Tag: dog friendly cottages in cornwall
Dog-Friendly Pubs in Cornwall
November 21st, 2022
Like the rest of the nation, Cornwall is a county full of dog lovers, with the vast majority of pubs, restaurants and cafes welcoming our furry friends.
With this plethora of great spots for dogs and plenty of dog-friendly holiday cottages in Cornwall, it’s no mystery why it’s such a popular holiday location for the whole family! Here are some of our favourite places to stop for an after-hike pint or a bit of pub grub.
Jamaica Inn, Bodmin Moor
Made famous thanks to its appearance in the novel by Daphne du Maurier, the Jamaica Inn is just one of the must-visit spots in the heart of Cornwall’s wilderness. After an adventure across the moor, you can relax by the fire in the history-rich pub to enjoy a hearty meal, cream tea or pint.
The First & Last Inn, Penzance
Another famed Cornish Inn, the First & Last Inn is a great pit stop for those heading to Sennen Cove and Land’s End. Enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients in this historic setting with its unique atmosphere. You and your pup will be well looked after here, with a beer garden to relax in during summer and roaring fires to cosy up by in winter.
King Arthur’s Arms Inn, Tintagel
After exploring Tintagel’s historic and picturesque sights, this bed and breakfast and pub should certainly be your next stop. Welcoming all weary travellers and providing a delicious menu of locally produced meals, this dog-friendly spot is the ideal for relaxing and enjoying a bit of good cheer.
The Watering Hole, Perranporth
Famous for its beach location, dogs (and everyone else) are sure to love a trip to the Watering Hole. You won’t even have to leave your beach walk to enjoy food and drink here! Settle in for stunning ocean views and a range of live music events.
The Blue Peter Inn, Polperro
The quaint Blue Peter Inn offers unforgettable harbour-side views and a charming spot for good food and good company. The menu here features plenty of freshly caught seafood and other tasty local treats. Four-legged friends are more than welcome to join you as you indulge in an outstanding Cornish dining experience.
Harbour Tavern, Mevagissey
Sit back and relish the relaxing atmosphere of the Harbour Tavern. Nestled in the stunning fishing village of Mevagissey, here you can enjoy the much-loved menu of seafood, pizza and tapas, along with plenty of Cornish ales and ciders. Generous window seats offer an open view of the harbour, perfect for watching the world pass by.
Polgooth Inn, St Austell
If it’s a classic Cornish country pub experience you’re after, look no further than the Polgooth Inn. The inn has historically welcomed chickens, ducks and even horses to the bar, so turning up with your dog in tow is no problem! Complete with a kitchen garden, the food here doesn’t get much more local.
Five Degrees West, Falmouth
A Falmouth hotspot, Five Degrees West offers an unbeatable pizza menu and typical pub grub to enjoy with a pint in the beer garden or cosy interior. The wonderfully welcoming atmosphere extends to dogs too, making it a place wanders love to return to.
Wig & Pen, Truro
Situated in Truro, Wig & Pen is only a stone’s throw away from the beach, making for a great stop after you’ve worked up an appetite on the sand. Here, you can find locally sourced and homemade fresh food. The pub is loved by both locals and visitors, so you’ll be sure to experience a true piece of Cornwall in this lovely, dog-friendly spot.
The Halzephron Inn, Helston
The Lizard Peninsula offers some great walks and sights to see with your dog – and this historic inn and pub in the tranquil village of Gunwalloe should definitely make your list. Enjoy award-winning food set against dramatic coastal scenes in the scenic outdoor seating areas or cosy up in the characterful restaurant.
There are plenty more dog-friendly pubs and restaurants across Cornwall; we’ve mentioned just a couple of much-loved spots here to showcase the variety available, no matter which Cornish destination you’re heading to.
If you can’t wait to start planning your next adventure, why not consider staying with us at The Valley? With various dog-friendly accommodation options and woodland walks right on our doorsteps, our cottages make a great base for your family break.
What’s On: October 2021
October 01st, 2021
Spooky season is here, and with it comes a wide range of autumnal events and activities that are fun for the whole family!
With food festivals and fabulous performances, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes – make the most of the changing seasons on your family-friendly holiday in Cornwall this October.
Truro Food Festival
1st – 3rd Oct 2021
If you believe that the best way to the heart is through the stomach, then you have to check out the Truro Food Festival!
This three-day event is a jam-packed celebration of all the amazing food and drinks that Cornwall has to offer. The festival takes place with pop-up shops and activities across the city of Truro, with its central hub at Lemon Quay.
