Discover Cornwall’s Best Dog Friendly Activities in Summer
Dog Friendly Things To Do
Cornwall’s a paradise for dog owners, especially in the summer when its stunning landscapes, golden beaches, and scenic trails are perfect for exploring with your four-legged friend. Whether you’re strolling along the dramatic cliffs of the South West Coast Path, discovering hidden woodland trails, or visiting dog friendly attractions, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the summer together. Experience refreshing sea swims or go on countryside adventures with this guide will helping you find the best dog friendly activities in summer, ensuring both you and your pup have an unforgettable Cornish getaway.
Please note that many beaches in Cornwall have seasonal dog restrictions during the summer, often with bans at certain times of the day. We’ve listed the timings below, but as restrictions can vary, we recommend checking local signage or trusted sources for the most up-to-date information.
Dog Friendly Beaches in Cornwall to visit this summer
1. Perranporth
One of the closest beaches in Cornwall to us, Perranporth boasts miles of golden sand, rolling dunes, and even a natural sea pool at low tide. It’s a fantastic spot for dogs as they’re welcome year round. However, during July and August, you’ll need to keep them on a lead between 9am and 5pm.
2. Porthtowan
With its spectacular Atlantic views, Porthtowan Beach is a great spot to visit with your dog. However, during the summer season (May 15th to September 30th), dogs are only permitted before 10am and after 6pm. If you visit outside these hours, there’s a lovely coastal walk leading to Chapel Porth, another picturesque beach where dogs are welcome outside peak times.
3. Portreath
A charming sandy beach backed by dramatic cliffs, Portreath Beach is a favourite for families. While dogs are welcome for most of the year, there are summer restrictions in place – between July 1st and August 31st, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10am and 6pm. Outside of these hours, your pup can enjoy a run along the shore, and there’s even a scenic coastal path nearby if you fancy a longer walk.
4. Trevaunance Cove
This charming cove in the heart of St Agnes is a wonderful year round dog friendly beach. The mix of sand and pebbles, along with its rock pools and caves, makes it an exciting place for pups to explore. While dogs are welcome in all seasons, they should be kept on a lead during the busy summer months.
5. Porth Joke Beach
Porth Joke is a gem between Crantock and Holywell Bay, Porth, often called “Polly Joke” by locals, is a quiet, unspoiled cove perfect for a peaceful dog walk. Unlike many nearby beaches, it has no seasonal dog restrictions, meaning your pup can enjoy the sand and surf all year round. At low tide, rock pools and caves emerge, offering plenty of space for curious canines to explore.
Dog Friendly Attractions
Healy’s Cornish Cider Farm
For a truly Cornish experience, Healey’s is a must-visit for cider lovers. Nestled in the countryside, this working farm offers guided tours, cider tastings, and a chance to explore the orchards. Dogs on leads are welcome in most areas, including the farmyard and picnic spots.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Once lost to time, The Lost Gardens of Heligan have been beautifully restored into one of Cornwall’s most enchanting outdoor spaces. Spanning over 200 acres, these historic gardens offer a mix of exotic plant life, woodland trails, and scenic farmland for both visitors and their dogs to explore. Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the gardens.
Bodmin Railway
Step back in time with a ride on the Bodmin Railway, where you and your dog can enjoy the sights and sounds of a traditional steam train. Running through the Cornish countryside, this heritage railway offers a nostalgic day out, with scenic views of rolling fields and wooded valleys. Well behaved dogs are welcome on board for a small fee, visit their website below for more information.
The minack Theatre
Perched on the cliffs above Porthcurno, the Minack Theatre is one of Cornwall’s most breathtaking attractions. This open-air theatre, carved into the rock face, boasts stunning sea views overlooking the Atlantic. While dogs aren’t permitted during performances, they are welcome during daytime visits, where you can explore the amphitheatre, take in the coastal scenery, and learn about the theatre’s fascinating history.
Cornwall’s Scenic Walks and Nature Trails
1. Tehidy Woods
For a peaceful woodland escape, Tehidy Woods offers a network of trails winding through 250 acres of enchanting forest. This dog friendly haven is perfect for a shady summer stroll, with towering trees and trickling streams to explore. There are several walking routes to choose from, including a gentle circular path around the lake where you might spot swans and ducks. Parts of Tehidy are not dog friendly – please research prior to going!
2. Daubuz Moor
A hidden gem near Truro, Daubuz Moor is a nature reserve teeming with wildlife, wildflowers, and a tranquil riverbank. This peaceful spot offers a mixture of meadows, wetlands, and woodland, making it a varied and interesting walk. The winding paths provide plenty of space for off-lead adventures in designated areas, while the River Allen offers a refreshing paddle for water loving pups. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy a quiet walk, especially in the early morning or golden evening light.
3. Redruth to Gwenapp Pit
Steeped in history and natural beauty, the walk from Redruth to Gwennap Pit combines scenic countryside with Cornwall’s rich mining heritage. The route takes you through rolling fields, ancient footpaths, and remnants of the county’s industrial past before reaching Gwennap Pit, an impressive amphitheatre famously associated with John Wesley. It’s a great walk for those who love a mix of history and landscape, offering plenty of space for dogs to roam while you soak up the stunning views.
4. Holywell Bay to perraporth
This stunning coastal walk follows the South West Coast Path from Holywell Bay to Perranporth, treating walkers to dramatic cliffs, sweeping dunes, and golden beaches. Along the way, you’ll pass rugged headlands, hidden coves, and breathtaking viewpoints where you can pause and take in the scenery. Dogs will love running along the sandy trails and exploring the rock pools at low tide. Ending in Perranporth, you can reward yourself (and your pup) with a refreshing drink at one of the dog-friendly beachside cafés.
5. Kynance Cove to Lizard Point
One of the most breathtaking walks in Cornwall, the trail from Kynance Cove to Lizard Point showcases the dramatic beauty of the Cornish coast. With turquoise waters, towering cliffs, and striking rock formations, it’s a feast for the eyes at every turn. Dogs will love the mix of sandy paths and grassy headlands, though some sections can be steep and exposed, so keeping them on a lead in certain areas is advised. As you reach Lizard Point, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic sea views and the chance to spot seals basking on the rocks below.
Explore Cornwall with you Dog This Summer – Book now
Hollie Davies is part of the marketing team at Penventon Park Hotel. She loves all things seasonal, from crisp autumn mornings to twinkling Christmas nights. She never skips her morning coffee and finds magic in the little things that stick with you, all too well.
