The Ultimate Cornish Canine Companion: A Discerning Owner's Guide to the 10 Best Dog Walks in Cornwall

Cornwall's Call to Canines - A Guide to the Duchy's Premier Trails

There is a moment on a Cornish cliff path, with the salty wind whipping through your hair and the cry of a gull overhead, when you look down to see your canine companion, tail wagging, utterly content. It is a moment of pure, shared joy. Cornwall, with its staggering diversity of landscapes, seems almost purpose-built for these moments. The duchy is a veritable playground for dogs and their owners, a place where every walk can be an adventure, from the rugged, mine-scarred coastlines of the far west to the tranquil, dappled woodlands and sheltered creeks of the south. This is a land that invites exploration on four paws.

Beyond the raw beauty of the landscape, a welcoming culture permeates many of Cornwall's villages and towns. A well-behaved dog is often a passport to the best seat by the fire in a historic pub or a sunny spot in a café garden. This guide has been curated for the discerning owner who seeks more than just a place to let their dog off the lead. It is for those who appreciate the story behind the scenery, the history etched into the granite, and the practical details that turn a good walk into a great one.

Starting with a simple list of popular locations, this report is the result of comprehensive research, designed to be your trusted companion. It delves deep into ten of the county's finest walks, sifting through information to provide clear, reliable, and inspiring advice. It clarifies ambiguities, highlights hidden gems, and provides the practical, need-to-know details—from parking postcodes to the best local pasty stop—that ensure your Cornish adventure is as seamless as it is memorable. Your journey into the heart of dog-friendly Cornwall starts here.

The Top 10 Walks in Cornwall for You and Your Dog

1. Mount Edgcumbe Country Park: The Grand Day Out

 Positioned majestically on the Rame Peninsula, Mount Edgcumbe is not merely a walk; it is a full-day destination, offering a "choose your own adventure" experience that stands as the most versatile and grand of all Cornish dog walks. This 865-acre, Grade I listed landscape is a perfect microcosm of Cornwall itself, presenting everything from manicured global gardens to wild, untamed coastal paths, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Plymouth Sound and the River Tamar.5 Its unique ability to cater to every age, fitness level, and interest makes it the ideal choice for multi-generational family outings or groups with diverse needs. A single location can satisfy the desire for a gentle, accessible stroll and a strenuous, challenging hike, solving the common dilemma of planning a day out for a group that might include elderly relatives, young children, and an energetic dog.

The Experience

 The adventure begins with the arrival. One can drive to one of several well-placed car parks (Cremyll, Barrow Centre, or Dry Walk), but for a touch of romance, the journey across the water on the historic Cremyll passenger ferry from Plymouth offers an unforgettable approach. Stepping off the ferry is like stepping into a different era, onto the pristine grounds of the former home of the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe.

From here, the park unfolds in a series of distinct experiences. For the owner who appreciates history and horticulture, the path leads through the formal gardens—Italian, French, American, and New Zealand sections offer a trip around the world in a single afternoon. A walk down "The Avenue" reveals the iconic vista of the main house, a perfect photo opportunity before perhaps visiting the Orangery restaurant.

For the more adventurous pair, the park's wild side beckons. An extensive network of trails, incorporating the famous South West Coast Path, winds through ancient woodlands and rolling parkland. These paths lead to discoveries of 18th-century follies, classical temples, and the historic Battery & Blockhouse, a coastal defence dating back to the 16th century. A rewarding trek up to Maker Church at the park's western edge yields some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region. The park offers a variety of mapped trails, including the 4-mile "A Seat with a View" historic landscape walk and a dedicated "Tree Trail," ensuring there is always a new path to explore. Routes can range from gentle, accessible 1-2 mile loops to challenging 7-10 mile epics that cover the entire estate.

Canine Companion Check

 The park's dog policy is a significant part of its appeal, offering a welcome blend of freedom and sensible restriction. In the vast open parkland and on the woodland trails, dogs are welcome to be off-lead, provided they are kept under close and reliable control. However, it is essential to note that they

must be kept on a short lead within the formal gardens to protect the manicured planting, and crucially, within the designated deer park to prevent the chasing of resident wildlife.

