Dog-friendly Cornwall: Where to stay, walk and explore with your four-legged friend
Dog-friendly Cornwall: Where to stay, walk and explore with your four-legged friend
You arrive after a long drive. The sea air is the first to greet you – fresh, clean, full of promise. You open the front door of your dog-friendly holiday home and your dog darts in ahead of you, nose to the ground, tail wagging like mad. There’s space to roam, room to stretch out, no hushed reminders to keep them quiet or leashed indoors. You exhale, finally relaxed. This isn’t a room. It’s a home. And it’s yours – for as long as you choose to stay.
No “no dogs beyond this point” signs, no awkward sidesteps past other guests. Just the freedom to let your dog be a dog – and you, fully at ease.
From peaceful seaside cottages to countryside retreats with enclosed gardens and walking trails on your doorstep, Cornwall offers the kind of stay where your dog isn’t just welcome, they’re part of the adventure.
Why Cornwall is made for dogs
Cornwall is one of the UK’s most dog-loving counties. Whether it’s the rolling coastal paths, year-round dog-friendly beaches or cafes offering biscuits and water bowls, you’ll find that Cornwall warmly embraces your pup wherever you go.
With over 200 beaches open to dogs all year round, and another 70+ with seasonal access, there’s always a shoreline to explore. From the wild energy of Watergate Bay to the calm coves of Porthcurnick, the choice is endless.
Dog-friendly stays to fall in love with
The best holidays are the ones where everyone feels at home, including your dog. Cornwall is packed with stylish, well-equipped holiday homes that are designed with both comfort and practicality in mind.
Think:
- Enclosed gardens for safe zoomies
- Outdoor taps and boot rooms for sandy paws
- Easy access to countryside or coast
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a full-family reunion (dogs included), you’ll find a wide selection of homes to suit your style, many just a stroll away from scenic walks and doggy-paddle-friendly beaches.
Killifreth Stamps, Chacewater (Sleeps 4, 1 Dog)
Tucked among a dappled woodland near Chacewater, Killifreth Stamps is a breathtaking restored engine house, where rustic charm, rewilded gardens and bubbling hot tub moments meet the wild heart of Cornwall.
Sandy paws guest story:
“We have enjoyed our week in this unique holiday home! We only wish we could stay longer. Even Ziggy, our Irish Terrier, felt at home and settled well, in her bed each night.” – Melanie, Nick & Ziggy
Paw points:
- Rewilded garden perfect for wandering and lazy sunbathing among native Cornish flora
- Quiet countryside setting with leafy lanes, ideal for peaceful walks straight from the door
- A wood burner and underfloor heating create the perfect post-walk haven, ideal for warming chilly paws after countryside adventures
Walks on your doorstep:
- The Great Flat Lode Trail – A scenic circular route through historic mining landscapes and woodland paths, ideal for a varied off-lead adventure
- Wheal Busy to Chacewater Loop – A peaceful countryside walk linking leafy lanes, open fields and quiet trails right from the doorstep
- Poldice Valley Trails – Just minutes away, these rugged tracks and woodland paths are popular with local dog walkers and offer plenty of sniffs and space to roam
Ocean View, Mevagissey (Sleeps 8, 4 Dogs)
Ocean View is a contemporary coastal retreat in Mevagissey, offering panoramic sea views, luxurious interiors and an enclosed garden with a hot tub, ideal for families and their four-legged companions seeking a memorable Cornish getaway.