During the day, you can watch chef demonstrations, follow the local restaurant trail, and enjoy live entertainment from local artists, all the while taking your pick of the street food stalls!
And it doesn’t stop there! Every evening, you can also enjoy live music from local bands while sampling the best of Cornwall’s beverages at the Beer and Cider Festival.
Mevagissey Shanty Festival
15th – 17th October 2021
It wouldn’t be a trip to Cornwall without celebrating the sea and all those who sail it. That’s why it’s well worth the trip to the 13th-century village of Mevagissey. Just five miles south of St Austell, this small fishing port plays host to the second ever Mevagissey Shanty Festival!
The festival invites a variety of shanty and acapella groups to perform across the weekend to help the village extend its holiday season and boost local businesses.
Whether you’re looking for a cosy, fireplace sing-song, or you’d rather spend your evening by the main stage at the Cornish beer festival, you’re bound to feel like a true swashbuckler in no time.
Lowender Peran
22nd – 24th October 2021
Get in touch with your Cornish roots by visiting the Cornish festival of Lowender Peran held in Perranporth this October.
This music and dance festival is a true celebration of Cornwall’s Celtic heritage, with live music and performances taking place all weekend.
If you can’t make the trip, don’t worry! The festival will also be live streaming their Great Big Cornish Music Session event for people to enjoy wherever they are.
Halloween Quest at Pendennis Castle
23rd – 31st October 2021
If you’re looking for a spooktacular way to spend Halloween half-term with the kids, then head on over to Pendennis castle for their fantastic Halloween Quest.
For one week, this 16th-century castle near Falmouth becomes the perfect backdrop for a Halloween day out you won’t forget.
Follow the adventure trail around the grounds inspired by Cressida Cowell’s Wizards of Once series, or join the quest to find the legendary Cup of Second Chances. If you come in costume, you may even be in with a chance to win the fancy dress competition!
There’s definitely something for you and the whole family to enjoy this October! Discover even more autumnal activities below.
Image Source: Visit Cornwall
Dog-Friendly Attractions in Cornwall
September 17th, 2021
Everyone needs to get away from time to time – even our four-legged friends! That’s why we at The Valley are proud to offer amazing dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall so you can have a fantastic time away with the whole family!
But, there’s more to a holiday than where you stay. Check out our guide to Cornish attractions that are open to you and your furry friend. From beaches to pubs, there’s truly something for everyone!
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Cornwall
It wouldn’t be a trip to Cornwall without walking along the sand or taking a tip in the sea. Unfortunately, despite there being over 300 beaches in Cornwall, many of them have restrictions on dogs or ban them entirely.
Here are some of our top picks for beaches in Cornwall where dogs are allowed all year long!
Perranporth Beach
With miles of golden sand and giant dunes, this beach is the perfect spot for a family day out! The beach is easy to access and is within walking distance of the village of Perranporth and all the local amenities.
While dogs are allowed on the beach, they are asked to be kept on a lead between July and August from 9 am – 5 pm, when the beach is at its busiest.
Fistral Beach
Known for being one of Cornwall’s top surfing locations, Fistral Beach in Newquay is also dog-friendly all year round.
With plenty of local cafes and shops nearby, Fistral Beach is the perfect spot to sit and spend the day. Or, you could bring your dog’s favourite toys for a play-day in the sand.
As this is a popular surfing spot, make sure the water is safe before taking your dog for a dip.
Pedn Vounder Beach
If you’d rather take your dog somewhere a bit more secluded, then there’s nowhere better than Pedn Vounder Beach.
Set just a ten-minute walk from the nearest car park, this beach is the perfect spot for a seaside walk. At low tide, you can even walk across the golden sands to the neighbouring beach, Porthcurno.
If you’d rather not be brushing sand from your dog’s coat, then why not enjoy the stunning views and crystal waters from atop the cliffs of Treryn Dinas.
If you’d like more information on dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall, why not check out our blog below?
Dog-Friendly Pubs in Cornwall
There’s no better way to spend your evening than relaxing in a local pub, and with these dog-friendly options, you can take the whole family along!
Driftwood Spars, St Agnes
This traditional pub is set in the lovely seaside town of St. Agnes on the north coast of Cornwall.
With three bars complete with wood-burning stoves and a brilliant variety of beverages (including their home-brewed beer), this dog-friendly pub is the perfect spot for a relaxing evening.
The Punchbowl and Ladle, Truro
This lovely cosy pub is open to everyone, including dogs.
