A Guide to Dog-Friendly Cornwall in Autumn

October 18th, 2019

Miles of coastal path, long sandy beaches, crunchy leaves on the ground; these are just some of the reasons why dogs love Cornwall in autumn. It’s a great time to head off on holiday with your pooch in tow, and there’s plenty to do each day; with eateries and attractions being dog-friendly, you don’t have to compromise, and every member of the family can enjoy a break to this beautiful coastal county.

Beaches

Several beaches around Cornwall are dog-friendly all year-round, and other beaches lift their seasonal dog bans for autumn and winter. However, do double-check if there are any limits with your dog, such as keeping them on a lead, before heading to the beach.

Kynance Cove

The seasonal dog ban is lifted on beautiful Kynance Cove from October to Easter Sunday, allowing you to enjoy the white sands and turquoise waters with your pooch. The beach, located on the Lizard Peninsula, is a popular location throughout the year, so you won’t be the only one bringing their four-legged friend to have a splash in the waves.

Loe Beach (Feock)

Just a short drive from our holiday cottages is the beautiful Loe Beach, which sits in the natural harbour, Carrick Roads. It never sees much surf, making it an ideal place for families with dogs who want to play in the sea, as well as those who are keen to try out some water sports! Views along the River Fal and the headland of St Mawes can be enjoyed while you are there, and what’s even better is that this coastal spot is dog-friendly all year-round!

Gyllyngvase

Gyllyngvase is one of the most popular beaches near Falmouth, being less than 10 minutes’ walk from the town centre. The large stretch of sand is popular with families thanks to its great amenities. Plus, it is also linked with the South West Coast Path if you want to explore further. A seasonal dog ban is put in place each summer, but on the 1st October through to Easter, you can enjoy walks across this sandy haven.

Cafes and Pubs

With the autumn weather making a walk on the beach or countryside ideal for you and your dog, there is nothing better than heading indoors to one of Cornwall’s dog-friendly cafes or pubs for a hot chocolate and a treat for your four-legged friend.

The Cornish Food Box Company, Truro

The Cornish Food Box shop and cafe specialises in fresh, local and seasonal food, all with delightful Cornish twists. The cafe can be found in one of Truro’s oldest buildings, so you can enjoy a cream tea before browsing the seafood, free-range meat and fresh bread available to buy while your dog has a quick snooze after a walk at Boscawen Park.

The Working Boat Pub, Falmouth

Your pups are made welcome at The Working Boat Pub in Falmouth, and while they get some water, you can tuck into great pub food in generous portions. Set on the waterfront, you can enjoy views across Falmouth Harbour and sip on one of the beers and ciders they have on tap. The pub is great to stop at for lunch when you are exploring the town, with food served from 12pm to 2.30pm.

The Roseland Inn, Roseland Peninsula

The Roseland Inn is open year-round, and you can be assured of great hospitality when you stop at the restaurant or bar. After walking the coast nearby, the inn is a great place for delicious food and relaxing in a friendly atmosphere while your dog rests at your feet. In the colder months, there is also a log fire in the evenings and real ales to try.

Walks

Porthallow Beach

Porthallow is a fishing village south of Falmouth, and the cluster of white-washed cottages overlooking the quay are picture-perfect. You can follow the coastal path on a circular walk that begins and ends at the beach over Nare Head. You pass Bronze Age remnants on The Herra (a small headland), beautiful coves and a pub. The walk is ideal for dogs, as there are areas where they can be off their lead, and lots of exciting sights and smells for them.

Trelissick Woodland Walk

The National Trust runs the Trelissick Gardens, and though dogs are not allowed in the main gardens, they are welcome in the parkland and wood. The Woodland Walk is lovely; a three-mile circuit which takes you along the riverbank and through dappled woodland. Dogs will love scampering through the fallen leaves in autumn, and the Crofters cafe at Trelissick is dog-friendly offering bowls of water and dog biscuits.

St Agnes

Explore part of Cornwall’s history on a walk around the old mining village of St Agnes. The walk is around 6.3 miles, so you can take the afternoon to do it. The route takes you to the top of St Agnes Beacon, a prominent landmark in the area that offers fantastic views out to sea, before descending to the coast at the cove of Chapel Porth. The walk is mostly on the coastal path and lovely in the autumn months as the gorse and heather covering the cliffs turn a rustic bronze. Dogs also will love the walk as the terrain varies from steep climbs to beaches, and some of the pubs along the way are dog-friendly too.

Are you planning on visiting this stunning county this autumn? Take a look at our hot tub cottages, Cornwall, and find yourself a home from home to enjoy while you’re here!