The varied terrain makes it suitable for dogs of all ages and abilities. The well-surfaced, relatively flat paths around the house and gardens are perfect for older dogs, puppies, or those with mobility issues. For more athletic canines, the steep, earthy, and sometimes muddy coastal and woodland paths provide an excellent and stimulating workout.

Facilities are excellent and thoughtfully located. Multiple pay-and-display car parks provide access to different areas of the park. Toilets are available at several key points, including Cremyll and the Barrow Centre. The Stables Cafe, located in the Barrow Centre, is notably dog-friendly, offering a welcoming stop with water bowls and shaded seating for a post-walk refreshment.

Insider's Tip

For the best of both worlds, start at the Barrow Centre car park. Head west to explore the wilder coastal path towards Maker Church first, allowing your dog to enjoy some exhilarating off-lead freedom and spectacular sea views. Then, loop back east towards the main house, putting them on a lead to wander through the stunning formal gardens before finishing with a well-earned treat for both of you at the dog-friendly Stables Cafe.

2. Watergate Bay: The Surfer's Paradise Sandy Sprint

 Watergate Bay is not merely a beach; it is a high-energy amphitheatre of modern Cornish coastal life. It is where the raw, elemental power of the Atlantic Ocean meets a vibrant, world-class surf culture. For a dog, this translates into two magnificent miles of golden, hard-packed sand, offering one of the most liberating and exhilarating off-lead runs in the entire county. The experience here is less about quiet solitude and more about immersing oneself in a bustling, energetic social hub for active dog walkers. The combination of year-round dog access, high-quality amenities, and a lively atmosphere makes it a destination in its own right.

The Experience

 The sheer scale of Watergate Bay at low tide is its defining feature. A vast, two-mile stretch of sand unfolds, backed by dramatic, imposing cliffs that create a natural arena. The walk here is a sensory feast: the constant, rhythmic crash of the surf, the mesmerising sight of surfers carving through the waves, and the colourful dance of kite-surfers' kites in the sky—a spectacle that can drive some curious dogs into a frenzy of excitement. For the inquisitive canine, the beach is dotted with countless rock pools and intriguing sea caves, revealed as the tide retreats.

While the main event is the simple, joyous out-and-back sprint along the water's edge, Watergate Bay serves as a fantastic hub for more varied coastal walks:

• Watergate to Mawgan Porth: A popular 2.2-mile (one way) coastal path walk heading north. This moderate route offers panoramic Atlantic views before descending into the charming village of Mawgan Porth, which has its own pubs and restaurants for a halfway stop.

• Watergate to Newquay: A 3.5-mile walk south along the coast path takes you towards the bustling town of Newquay. The route passes a series of beautiful coves, including Whipsiderry, Porth, and Lusty Glaze. It is important to note that as of January 2025, the steps at Whipsiderry are closed, making some circular routes impossible and increasing the danger of tidal cut-off in that specific area.

• Watergate to Bedruthan Steps: For the truly energetic dog and owner, a longer, 5-mile hike north leads to the iconic sea stacks of Bedruthan Steps, fabled to be the stepping stones of a giant.

Canine Companion Check

 The primary draw for dog owners is Watergate Bay's status as a dog-friendly beach all year round, with no seasonal bans or restrictions.2 This makes it a reliable and stress-free choice, particularly during the peak summer months when many other premier beaches impose bans.

The main beach offers a perfect running surface of flat, firm sand. However, the connecting coastal path sections are undulating, with some paths running close to unfenced cliff edges, where it is essential to keep dogs on a short lead for their safety. As with any beach walk, checking the tide times is critical. The character and size of the beach change dramatically with the tide, and low tide offers the maximum space for play.

Facilities are excellent. There is ample paid parking close to the beach, along with public toilets.2 The area is renowned for its high-quality, dog-friendly refreshment options. The Beach Hut is a standout, located right on the sand and famous for its fantastic burgers and locally caught mussels. While Jamie Oliver's Fifteen restaurant once overlooked the bay, its successor and other establishments provide plenty of choice, though it's always wise to check individual policies for indoor dining.

