Hops and hounds

Discover dog-friendly delights at six of our favourite St Austell Brewery inns.

Words by Hannah Tapping

Cornwall does dog-friendly like nowhere else: salt on the breeze, coast paths winding over cliffs and pubs that welcome sandy paws as warmly as they do weary walkers. All of St Austell Brewery’s pubs are dog friendly, but we’ve selected six of our favourite seaside boltholes. Expect fresh air, friendly teams, bowls and biscuits by the bar and pints that taste even better after a stomp along the South West Coast Path.

Harbour Inn, Porthleven

In Porthleven, where the harbour wall takes the full drama of Atlantic swells, the Harbour Inn sits right on the action. Inside it’s all scrubbed wood and picture-window views; outside, gulls wheel over bobbing boats while dogs conk out under tables. It’s a brilliant base for an out-and-back to Loe Bar: a gentle, scenic walk that rewards you with dunes, freshwater lagoon glint and plenty of stick-throwing space. Back at base, something tasty from the menu with a pint of Tribute for you, cool water and a sneaky biscuit for your pooch – perfect.

The Pier House, Charlestown

Tall ships, cobbles and creaking rigging bring period-drama charm to Charlestown, and The Pier House is the postcard at its heart. Dogs receive a warm welcome in the bar and on the terrace, where masts etch the skyline. Stroll the harbour, amble along the clay-trail fragments beyond, then settle in for seafood and sea views. On blustery days, nab a fireside corner; on still evenings, the terrace is golden-hour heaven, with the clink of halyards for company and your dog happily people-watching.

Port Gaverne Inn, Port Gaverne

Tucked in a snug cove just around the headland from Port Isaac, the Port Gaverne Inn feels like a secret you’re delighted to share with your dog. This
17th-century inn wears its stone and slate well: low beams, flicker of candlelight and that soft murmur of post-walk contentment. The cove is a natural dog-paddle spot at low tide; climb the coastal path for views that go on and on, then reward yourself with something hearty and local back at the bar. Expect staff who remember your pup’s name by the second round.

The Old Success Inn, Sennen Cove

Land’s End’s neighbour is a sweep of white sand and turquoise water and The Old Success sits with front-row seats. This is beach-life central: surfers hosing down boards, families shaking sand from shoes and dogs rediscovering the joy of sprinting just because. Take the high path to Gwynver for cliff-top drama, or dip to the shoreline when restrictions allow. Inside, the inn is bright and breezy, with big windows catching the light and bowls quietly appearing the moment a wet nose arrives.

The Wellington Hotel, Boscastle

Boscastle’s wooded valley funnels to a narrow, dramatic harbour, and The Wellington stands watch like a storybook inn; because it is one. Low ceilings, creaking floors and just the right amount of ghost-lore. Dogs fit the vibe: welcome wanderers with muddy paws, rewarded with fuss at the bar and a cosy nap while you tuck into something comforting. Walk the blow-hole cliffs towards Pentargon for a proper leg-stretch; on wild-weather days, the sheltered riverside path is a gentler option with just as many sniffs.

The Godolphin, Marazion

Across the shallows, St Michael’s Mount rises like a dream, and The Godolphin gives you front-row magic. Sit on the terrace and watch the tide trace the causeway as dogs survey their beach kingdom below. When the sand opens, pad across to the Mount (respecting dog restrictions) or follow the bay curve towards Penzance for a flat, fetch-friendly wander. Inside, it’s light and contemporary, with that relaxed beach-house energy. Staff are quick with water and a welcome; you bring the sandy paws and contented sighs.

St Austell’s classic ales shine seaside. Tribute is a crisp, citrus-bright pale ale that pairs with fish and chips. Proper Job brings assertive hops for those cliff-path appetites. If you’re keeping it easy, lagers and low-alcohol options appear alongside seasonals; ask the team what’s pouring fresh. Then, at the end of each day, sink into sweet slumber in one of the pub’s cosy guestrooms. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or sheltering from a squall, a visit to a Cornish pub proves the best memories often come with sandy paws curled at your feet and the sea just beyond the glass.

St Austell Brewery
St Austell Brewery, 63 Trevarthian Road,
St. Austell, Cornwall, PL25 4BY
0345 2411122
www.staustellbrewery.co.uk