Your Dog-Friendly Guide to The Headland Hotel, Cornwall

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

Nestled on the clifftops above Fistral Beach, The Headland is a dog-friendly hotel in Cornwall, offering the perfect setting for five-star stays with your four-legged companion.

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

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: Dogs are welcome in 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.

dog-friendly stays
Included in our dog-friendly stays

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
  • Dog blankets

Available extras:

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

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

Choose from dog-friendly hotel rooms to one of our luxury, self-catering cottages; perfect for longer stays or extra space.
View Cottage Stays

Dining options for every guest

Dogs are welcome in our RenMor and The Ballroom dining areas, and outdoor spots are perfect for relaxed meals after a beach run.
Dining at The Headland

Miles of coast path on your doorstep

The South West Coast Path passes right by the hotel, offering spectacular, dog-friendly walking routes.
View Dog-Friendly Walking Routes

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.

Walk difficulty ratings

We’ve added difficulty ratings and estimated times to help you choose routes that suit your dog’s energy levels. Feel free to ask at reception for personalised recommendations.

Vets, Groomers and Emergencies

Local Dog Services

It’s always good to know what’s nearby when travelling with a dog. Our team is happy to help with directions or additional recommendations.

Vet

Penmellyn Vets, Newquay

2.1 miles, 7 minutes (24/7 emergency care available.)

Groomers

Cornwall Canine Centre

 0.7 miles, 3 minutes

Pet Shops

The Pet Centre, Newquay

1.5 miles, 7 minutes

Testimonials

What Our Guests Say

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

Jane

Super dog-friendly which is lovely.

Melanie

Dog-friendly with a welcome treat as they enter.

Jacqueline

Dog-Friendly, Five-Star Stays at The Headland, Cornwall
Fistral Beach at The Headland
Before you go

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
Tips & Tricks

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.

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 Table