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We love our canines, so finding a dog-friendly cottage in Cornwall that’s as perfect for them as it is for us, is a must. Of course, also knowing which are the best beaches for dogs in Cornwall , or what Cornwall’s top dog-friendly attractions are, will only add to your holiday experience.
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Why Cornwall is great for dog-friendly stays
Cornwall stands out as as dog-friendly holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why.
Some of the county’s most popular attractions welcome canines so if you’re wondering…yes, you can take dogs to Tintagel Castle, *Lanhydrock and along the Camel Trail if your stay is in the North. Down in South Cornwall, dogs are allowed at the *Eden Project near St Austell, Pendennis Castle in Falmouth, and **St Michaels Mount in Marazion.
Generally, most National Trust sites in Cornwall are dog-friendly so if you love pretty gardens and outdoor excursions their Trellisick and Trerice sites are perfect. The wonderful privately owned Trebah Garden (Falmouth) and Heligan (St Austell) welcome dogs too.
*Access may be restricted to outside areas only so its best to check beforehand
**Seasonally between September and April
Top 6 dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall
With 422 miles of coastline and over 300 beaches, this beautiful place is a dog owner’s dream. If you’re wondering which are Cornwall’s best dog-friendly beaches, we’ve narrowed the search to some popular spots that welcome dogs all year round.
Fistral Beach
With its wide sands and access to the South West Coast Path, this sandy stretch is not just for surfers but is also perfect for canines.
Holywell Bay
Between Newquay and Perranporth, this vast beach has scenic caves to explore and streams to splash in, making it a fantastic spot for adventurous pups.
Perranporth Beach
For such a popular sandy stretch, it’s good to know that dogs can go on Perranporth Beach all year round. The beach-based bar The Watering Hole also allows dogs (not to events though)
Watergate Bay
A spacious and picturesque beach near Newquay, which is backed by high cliffs, Watergate Bay is a favourite for dog owners so if your pup needs a bit of socialising, this is the place.
Mexico Towans
Part of the Hayle “three miles of golden sand,” this beach is peaceful and spacious, perfect for letting dogs run free.
Whitsand Bay
With its towering cliffs and soft sand, this beach near Torpoint provides a stunning backdrop for a day out with your four-legged friend.
Top dog-friendly experiences in Cornwall
Family-owned Healey’s Cyder Farm near Truro has been in operation for 300 years and besides their famous cider-producing orchards they have vineyards that produce good wines too! Dogs on a lead are very welcome and can join you on a tractor ride and in the restaurant!
*No dogs in the production halls or in the jam kitchen for hygiene purposes
The famous Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens near Penzance and are best-known for their exotic plants and unusual sculptures. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the trails with you with views over Mount’s Bay.
Geevor Tin Mine is an historic mining site is near Penzance. The views over the sea and coast are wonderful and the tale of Cornwall’s mining history is fascinating. Dogs are permitted throughout the whole site on leads except in the underground mines.
For visitors with young children and dogs, Lappa Valley near Newquay is a must-visit attraction. Kids can enjoy rides on the steam train, adventure golf, picnic areas and play zones. Lappa Valley is extremely dog-friendly and even has a dog exercising field.
FAQ’s about Dog-friendly in Cornwall
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Can I take my dog on St Ives Beach?
St Ives has several beautiful beaches and all allow dogs. Porthmeor Beach, Porthgwidden Beach, Harbour Beach, and Porthminster Beach have restrictions during the summer months however Bamaluz and Lambeth Walk allow dogs all year.
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What months are dogs not allowed on the beach?
Beaches in Cornwall that have restrictions usually impose these during the peak school holiday months. Some allow dogs on the beach but only in the quieter earlier morning hours or the evening. Some have a ban from Easter through to September, and some have restrictions for the summer months of July and August.
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Can you take dogs to the Minack Theatre?
Yes, dogs are allowed at The Minack Theatre during visiting hours. Dogs must be kept on leads and are allowed in all areas including the cafe. Dogs may not go to theatre performances though.
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Can you take dogs to Newquay Zoo?
Unfortunately dogs are not permitted at Newquay Zoo.
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Do buses in Cornwall allow dogs?
Generally speaking yes, dogs are allowed on buses in Cornwall however this would be at the driver’s discretion. Some bus lines will only allow one dog per passenger.
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Are dogs allowed into the Eden Centre?
The Eden Project allows dogs in nearly all of its 20 acres of outdoor space, as well as in the Biome Kitchen, the main building and cafe. Dogs are not permitted in the Biomes themselves or their surrounding walkways, and not in children’s play areas either. Dogs must be kept on leads at all time.
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Can I bring my dog to the Royal Cornwall Show?
Yes! The Royal Cornwall Show is dog friendly but organisers ask that dogs be kept on non-retractable leads and away from the food and drink areas.
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Is Kynance Cove dog friendly?
Yes, Kynance Cove is dog friendly except during the months of July and August when dogs may only enjoy the beach before 10am and after 6pm.
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Are dogs allowed at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary?
Yes, The Cornish Seal Sanctuary near Porthleven does allow dogs on leads, except in the Seal Hospital.
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Can dogs go on the St Ives train?
Yes, dogs may go on the St Ives Bay Bay Line which starts at St Erth. Dogs travel free, and up to 2 dogs per passenger are allowed. Dogs must be kept on leads.
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Can you take dogs to Polgoon Vineyard?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Polgoon Vineyard in Penzance but must be kept on leads, and may not enter the wine-making facilities for hygiene reasons.
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Can dogs go on Gwithian Beach?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Gwithian Beach however restrictions in July and August apply when dogs are only permitted before 10am and after 6pm
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Are dogs allowed on Crantock Beach?
Yes, dogs can go on Crantock Beach all year round.
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Can dogs go on the Fowey ferry?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Fowey-Polruan ferry free of charge but must be kept on leads.
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