Sandy paws guest story:
“What a fabulous week we have spent at Ocean View! We have done some stunning walks around the coast, enjoyed the restaurants in the town and even learnt to surf. The house is fab and has everything you could possibly need. Great that it was completely secure for the dogs also. Thank you!” – The Smith Family
Paw points:
- Enclosed garden with secure fencing, a safe space for dogs to play off-lead and explore freely
- Easy access to nearby coastal walks and beaches where pups can enjoy the fresh sea air and sandy runs
- Spacious, dog-friendly interiors with durable flooring, making it easy to clean up after beach adventures
Walks on your doorstep:
- Mevagissey Harbour to Pentewan Sands – A scenic coastal walk along the South West Coast Path featuring sandy beaches and peaceful coves, perfect for doggy paddles and sniffing adventures
- Gorran Haven Circular Walk – A gentle loop through countryside and coastal paths offering stunning sea views and quiet spots for your pup to explore
- Polkerris Beach and Coastal Trail – A sandy beach with easy access to coastal trails, great for energetic dogs who love a mix of beach and countryside
Little Cutmadoc Farm, Lanhydrock (Sleeps 8, 2 Dogs)
Hidden in the peaceful Lanhydrock Estate, Little Cutmadoc Farm offers four bedrooms, a private lake and hot tub set in 10 acres of grounds, for an ideal blend of country charm and modern comfort close to Cornwall’s north and south coasts.
Sandy paws guest story:
“The setting was idyllic and very restful. The dog had an amazing time with all the wonderful walks nearby. We all loved Little Cutmadoc Farm and had a fabulous holiday – the sun even shone!” – Jacqui
Paw points:
- Expansive 10-acre grounds provide endless space for dogs to roam, explore and play
- Secluded rural location means peaceful walks right from the doorstep, ideal for nature-filled dog strolls
- Spacious indoor living areas, made for relaxing with your dog after a day of outdoor adventures
Walks on your doorstep:
- Lanhydrock Estate Woodland Trails – Explore miles of peaceful woodland paths right from your doorstep
- Lostwithiel Riverside Walk – A scenic riverside stroll through the charming town, great for a gentle walk with your pup
- Polruan to Fowey Coastal Trail – A scenic route along the estuary with plenty of open spaces and stunning views for adventurous pups
Stargazey, near Mawgan Porth (Sleeps 4, 1 Dog)
Stargazey blends countryside calm with creative soul. This characterful barn conversion, just outside Mawgan Porth, showcases exposed beams, coastal artwork and sunlit spaces, for a stay that feels both grounding and inspiring.
Sandy paws guest story:
“What a lovely place. Superb local spots such as Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth and Fowey. Barney the Cocker Spaniel also thoroughly enjoyed some treats from the treat jar. Thank you for such a wonderful stay.” – Debbie, George, Mark, Abbie & Barney
Paw points:
- Cosy open-plan living space means pups can stay close while you cook, relax or dine – no more sad eyes from the hallway
- Just a short drive from Mawgan Porth beach, a dog-friendly shore year-round with soft sand and salty air for all the sniffs and splashes
- Quiet setting away from the crowds, offering a more relaxed pace for nervous pups or older dogs who love a slower stroll
Walks on your doorstep:
- Porth Reservoir Nature Trail – Just a short drive away, this tranquil circular walk offers woodland shade, water views and flat terrain, ideal for older dogs or gentle strolls
- St Mawgan Circular Walk – A gentle countryside loop from the nearby village, passing through meadows, quiet lanes and a dog-friendly pub for a well-earned rest
- Treyarnon Bay to Porthcothan Beach – A scenic coastal walk along sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, perfect for energetic pups to splash, explore and enjoy endless seaside adventures
Supporting StreetVet: Our Charity of the Year
We believe every dog deserves care, comfort and love, no matter their circumstances. That’s why we’re proud to support StreetVet as our Charity of the Year for 2025-2026.
StreetVet delivers free veterinary care and support to pets of people experiencing homelessness. Their incredible team of volunteer vets and nurses work in towns and cities across the UK, ensuring these loyal companions receive vital medical attention, vaccinations and preventive care.
We’ll be supporting the Cornwall Division’s mission throughout 2025-2026 with fundraising and awareness. Your stay with Cornish Gems helps us give back to dogs who don’t have luxury homes, but are loved just as fiercely.
Whether it’s your dog’s first time digging in the sand or their tenth return to the same beloved beach, Cornwall delivers the kind of moments that stay with you.
It’s in the friendly waves from locals, the dog-friendly holiday homes, the quiet country trails and the scent of sea air that energises every walk.
So grab the lead, pack the treats and make your next holiday one to remember, for both of you.
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