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5 dog walking destinations in Cornwall

Between the fun day-trip activities, beautiful beaches and sprawling views of the ocean in Cornwall, it’s safe to assume that Cornwall is a suitable destination for dog owners. So the number of walking destinations only add to the appeal. 

Land’s End

Lands End
Image Credits: Chris Combe(CC BY 2.0)

Land’s End is home to the world-famous, cliff-top Minack Theatre, as well as numerous walking paths. Most noteworthy are the paths and routes along the Penwith peninsula, which is mainland Cornwall (and England)’s most westerly point. The site is entirely free and dog-friendly.

There’s a circular walk from Land’s End to Sennen Cove, where you can ample along the public footpaths, breathing in the brisk sea air, allowing your family pet to enjoy all the gifts of nature that feature along the route, and admire seasonal delights such as the flowering of springtime bluebells. Another fun thing to look out for is the iconic Land’s End sign, which points and shows you the distance between that spot and cities as close as Bristol and those as far-reaching as New York. 

Visiting with dogs:

Dogs on leads are welcome at Land’s End; unfortunately dogs are not permitted in food/catering outlets or indoor attraction.

Website: Land’s End Landmark

Land’s End

Address: Land’s End, Sennen, Penzance, TR19 7AA


The lost gardens of Heligan

Heligan Gardens are a must-see of British history and they welcome dogs everywhere except the Tearoom and the Stewardry. This romantic garden estate really plays into the mystery and enchantment of the idea of a “secret garden”, and years went by with people thinking it was mere overgrowth and shrubbery rather than an exquisite tribute to mother nature.

Now, after restoration and the proper care it needs, it is accessible to the public for walking and enjoying. When you arrive, you’ll get given a garden map so that you can explore by yourself – or perhaps so that you can find your way out once your dog is finished dragging you through this canine adventure-world. 

Visiting with dogs:

Dogs with well-behaved owners are welcome to the Gardens all year round.

Website: The lost gardens of Heligan

The lost gardens of Heligan

Address: Pentewan, Saint Austell, PL26 6EN


Pinetum Gardens

There’s something really special about exploring gardens with your dogs, rather than the same old beaten tracks they’re used to. They learn and engage so much with new surroundings, and it’s incredibly influential on how to socialise with other dogs and people, as well as how they learn to respect gardens and plants without digging them up!

Pinetum Gardens are an especially wonderful place to do this and explore – 30 acres, to be precise. Containing the largest collection of plants in Cornwall, these gardens are a wide, expansive and tranquil place to enjoy time with your dog while exploring places of cultural and historical significance.

Visiting with dogs:

Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leads at all times.

Website: Pinetum Gardens

Pinetum Gardens

Address: Holmbush Rd, Holmbush, Saint Austell, PL25 3RQ


Trebah Garden

If there are two natural elements that make a walking trail appealing, it’s garden scenery and coastal views. Well, Trebah Garden has both. This botanical garden is nested the parish of Mawnan in a Cornish Valley, promising sub-tropical plants and a walking route down towards their secluded beach on the Helford River.

This means swapping between walls of greenery and splashing in the ocean with your furry companion is all on the agenda, and facilities are available to ensure it’s smooth sailing on that front. You have the option to explore the trails alone, take guided tours or just let the snout of your dog lead the way to adventure! 

Visiting with dogs:

Dogs are welcome in the garden and on the beach all year round but must be on a lead at all times.

Website: Trebah Garden

Trebah Garden

Address: Trebah Garden Trust, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth, TR11 5JZ


Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Last but certainly not least is this incredible opportunity to embrace the outdoors, learn a skill, all while making sure your dog gets his/her daily exercise. At its core, Wheal Martyn Clay Works is a china clay museum, and it is the only place in the UK where you can get an experience mining china clay.

But surrounding the museum are beautiful gardens, a woodland area and outdoor exhibitions, where the whole family (those with four legs included) can get involved with fun and exploration. Most of the children’s events and sculpting opportunities take place outside, weather permitting, meaning your dog can explore the surroundings while your children mould the newest addition to your china cabinet! 

Visiting with dogs:

Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the site.

Website: Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Address: Carthew, Saint Austell, PL26 8XG


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