Insider's Tip

Visit on a falling tide to give your dog the full, magnificent expanse of sand to enjoy. After your walk, grab a takeaway coffee or a portion of mussels from The Beach Hut and find a spot on the cliffs to watch the surfers and the sunset. It is a quintessential Cornish experience for both human and hound.

3. Porthkidney Beach: The Wild Expanse with an Iconic View

 Porthkidney Sands is a beach of breathtaking scale and untamed beauty. For the dog owner seeking true freedom for their pet, this is a destination that delivers an unparalleled sense of space. At low tide, the beach transforms into an almost impossibly vast plain of golden sand, stretching for a mile in length and nearly a mile out to sea. Its defining feature, however, is the iconic, picture-postcard view across the turquoise waters of the Hayle Estuary to the whitewashed houses and harbour of St Ives. This is the ultimate walk for the dog that simply needs to

run. The experience here is one of "reward for effort"; the slightly more challenging access and lack of facilities act as a natural filter, preserving its wild, uncrowded character for those willing to make the journey.

The Experience

 The anticipation for Porthkidney's big reveal builds during the approach. The main access is from the small car park at St Uny's Church in Lelant, from which a scenic 10-15 minute footpath winds its way across the fairways of the West Cornwall Golf Club, through a network of sand dunes, past a WWII pillbox, and under the charming St Ives branch line railway before descending to the beach. This journey makes the final arrival onto the vast expanse of sand all the more dramatic.

Once on the beach, the sense of scale is immense. The walk can be a simple out-and-back along the water's edge, or an exploration of the extensive sand dune system of Hayle Towans, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) that backs the beach.19 Looking east, the view is anchored by the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse, adding another layer of Cornish charm to the panorama.

For those seeking a longer adventure, Porthkidney is a superb starting point for several classic coastal walks:

• Carbis Bay to Porthkidney: A beautiful 2-mile walk along the South West Coast Path that begins at Carbis Bay and rounds the dramatic Carrack Gladden headland. This route offers a glimpse of Knill's Steeple, the eccentric 18th-century granite mausoleum built by a former mayor of St Ives.

• Lelant to St Ives: A longer, 4.3-mile one-way walk that uses Porthkidney as its spectacular starting point. The path continues to the beautiful Carbis Bay and then into St Ives itself, with the convenient option of taking the scenic branch line train back to Lelant Saltings to make the route circular.

Canine Companion Check

 Porthkidney is a true canine paradise, offering year-round, restriction-free access for dogs on the main beach, making it a reliable haven for off-lead fun. However, there is one crucial rule that must be observed: dogs

must be kept on a lead on the designated footpath leading from St Uny Church and across the golf course to the beach.

The primary hazard at Porthkidney is the tide. The beach is very flat, which means the tide comes in extremely quickly. It is vital to be aware of the tide times to avoid being cut off, especially if walking towards Hawk's Point at the Carbis Bay end of the beach. Furthermore, there are

strong and unpredictable currents in the Hayle Estuary at the southern end of the beach, making it unsafe for dogs (and humans) to swim there.21 For safer swimming, it is best to stay on the main beach, which has RNLI lifeguard cover during the summer months.

This is a wild beach, and visitors must be self-sufficient. There are no facilities such as toilets or cafes directly on the beach, so it is essential to bring plenty of water for both yourself and your dog. Parking is limited to a small pay-and-display car park at St Uny's Church, which can fill up quickly and has been the subject of negative user reviews regarding ticketing.

Insider's Tip

Before you go, check the tide times religiously. Aim to arrive an hour or two after high tide to enjoy the beach as it reveals its full, magnificent scale. For an alternative and often easier access route, park at Dynamite Quay in Hayle (TR27 6LG) and walk straight onto the sand at the estuary end of the beach, which offers the same stunning views.