Nestled in the woodlands of Feock just outside of Truro, this pub is the perfect place to stop off for a drink or a light lunch. You can even bring the whole family to enjoy one of their smashing Sunday roasts!
Dog-Friendly Gardens in Cornwall
Take a step into nature with one of these great dog-friendly gardens in Cornwall.
The Eden Project
While they’re not allowed to go inside of the famed Biomes, dogs are permitted at the Eden Project.
Our four-legged friends are allowed to explore the miles of footpaths through the old china quarry pit and are also welcome inside of the visitor centre. There’s also plenty of designated outdoor dining areas where you can sit and relax with your pooch.
Please note that while dogs are allowed on-site, they do need to be kept on a lead at all times.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
With over 200 acres, dogs and their well-behaved owners are welcome to explore The Lost Gardens of Heligan all year round!
With plenty of woodlands, farm animals, and a tearoom serving Cornish cream teas, this St, Austell attraction is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy.
Trebah Gardens, Falmouth
If your pups like getting a little mucky, then Trebah Gardens near Falmouth is the perfect place!
This subtropical garden has over four miles worth of footpaths, one of which leads right down to a private beach along the Helford River. You can even stop to refuel in the dog-friendly garden terrace and picnic areas.
If you love Falmouth as much as we do, why not check out our guide to enjoy Falmouth with your furry friends?
Dog-Friendly Attractions in Cornwall
There’s so much history and culture across Cornwall to see and enjoy. From Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty to art galleries, here are some of our favourite attractions in Cornwall that allow dogs.
The Lizard Peninsula
With fantastic views and magnificent cliff-side walks, the Lizard Peninsula is a must-visit for anyone visiting Cornwall. And what’s better, there are plenty of dog-friendly attractions around for you and your pet to enjoy!
Why not take a stroll through the pretty harbour village of Coverack and along Coverack bay? Or, stop for a quick coffee in the dog-friendly Coast Coffee Bar and Bistro?
Newlyn Art Gallery and The Exchange
These two galleries house some of the most beautiful art that Cornwall has to offer. And what’s better, both of these venues have since opened their doors to our furry friends!
Both galleries offer a variety of the very best in contemporary art as well as showcasing some of the best artists from the local area.
Please note, while the gallery allows dogs at both venues they may not be allowed into the main gallery spaces for certain exhibitions. Make sure you check ahead of time if the exhibition is pooch-friendly.
Holidays aren’t just for humans. Make sure your pup is getting the most out of their time away as well by visiting some of these great dog-friendly attractions.
If you’re looking to book your next Cornish holiday, why not check out our range of both child and dog-friendly cottages available to book today.
Image Credit: Visit Cornwall
The Best Cornish Beaches for Walks
September 18th, 2020
If you’re staying in one of our sought-after dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall, no doubt you are looking forward to some beautiful walks along the coast! Cornwall is inundated with beautiful beaches across its coastline, attracting avid walkers every year!
All our beaches featured are perfect for walking with or without a dog, and we advise on the best times to visit if you are with your furry friend!
Our Chosen Locations
There are many beautiful beach walks in the county, so to narrow down our top picks, we have mainly focussed on the southern area of Cornwall below Truro.
Many of our chosen locations feature stunning walks either on the beach or surrounding it; you may notice the South West Coast Path features in a few of our sites!
Gwithian Towans Beach
As Cornwall’s longest beach, Gwithian had to feature on our list.
The beach lies between Hayle and Godrevy, and the whole stretch of golden sand can be accessed when the tide is low. Three miles in length, it is the perfect place for those who want to take off their shoes and walk with their toes in the sand.
When the surf is pumping, the beach becomes a showground of surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing displays! The rolling sand dunes behind the beach are also perfect for those who want an adventure.
Note, dogs are not permitted on the beach during July and August.
Buried History
One of the main appeals of the beach is its great history! A buried castle is believed to exist beneath the sand belonging to a man called Tendar, an alleged ‘Pagan persecutor of Christians’.
A medieval chapel, St Govian’s, is also rumoured to lie beneath the sand dunes and was last seen in the 1940s!
The Lighthouse
At one end of the beach, you will find the beautiful Godrevy Lighthouse, built to signify the dangerous Storms Reef.
Situated just in front of the beach, it makes a stunning photograph, especially on stormier days or during a fiery sunset!
Sennen Cove
Sennen is a favourite hotspot for surfers. The stunning cove is lined with beautiful white sand, and it is the perfect place for those hoping to try their hand at watersports; the beach is lifeguarded during the summer season, and there are plenty of surf schools to provide extra guidance!
