Paw-prints across Cornwall

Join us as we discover ten tail-wagging walks across the county.

Words by Hannah Tapping

From windswept clifftops to shady woodland trails, Cornwall is a paradise for four-legged adventurers. Whether your pup is a beach sprinter, a moorland wanderer or a café-loving stroller, the Duchy offers endless opportunities to explore. Here are ten of our favourite dog walks, each highlighting a different facet of our beautiful county.

King Arthur and the Slate Coast — Treknow to Trebarwith Strand

Step back in time along ancient donkey tracks where slate was once hauled from the cliffs. This rugged wander offers jaw-dropping views, wildflowers in spring and a dog-friendly cove at journey’s end. Thirsts can be quenched and appetites sated at the Port William Inn at Trebarwith Strand. This hugely dog-friendly pub is right on the beach, with stunning views and warm welcomes for furry companions. They even serve a pooch-perfect pint, Proper Dog!

Padstow to Harlyn Bay

Sandy expanses, salty air and the occasional ice cream stop – this stretch is coastal Cornwall at its finest. At low tide, the beaches seem endless, giving dogs plenty of space to run, sniff and splash. The Shipwrights in Padstow Harbour serves award-winning beers and local fayre, welcoming dogs with open arms to this relaxed setting with its wonderful views. Or head to the Beach Box Café on the edge of Haryln Bay for coffee, breakfasts, toasties, pizzas and more.

Gribbin Head, near Fowey

This is an easy-to-moderate loop taking in spectacular headland views and the iconic Gribbin Daymark. Discover beaches, coves, woodland and grassland rich in wildflowers. There’s a secluded dog-friendly beach at Polridmouth, perfect for a picnic break mid-walk. Head as far as Polkerris where Sam’s on the Beach welcomes pups on the terrace or experience a true Cornish pub treat at the Rashleigh Inn. 

St Agnes Head to Wheal Coates

Here you’ll find heather-covered cliffs peppered by the remains of ancient tin mines. In summer, the scent of gorse and the glint of the sun on the Atlantic make a sensory treat for dogs and owners alike, while winter walks are bracing with wild storms and raging seas crashing onto the rocks below. The village of St Agnes is home to The Tap House which offers a warm welcome to all, whether on two legs or four, or head down the hill to The Driftwood Spars for a proper Cornish pub experience. 

Lizard Point and Kynance Cove

Britain’s southernmost point is a heady mix of drama and beauty. The turquoise waters and serpentine rock formations are a feast for the eyes, while your dog will relish the cliff-top paths and hidden coves. Kynance Cove Café is a lovely place to while away an hour looking out to sea with a tasty treat. Pick up a pasty from Ann’s Pasties & Bar in Lizard village or head down to Lizard Point itself, where there are two delightful cafés, Polpeor and Wavecrest, both with amazing views out to sea.

The Camel Trail

Flat, accessible and gloriously scenic, this 18-mile former railway line can be enjoyed by dogs on leads in bite-sized chunks. Choose Padstow to Wadebridge for waterside views, or Wadebridge to Bodmin for leafy tranquillity. This walk is also ideal if you have a doggy stroller as the path is fairly flat and wide most of the way. Stop off at the Atlantic Coast Express between Wadebridge and Padstow; a super-cool, beautifully-converted vintage train carriage serving al fresco food and drinks to anyone stopping at the halfway point.

Porthkidney Sands, near Hayle

Quiet, spacious and golden, Porthkidney is a dog’s dream. With few restrictions and plenty of space to bound about, it’s perfect for a game of fetch with the waves lapping at your feet. Head towards St Ives on the coast path and you’ll arrive at Carbis Bay with plenty of options for refuelling. Or once you’ve had a good walk, head back to Gilbert’s on North Quay in Hayle to discover a pocket of Cornish paradise, serving fabulous food and drinks with a laid-back vibe.

Tehidy Woods, near Camborne

This is Cornwall’s largest woodland spanning some 250 acres and offers over nine miles of trails under a leafy canopy. There’s a café for a well-earned cream tea, and plenty of benches to sit and listen to the birdsong while your dog snuffles in the undergrowth. The paths around the lake and the North Cliffs circular walk, also known as the Pink Trail are mainly on a level surface, so are easily accessible by wheelchairs and pushchairs. There are also other walks for the more adventurous with steeper hills and rougher surfaces.

Cardinham Woods, near Bodmin

Choose from several waymarked trails, each offering the soothing sounds of running streams and dappled sunlight. Discover iconic viewpoints, local wildlife, and a slice of unique Cornish history with the remnants of a former lead mine and an ancient clapper bridge. Whether you want a gentle dog walk by the cooling stream, or an energetic hike with the kids, Cardinham Woods has a walking trail for you. Refuel at the beautiful Woods Café, serving a range of freshly prepared light bites and drinks every day.

Roughtor, Bodmin Moor

For energetic hounds, this is the big adventure. Climb to the summit for sweeping moorland views, Bronze Age relics and the exhilarating sense of being on top of the world. Pack a picnic so you can pause and take it all in from a granite perch. As livestock and ponies roam free on the moors, your dog should be kept on a lead or under close control. 

From coast to countryside, Cornwall is a playground for dogs and their owners. So, lace up your boots, clip on the lead and let your next adventure begin. Wherever you wander with your pup, you’ll leave with happy memories!