4. The Loe, Penrose Estate: The Lakeside & Woodland Wander

 The walk around The Loe offers a unique journey into a landscape of serene beauty and dark, compelling legends. It is an escape into the tranquil, sheltered woodlands of the National Trust's vast Penrose Estate, which encircles Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake. This peacefulness, however, is juxtaposed with the raw and dangerous beauty of Loe Bar, a massive shingle bank that separates the calm lake from the ferocious Atlantic. This is a place with a powerful, almost mythic, story that commands respect, appealing to the walker who appreciates a landscape with a soul. The stark contrast between the sheltered woodland paths and the wild, deadly history of the Bar creates a memorable atmosphere that elevates this far beyond a simple stroll in the woods.

The Experience

The classic route is the 6.2-mile (10 km) circular trail that encompasses the entire Loe Pool. The walk can be started from several points, but a popular choice is the free car park opposite Helston's Coronation Park and boating lake. From here, the path follows the gentle River Cober as it flows towards the lake, leading you into a mature, shady woodland that provides welcome relief on a hot summer's day.

As the trail meanders through the estate, it offers glimpses of the shimmering lake through the trees. A key highlight is the Stables Cafe, a perfectly positioned, dog-friendly stop for refreshments just over halfway around the main loop. From there, the path continues towards the most dramatic feature of the walk: Loe Bar. This imposing shingle bank is a formidable natural barrier, and its history is steeped in maritime tragedy. It was here in 1807 that the HMS Anson was wrecked just metres from the shore, with the loss of around 100 lives. This disaster was a key motivation for local man Henry Trengrouse to invent the rocket-propelled life-saving apparatus, which went on to save thousands of lives.

The estate is also a haven for wildlife. The woodlands are home to firecrests and woodpeckers, while the reedbeds around the lake are alive with warblers, dragonflies, and, for the patient and lucky observer, the flash of an otter. For those not wishing to undertake the full 6-mile loop, a shorter 4-mile linear walk from Helston to the Stables Cafe and back is an excellent option. Alternatively, starting from the Degibna National Trust car park on the eastern side of the lake provides access to shorter woodland circuits.

Canine Companion Check

The Penrose Estate is exceptionally dog-friendly. A significant advantage of the main circular route is that it is entirely stile-free, making it accessible for owners with larger, older, or less agile dogs. The beach at Loe Bar is dog-friendly

all year round, and the Stables Cafe warmly welcomes canine visitors.

The terrain consists of generally easy-to-moderate woodland paths, which can become muddy and rooty in places, especially after wet weather. However, the most critical information for any visitor, especially a dog owner, concerns the water. Swimming is strictly prohibited in both Loe Pool and in the sea at Loe Bar. The sea here is notorious for its powerful undertow and dangerous currents, and the lake has its own hidden hazards. This rule must be adhered to without exception for the safety of both humans and their pets.

Facilities are well-catered for at the heart of the estate. The main Penrose car park (near the Stables Cafe) is pay-and-display (free for National Trust members) and has toilets and the cafe. The Helston Fairground car park is free but has no facilities on-site, while the Degibna car park is a smaller National Trust pay-and-display with no facilities.

Insider's Tip

or a truly magical experience, visit in late spring and start your walk from the Degibna car park (TR13 0RA) on the eastern side of the lake. The ancient woodlands in this section of the estate are famed for their breathtaking carpets of bluebells and the pungent aroma of wild garlic, creating an unforgettable sensory experience for you and your dog.

5. Pendeen Lighthouse & the Tin Coast: The Dramatic Heritage Hike

 This walk is an immersion in the raw, dramatic soul of West Cornwall. Set on a rugged granite headland on the wild Penwith coast, the area around Pendeen Watch Lighthouse offers a spectacular and challenging hike through the heart of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. This is a landscape scarred and shaped by industry, where ruined engine houses stand as stark silhouettes against the Atlantic sky. It is a walk for the fit and agile dog, owned by a responsible walker who respects the power of both the landscape and its history.

The Experience

The walk typically begins from the car park at Pendeen Watch Lighthouse (TR19 7ED), which provides direct access to the South West Coast Path. The lighthouse itself, with its tower standing 17 metres high, is an impressive landmark, and its powerful foghorn, sounding once every 20 seconds, provides an atmospheric soundtrack to the walk.

