Our favourite dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall

In the furthest tip of Cornwall, Gwynver Beach requires a bit more effort to get to but it’s well worth navigating the steep path and sand dunes to reach the sloping white sands. Owing to the tricky access there are fewer people around so you won’t bother anyone by throwing balls into the far distance for your dog to chase. There are no facilities here so bring water and supplies. At low tide you can walk all the way along the white sands to Sennen Cove, which has a couple of beach cafés and a pub to refuel at. On your way home, pop to the legendary landmark of Lands End, it’s usually full of tourists but worth it for photo opportunities of the spectacular views. Forget John O’Groats, instead head back to your glamping pad for a slap-up BBQ.

Iconic Watergate Bay has two miles of golden sand for your dog to tear about on as you watch the hardy surfers catch huge, dramatic waves. The beach is backed by spectacular cliffs and there are plenty of chic eateries for a pit stop after all that invigorating fresh air. The Beach Hut at Watergate Bay Hotel is a laid-back, dog-friendly café with a seasonal menu and sea views. After a snack has revived you, go for a jaunt around the shops of nearby Newquay or walk along the elevated coastal path that leads to Mawgan Porth.

The cliff top views and sunsets are spectacular. Visit this cool corner of Cornwall at different times of year and you’ll find a packed schedule of music festivals, beach volleyball championships and a whole host of other family and dog-friendly activities.

One of the best kept secrets near St Ives, the mile long expanse of sand at Porthkidney Beach is perfectly designed for exercising dogs. Keep them on the lead as you navigate the path through the dunes, then let them loose on the beach to paddle and scamper until you all flop exhausted on the sand. Gaze at the views of the Hayle Estuary while you sip a coffee (you’ll need to bring it with you, there’s no café here) and catch your breath.

Famous Carbis Bay is just beyond the Carrack Gladden headland and if you’ve got any energy left, it’s a short walk away along the South West Coast Path. For a harbourside pint in the late afternoon sun, head to one of the many dog-friendly pubs in St Ives.

The crescent stretch of sand at Harbour Cove is a tranquil, unspoiled spot that welcomes dogs all year round. If yours has been cooped up inside for a while, it’s the perfect place for sprints – those euphoric, frantic dashes that release pent up canine energy. While they’re otherwise occupied you can take in the views of the beautiful Camel Estuary, part of Cornwall’s National Landscape, and find a sheltered spot for a picnic.

It feels quiet here, but you’re only a mile from Padstow, famous for its foodie scene and art galleries. You could even park there and hike the coastal path to reach Harbour Cove while admiring the views of Rock in the distance. Don’t leave without checking out the Camel Trail, the hiking and cycling route that follows the old railway line to Wadebridge and on to Bodmin.

The home of British surfing, Fistral Beach in Newquay has high cliffs, rolling dunes and large headlands at each end that funnel powerful waves into the shore. If you’re used to the towpath of the local river, the wild Atlantic swells and sea spray will delight you and your dog. There are bucket loads of dog-friendly places to eat nearby, including The Stable which serves mouthwatering fresh pizzas, pies and west country cider.

For a break from the wetsuits and bodyboards, take a peaceful stroll along the South West Coast Path that runs all around Newquay. There’s a scenic three mile stretch that goes from Fistral Beach to Porth Beach. If you’ve bought the kids there’s pirate mini golf, an aquarium, leisure pool and land train in the town to keep them occupied in between sand castles.