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The best dog walks in Cornwall
Taking your dog on your family holiday just got even better. That’s because, on a Cornwall dog walk, you can stumble upon hidden gems and undiscovered pathways along the coast.
Walking is a great way to boost your mood – the natural stress relief that comes with enjoying nature-filled dog walks, paired with a relaxing UK break, will no doubt make your Cornwall holiday memorable.
Whether you’re looking for a short wander or a day out, a bustling beach or a secluded space – there’s a dog walk in Cornwall perfect for every pooch.
Before you go, remember:
- Always keep your dog on a lead around livestock and wildlife
- Check the rules of certain parks and beaches before you go as seasonal restrictions may apply
- Always clean up after your dog
- Make the most of Cornwall's abundance of dog-friendly pubs and cafes
- Be sure each beautiful beach or bay you stumble upon is dog-friendly, you’ll want to scope out some of the best dog-walking routes in Cornwall before you visit
Top 20 dog walks in Cornwall
St Ives circular
If you’re looking for circular dog walks in Cornwall, this one in St Ives wraps comfortably around the mini ‘island’, providing panoramic views of St Ives and the Atlantic Ocean. Just one mile long, the walk is the ideal dog-walking route for shorter legs or those who aren’t up to the usual ups and downs of the Cornish coast near St Ives Bay.
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St Ives to Zennor
Starting just a few steps away from The Sail Lofts car park, the pathway directs you all the way towards Zennor. Keep an eye out for seals in the sea on the way there! Plus, on the way back, you can come through beautiful countryside. This is a stunning six-mile Cornwall dog walk that will reveal all the hidden secrets the coastline has to offer.
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The Gannel Estuary
Capture a glimpse of Newquay’s seafaring past, and enjoy the Gannel Estuary with your four-legged friend. The ideal place for history lovers and birdwatchers, the Estuary now provides a recreation area and nature reserve. You may need a lead for this route, as the Gannel is a tidal river and there is plenty of wildlife living peacefully. The Estuary is an easy dog walk in Cornwall.
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Crantock Beach
Framed by sand dunes, high cliffs and the River Gannel, Crantock Beach was voted Best British Beach by BBC Coast in 2013. Situated just a 15-minute drive from Newquay town centre, there’s a car park, public toilets, and a seasonal lifeguard station. What’s more – dogs are allowed to zoom along the golden sand all year round!
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Black Rock Beach
Known for its surfer-friendly waves and another dog-friendly beach next door, your pup will be spoilt for choice when you take them to Black Rock Beach. Both Black Rock Beach and Widemouth are the perfect spots for those water-loving dogs! There’s a ramp leading down to the sand for easy access, with seasonal lifeguards and rock pools to discover.
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South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path runs for 630 miles, with many dog-friendly sections. Popular routes include those around Land's End, the Lizard Peninsula, and Tintagel.
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Bodmin Moor
Explore the rugged landscapes and open spaces of Bodmin Moor. Bodmin Moor is a significant and picturesque upland granite moorland in northeastern Cornwall, England. It is characterized by its rugged beauty, rich history, and diverse natural environment. The moor is home to Cornwall's highest peaks, including Rough Tor 400 meters offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
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Perranporth Beach
Perranporth Beach is one of Cornwall's most famous and popular beaches, known for its expansive sandy shoreline, surf-friendly waves, with plenty of dog friendly walks. Perranporth Beach boasts three miles of golden sand at low tide, making it ideal for long walks, beach sports, and sunbathing. The beach is backed by sand dunes, adding to its natural beauty.
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Lanhydrock Estate
Lanhydrock Estate, located near Bodmin in Cornwall, is one of the most magnificent National Trust properties in the region. It offers a blend of historical intrigue, stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and over 1,000 acres of parkland and woodland. The gardens at Lanhydrock are meticulously maintained, featuring Victorian parterres, topiary, and colourful flowerbeds.
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The Camel Trail
The Camel Trail is one of Cornwall's most popular multi-use recreational trails, offering a scenic route through some of the county's most beautiful landscapes. The Camel Trail stretches for 18 miles from Padstow to Wenford Bridge. It follows the route of a disused railway line along the River Camel with lush woodlands, tranquil riverbanks, and rolling countryside.
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Gwithian Beach and Godrevy Point
Gwithian Beach and Godrevy Point are two of Cornwall’s most stunning coastal destinations, offering a mix of beautiful sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and rich wildlife. The point offers dramatic cliff-top views of the Atlantic Ocean and St. Ives Bay. It’s a prime spot for photography and enjoying the rugged coastal scenery.
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Pentewan Valley Trail
The Pentewan Valley Trail is a scenic, multi-use trail in Cornwall, ideal for walking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The trail is approximately 5.5 miles long. It offers a relatively flat and easy route, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You will get to enjoy a mix of landscapes, including lush woodlands, open fields, and riverbanks.
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Polperro to Talland Bay
The walk from Polperro to Talland Bay is one of Cornwall’s most picturesque coastal routes, offering stunning sea views, charming villages, and a mix of terrains. The walk is approximately 4 and the path offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and panoramic sea vistas.
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St. Nectan’s Glen
St. Nectan’s Glen is a mystical and enchanting valley in North Cornwall, known for its lush woodland, atmosphere, and stunning waterfall. The highlight of St. Nectan’s Glen is the 60-foot waterfall St. Nectan’s Kieve. The water cascades through a hole in the rocks into a beautiful plunge pool below. The glen is a deep, wooded valley that follows the Trevillet River.
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Loe Bar and Penrose Estate
Loe Bar and Penrose Estate are two of Cornwall's most captivating destinations, offering stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and a variety of outdoor activities. Loe Bar is a natural sandbar and pebble beach with dramatic views of the sea and surrounding coastline. While Loe Pool is Cornwall's largest natural lake, it’s a freshwater lagoon that has loads of wildlife.
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Marazion to Perranuthnoe
The walk from Marazion to Perranuthnoe is a scenic coastal route along the South West Coast Path, offering beautiful views of Cornwall’s rugged coastline, villages, and striking natural landscapes. You will get to see St Michael’s Mount, with stunning views of the castle and gardens. Experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky cliffs, and the Cornish coastline.
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Trebarwith Strand to Tintagel
The walk from Trebarwith Strand to Tintagel is a spectacular coastal route, offering stunning views of the rugged Cornish coastline, dramatic cliffs, and rich history. The walk starts at Trebarwith Strand, a picturesque beach near Tintagel, and ends in Tintagel, a village renowned for its historical and mythical connections, particularly with the legend of King Arthur.
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Newlyn to Mousehole
The walk from Newlyn to Mousehole is a charming coastal route along the South West Coast Path in Cornwall. This relatively short walk offers stunning views of the rugged Cornish coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and a delightful blend of natural beauty and local culture. The walk starts in Newlyn, a bustling fishing port, and ends in Mousehole, a picturesque and historic village.
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Tehidy Woods
Tehidy Woods is a wonderful destination for those seeking a natural retreat in Cornwall. Its combination of scenic beauty, historic charm, and diverse wildlife makes it an appealing spot for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of Cornwall’s woodlands.
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Trengwainton Garden
Trengwainton Garden offers a wonderful opportunity to explore diverse plant collections, enjoy scenic walks, and experience the natural beauty of Cornwall. It’s a delightful destination for gardening enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day out in a beautiful setting.
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What you need to know
With its rugged coastline and seaside villages, Cornwall sees more sunshine than most of the UK, making it one of the most popular getaway destinations. There’s plenty of dog-friendly accommodation, woodland walks and many beaches where your pooch can roam free.
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