From the lighthouse, the path heads east along the clifftops, descending towards the beautiful and secluded Portheras Cove. This stunning white-sand beach, owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, was once notorious for dangerous metal fragments from the wreck of the MV Alacrity, which ran aground in 1963, but was cleaned up in 2004. It is now a perfect, dog-friendly spot to rest and watch for seals and dolphins.

Several circular routes are possible, allowing for a deeper exploration of the area's rich heritage. A popular 4-mile moderate circular from iWalk Cornwall takes in not only the lighthouse and Portheras Cove but also the iconic Geevor and Levant mines, where one can see a working beam engine. Another route from the lighthouse leads south towards Cape Cornwall, passing the ruins of the East Levant mine and the dramatic chasms in the cliffs known as 'zawns'. The landscape is also rich in much older history, with Iron Age underground passages known as 'fogous' and ancient holy wells hidden in the surrounding countryside.

Canine Companion Check

This is a walk that requires vigilance and responsible dog ownership. The coastal paths are suitable for fit, agile dogs accustomed to challenging terrain, but they are rugged, steep, rocky, and uneven in places. The most significant hazard is the presence of

unfenced cliff edges and steep drops. For their safety, dogs must be kept on short leads and under very close control at all times.1 Furthermore, the area is riddled with old mine workings, and unfenced shafts can be a serious danger off the main paths.

Portheras Cove beach is dog-friendly all year round, providing a safe place for a paddle. However, some of the inland stiles on circular routes are traditional granite and may be difficult for very large dogs to cross without assistance. This is a strenuous walk, so bringing plenty of water for your dog is essential.

After the walk, the nearby village of Pendeen offers several dog-friendly establishments for refreshments, including the Radjel Inn (pub) and the Maria Chica and Count House cafés.

Insider's Tip

 Combine your walk with a visit to the Geevor Tin Mine museum (check their dog policy for site access). It provides a fascinating context to the landscape you've just walked through, telling the story of the men and women who worked this harsh but beautiful coastline. Understanding the history deepens the appreciation for the ruined engine houses you see on the cliffs.

6. Chapel Carn Brea: The Hilltop Panorama

 For a relatively short but immensely rewarding walk, the ascent of Chapel Carn Brea is hard to beat. As the most westerly hill in mainland Britain, its summit offers one of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic views in all of Cornwall. This is a walk steeped in ancient history and atmosphere, a windswept granite outpost that feels like the very edge of the world. On a clear day, the view stretches across the entire Penwith peninsula, from St Michael's Mount in the east to the Longships Lighthouse and, on the horizon, the faint outline of the Isles of Scilly to the west.

The Experience

 The walk begins from a small, free National Trust car park at the base of the hill (TR19 6JD), located just off the A30 between Penzance and Land's End. From the gate, the path is immediately a steep, rocky, and uneven climb to the summit at 198 metres (649 ft). While the ascent is challenging and will get the heart pumping, it is relatively short, typically taking around 15-20 minutes.

The summit is a place of deep historical resonance. It is crowned by a substantial Bronze Age burial cairn, upon which the ruins of a 14th-century chapel (St Michael's Oratory) now sit. During World War II, an observation post was built into the cairn, highlighting its strategic importance through the ages. The modern beacon on the summit is still lit every year for the Midsummer's Eve celebrations, a continuation of ancient traditions.

A simple 1-mile circular walk is marked by the National Trust, leading up to the summit and then looping around the gorse-and-heather-clad hilltop before descending back to the car park. For those seeking a longer adventure, Chapel Carn Brea can be incorporated into a 4.5-mile circular walk that also takes in the nearby hills of Bartinney and the Iron Age hillfort of Caer Bran.

Canine Companion Check

The steep and rocky path is best suited for energetic and sure-footed dogs. The main consideration for dog owners on Chapel Carn Brea is the presence of a small herd of free-roaming Dartmoor ponies. These ponies graze the hill to help manage the gorse and encourage wildflower growth. While they are often described as "dog-ignoring", the National Trust advises that dogs should be kept on a lead or under very close control at all times to ensure the safety and peace of the livestock. There is also electric fencing around the summit's archaeological remains to protect them from the ponies, which owners should be aware of. The entire walk is off-lead in principle, but extreme care must be taken around the ponies.

