Ideas for dog-friendly days out in north Cornwall, from coast path walks and Bodmin Moor to beaches and pubs, with safety tips for dog owners.
North Cornwall is a good place for a holiday with your dog. There are miles of coast path, open moorland, wooded valleys and plenty of places that welcome dogs. Rules change, so always check current signs and policies, but here are our ideas for dog-friendly days out near Boscastle.
At Lower Pennycrocker Farm, dogs are welcome: a maximum of two per booking, at £2 each a night. See our dog-friendly camping page for the full policy.
Coast path walks
The South West Coast Path is about half a mile from the farm. It is spectacular, but often unfenced, with sheer drops and grazing animals. Keep dogs on a lead near cliff edges and livestock, and carry water. Good sections include Boscastle to Pentargon waterfall and Boscastle towards Tintagel. See walks near Boscastle.
Valley and woodland walks
The Valency valley from Boscastle offers shade on hot days and streams for a drink. See the Valency valley walk. Further inland, Golitha Falls on the edge of Bodmin Moor has woodland paths; see Golitha Falls and Minions.
Bodmin Moor
Rough Tor is about 6 miles from the farm. The moor is open, with ponies, cattle and sheep grazing freely, so keep dogs on leads around animals, especially in spring when there are young lambs and calves. See our Bodmin Moor guide.
The Camel Trail
The Camel Trail between Wadebridge and Padstow is a flat, traffic-free route that many people walk or cycle with dogs. It is busy with bikes in summer, so keep dogs under close control. See our Camel Trail cycling guide.
Beaches
Some beaches welcome dogs all year; others have seasonal restrictions in summer. Our dog-friendly beaches in north Cornwall guide explains how to check current rules before you go.
Harbours and villages
Boscastle, Port Isaac and other harbour villages are lovely to explore with a dog on a lead. Early mornings are quieter for nervous dogs. See Boscastle with dogs.
Pubs and cafés
Many pubs and cafés in the area welcome well-behaved dogs, at least in a bar area or outside. Policies vary, so ask first. See Boscastle pubs and places to eat near Boscastle.
Attractions
Some attractions allow dogs on leads in outdoor areas and some do not. Check before you travel, particularly for castles, gardens and museums.
Safety tips for dog owners
- Keep dogs on a lead near cliffs: the edges can be unstable.
- Carry water; there are few taps between villages.
- Check for ticks after walks through bracken and long grass.
- Never leave dogs in hot cars, even with windows open.
- Clean up after your dog, everywhere.
More tips are in our post on camping with dogs in Cornwall.
A sample dog-friendly day
Start with an early walk on the coast path from Boscastle while it is cool, stop for a coffee at a dog-friendly café, then drive to a beach that allows dogs at that time of year. Finish with a short evening stroll on a lead around the farm lanes.
Frequently asked questions
Is north Cornwall dog-friendly?
Yes, with lots of walks, beaches and pubs that welcome dogs. Check local rules, especially on beaches in summer.
How many dogs can I bring to Lower Pennycrocker Farm?
Up to two dogs per booking, at £2 per dog per night.
Are dogs allowed on the South West Coast Path?
Yes, but keep them on a lead near cliff edges and livestock.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
