Best Dog-Friendly Places to Visit in Cornwall

Perranporth Beach Dog Friendly

The sun is just starting to make an appearance and many of us will be thinking of where we could go for dog-friendly holidays.  Cornwall is an excellent destination, with many dog-friendly beaches, scenic coastal walks, and plenty of pet-friendly attractions. We have collected some of the best dog-friendly places to visit in Cornwall.

1. Perranporth Beach

Perranporth Beach is one of Cornwall’s most famous dog-friendly beaches. With miles of golden sand and plenty of rock pools to explore your dog will have endless fun here. Dogs are welcome year-round,however during July and August, they are required to be on a lead between 10 am and 5 pm on the main beach area. Even with this restriction, they are allowed on the dunes and the remainder of the beach after the flat rocks off lead.

2. Tintagel Castle

Step into history at Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. This dramatic clifftop site offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of open space for dogs to explore. There is a small entry charge for dogs and please note there are lots of steps, cliff edges and nesting birds so dogs must be kept on a lead. Water is available in the cafe on request.

Tintagel Castle Dog Friendly

3. Fistral Beach

Famous for its surfing scene, Fistral Beach is also a fantastic spot for dog owners. This beach welcomes dogs year-round, providing them with plenty of space to run, play, and dig in the sand. The nearby dog-friendly cafes and pubs make it easy to relax after a long beach walk.

4. Healey's Cider Farm

If you love cider and want to bring your furry friend along for the experience, Healey's Cider Farm is a fantastic option. This family-run cider farm welcomes dogs on leads and offers plenty of outdoor areas to explore. You can take a tour of the orchards, visit the farm animals, and even enjoy a tasting session. Dogs are only not allowed in the production hall and the jam-making kitchen for hygiene reasons.  Sadly, this also means the Cydermaster Tour and Full Healeys Guided Tour are unsuitable for dogs.  However, they are allowed in the restaurant and to come along for a tractor ride.

5. Lost Gardens of Heligan 

The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a must-visit for nature lovers. These beautifully restored gardens offer winding pathways, ancient woodlands, and vibrant floral displays. Dogs are welcome throughout the gardens and the restaurant, as long as they are kept on a lead.  

Lost Gardens of Heligan Dog Friendly

6. Lappa Valley

Lappa Valley is a fantastic destination for families and their four-legged friends. This unique attraction offers dog-friendly steam train rides, beautiful walking trails, and scenic picnic spots. Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the park, making it a perfect day out for pet owners looking to enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation in Cornwall’s countryside.

7. Cardinham Woods

If you and your dog love woodland walks, Cardinham Woods is the perfect escape. With a variety of walking trails, picnic areas, and even a dog-friendly café, this forest is a peaceful retreat.

Dog walks Cornwall

While some of Cornwall’s top attractions have restrictions for dogs, they’re still worth a visit. The Eden Project, one of the county’s most famous landmarks, allows dogs on the outdoor site, though they aren’t permitted inside the Biomes. Similarly, the Minack Theatre, a breathtaking open-air theatre perched on the cliffs, does not allow dogs at performances, but they are welcome to explore the grounds and enjoy the stunning ocean views during the day.

Cornwall is a fantastic destination for dog owners, offering a variety of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and scenic walks. Use wagfriendly to check each location’s pet policies before visiting.