Spectacular dog walks on the South Cornwall coast
Lantivet Bay
Start point: Lantivet Bay car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 4.5km/2hrs
Directions: National Trust
This circular coastal walk on the South West Coast Path begins inland, but quickly reaches the coastline where undulating cliffs (dogs on leads for safety) and impressive sea views stretch for miles. You’ll tackle some steep climbs and rocky sections as you head south high above the waterline, and don’t miss descending onto Little Lantic and Great Lantic beaches – dog-friendly all year round with soft sand and a chance to see the ancient geology of the coastline up close.
The final section of the walk follows a small country lane where you’ll find the Triggabrowne farming settlement which dates back to the Middle Ages before getting back to the car park.
The Dodman loop
Start point: Penare car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 7.5km/3hrs
Directions: National Trust
Civilisations have been living on the South Cornwall coastline for thousands of years and this is evident on this excellent circular stroll. Not only will you see the ancient Bulwark earthwork – which is up to six metres high in places, and most likely housed several dwellings in the Iron Age, there’s also a vast dog-friendly beach to enjoy along the way, too.
Spectacular coastline views are everywhere too, with vistas as far as the Lizard Peninsula on clear days. Look out for peregrine falcons in the skies and Dartmoor ponies around Dodman Point, and finish with a well-earned fish at chips at The Haven in Gorran Haven.
Bodinnick, Polruan and Fowey
Start point: Bodinnick car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 10km/full day
Directions: SWCP
There’s a fair few literal ups and downs on this relatively challenging walk around the Fowey Estuary and the National Trust-managed coast path, so take it slowly and spend the whole day exploring the creeks and coves along the way.
There’s native waterside woodland, remains of pilgrimage sites, and dog-friendly beaches at Lantic Bay, plus a couple of short ferry rides to get you across the estuary at Polruan and Bodinnick. There’s the dog-friendly Haveners pub in Fowey for a fuel stop too.
Porthcurno & Penberth
Start point: Porthcurno car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 90mins/5km
Directions: SWCP
A brilliant walk for families with young children and dogs in tow, this route is largely on farm tracks and the coastal path, with a short section of quiet country lane as well. Kids will love exploring the impressive rock formations, including the striking Treen Castle promontory and Logan Rock, while dogs will get to enjoy running around on Pedn Vounder Beach (dog-friendly year-round).
Don’t miss a detour to see the spectacular Minack Theatre, which can be explored by all when there are no events or performances. Grab a bite to eat at the Porthcurno Beach Cafe.
Lizard Point to Kynance Cove
Start point: Kynance Cove car park
Type: Circular
Distance/time: 11km/3hrs
Directions: National Trust
The Lizard is famed as one of South Cornwall’s most idyllic stretches of coastline: tiny, rocky bays are blessed with small stretches of soft golden sand, ideal for swimming in warmer weather, and during the colder months, you might catch some impressive waves crashing against the cliffs.
For dog owners, this walk is best done out of peak season, as there are seasonal dog bans on many of the beaches, but with a warm hat and waterproof coat, this walk is just as wonderful in winter as it is in spring or summer – and you’ll have to contend with fewer crowds on this popular peninsula.
The area is a riot of wildflowers in spring, with some impressive rock formations, and some intriguing scientific history in a pair of black huts around Pen Olver. This circular walk tracks the coast before heading inland and through Lizard village to return to the car park; stop in The Witchball pub for a drink or some lunch before you head off.
Pendower Beach to St Anthony Head
Start point: Pendower Beach car park
Type: Point-to-point
Distance/time: 24km/6hrs
Directions: AllTrails
If you’ve got a dog with plenty of energy and stamina, this all-day hike is for you. It’s a point-to-point, so you’ll need to book a taxi to return to the start point, or bring two vehicles and leave one at each end, but it’s worth the effort as it takes in some truly wonderful coast on the Roseland Peninsula.
There are several dog-friendly beaches en route, including Porthcurnick Beach (year-round), Portscatho (year-round but not between 10am–6pm in July and August) and Towan Beach (year-round). From St Anthony Head, you’ll have views of two Henry VIII castles, which protect the Carrick Roads at Falmouth and St Mawes.