommodation availability and prices.

Off-season (October-April): Quietest period. All beach restrictions lifted. Some attractions have reduced hours or close entirely. Weather can be wild—dramatic storms are common—but Cornwall is beautiful in winter. Excellent for long beach walks with no one else around.

Spring (March-April): Wildflowers along the coast path are spectacular. Easter can be busy. Some restrictions begin Easter weekend.

Getting There

By car: M5 to Exeter, then A30 across Devon and into Cornwall. Allow 4-5 hours from London, 2-3 hours from Bristol. The A30 is generally good but can get congested in summer, especially near Bodmin and at the roundabouts.

By train: Great Western Railway runs regular services to Penzance via Plymouth, taking around 5 hours from London Paddington. Dogs travel free if they fit on your lap or £3.90 for larger dogs (no advance booking needed). The line from Exeter onwards is scenic, hugging the coast at Dawlish.

By air: Newquay Cornwall Airport has limited flights. Not practical for most visitors.

Getting Around

A car is essential for exploring Cornwall properly. Public transport exists but is limited outside main towns, especially for reaching beaches and walks.

Parking: Can be expensive and limited in popular areas. Many beaches have National Trust or council car parks (£3-8 per day typically). An annual National Trust membership (around £85) pays for itself quickly if you visit multiple NT car parks and properties.

Essential Rules

Livestock: Cornwall is farming country. Keep dogs on leads near sheep and cattle. Farmers can legally shoot dogs chasing livestock—this isn't a theoretical threat. The consequences for your dog and the farmer's animals are serious.

Beach rules: Check restrictions before you go. Cornwall Council publishes detailed guidance. Local signs are usually clear but don't assume—fines are up to £1,000.

Cliff paths: Keep dogs on leads near cliff edges. The South West Coast Path has many unfenced sections with sheer drops. One moment of chasing a rabbit could end tragically.

Wildlife: Keep dogs under control around seals on beaches (they bite and can be aggressive) and ground-nesting birds on moors (March-July especially).

National Trust: Most NT properties welcome dogs in grounds and gardens. Some have restrictions in certain areas—check specific properties.

Costs and Budgeting

Accommodation: Dog-friendly cottages from £500/week off-season to £2,000+/week in peak. Hotels £100-300/night. Some charge dog fees (£10-20/night).

Parking: Budget £5-10/day for car parks, more in popular areas.

Attractions: Most gardens and castles charge £10-15 adult admission. Dogs usually free.

Food: Pub meals £12-20, restaurant mains £15-30. Coffee and cake £8-10.

Dog essentials: Fresh water, poo bags readily available in supermarkets and pet shops.

FAQ

Are dogs allowed on Cornish beaches? Yes, many beaches allow dogs year-round. Others have seasonal restrictions (typically Easter/May to September/October). Even restricted beaches usually allow dogs before 9am and after 6pm. Always check specific beach rules before visiting.

What's the most dog-friendly town in Cornwall? Padstow consistently gets top marks for dog-friendliness, with year-round beaches, the traffic-free Camel Trail, and numerous dog-welcoming restaurants. St Ives, Falmouth, and Newquay are also excellent choices.

Can I take my dog to the Eden Project? Dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas including the gardens, but cannot enter the biomes or indoor exhibitions. If you're in a group, you could take turns exploring inside while someone stays with the dog.

Are there dog-friendly boat trips in Cornwall? Yes. The Jubilee Queen from Padstow welcomes dogs on harbour cruises. Fal River Ferries from Falmouth take dogs free. Various other operators along the coast also accept dogs.

What's the best beach for dogs in Cornwall? Harlyn Bay near Padstow is excellent—year-round dog access, good swimming, rock pools, and family-friendly. Watergate Bay offers more space with two miles of sand. Crantock is beautiful and allows dogs all year.

Can dogs go on the South West Coast Path? Yes, dogs are welcome on virtually the entire 630-mile South West Coast Path. Keep them on leads near livestock and cliff edges. It's one of the finest long-distance walks in Britain.

Are there off-lead beaches in Cornwall? Many year-round dog-friendly beaches allow dogs off-lead, including Harlyn Bay, Watergate Bay, Crantock, and Summerleaze. Always check you're in an unrestricted area and maintain control of your dog.

What if my dog isn't good with other dogs? Choose quieter beaches and visit early morning or late evening. The south coast tends to be quieter than the north. Consider locations like Lantic Bay or Polridmouth Cove which require more effort to reach and therefore have fewer visitors.

Is Cornwall suitable for older or less mobile dogs? Absolutely. The Camel Trail is flat and well-surfaced. Beaches like Harlyn Bay and Watergate Bay have easy access. Many woodland walks at Cardinham and Tehidy suit gentler exercise. Charlie manages brilliantly despite his hip dysplasia.

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