Discover Dog-Friendly Cornwall – and Support NAWT Cornwall

At the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT), we’re proud to have five rehoming centres across the UK – and one of them is right here in beautiful Cornwall.

Cornwall is a dream destination for families – and that means the whole family, including your four-legged friends. From golden beaches and coastal walks to family attractions, boat rides, and wildlife encounters, Cornwall is packed with things to do with dogs. Many of the county’s best-loved spots offer a warm welcome to wagging tails, so you’ll never need to leave anyone behind.

And when you explore Cornwall’s dog-friendly places, you’re also helping the local animal-loving community thrive. If you pop into our NAWT Cornwall centre in Hayle, you’ll see first-hand the difference your support makes for homeless dogs.

Dog-Friendly Places to Visit in Cornwall

Here are some of our top recommendations:

Towns & Villages

• St Ives – Picturesque harbour, cobbled lanes, art galleries, and nearby dog-friendly beaches like Lambeth Walk.
• Penzance – Sea views, independent shops, and cafés; great coastal walks to Marazion, Newlyn, or Mousehole.
• Marazion – Walk the tidal causeway to St Michael’s Mount, one of Cornwall’s most iconic sights.
• Truro – Cornwall’s only city, with a striking cathedral and hidden independent shops.
• Padstow – Famous for seafood and the scenic Camel Trail, perfect for dog walks.
• Port Isaac – The setting for Doc Martin, with narrow streets, fishing harbour, and coastal walks.
• Mousehole – Charming harbour village with cobbled streets and classic Cornish cottages.
• Fowey – Cobbled streets, boutique shops, and beautiful river views.

Historic & Cultural Attractions

• Tintagel Castle – Dramatic cliffside ruins tied to King Arthur legends; dogs welcome in the grounds.
• Pendennis Castle & St Mawes Castle – Tudor forts with panoramic sea views.
• Minack Theatre – An open-air clifftop theatre with gardens to explore.
• Restormel Castle – Hilltop ruins with sweeping countryside views.
• Chysauster Ancient Village – Remarkable Iron Age settlement remains.

Gardens & Estates

• The Lost Gardens of Heligan – Expansive, restored gardens perfect for wandering with your dog.
• Trebah Garden – Subtropical paradise with its own private beach.
• Trelissick – Woodland walks with river views (dogs not permitted in formal gardens).
• The Eden Project – Iconic biomes; dogs welcome in outdoor grounds.
• Pinetum Park – Beautiful themed gardens and woodlands.

Coastal Walks & Nature

• South West Coast Path – 630 miles of cliff-top walking; plenty of short, scenic sections for dogs.
• Bodmin Moor – Rugged, open moorland dotted with ancient monuments and walking trails.
• Tehidy Country Park – Cornwall’s largest woodland area with varied walking routes.

Dog-Friendly Beaches

With over 100 beaches allowing dogs year-round, you’re spoilt for choice.
Some highlights:

• Perranporth Beach – miles of golden sand and space to run.
• Porth Kidney Sands – vast open beach near St Ives.
• Hayle Beach – three miles long, with sand dunes and spectacular views. This is also local to our NAWT Cornwall centre!
• Gorran Haven – a peaceful sandy beach with a sheltered harbour.

Things to Do in Cornwall with Dogs and Kids

• Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm – Family-run cider farm near Truro. Kids can enjoy tractor rides, meeting farm animals, and exploring orchards, while dogs on leads are welcome in most outdoor areas.
• National Lobster Hatchery (Padstow) – An educational and interactive centre where kids can learn about marine conservation and see lobsters up close. Dogs on leads are welcome in the main visitor centre.
• Wheal Martyn Museum & Country Park – Cornwall’s china clay heritage site, with outdoor trails, woodland walks, and historic machinery. Great for curious kids and dogs on leads.
• Lappa Valley Steam Railway – A charming steam railway through the Cornish countryside, with play areas and nature walks. Dogs can ride the train, making it a hit with children and furry friends alike.
• Cornish Seal Sanctuary – Located in Gweek, this conservation centre rescues and rehabilitates grey seal pups. Dogs on leads are welcome across most of the site, so the whole family can learn about marine life together.
• Dog-Friendly Boat Trips & Ferries – Many operators around Falmouth, St Mawes, and Padstow welcome dogs on board. From river cruises to short ferry rides, it’s a fun way to explore Cornwall’s waterways with the family.
• Tehidy Country Park – Woodland trails, lakes, ducks, and picnic areas make this a full day out for families and dogs.
• South-West Coast Path Short Walks – Choose family-friendly stretches with easy gradients, such as around Gorran Haven or Marazion.

Why Cornwall is Perfect for Dogs and Owners

• Scenic Variety – From coastal cliff paths to inland woodlands.
• Pet-Friendly Pubs and Cafés – Many offer water bowls, treats, and shaded seating.
• Heritage & Culture – Castles, gardens, and fishing villages where dogs are welcome.
• Adventure Opportunities – Kayaking, walking trails, and open beaches to explore together.

Support NAWT Cornwall While You Explore

If you’re visiting Cornwall, why not plan a stop at our NAWT Cornwall centre in Hayle? You can:

• Meet animals looking for their forever homes.
• Learn about our rescue and rehoming work.
• Support us with a donation or by buying from our onsite shop.

Every adventure you take in Cornwall can also be an opportunity to make a difference for animals in need.

Plan your dog-friendly Cornwall trip today – and help us protect, care for, and rehome pets in need.

Find out more about NAWT Cornwall here →