Top tips for holidays with dogs in Cornwall 2025
Whilst Cornwall is dog-friendly year round, autumn is one of the best times to visit with your pooch. Seasonal dog restrictions are lifted, the beaches and coastal paths are quieter and so are the pubs and restaurants. Speak to anyone living with a dog in Cornwall and they’ll let you know how dog-friendly it is – in fact, if you’ve visited before you’ll have already noticed that most of us living here reside with four-legged friends.
The open space, sandy beaches and inviting waters are just appealing to our pets as us – which makes Cornwall one of the best places in the UK for a dog-friendly holiday. Keep reading to discover how to get the most out of your dog-friendly stay.
Staying with dogs at The Cornish Place
Freddy & Drummer welcome committee
As proud owners of Drummer and Freddy, we know what makes accommodation dog-friendly – and we are passionate about making our luxury holiday cottages at The Cornish Place welcoming for the whole family.
Expect supplies of doggy treats in the Piggery (as well as human treats) and plenty of spaces for walkies in our dog walking field. There’s also plenty to sniff in the woodland neighbouring the farm, and each cottage has an enclosed garden.
If you’re looking for tips on places to visit during your stay, just ask us and we’ll be happy to help. In the meantime, here are our top tips for holidays with dogs in Cornwall.
Top 10 tips for holidays with dogs in Cornwall
Here are some top tips for making a holiday with your dog in Cornwall smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable for everyone:
Choose the right accommodation – Pick somewhere genuinely dog-friendly, ideally with enclosed gardens, nearby walks, and space for your pup to relax after a busy day. Our luxury self-catered holiday cottages in Cornwall could be just the place.
Check dog restrictions in advance – Some beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, so research timings before you set off to avoid disappointment.
Match walks to your dog’s ability – Cornwall has everything from short scenic strolls to challenging coastal hikes, so pick dog-friendly walking routes suited to your dog’s stamina and fitness. You’ll also want to check whether there are stiles along the way or not, depending on how easy it is for your dog to get over them.
Pack the essentials – A portable water bowl, a dog towel, treats, and a first aid kit make adventures much easier.
Look for dog-friendly cafés and pubs – Most Cornish spots welcome dogs, with many offering water bowls, treats and even doggy ice creams. Keep an eye out along the coastal paths and beaches.
Be mindful of wildlife and livestock – Keep dogs on leads around farm animals and next to cliffs to avoid stress for both you and the local wildlife.
Plan shady breaks on hot days – Coastal paths can get hot, so choose routes with shaded spots and pack plenty of water to keep your dog cool.
Check for dog sitting or daycare options – If you want to visit attractions that aren’t dog-friendly, some local services will happily look after your pup for the day. For guests at The Cornish Place, we will help you make arrangements.
Bring familiar comforts – Their own bed, toys, and food help dogs settle quickly into a new environment.
Clean up responsibly – Always carry poo bags to keep Cornwall’s beauty unspoiled for everyone. If you’re not next to a bin, please carry it until you find one.
Dog-friendly walks in Cornwall
Tired dogs on a walk
Looking for dog-friendly walks you can enjoy during your stay in Cornwall? Check out these beautiful dog-friendly walking routes and trails.
Flushing to Mylor and back: Park in Flushing and walk 2 miles along the coastal path until you reach the village of Mylor. Along the way, you’ll enjoy flat terrain through fields and woods with views over the Fal Estuary.
Grebe to Maenporth circular: Park at Maenporth and follow the South West Coast Path until you reach Grebe beach. Along the way, you’ll enjoy both inland and coastal scenery, including woodland sections and views over Falmouth Bay.
Penrose Woodland: Park next to Helston Boating Lake, then walk through National Trust Penrose. There are a number of walking trails, which take you through woodland and past Cornwall’s largest lake until you reach the coast.
Dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall
Gwithian Beach, Cornwall
Head to the coast to experience the best of Cornwall’s natural scenery. See below for some of our favourite dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall:
Gyllyngvase beach (Falmouth): A wide stretch of sand popular with dog walkers and sociable dogs, Gyllyngvase also has plenty of rockpools to explore at low tide. You’ll see pets fetching balls from the sea, which is often calm, or from the grass in the doggy fields above the coastal path.
