Dog-friendly things to do in Cornwall

Holywell Beach 

Nestled in grassy cliffs and rolling sand dunes, this picturesque spot is a paradise for you and your furry companion. Here, your four-legged friend can roam freely year-round, making it the paw-fect destination for dog lovers. It’s a popular area for local surfers and walkers, and for families, there are plenty of rockpools to explore and golden sands to sink your toes into on warm days. 

Safety is key at Holywell Beach, with lifeguards on duty from May to September, so you’ve got peace of mind as you enjoy the coastal scenery. Be cautious near the cliffs, especially with dogs and little ones. 

Parking is convenient with a National Trust car park, though be prepared for the usual charges. And when hunger strikes or thirsts needs quenching, fear not—there’s a charming kiosk, ‘St. Agnes Ices’, serving up snacks, ice cream, and refreshing drinks from April to October. 

Mullion Cove, Helston 

The beach located near Helston is a mix of sand and shingle, perfect for dogs to sniff and explore when the tide’s out. You’ll spot the unique islands off the coast, which were created by volcanic activities and make the ideal photo opportunity. Mullion Cove still has an old Victorian harbour area, with a little shop to stock up on snacks when you’ve worked up an appetite.  

Thankfully, furry friends are allowed here all-year-round! 

Fistral Beach, Newquay 

Fistral Beach is a haven for surfers, walkers, and anyone who craves a bustling yet laidback community. It’s regarded as the home of British surfing and hosts events for the water sport, as well as for skating and music. 

The beach itself, enclosed by rugged headlands, is surprisingly dog-friendly all year round! There are lifeguards from April to October and even access to hot showers and toilets nearby. 

When you’ve soaked up the sun (or drizzle!) stop by one of the food and drink establishments to fuel up for the next part of your dog-friendly Cornwall journey.

Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow 

This informal, relaxed fish bar is the ultimate stop for food-loving dog owners. The seafood-focused menu changes daily depending on the catch of the day, making the most of the local produce. Dogs are more than welcome to stop with you while you grab a bite to eat. 

Padstow is hugely doggy-centric. Once your belly is full, there are plenty of places to walk with your furry companion, including the harbour area, circular town walks, and a coastal stomp to Polzeath. 

INDIdog, Falmouth 

Even though this restaurant looks mightily impressive from the outside with its full glass front and stunning harbour views, the interior and atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. It’s a social space first and foremost, serving up delicious brunch, dinner, and drinks. INDIdog is fully dog-friendly (named after the owner’s lab!) so your four-legged pal can while away the moments at your side while you tuck in. 

When you’re done, have a wander along the harbour between the beaches, many of which are dog-friendly all year round. 

Pizza Jockeys, Falmouth

Fancy a pizza? Pizza Jockeys is opposite Falmouth Pier and offers up a slice of retro charm. It’s a small, cosy establishment that’s totally dog-friendly—your dog will be greeted with a water bowl, snacks, and a blanket for their comfort! 

Opt for a classic pizza like margherita, or something out of the ordinary like pomegranate and pine nut or cheesy Marmite bread. When you’re full, there are plenty of other places to explore including the South West Coastal path. 

Geevor Tin Mine, Pendeen

There are many tin mines dotted around Cornwall but we chose this one for its doggy-friendly attitude! It’s a multi award-winning museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Based in West Cornwall, you can bring your dog around any part of the museum and site (apart from the underground mine) and take in the history of the metal mining industry. 

There are recordings from real miners telling you about how it was to mine tin here, gem panning activities, and plenty of rare artefacts and minerals. As it’s based on the rugged Cornish cliffs, the views are breathtaking and there’s a QR trail to follow around the site. 

Hungry? The Count House Cafe is open Sunday to Thursday to soothe rumbling tummies with local Cornish food. Afterwards, pop into the gift shop to pick up local art prints, Cornish books, and even minerals sourced right on their doorstep. A bonus: there’s free parking. 

Lappa Valley, Newquay

Voted one of the best attractions in the area for kids under 10, Lappa Valley loves dogs, too! It’s home to steam locomotives with their own stories and histories, a nostalgic train ride around the site, and even boat rides. For little ones, visit the soft play area—it’s next to the Engine Shed which serves up tea, coffees, and snacks by local suppliers. 

On your way around the golf course and woodland walk, stop off for an ice cream or pasty at the Crib Hut. 

Although dogs have to remain on leads around most of the venue, there are doggy water bowls dotted throughout and dog biscuits available for good boys and girls. 

Tintagel Castle 

Fancy a bit of myth and magic? Visit Tintagel Castle, a dog-friendly Cornwall English Heritage site with links to King Arthur! It gets pretty popular here, so book in advance. Once you arrive, you can cross the footbridge and reach the remains of the 13th-century castle to explore to your heart’s content. It’s situated on rocky cliffs, so make sure to always keep your dog on a lead. 

When you’ve soaked up the history and magic of these ruins, venture into Merlin’s cave down on the beach and explore the rockpools here. Stop at the beach cafe for a tasty snack or a lick of local ice cream—dogs have access to clean water from a bowl just outside.