As you’re probably well aware, we have a bit of a soft spot for dogs.
With vast sandy beaches and open moorland, Cornwall is full of inspiration for dogs that like to explore. Here are our top tried and tested dog walks.
Situated on the banks of the Camel Estuary, Harbour Cove beach is just a short walk around the corner from Padstow. Its crescent shape is extenuated during low tide, which makes it the perfect place for your pooch to run wild. Plus, it’s just a short walk away fromSt Petroc’s Bistro, where you can have a post-walk tipple in our snug bar!
At the head of the Camel Estuary is Daymer Bay, a long stretch of sand that faces Padstow. With sand dunes and plenty of beach space during low tide, the bay is a popular choice for both dogs and their owners alike.
Known as one of the best surfing hotspots in Europe, Fistral beach in Newquay is one of the more popular beaches in Cornwall – but it is also dog friendly. Watch the waves and surfers as you walk your pooch from one end of the beach to the other, finding an abode at Rick Stein’s when you’ve finished.
Located between St Anthony and Helford Village, this secluded little spot is an ideal place for your dog to let off some steam and have a splash in the Helford Estuary. Backing up onto the Bosahan Estate, this small beach can be accessed on foot by walking though the beautiful Bosahan Garden – known for being the ‘the most Cornish of all Cornish gardens’.
With a stunning view of the Fal estuary, the Trelissick woodland area is a tranquil, dog friendly zone where you can ramble through countryside, a beach and greenery. Walk wherever your heart is content, follow the circular route or if you’d like, check out the secret route…
Near the Lanhydrock Estate is a woodland area which is ideal for pups to run riot. The circular walk takes you along the River Fowey, passing through a semi-natural ancient woodland. There are designated dog bathing areas (so not to disturb the otters!) which your dog can frolic around in, and with the bluebells and wild garlic, the walk will be extremely enjoyable for you too.
This mixed woodland area has four waymarked routes and is a haven for you and your dog. Let your pooch run free off-lead and bound into the shallow river that runs through the woodlands to cool off. Make sure you check out the various viewpoints, and finish off your walk with a visit to the quaint, dog friendly café.
This walk starts with a gentle ferry ride across the estuary from Padstow to Rock. Make your way along the sand dunes and coastal footpath to DaymerBay, before heading up Brea Hill where you will be treated to fantastic views of the estuary. Continue on to the picturesque St Enodoc Church and then follow the footpath beyond Daymer beach around the beautiful cost path to Polzeath.
This walk around the historic Pendennis Headland will reward you with fantastic views across Falmouth harbour, Gyllyngvase beach and the Cornish coastline beyond. Take time to explore the heritage of Pendennis Castle.
This walk includes both countryside and coastal views. Start at the Rashliegh Arms in Polkerris and walk through the Cornish countryside and lanes to the old mule trail in to Readymoney Cover. From here you can take in the views from the lookout point over Fowey and then back along the coastal path for a well deserved pint or two at the Rashleigh Arms.
As you wind your way along the coastal footpath and out of the estuary you can enjoy amazing views across to DaymerBay and Polzeath. On a windy day be prepared to get sprayed from the crashing waves below you. Once you get to Harlyn the dog can run free on the vast beach and if you need to save your legs on the way back you can take a short cut across the cliffs at Trevone.
Starting in the historic and picturesque fishing village of Port Isaac this walk takes you along the dramatic coastline of Lobber Point, Varley Head and Pine Haven – where more often than not you’ll spot a seal hiding in one of the secluded coves. Descend down into the sleepy cove of Port Quin for a run on the beach and then make take a short cut back across the cliffs through pretty woodlands and fields.