Insider's Tip

 Chapel Carn Brea is designated as a Dark Sky Discovery Site. For a truly unforgettable experience, choose a clear, moonless night to take the short walk to the summit. The lack of light pollution reveals a breathtaking celestial display, with the Milky Way often visible as a brilliant ribbon of stars across the sky. It is a magical and humbling experience.

7. Black Rock Beach, Widemouth Bay: The North Coast Rockpool Ramble

Located at the southern end of the vast Widemouth Bay near Bude, Black Rock Beach is a ruggedly beautiful expanse of sand and rock that serves as a year-round haven for dog walkers. Its key advantage lies in its welcoming policy for canine companions: while the main, northern section of Widemouth Bay enforces a seasonal dog ban during the summer, Black Rock Beach remains open to dogs without restriction throughout the year. This makes it an invaluable and popular destination on the North Coast for those visiting with their pets during peak season.

The Experience

 The beach gets its name from the distinctive, dark rocky outcrop that dominates its southern end, adding to the rugged, untamed character of the coastline. At high tide, the beach can be dramatically reduced in size and is sometimes cut off completely, so checking the tide times is essential for a successful visit.

It is at low tide, however, that Black Rock truly comes alive. As the sea retreats, it reveals a huge expanse of sand, perfect for a game of fetch, and a treasure trove of rock pools teeming with marine life. Exploring these pools, which are filled with crabs, prawns, and small fish, is a delight for all ages and a sensory adventure for an inquisitive dog.

The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, with challenging waves created by the point and reef breaks attracting local wave riders. The walk itself can be a simple stroll along the length of the beach and back, or it can be extended at low tide by walking north to join the main Widemouth Bay beach. For a longer hike, the South West Coast Path is easily accessible, offering walks towards Bude in the north or Crackington Haven to the south.

Canine Companion Check

As mentioned, the standout feature of Black Rock Beach is that it is dog-friendly all year round, with no seasonal restrictions. This provides a fantastic, reliable option when other nearby beaches are off-limits. The large sandy area at low tide is perfect for dogs to run and play freely.

The beach has seasonal RNLI lifeguard cover, making it a relatively safe spot for a paddle on calm days, but owners should always be mindful of the strong tides and surf conditions.

Facilities are conveniently located. There is a large, privately owned pay-and-display car park right by the beach (postcode EX23 0AG), with a dog-friendly beach café and toilets also available on site. This makes it a very convenient and self-contained destination for a day out.

Insider's Tip

To make the most of your visit, aim to arrive as the tide is going out. This will give you the maximum amount of time to explore the vast sandy beach and the fascinating rock pools before the sea reclaims them. The beach café is known for its welcoming atmosphere and is the perfect spot to refuel with a hot chocolate or a slice of cake after a blustery coastal walk.

8. Long Rock Beach: The Classic Mount's Bay Stroll

 Long Rock offers a quintessential Cornish coastal walk: a flat, easy, and highly accessible stroll along the sweep of Mount's Bay, with the iconic, fairy-tale silhouette of St Michael's Mount rising dramatically from the sea. This stretch of beach and promenade, connecting Penzance to Marazion, is a firm favourite with local dog walkers, families, and anyone seeking a gentle seaside walk with one of Cornwall's most famous views as a constant companion.

The Experience

 The walk at Long Rock is defined by its flexibility and accessibility. One can choose to stroll along the expansive sandy beach, which is particularly firm near the water's edge at low tide, or follow the well-maintained, level tarmac promenade that runs behind the beach. This path is part of the South West Coast Path and is also a popular cycle route, suitable for pushchairs and mobility scooters, making it an excellent choice for all abilities.

The walk can be as long or as short as desired. A popular option is the 2-3 mile one-way walk from the Long Rock car park to the charming village of Marazion, where one can explore the shops and cafes before returning. The view is the main attraction, constantly changing with the light and tides, with St Michael's Mount as the ever-present focal point. The water here is generally shallow and safe for bathing, adding to its family-friendly appeal. For those interested in transport, the Great Western Railway main line runs parallel to the path, offering a treat for train enthusiasts.