If you want to stick solely to walking, the beach and surrounding areas provide many stunning walks for visitors to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll across the beach and absorb the dramatic coastline and hub of activity.
Note that dogs are not permitted on Sennen Beach from 5th May to 30th September between the times of 10am and 6pm.
If you have more energy to blow off, follow the South West Coast Path to other close-by locations including Land’s End to the South and Gwenver beach to the north, which is a dog-friendly beach throughout the year.
Walking to Land’s End from Sennen
Only 1.5 km to Land’s End, Sennen is the perfect base to start an exploration to the famous tourist hotspot at the tip of the county.
It is a reasonably easy walk, with almost no steep inclines throughout the hike. If you fancy a different path to the way you came, there are a few circular routes you can take to return to Sennen.
Nanjizal Beach
If you are feeling particularly energetic, you can continue on the South West coast path down towards Nanjizal Beach once you have reached Land’s End.
Nanjizal Beach is a beautiful secluded beach which isn’t easily accessible by car, so walking is the best way to get there and well worth the visit if you are feeling up to it!
It is famous for the Song of the Sea, a captivating natural rock arch which floods with beautiful light in the sun. The beach welcomes dogs all year round!
Gyllyngvase Beach
One of Falmouth’s favourite and largest beaches, the bright turquoise waters of Gyllyngvase Beach attracts many visitors throughout the year.
Only a 10-minute walk from Falmouth’s town centre, it is easily accessible and a family favourite due to its calm waters and pretty sand. The beach is also a great starting point for coastal walks to other must-see spots including Swanpool Beach and Maenporth.
Note that dogs are not permitted on Sennen Beach from 5th May to 30th September between the times of 10am and 6pm.
Porthleven
Porthleven is a pretty fishing village on the south coast of Cornwall. The beach is sandy and is accessible to other spots in the area including Loe Bar, just up from the beach in a 40 minutes’ walk.
Longer walks along the South West Coast Past from Porthleven include Mullion and Praa Sands which are situated either side of the beach.
Which of our featured beaches will you be looking forward to strolling on? Have we missed your favourite location for a beach walk? Why not share your thoughts with us on our social media channels; we would love to know more about your favourite hikes!
5 Reasons to take your dog on holiday
December 23rd, 2016
You’ve probably already thought about taking little pup on holiday, but abandoned the idea after thinking of the added stress that comes with Rover bounding around from picnic to picnic scoffing sarnies, and conclude that it could intrude on your time of relaxation. Some of you may have even been reluctant to book some well-deserved time off because of fear of being separated from your beloved furry friends. Here are just five of the reasons you should check out some of our dog-friendly holidays in Cornwall this year and bring your companions along with you!
Attractions in Cornwall that are open seven days a week!
December 16th, 2016
Just because it’s winter, does not mean the county of Cornwall goes into hibernation. In fact, winter is one of the best times to visit thanks to smaller queues, reduced admission prices and a more peaceful atmosphere for you and your family to roam without the hustle and bustle of the summer. These conditions also make it a fantastic time to bring your pooch on holiday with you so the whole family can be together. Be sure to check out our dog friendly holidays in Cornwall this year to make some memories you won’t forget.
Here are seven Cornish attractions that leave the doors wide open seven days a week. Check out these fantastic family days out that can be visited throughout the winter months…
National Maritime Museum, Falmouth
A fantastic, hands-on educational experience that is fun for all the family! Explore fifteen galleries spread over five floors discovering the past, present and future of our fantastic little island. You can even take a journey through time to the Viking world and find out what made them one of the most iconic cultures of all time, as well as the secrets behind their success.
Eden Project, nr St Austell
Feeling a bit down from the cold? Check out the tropical biomes at the Eden Project, full of fascinating plants and crops from tropical environments, each with their own story for you to get lost in. The Eden Project also has some fantastic thrill-seeking opportunities, with a zip-wire, gigantic swing and leap of faith also featuring in the activities available for visitors. Throughout the winter, an ice-rink is also present and available to book in addition to your general admission tickets.
Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
If the Atlantic Ocean is a little too brisk for you and your family this time of year, appreciate the sea from the comfort of inside this fantastic aquarium. You will make your way through over 40 naturally themed habitats, from exotic bays to the Cornish seas. The heart of the aquarium features an ocean tank, where you can observe loggerhead turtles, reef sharks and shoals of colourful fish from above the tank and below, in their iconic clear tunnel. The site is located on the fantastic Towan beach, perfect for a few post-aquarium selfies!
