From golden sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, West Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK and it’s a great place for a staycation. There are plenty of things to do in West Cornwall so if you’re heading there for a break, you’ve come to the right place.
There is so much to do in West Cornwall that you’re spoilt for choice. Even if the Great British weather isn’t on your side, get your waterproofs on and head out exploring.
One of my favourite things about Cornwall is how dog friendly it is. Your four-legged friends are welcome on beaches, in pubs and restaurants, and in some attractions, so it’s the perfect place to have a holiday with your dog.
Read on for some of the best things to do in West Cornwall.
Beaches to visit in West Cornwall
You’ve got to start your trip with some of West Cornwall’s most fabulous beaches. Some of them are dog-friendly all year round and some are dog friendly for most of the year, aside from the summer months.
Sennen Cove
Sennen Cove is a large sandy beach with lots of room for relaxing, playing games, or enjoying a picnic. Sennen Cove is Cornwall’s most westerly place to surf and has huge waves some days which make it ideal for watersports.
Just off the beach there are shops, galleries, cafes, and pubs where you can grab some refreshments. Dogs are welcome on the beach aside from during the main summer season from May until end of September.
Porthcurno beach
Porthcurno beach is a beautiful sandy bay with crystal clear waters. You won’t believe you’re in the UK!
I first spied this from the Minack Theatre above and you can make your way down the steps here to the beach. Be careful on these steps as they are a little steep.
There’s a stream down one side of the beach for paddling and the beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs which provide shelter from the wind for a proper sun trap. During summer the sea is usually flat and calm so it’s great for swimming.
Again, you can take your dog on here for a walk and paddle in the crystal clear waters throughout the year except for July and August.
Portheras Cove
Portheras Cove is one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever visited in my life, both at home and abroad. It’s simply stunning and a lot quieter than some of the more touristy beaches in the area.
Located between Morvah and Pendeen, it’s on a wild stretch of Cornish coastline and the definition of unspoilt beauty. It’s quite difficult to access the beach as it is down a rocky path but it’s worth it if you can. You can park at the top at a farm nearby and walk down.
You’re almost guaranteed to see seals here as it is home to a seal colony. We saw some bobbing about in the water.
Be sure to keep your dog on a lead, just in case there are seals on the beach.
Towns to visit in West Cornwall
As well as its stunning coastline, West Cornwall is also home to picture-perfect towns. Perfect if you love a little wander around!
Explore St Ives
St Ives is a gorgeous seaside town and harbour with four sandy beaches, plenty of independent shops, and fantastic restaurants. You can spend ages wandering round the cobbled streets, enjoy a walk on the beach, or grab a yummy crab sandwich – just be careful of seagulls!
St Ives is a great place to base yourself for a holiday in West Cornwall as there is plenty to do here. You can take a boat trip to Seal Island, or explore the thriving arts scene.
Attractions to visit in West Cornwall
The Minack Theatre
The Minack Theatre is one of the most magical places I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. An outdoor open-air theatre, it is carved into the granite cliffs above Porthcurno beach and enjoys stunning views of the sea and the bays which surround it.
There are also sub-tropical gardens where you can see plenty of exotic plants. There are live performances here from April until October including music and plays.
We just went for a visit during the day when there wasn’t a show and it was incredible. I would love to see something really epic here, I think the ambience and the setting would just be spectacular.
You can take your dog for a visit but they aren’t allowed to come to performances.
Visit Land’s End
The iconic Land’s End is one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. It marks the most westerly point of mainland England.
I’m not going to lie, I was a little bit disappointed by Land’s End, I don’t feel it’s in keeping with the laidback Cornish vibe at all and the stunning coastal scenery isn’t the focus. It’s very much a tourist attraction with shops and places to eat as well as a couple of museums and expensive parking.
You also have to pay to have your picture taken with the famous sign which I wasn’t expecting. It’s a good place to go to say you’ve been but don’t expect to spend too much time here.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens
The Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens are near to Penzance. This 22 acre exotic and sub-tropical garden is surrounded by woods, streams and has an absolutely stunning view of St Michael’s Mount which is revealed as you scale to the top of the gardens.
World-renowned artists like James Turrell and David Nash have created sculptures here which compliment the surroundings and it’s a really tranquil setting. We loved exploring the different elements of the gardens and it proved to be great exercise as well.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens is also dog friendly so you can take your four legged friend with you.
Walks in West Cornwall
Another one of my favourite things about Cornwall is how many fabulous walks there are. From coastal paths to rural wonders, there’s something for everyone.
Chun Quoit walk
If you fancy a day away from the coastline then this easy four mile walk across the Cornish moors is the perfect choice. There’s plenty to see on this route including Chun Quoit, a mushroom-shaped stone marking a burial chamber, and Chun Castle, an Iron-age fort.
Where to stay in West Cornwall
We stayed with Aspects Holidays in West Cornwall in a gorgeous shepherd’s hut. This dog-friendly hut was super cosy and had a log burner as well as extra heaters for when it’s cold. It was well-equipped with everything you need to self-cater.
Outside there’s a lovely area where you can sit and have a BBQ and there’s a view of the sea in the distance. It has a rural location on a farm which feels really peaceful, yet not too remote.
If you’re looking for a base that’s close to amenities and you don’t need to drive each day, I would recommend St Ives. Here are some recommendations for accommodation in St Ives.
Save: The Western Hotel
Splurge: Carbis Bay and Spa Hotel
