Should I take my dog to Cornwall?
It’s a question I get asked a lot.
The answer is, absolutely!
Both you and your dog will love going on holiday in Cornwall together.
Cornwall is not only one of the most beautiful holiday locations in the UK, but it’s incredibly dog friendly.
There are lots of dog friendly beaches, attractions and places to visit in Cornwall so do not hesitate in booking a holiday here for you and your pooch.
Planning ahead will help you and your dog get the most out of your visit, so I’ve put together this guide to dog-friendly Cornwall holidays to help you arrange everything.
We’ve got everything covered from where to go, places to visit and where to stay in Cornwall.
If you are wondering when the best time to visit Cornwall with your dog is, you will certainly have access to more beaches and less crowds if you go out of season.
If you plan on taking your dog to Cornwall in the summer, our top tip is to choose your location based on access to dog friendly days out and things to do near your holiday accommodation.
Let’s dive right in and find out all there is to know about planning a trip to dog friendly Cornwall!
Dog Friendly Location: Bude
We adore Bude.
It’s a wonderful seaside town in North East Cornwall, that also welcomes dogs with open arms.
It boasts an array of independent cafes and dog friendly pubs, that both you and your four-legged friend will enjoy.
The great thing about taking your dog to Bude is most of the award-winning beaches welcome dogs all year round.
There may be restrictions on some of the busier beaches, but you will find a place to play by the sea with your dog whatever month you’re visiting.
Widemouth Bay, just outside of Bude, is a great beach to take your dog too.
Things to do in Bude with Dogs
There are plenty of dog friendly days out in and around Bude, which makes it another great choice for your holiday.
- Sandymouth Beach – This National Trust beach is the perfect playground for you and your dog. There are plenty of dog friendly paths around the beach but take extra care if exploring the surrounding cliffs.
- The Milky Way Adventure Park – If you are looking for a dog friendly activity to do with the kids, just head over the border into Devon to The Milky Way Adventure Park. Well behaved dogs on lead are welcome in most areas – including indoors – which makes for a great family day out.
- Boscastle – a visit to this unspoilt harbour village and natural inlet is another great place to visit with your dog. You will also be able to explore the ancient woodland of the Valency Valley – with a 4 mile dog friendly circular walk taking in the whole area.
- Hidden Valley Discovery Park – this unique attraction where visitors get to solve the ingenious puzzle trail also welcomes well behaved dogs on leads.
Dog Friendly Places to Stay in Bude
Seashells, Bude
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Seashells has not only been completely refurbished to the highest standard, but it also provides easy access to Summerleaze beach, which is dog friendly, and in central Bude.
Discover more dog friendly cottages in Cornwall.
Dog Friendly Location: Newquay
Newquay isn’t just a popular destination for surfers to hang out, it’s also the perfect dog friendly destination in Cornwall.
You may find there are a few restrictions in place at local attractions or on the beaches, but nothing that will hamper you and your dog enjoying your time in Cornwall together.
If you visit out of season, you could well find it’s just you, your dog and a few die-hard surfers on Fistral Beach.
You will find that most pubs, restaurants and cafés welcome dogs into their establishments, but always check in advance to avoid any disappointment.
Things to do in Newquay with Dogs
- Lappa Valley Steam Railway – if you want to introduce your dog to exploring the stunning Cornish countryside on a beautiful steam train, then this is a must dog friendly day out.
- Tintagel Castle – If you were wondering if dogs can visit Tintagel Castle – this magical English Heritage site does allow them to visit but they should be kept on the lead. Be mindful that there are a lot of steps and steep cliffs, so it may not be suitable for less mobile dogs.
- Holywell Bay – this beautiful golden sand beach – surrounded by dunes – welcomes dogs all year round. Parking fees apply unless you are a National Trust member.
- Port Isaac – whether you are a fan of the TV show Doc Martin or not, you and your dog can enjoy exploring this stunning fishing village all year round.
Dog Friendly Places to Stay in Newquay
Bay Cottage, Newquay
Sleeps: 5
Bedrooms: 3
This stunning dog friendly holiday cottage provides great access to Fistral Beach, local dog friendly bars and restaurants and is a stone’s throw from some incredible coastal walks.
It also features an enclosed garden which makes it perfect for a dog friendly holiday in Newquay.
Dog Friendly Location: Falmouth
Falmouth is a vibrant maritime town with plenty to offer dogs and their owners who want to visit Cornwall.
During the summer months the beaches in Falmouth are off limits to dogs during certain hours, but you don’t have to venture far out of town to find a dog friendly beach.
There’s Carne beach and Polgwidden beach just a short drive away, both of which are dog friendly all year round.
Falmouth does have a vast array of dog friendly pubs, restaurants and cafés and also makes a great base for exploring the local attractions.
Things to do in Falmouth with Dogs
- The Eden Project – deemed one of the best attractions in Cornwall, you’ll be delighted to know that your dog is welcome to visit with you. Sadly, they aren’t able to enter the biomes, but in these situations, if you tag team taking care of the dog, you will all still get the entire Eden Project experience.
- Cornwall Seal Sanctuary – venture to the Cornish village of Gweek to appreciate first-hand what the team there do to take care of the seals in their care. Your dog will also be welcome to join you if kept on a lead.
- The Lost Gardens of Heligan – you can enjoy exploring the largest garden restoration in Europe with your four-legged friend by your side at this dog friendly day out in Cornwall.
Dog Friendly Places to Stay in Falmouth
Thalassa, Falmouth
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Perfectly located on the High Street, Thalassa will enable you to enjoy both the harbour views and exploring the cobbled streets of Falmouth with your pooch during your stay in Cornwall.
Final Thoughts
If you were in any doubt as to whether Cornwall was a dog friendly holiday destination, we’re sure you will agree, there will be plenty to see and do with your dog during your stay.
Inspired? Why not book a dog friendly holiday to Cornwall right away with Aspects Holidays. We promise, your dog will thank you for it!
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