Canine Companion Check

 The dog-friendliness of Long Rock Beach is a point that requires careful clarification, as some information can be misleading. The rules are geographically specific and depend on your location relative to the main Long Rock car park and level crossing.

• West of the level crossing (towards Penzance): This section of the beach is dog-friendly all year round with no restrictions. This is the most reliable area for a walk at any time of year.

• East of the level crossing (towards Marazion): This section of the beach has a seasonal dog ban. The ban is typically in effect from 1st July to 31st August, between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm. Outside of these dates and times, dogs are permitted.

This distinction is crucial for visiting dog owners to avoid fines or confrontations. The adjacent promenade and coast path are open to dogs on leads year-round, providing an alternative route if the beach is restricted. The terrain is predominantly flat and easy, suitable for dogs of all fitness levels.

There are several pay-and-display car parks along the seafront, including one at Long Rock itself (TR20 8LD), which provides convenient access. Toilets are available a short walk from the car park along the coast path. The village of Long Rock, a short walk away, has shops and pubs.

Insider's Tip

 For a classic Cornish experience, time your walk to end in Marazion at low tide. This will allow you to walk across the ancient granite causeway to St Michael's Mount (dogs are welcome in the village and harbour on the island, though not in the castle or gardens). Afterwards, enjoy a well-earned refreshment at one of Marazion's dog-friendly pubs or cafes with a stunning view back towards the Mount.

9. River Tamar Trails: The Sheltered Riverside Retreat

Forming the historic border between Cornwall and Devon, the Tamar Valley offers a different kind of Cornish walking experience. Away from the wild, windswept coasts, the walks here are sheltered, tranquil, and steeped in a rich industrial and cultural heritage. The area is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, offering a network of paths that wind through lush woodlands and follow the course of the majestic River Tamar. It is the perfect choice for a hot summer's day when the forest canopy provides welcome shade, or for a day when the coastal winds are too strong.

The Experience

Rather than a single trail, the River Tamar offers a variety of walking experiences.

• Tamar Trails Centre (near Gunnislake, Devon side): This is an excellent hub for exploring the valley. It boasts over 25 km of graded woodland trails that follow old mineral tramways, suitable for walking and cycling. The paths are dotted with the atmospheric ruins of old engine houses and mine workings, such as those at Wheal Anna Maria. The trails offer a peaceful and shaded walk, with routes of varying lengths and difficulties.

• Cotehele to Calstock (Cornish side): This beautiful walk, often started from the National Trust's Cotehele Quay car park (PL12 6TA), offers glorious views of the river and the impressive Calstock Viaduct. The path climbs gently around the river's contours before descending into the village of Calstock, which has a bohemian atmosphere with dog-friendly pubs and cafes. The walk can be done as a circular route of around 6 miles.

• Upper Tamar Lake (near Bude): Further north, the Upper Tamar Lake offers a very different experience. A 3-mile, easy, and relatively flat circular path runs around the perimeter of this reservoir. The walk crosses the border between Cornwall and Devon over the dam wall and again over a footbridge that spans the infant River Tamar itself.

Canine Companion Check

The dog-friendliness varies by location, making it important to choose the right trail for your needs.

• Tamar Trails Centre: This is a very dog-friendly site. Dogs are welcome on all 25 km of trails, with many areas where they can be off-lead to explore freely. There are a few areas with wildlife or archaeological sensitivity where dogs must be kept on a lead, but these are clearly signed. The on-site Beech Cafe is also dog-friendly inside and out, and provides water bowls.

• Cotehele: The wider estate and riverside paths are dog-friendly. The Edgcumbe at Cotehele Quay is a dog-friendly cafe, perfect for a post-walk treat.

• Upper Tamar Lake: This walk has a strict rule due to the reservoir being a source of drinking water: dogs must be kept on a lead at all times, and swimming is not allowed.