Trelissick beach (Feock): Set within National Trust Trelissick, Trelissick beach is a hidden gem overlooking the upper reaches of the Fal Estuary. There are also plenty of woodland walks and fields to throw balls in throughout the rest of the estate.
Perranporth beach (Perranporth): An epic, wide stretch of sand, Perranporth is heaven for dog walkers. Remember to check the tides before you go, and only walk to the far end of the beach when the tide is going out – else, there is a risk you could get cut off.
Gwithian beach (Hayle): Another north coast sandy beach, Gwithian offers a seemingly endless stretch of stunning sand. Head there for a run around, or tie your beach visit in with a walk around Godrevy headland.
Dog-friendly restaurants and pubs in Cornwall
Outside terrace at IndiDog harbourside restaurant, Falmouth
There are a surprising number of dog-friendly pubs and eateries in Cornwall, many of which are close to The Cornish Place. Here are some of our favourite dog-friendly restaurants and pubs in Cornwall.
Indidog: Overlooking Falmouth harbour, Indidog brings a sophisticated take on European cuisine. Expect the freshest ingredients, seasonally inspired menus and some of the best views in Falmouth. Dogs can join you inside or out on the terrace – whatever your preference.
The Moth & Moon: A cosy alehouse recognised as one of the best Cornish pubs by CAMRA, The Moth & The Moon loves dogs! Hang out at the bar, relax in the suntrap out the back and enjoy entertainment including weekly quizzes, spoken word, folk music and jamming nights.
Restaurant Mine: For another chance to sample the best of Cornish produce, Restaurant MINE is known for its quality dishes served up in an intimate courtyard setting. Be sure to book, as there are limited tables – and let them know that your pets are coming.
Harbour House Flushing: We have loved Harbour House Flushing since it was refurbished a couple of years ago and we especially love that it’s dog friendly. Expect locally caught seafood and locally reared meats cooked on a charcoal barbecue – with food so good that it earnt a place in the Michelin Guide.
Dog-friendly days out in Cornwall
Pendennis Castle, Falmouth
Looking for more ideas on what to do with your four-legged friends? Check out these popular dog-friendly visitor attractions:
Pendennis Castle: Uncover the history of Falmouth with an exploration of its Tudor Fortress at Pendennis. Visitors can expect panoramic views over Falmouth Bay, exhibitions on military weaponry and other interesting stories. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the grounds and inside the buildings.
St Mawes Ferry: Take a trip across the Fal Estuary with a ferry from Falmouth to St Mawes. Once you’re there, enjoy coastal walks, swim from the beach and explore the St Mawes fortress, which is also dog friendly. Other routes include ferries from Falmouth to Truro or Trelissick.
Healey’s Cyder Farm: Dogs are welcome to explore Healey’s Cyder Farm near Truro, where you’ll discover how cyder is made, friendly farm animals and even a vintage tractor ride.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary: This unique Cornwall attraction welcomes pets to join you as you meet resident Cornish seals. Visit pups in the pup hospital, meet a friendly flock of puffins, plus there are farm animals and woodland trails.
Trebah Garden: One of the most beautiful subtropical gardens in Cornwall, Trebah Garden is great for a day out with dogs. Enjoy incredible plants, a private beach at the bottom and treat pets to a doggy ice cream at the café.
Newlyn Art Gallery and Exchange Gallery, Penzance: Explore these two galleries to enjoy both local artwork and creations from national and international artists. Well-behaved dogs are welcome at both venues, though they may be restricted from certain exhibitions.
PK Porthcurno: Another unique Cornwall attraction, PK Porthcurno explores the role of Cornwall in modern communications, including its role in setting the first transatlantic communication cables. Dogs are welcome to explore the museum and the grounds of the Minack Theatre which is nearby. Afterwards, head to Porthcurno beach, one of the most beautiful in Cornwall.
Luxury dog-friendly holiday cottages in Cornwall
Stay at The Cornish Place for luxury dog-friendly accommodation in Cornwall. Our self-catered cottages provide the perfect retreat for pets and their owners, with plenty of space surrounded by nature and within close distance to the best dog-friendly beaches, days out and restaurants. Get in touch or book your stay now.