10 Best Dog-Friendly Attractions in Cornwall

If you’re planning a holiday in Cornwall with all the pack, then you’ll definitely want to hear about some of the county’s best dog-friendly attractions. With Cornwall known for its fascinating history, beautiful landscapes and superb attractions, it offers a wealth of things to see and do within its salt-kissed boundaries – perfect for visitors both two-legged and four. So that you can savour the best bits with your pup, we’ve sniffed out some of the top dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall you can enjoy together during your holiday.

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1. Tintagel Castle

A formidable clifftop castle in North Cornwall, the magical Tintagel Castle has been at the centre of local legend for centuries and has long been intertwined with tales of King Arthur – supposedly being the place of his birth. Today, you can see an 8-foot-tall bronze sculpture of the King atop the cliffs, explore Merlin’s Cave (where the wizard Merlin is believed to have lived), cross the famous hanging bridge and explore the castle ruins with your canine friend – just as long as they are kept on their lead.

2. The Camel Trail

One of the best walking and cycling trails in Cornwall, the Camel Trail is a real favourite amongst two-booted and four-pawed amblers alike. Stretching all the way from the coastal town of Padstow to Wenford Bridge on the fringes of Bodmin Moor, it covers 18 miles of mostly traffic-free, surfaced trail. With it being level almost the whole way, you’ll find yourself easily racking up the steps with your dog at your side, admiring the views over each shoulder and stopping off at the plethora of dog-friendly eateries en route.

3. The Eden Project

Perhaps one of the most famous attractions in Cornwall is the Eden Project, a vast site set within a reclaimed China clay pit in Bodelva near St Austell. Happily, it also happens to be one of the best dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall, with dogs welcome to explore Eden’s miles of outdoor paths and gardens. While you won’t be able to take your dog into the enclosed biomes (home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest), there is still a huge amount to see and do over an afternoon or the whole day.

4. Healey’s Cyder Farm

From tractor rides through apple orchards to animal meet-and-greets to cider tasting, there’s something for everyone at Healey’s Cyder Farm. A brilliant dog-friendly attraction near Truro, it welcomes dogs everywhere onsite, but for its production halls and kitchens, so that everyone can get stuck into the fun. To round off your visit, head over to the farm’s dog-friendly Old Bottlery Restaurant and refuel with delicious dishes whipped up by the restaurant’s chefs using seasonal ingredients from the farm and surrounds.

5. South West Coast Path

According to dogs (they told us), one of the most popular attractions in Cornwall is the South West Coast Path. Affording mile upon mile of free entertainment and adventure, the South West Coast Path traces the entire Cornish coast and offers some of the best walking opportunities in the country. For some of the best walkies in North Cornwall, follow the coast path between Padstow’s 7 Bays for 7 Days and treat yourself to pitstops at its dog-friendly beaches, including Booby’s Bay, Constantine Bay and Harlyn Bay.

6. Bodmin and Wenford Railway

The Bodmin & Wenford Railway is a heritage railway based in Bodmin. First opened in 1834, it was originally used to transport minerals and sand between Bodmin and Wadebridge, before expanding to include passenger services from the mid-1800s onwards. Though today it only operates as a heritage railway, it still provides rail-lovers and their dogs with the chance to experience the same glee as its Victorian holidaymakers would have felt, chuntering along 6.5 miles of picturesque railway.

7. Boat Trips

For a different way to set your sights on Cornwall and its gorgeous coast, why not consider a boat trip with your sea dog? All around the county, licensed operators take visitors from sheltered harbours and out around the coast. As well as providing the chance to enjoy new perspectives on your favourites sights, these trips also offer the opportunity to see whales, dolphins and seals if you’re lucky too. From Padstow alone, there are several operators including Padstow Sealife Safaris and the Jubilee Queen.

8. Pencarrow House and Gardens

Situated on the edge of Bodmin Moor, Pencarrow House and Gardens has been the family home of the Molesworth-St Aubyns for nearly 500 years. Home to listed gardens, an Iron Age fort, a children’s play area, a café (with dog-friendly ice cream, including firm favourites like ‘old sock’) and more, it offers something for all generations. We think your dog will particularly approve of the 50 acres of dog-friendly grounds that are ready and waiting to be explored.

9. Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre

The dog-friendly Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre in Newquay allows you to learn about the history of British aviation through a great hands-on experience, guided by detailed exhibits and volunteer guides. Wander through the site’s ex-Royal Air Force Hardened Aircraft Shelter hangar, discover more than 1,500 model aircraft and take turns climbing into real jets from the 1940s to 1980s. There’s even a simulator that allows you to fly your very own Hawker Hunter around Cornwall!

10. Cardinham Woods

A particular favourite for walks throughout the year is Cardinham Woods, a large area of woodland in central Cornwall. Home to miles of woodland trails, a super café and lots of exciting scents, sights and sounds, it’s an arboreal paradise that showcases a beautiful, lesser-known side of the county. Choose from four way-marked routes, including easy routes and longer, steeper walks, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings and beautiful views that appear through the trees as you stroll with your dog.

Book Your Dog-Friendly Accommodation in Cornwall

Now you know the best dog-friendly attractions and things to do with a dog in Cornwall, book some time away with your pooch in the north coast area of Padstow. We have a wide choice of dog-friendly holiday homes that welcome one, two or more four-legged friends so you can stay somewhere special without leaving any members of the family behind. For more information and inspiration, read our guide to visiting Padstow with a dog.