One important note for the mining heritage areas like the Tamar Trails is to be cautious about letting dogs drink from puddles, as the ground can have mineral concentrations from old arsenic workings.

Insider's Tip

 For a walk that combines stunning views, history, and excellent dog-friendly facilities, the Cotehele to Calstock route is a superb choice. After your walk, visit the dog-friendly Edgcumbe cafe at Cotehele Quay for a traditional Cornish cream tea. The tranquil riverside setting is the perfect place to relax and soak in the valley's unique atmosphere.

10. Porthallow Beach: The Quiet Cove on the Lizard

 Tucked away on the sheltered eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula, Porthallow (pronounced 'Pralla' by locals) offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded coastal hotspots. This charming former fishing cove, with its distinctive pebble beach and cluster of whitewashed cottages, provides a sense of timeless Cornish history and tranquility. It is a superb starting point for exploring a rugged and geologically fascinating section of the South West Coast Path, offering stunning views across Falmouth Bay.

The Experience

 The beach at Porthallow is a mix of sand and pebbles and is notable for how it merges seamlessly with the village itself; there is no clear line where the village ends and the beach begins. A few working fishing boats are still pulled up on the shore, a nod to the village's past as a thriving pilchard fishing port, a history commemorated by the name of the local pub, The Five Pilchards. The clear waters here are popular with scuba divers heading out to the notorious Manacles Reef, one of the best but most treacherous dive sites in the country.

From the beach, the South West Coast Path offers rewarding but challenging hikes in either direction.

• North to Nare Point and Gillan Creek: A popular 4.4-mile moderate circular walk leads north from Porthallow, climbing up to Nare Point before looping back inland via the beautiful Gillan Creek.55 This route is rich in history; during WWII, Nare Point was the site of an elaborate decoy station created by Ealing Film Studios to draw enemy bombers away from Falmouth Harbour, complete with fake railways and explosive special effects.

• South towards Porthkerris and Coverack: The path south is equally rugged and scenic, offering more strenuous hiking along the undulating coastline.

These coastal paths are steep, rocky, and uneven, with significant ascents and descents. Strong, sturdy walking boots are essential for anyone tackling these sections.

Canine Companion Check

Porthallow is an excellent choice for dog owners. The beach itself is dog-friendly all year round, with no restrictions. The nearby beaches at Gillan Creek are also dog-friendly.

The coastal paths are suitable for fit dogs, but owners should be prepared for the challenging terrain. Several of the stiles on the coast path are traditional stone wall stiles with footholds, which may require larger or less agile dogs to have some assistance to get over. Given the strenuous nature of the climbs, it is important to carry water for your dog. In the fields along the inland sections of the walks, dogs should be kept under strict control.

Facilities in the small cove are good for its size. There is a dedicated car park very close to the beach (often with an honesty box system), though space can be limited during peak times. The Five Pilchards pub and a local cafe provide dog-friendly refreshment options right by the beach.

Insider's Tip

The circular walk to Nare Point and Gillan is the definitive Porthallow experience. After tackling the steep coastal path and learning about its fascinating WWII decoy history, the return leg through the peaceful woodland and alongside the creek offers a beautiful contrast. Finish the walk with a well-deserved pint at the historic Five Pilchards pub, soaking in the views of the cove.

Your Cornish Adventure Awaits

Cornwall presents a rich tapestry of trails, each offering a unique adventure for you and your canine companion. From the accessible grandeur of Mount Edgcumbe's parklands to the wild, elemental challenge of the Tin Coast, the ten walks detailed in this guide represent the very best the duchy has to offer. They are journeys through landscapes that are not only beautiful but are also deeply resonant with history, nature, and a distinctly Cornish spirit.

As you set out to explore these magnificent places, a final thought is to do so responsibly. The beauty of Cornwall's coast and countryside is a shared treasure, and its preservation depends on the mindful actions of every visitor. By following the Countryside Code, keeping dogs under control where required, respecting wildlife, and leaving no trace, we ensure that these incredible walks can be enjoyed by generations of dogs and their owners to come. Your Cornish adventure awaits; may your paths be scenic and your tails be wagging.