Woodland walks in Cornwall that you and your dog will love
It is a beautiful time of year to get out and about with your dog, and Cornwall has much more to offer than just the beaches. Here are some of our favourite woodland walks, but feel free to tell us of any more you think we should add.
Trelissick Gardens is run by the National Trust, and although dogs are not allowed inside the main gardens, they are very welcome in the parkland around the area. The Woodland Walk is a particularly lovely three mile circuit which takes you from the main car park, down the hill to the edge of the Fal estuary, then along the river bank, through beautiful dappled woodland and past the King Harry Ferry slipway before continuing further into the secret and tranquil creeks tucked away in the estuary. At the fork in the path, you can continue on around Roundwood quay, or take the left path which takes you back up to the main road. Cross carefully at the top, then turn left just past the lodge and in a few minutes you will be back at the car park.
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With over 9 miles of pathways and 250 acres of woodland, there is no set route we’d advise you to take through these woodlands, just enjoy exploring. The woodland is the largest in West Cornwall and is run by Cornwall Council. Things to watch out for include: The dancing tree: a beautiful ancient tree with a twisted trunk which makes it seem as though it is twirling. The given garden: a little flower garden which contains plants donated by visitors. Swans, do be careful and keep your dog on a lead, particularly when the swans are nesting. There is a lovely cafe, you need to sit outside with your dog, but the food is lovely. The north coast and the coast path is also accessible from the woods, but again, the cliffs are steep so be careful with dogs and don’t head out there if it is very windy!
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The wooded estate around the main gardens and house of the National Trust’s Lanhydrock is a haven for dogs and their walkers. From Respryn car park or the main car park new the house, you can set out on walks along the River Fowey and around the managed woodland of the estate. Dogs are not allowed in the main gardens, but they are welcome at the Stable Cafe and you can buy homemade dog treats there as well as human snacks and drinks. You can pick up trail maps for walks at the reception, cafe and shop.
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Near Bodmin, this is another much loved woodland area, and this is run by the Forestry Commission. There are several marked walks through teh woods, ranging from the easy Ladyvale walk to more challenging paths. The woods with their babbling streams are beautiful and the Woods Cafe which offers freshly baked cakes and Tregothnan tea, home grown in Cornwall, is very dog friendly.
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