West of Plymouth and the River Tamar, Cornwall is one of the most unspoilt holiday areas in England . It is particularly popular with walkers, cyclists (although it is very hilly), horse riders and surfers. A dog friendly holiday in Cornwall is a great idea as the weather is generally good and there are plenty of countryside parks, beaches, National Trust properties and uninhabited moorland to enjoy.
Bodmin Moor stretches from Liskeard to King Arthur's country at Tintagel on the North Coast . It offers plenty of off-road parking, rocky outcrops and delightful villages making for some great hill walking with your four-legged companion. It is ideal for exercising larger dogs who have boundless energy as the grass is nibbled short by the sheep, and there is very little vegetation so you can always spot your dog from afar. Taking a dog whistle is a good idea here. As long as there are no grazing sheep and wild ponies, you can let your dog off the lead to explore all those interesting scents and trails!
The north coast is rocky and rugged from the relentless Atlantic Ocean . There is a coastal path which makes for plenty of signposted walks but the paths do climb up and down each headland so you need to be fit. There are also plenty of wooden stiles along the way which your dog will need to negotiate. Some have flaps which can be raised for smaller dogs; bigger dogs will no doubt enjoy the challenge of leaping up the wooden steps, but this is no walk for an old and arthritic dog.
The north coast beaches are long and firm, especially at Newquay. They are great for walking, or you can rent a wetsuit and surfboard and join in the fun. You dog will enjoy a swim in the surf too as the beach shelves very gently. The South coast is full of tiny remote fishing villages, each with a pub, a local shop and a church. You can often rent cottages which make a great base for a self-catering pet friendly holiday, where walks abound. The best dog walking beach on the south coast is at Tregantle Beach . When the tide is out it stretches for over 4 miles. It is also very quiet, particularly midweek and outside holiday weeks as it is accessed through a MOD shooting range off the coastal road to Torpoint. If the red flags are raised, which is rare, access is denied.
There are many National Trust properties in Cornwall and most allow dogs on a lead. Enjoy exploring these extensive gardens, often with coastal views. Finish the day at one of the local village pubs with your dog at your feet in the beer garden. The south west of England is a great place for a holiday and Cornwall certainly offers a big ‘Dog Friendly' welcome to visitors.