Seal Sanctuary, Gweek
In keeping with the aquatic theme, winter is pup rescue season for the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, making it a great time to visit the rehabilitation centre at its busiest. You will be able to fully gauge the scale of work they do to save the seals, but do be prepared to fall in love them yourself! Occasionally the seal sanctuary’s facilities and expertise are called upon to save other aquatic animals, so who knows what you might see there!
Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan
Don’t forget to bring your wellies on holiday, for 200 acres of garden is yours to explore! Step back in time and lose yourself in Europe’s largest garden restoration, which is rich in history, mystery and romance. A visit in the tranquillity of winter will inevitably let you forget the stresses of reality and simply relax in the peaceful, traditional garden that is bursting with nature.
Paradise Park and Jungle Barn, Hayle
This wildlife sanctuary is home to over 140 species, as well as more than 650 birds. Daily events include otter and penguin feeding times and whatever the weather, fun is guaranteed in the huge indoor play area! On Tuesday’s, Thursday’s and Sunday’s you can even indulge yourself in a traditional roast dinner from the Otter café, the perfect winter warmer for a cold Cornish day!
Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, nr Truro
No one does cider quite like the Cornish, and home-made brews can make the perfect winter tipple to warm you up from the inside out! Come and see it being made at a real brewery, as well as saying ‘hello’ to the numerous friendly farmyard animals wandering around the place!
So, in many ways, Cornwall comes to life in the winter, and attractions and activities can be enjoyed at your own pace, without the hectic summer crowds. Book your winter break today, and check out any of these fantastic attractions and find some hidden gems of your own!
Top dog-friendly beaches for you and your pooch in Cornwall
December 05th, 2016
Most people that bring their dog on holiday to Cornwall will have a vision of said pooch splashing around in the waves and bounding across the stretching sands whilst making friends with other, like-minded canines. It’s their holiday too after all! However, some of the beaches in Cornwall make this dream difficult to realise. There is a seasonal ban on several beaches which, as a rule, start at Easter and run all the way through to October. Other famed beaches in the region are particularly dog-unfriendly, such as Falmouth, St Ives and Looe and remain a doggy-free zone all year round.
Five beautiful locations you have to visit in Cornwall in 2016
January 14th, 2016
The Valley offers a luxurious selection of dog friendly cottages in Cornwall making it as easy as ever for your family and four legged companions to enjoy the beautiful sights and rugged nature that Cornwall offers at every nook and cranny of this gorgeous county. (more…)
Surfing Santas Bring Festive Cheer To The Waves
December 08th, 2015
It won’t be just the one Santa making the rounds this year, if you head down to Fistral beach on December 12th you’ll find the ocean full of surfing Santas.
Cornish family dog helps care for baby wallaby
June 08th, 2015
Poppy, a Labrador cross, is among the family of carers helping to look after Willoughby, a baby wallaby after it was rejected by its mother.
Nine month old Willoughby has been hand fed at the home of the Allen’s at Tamar Otter and Wildlife Centre near Launceston, Cornwall for the last nine weeks. Dad John, mum Mandy, son Rhys and daughter Frances are all taking turns with the feeds and helping to care for the vulnerable young wallaby. Poppy the family’s pet Labrador cross is also sharing the caring duties by letting the baby wallaby sleep with her, and it’s not the first time she’s helped rear other animals. Last year Poppy helped to rear a litter of baby otters who had also been rejected by their mother.
Willoughby has responded well to being hand fed according to Mandy Allen: “She is hand bottle fed 40 ml of special milk a day, and she’s now weaning on grass and a little bit of carrot and apple.”
As far as Poppy’s caring duties are concerned Mandy is convinced that the dog/wallaby bond has been hugely beneficial to Willoughby: “Being with Poppy is great contact for Willoughby, following around another animal is a bit more natural for her than being with us really. It gives her warmth and comfort, almost like being in her mother’s pouch.”
Willoughby’s real mum is a wallaby at the centre who probably rejected her because she has a new baby to go in the pouch. John Allen added: “She was found by a stream one morning by Rhys at the end of March. He put her under his jumper to warm her up but couldn’t find her mum. She could have abandoned her because she was ill or had another joey.”
Because small wallabies can’t control their own body temperature the family decided to bring her in to the house. All going well she should be big enough to rejoin the other wallabies at the centre by the end of the summer, when visitors staying at dog friendly cottages in Cornwall will be able to catch a glimpse of her.
