Our top 5 paw-friendly attractions in Cornwall

We’ve put our heads together and come up with some of our favourite things to do in Cornwall, and what’s better is that your four-legged friends can get in on the fun too. As always, Cornish weather can be rather unpredictable, so we recommend packing some wellies… just in case!

Golitha Falls

First up we have Golitha Falls, a series of naturally occurring waterfalls and impressive cascades, within a small section of the River Fowey on Bodmin Moor. Shrouded in woodland, the water drops through dramatic gorges carved into ancient granite, making for some breathtaking scenery. There are more serene sections of the river, where medieval stone bridges still stand and are perfectly placed to explore both sides of the river. On warmer days, the calmer pools of water are perfect for dipping a toe or two before enjoying a picnic on the banks. There is a dedicated free car park with ample parking, and there are multiple routes you can take to tire out your pup but do prepare for occasionally ‘ruff’ terrain!

Lantic Bay

If you are looking for more of a challenge, a visit to Lantic Bay is certainly the one for you and your ‘paw-some’ buddy. It’s a National Trust site, with a members & pay as you go car park, which is accessed by narrow country lanes from Lostwithiel. There is a well maintained but naturally steep and uneven coast path that leads down to the real gem that is Lantic Bay. On sunnier days, the beach could be easily mistaken for a Mediterranean oasis, with deep turquoise waters and a scattering of boats leisurely moored for the day. In more grey weather, the steep descent down to the beach makes for the most dramatic, panoramic views of the bay. Tucked away into the cliff, the beach has a real secluded feel meaning out of season, you will often have the whole beach to yourself. So, grab some snacks, pack your pooch’s favourite frisbee and head down for the afternoon. We promise the steep incline back to the car is worth the views!

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Perhaps a more well-known day out would be The Lost Gardens of Heligan, near St Austell. Cornwall’s answer to the jungle, there are acres of historic gardens to meander through, an encompassing rural estate to explore and a working farm with a range of rare-breed animals to spot while they forage. Dogs are encouraged all year round, with extra care to be taken around the livestock, which is of course a given. Heligan really comes into its own during the change of the seasons, as the trees start to turn amber and the leaves eventually drop, that satisfying crunch underfoot is certainly in abundance here. The perfect autumnal expedition you would be ‘barking’ mad to miss!

Polly Joke

If you’re looking to explore the North Coast, Polly Joke is a beautiful little cove nestled between the two greats, Crantock and Holywell Bay. With much larger and slightly more accessible beaches either side, Polly Joke remains relatively unfrequented and very much in touch with the wilder side of Cornwall. During the early days of summer, the sloping meadows leading to the shingled beach are bursting with wildflowers, a truly picture-perfect opportunity. As the seasons change, the signature jagged coastline makes for exquisite viewing as the winter swell stirs the ocean, throwing giant waves against the rugged coastline. As the tide rolls further down the beach, rock fragments scattered along the base of the cliffs are what’s left of this chaos. While your dog explores the beach, the weathered rockface provides a haven for wildlife lovers with glistening rock pools filled to the brim with an array of underwater creatures to really get your tail wagging. Bring some comfy shoes, your camera, and a net!

Trevaskis Farm

Heading further west in Cornwall, we have Trevaskis Farm. Famed for their ever popular ‘Pick Your Own’ produce, it really is the place to be as the leaves start to drop and the pumpkins start to ripen. Seasonal fruits and veggies are ready for the picking, and with the outside areas being completely dog-friendly, your doggy can help you ‘retrieve’ the best ones to take home! Farm entrance is free, and you only pay for what you pick – so while away the afternoon wandering through orchards while you dream up some recipes for your hand-picked goods.