Dog-Friendly Guide to The Headland

Dog-Friendly, Five-Star Stays at The Headland Cornwall

Nestled on the clifftops above Fistral Beach, The Headland offers the perfect setting for five-star stays with your four-legged companions.

Whether you’re planning windswept coastal walks, sandy beach days or cosy evenings together, dogs are warmly welcomed across the resort and always greeted with plenty of fuss from our team.

To make this page a complete resource for anyone searching for a dog-friendly hotel in Cornwall, we’ve expanded it to include:

  • Clear dog policies & info
  • What we provide for dogs
  • Dog-friendly beaches and walks, with distances & seasonal info
  • Local dog services
  • A practical checklist
  • A full FAQ answering every common question

 

Why Choose The Headland for a Dog-Friendly Hotel Stay in Cornwall?

✔ Five-star comfort for you, thoughtful touches for them

Dogs staying at The Headland receive a warm welcome including a water bowl, treats and local advice on the best walks.

✔ Steps from Fistral Beach

One of Cornwall’s best-known beaches sits right below the hotel. Dogs are welcome on Fistral Beach year-round.

✔ Dog-friendly rooms & cottages

All of our hotel rooms and cottages are dog-friendly.

✔ Dining options for every guest

Dogs are welcome in our dog-friendly dining areas, and outdoor spots are perfect for relaxed meals after a beach run.

✔ Miles of coast path on your doorstep

The South West Coast Path passes right by the hotel, offering spectacular, dog-friendly walking routes.

 

Our Dog Policy: Everything You Need to Know

We want your stay to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible, so here is our full, transparent dog policy.

Allowed accommodation: All hotel rooms and cottages

Max dogs per room: 2

Charge £33 a night per dog

Assistance dogs: Always welcome

Allowed areas: Your four-legged friends can also visit RenMor and The Ballroom but not the AquaClub or The Spa

Public spaces: Please keep dogs on a lead inside the hotel

Leaving dogs unattended: Dogs may be left alone in rooms but if they are persistently barking or being disruptive, we may ask you to return to your room

If you're unsure about anything, our team is always happy to help before or during your stay.

 

What We Provide for Your Dog

We believe holidays should feel special for every member of the family, including the four-legged ones.

Included dog-friendly touches:

  • Water bowl
  • Treats
  • Dog towels
  • Doggy bags

Available extras:

  • Spare blankets
  • Additional towels
  • Advice on dog sitters and groomers
  • Self-use dog wash station in The Square

 

The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Near The Headland

Cornwall is known for its spectacular coastlines and many beaches are dog-friendly all year round. Below is a curated list of our favourites, all distances are measured from The Headland.

Fistral Beach (0.1 miles)

Just a short stroll from the hotel, Fistral Beach is dog-friendly all year. It’s perfect for energetic pups who love wide-open spaces and playing in the waves.

Crantock Beach (2.3 miles, 8-minute drive)

A quieter alternative to Fistral with expansive dunes. Dogs are welcome and the Gannel Estuary offers sheltered sandy spots.

Watergate Bay (4.3 miles, 13-minute drive)

A stunning two-mile sandy beach, dog-friendly year-round. Great for long walks and watching surfers.

Polly Joke (4.5 miles, 14-minute drive)

A hidden gem, known for wildflowers in early summer and calm waters. There are no seasonal dog restrictions.

Seasonal note

Most beaches near Newquay welcome dogs year-round. A few beaches in Cornwall have seasonal restrictions from 1 July to 31 August. Our reception team can provide the latest guidance for any beach you’d like to visit.

Dog-Friendly Walks We Recommend

Cornwall’s coastal paths and countryside trails offer endless options for exploring with your dog. Here are some of our favourite local walks.

The Pentire Headland Walk (1.2 miles)

An easy loop with spectacular sea views, perfect for sunrise or sunset strolls.

Newquay to Watergate Bay (4.5 miles)

A moderate walk along the South West Coast Path. Reward your efforts with food at one of Watergate Bay’s beach cafés (most have dog-friendly areas).

Crantock & The Gannel Estuary (3 miles)

A scenic circular walk with soft sands, sheltered waters and birdlife. Great for dogs who enjoy a paddle.

Feel free to ask at reception for recommendations and advice on difficulty of walks.

 

Local Dog Services (Vets, Groomers & Emergencies)

It’s always good to know what’s nearby when travelling with a dog.

Vets

Groomers

Pet shops

Our team is happy to help with directions or additional recommendations.

 

Thoughtful Touches for a Stress-Free Stay

We’ve picked up lots of tips from guests staying with dogs over the years:

  • Let them explore the room before heading out
  • Bring their favourite blanket or toy
  • Be mindful of other guests in shared spaces
  • Take advantage of early morning or late-evening quiet walks, particularly in Summer

These little moments help ensure your dog feels as relaxed as you do.

Packing Checklist for Dog-Friendly Holidays

To help you plan ahead, here’s what we recommend bringing:

  • Collar & ID tag
  • Lead
  • Towel (we provide some extras!)
  • Dog food & treats
  • Favourite toy or blanket
  • Poo bags
  • Portable water bottle for longer walks
  • Any medication your dog needs

What Our Guests Say

Guests staying with dogs often tell us that The Headland feels like a second home. Here's one of our most recent reviews:

“Three nights of luxury, relaxation and dog-friendly everything!”

“I'd booked for my dog and was provided with a blanket, dog bowl and poo bags. The staff were so welcoming and dog-friendly, and really helpful.”

 

Dog-Friendly FAQs

Is The Headland a dog-friendly hotel in Cornwall?

Yes, we welcome dogs in all hotel rooms and throughout all cottages.

How much does it cost to bring a dog?

Dogs are charged at £33 a night per dog, per night, each room can have a maximum of two dogs.

Are dogs allowed in restaurants?

Your four-legged friends can also visit RenMor and The Ballroom but not the The Deck or The Spa Lounge (Guide Dogs are of course welcome).

Can dogs go on Fistral Beach?

Yes, dogs are welcome year-round. It’s the perfect spot to blow off the cobwebs in the morning or for a trot in the evening.

Do you provide beds or bowls?

We provide bowls, treats and towels. If you'd like a blanket or extra towels, please just ask.

Can I leave my dog in the room?

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to stay in your hotel rooms but if they are making lots of noise, we may ask you to return to them.

 

Ready to Book Your Dog-Friendly Stay?

Whether you're planning a short break or a longer Cornish adventure, The Headland makes it easy to bring your dog along for the fun.

Book a dog-friendly room or cottage
→ https://www.headlandhotel.co.uk/hotel-rooms/