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Top 7 Dog-Friendly places to visit in Cornwall this summer

Last Updated on October 6, 2025 by admin

With stunning beaches, scenic walks, and plenty of open spaces, Cornwall is a paradise for dog lovers. Whether you’re a dog owner planning your next adventure or a holiday let owner looking to enhance your offering, understanding the best dog-friendly places Cornwall has to offer can make all the difference.

Not only does promoting your property as pet-friendly improve guest satisfaction – it also opens up a broader booking market. In fact, with over a third of UK households owning a dog¹, offering a dog-friendly stay can significantly increase your occupancy rates, especially in peak holiday seasons.

Here are our top 7 must-visit, dog-friendly destinations in Cornwall this summer:

Perranporth Beach

One of the most iconic Cornwall dog beaches, Perranporth Beach is a three-mile stretch of golden sand where dogs can run free all year round (though leads are required in July and August, 10am–5pm). With rock pools, surf, and the famous beachside Watering Hole pub, it’s a hit with both dogs and their owners.

Holiday Let Tip: Properties near Perranporth that allow dogs, often enjoy repeat bookings. Consider offering outdoor showers or dog-friendly welcome packs to make your property stand out.

Tintagel Castle and Coastal Path

The ruins of Tintagel Castle, steeped in Arthurian legend, provide a dramatic setting for a day out with your canine companion. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the indoor exhibitions, they are welcome on the castle grounds and surrounding cliff-top paths all year round.

The South West Coast Path, popularised by the book and subsequent film – The Salt Path, from Tintagel offers unforgettable views and is perfect for active pets and owners.

Insurance Insight: Properties near coastal walking routes may see higher foot traffic and increased wear and tear. Ensure your holiday let insurance includes accidental pet damage and appropriate Public Liability cover.

Cardinham Woods, Bodmin

A peaceful woodland escape, Cardinham Woods offers multiple signposted walking trails, streams to splash in, and shaded paths – ideal for warmer days. It’s an excellent alternative to the coast if you’re seeking somewhere more tranquil.

The woods have designated walking and cycling routes, including the 4-mile Deviock Trail and the shorter Lady Vale Trail. Dogs are welcome, and there are even designated off-lead areas. There’s even a dog-friendly café, Woods Café, nestled in the trees for a post-walk treat.

Why It Matters: Promoting nearby woodland and off-coast walks can be a key differentiator for holiday lets, particularly during busy beach season.

Fistral Beach, Newquay

Arguably Cornwall’s most famous surf spot, Fistral Beach is also a great year-round option for dogs. While parts of Newquay enforce seasonal restrictions, Fistral remains dog-friendly throughout the year.

The wide, sandy beach offers ample room for dogs to run and play, especially at low tide. It is easily accessible, with nearby parking and several pet-welcoming cafés and restaurants. Fistral Beach is within walking distance of Newquay town centre and offers access to scenic clifftop walks along the headland, including views of the famous Headland Hotel.

Holiday Let Tip: Dog-friendly beach access within walking distance is a powerful draw for summer bookings. Highlight this in your property listings and marketing materials.

Trelissick Gardens, near Truro

Owned by the National Trust, Trelissick Gardens offer both formal grounds (dogs welcome on short leads in some areas) and miles of off-lead woodland walks through the estate. The views over the River Fal are breathtaking, and there’s also a dog-friendly café and water bowls on site. Dogs are allowed in the Crofters Cafe courtyard. Note that only assistance dogs are permitted inside the house and across the bridge into Carcaddon.

Things to Do with Dogs in Cornwall: Nature-loving visitors appreciate variety. Include a printed or digital guide in your welcome pack outlining local walks, parks, and attractions like Trelissick.

St. Mawes and the Roseland Peninsula

The charming harbour village of St. Mawes and the surrounding Roseland Peninsula offer a relaxed, scenic atmosphere ideal for pet-friendly holidays Cornwall style. Enjoy coastal strolls, ferry rides where dogs are welcome, and hidden beaches like Porthcurnick, which has no seasonal dog bans. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the historic castle. The Roseland Peninsula is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a wide range of scenic walks and attractions for dog owners. It’s a peninsula separated from the rest of Cornwall by the River Fal.

Pet-Friendly Perk: Quiet, dog-welcoming destinations like Roseland attract guests seeking peaceful escapes. Outdoor hose points, enclosed gardens, and boot/dog wash areas can boost appeal. Even if your property is thatched or listed we can provide appropriate cover.

The Lizard Peninsula and Kynance Cove

The Lizard Peninsula, Britain’s most southerly point, is home to some of Cornwall’s most dramatic scenery and remote beaches. Dogs are welcome at several of the coves, including Kynance Cove (note: seasonal restrictions apply). Dogs are welcome year-round, with miles of countryside and coastal paths to explore. There are dog bins and water bowls available, and the Polpeor Cafe welcomes dogs.

Though a bit more remote, the area’s rugged beauty makes it a favourite among walkers and nature lovers.

Insurance Reminder: If your holiday let is in a rural or coastal area, check your policy includes emergency access cover and appropriate storm or flood protection.

Why dog-friendly means better business

Dog ownership continues to rise in the UK, and with it, the demand for pet-friendly holiday lets. Many guests will happily pay a premium for properties that welcome pets and offer thoughtful amenities like dog bowls, spare leads, throws for sofas, and safe enclosed gardens.

By listing your holiday home on dog-friendly platforms and clearly advertising dog-friendly places Cornwall nearby, you can:

Increase booking rates in both peak and off-peak periods
Attract longer stays (especially for multi-dog families)
Gain repeat business from satisfied pet owners
Boost your online reviews with tailored guest experiences

Protecting your pet-friendly property

Opening your doors to four-legged guests brings fantastic opportunities—but also potential risks. As a specialist provider of holiday home insurance, Boshers Insurance can help ensure you’re fully covered.

Our policies can include:

Accidental pet damage
Public liability protection
Loss of income due to cancellations or damage

Available UK wide, these features are designed to give peace of mind to holiday let owners no matter where you are based, particularly those catering to pet-owning guests.

“Myttin da’gas dynnergh”

Cornish for “You’re welcome” …Whether you’re a holiday let owner looking to add value or a holidaymaker planning your next trip, Cornwall is bursting with dog-friendly attractions, natural beauty, and welcoming communities. By embracing dog-friendly holidays Cornwall, you’re not only offering memorable stays – you’re also futureproofing your property’s success.