Our five favourite dog walks in and around Rock

Sand dunes, shipwrecks and a sparkling estuary

With warmer weather on the way, it’s the ideal time to embrace the great outdoors and discover new dog walking routes. Surrounded by dramatic clifftops, crashing waves and flourishing wildflowers, North Cornwall makes a spectacular setting for getting out and about. 

Perfect for evening explorations and weekend wanders, we’ve handpicked five of our favourite dog walks in and around Rock. Close to cosy cafés and relaxed restaurants, there’s ample opportunity to stop off for a warming drink, bite to eat and a well-deserved rest for four-legged friends.

1. Rock to St Minver

6.7 miles | Easy

Clear your mind with a circular north coast dog walk. Passing alongside St Enodoc Church and the golden sand dunes of Rock and Daymer Bay, reach the sleepy village of St Minver. With an enchanting woodland feel, this small pocket of the north coast is home to a charming church with a distinct wonky spire. 

As you return towards Rock, three drinking spots are sprinkled along the route: The Pityme, Fourways and Bluntrock Brewery, all dog-friendly with locally sourced menus. You can also expect to pass Sharp’s Brewery, perfect for a quick taste of one of Cornwall’s best-known ales, Doom Bar. 

View the route in more detail here. 

2.  Padstow to Wadebridge

5.8 miles | Easy-moderate

North Cornwall’s Camel Trail is loved for its virtually flat multi-use route. From Rock, jump on the passenger ferry to the dog-friendly haven of Padstow before embarking on the Camel Trail towards Wadebridge. Dotted with picnic benches, pretty moorlands and a glimmering estuary, seize a moment to soak up your surroundings along the way. 

As this is a direct route, turn around and amble back to Padstow whenever you wish. Upon your return, treat the family to a takeaway portion of fish and chips from Rick Stein’s. From battered oyster and Thai fish cakes to the classic cod and chips, reward yourselves with a harbourside lunch. What’s more, Slickers Doghouse is perfect for grabbing a treat or ice cream for the four-legged friend of the group.

View the route in more detail here. 

3. Rock to Polzeath

5.8 miles | Easy-moderate

Starting in Rock, this coastal path is perfect for history-lovers. Following the sand dunes from Rock and Daymer Bay to Trebetherick Point, stop off at the latter to browse the shipwreck remains and surreal purple and green striped rocks. As you continue, join the Greenaway path to Polzeath for some cowrie shell-spotting. 

As you make your way back to Rock, follow the stream up Polzeath valley, crossing golf courses and fields to reach St Enodoc Church before reuniting with Rock’s characterful sand dunes. Upon arrival, gather for a family lunch at Paul Ainsworth’s The Mariners. Found just off the beaten track with a dog-friendly ground floor, this restaurant offers an indulgent cream tea, Sunday lunch or fully fledged three-course meal.

View the route in more detail here. 

4.  Padstow and Stepper Point 

5.8 miles | Moderate 

From Rock, hop on the ferry to Padstow. Tide dependant, your starting point will either be the harbour or slightly further along the path. As you stroll alongside the headland towards Stepper Point, you’ll pass Gun Point and Hawkers Cove where you can find Rest a While Tea Garden. Serving fresh sandwiches and warming drinks, it’s a famous spot for walkers to take a breather. 

Refreshed and quenched, continue uphill along the coast path until you reach Stepper Point’s dramatic headland, renowned for its presence in Poldark. With the hollow boom of caves below your feet, navigate your way downhill and take a sharp left turn around a rocky cove. As environmentalists spot sinkholes carved out by wave erosion, exit the coast path and make your way back to Padstow along the shoreline. 

View the route in more detail here. 

5. Pentire headland walk

3.4 miles | Moderate

Only a ten minute drive from Rock, start your journey at the Lead Mines car park and join the coast path at the bottom of a small field. Follow the circular route for approximately two miles around the headland to Pentireglaze Haven, passing The Rumps and Pentire Point. If you’re met with clear skies, catch a glimpse of Trevose Head lighthouse and Tintagel Castle. With beautiful views into the distance, keen wildlife watchers will relish the opportunity to spot a grey seal or peregrine falcon. 

Before setting off for the return route, sink into Pentireglaze Haven’s sands with a refreshing lunch from Taco Boys (open from April-September), as your much loved pet tucks into a well-earned treat. With energy levels recharged, head back inland and follow the bridleway towards the starting point.  

View the route in more detail here. 

Trehayl, Rock

Rock | Sleeps 8-10 | Week stays start from £3240

Refurbished last year to the highest standard, Trehayl is a beautiful base for a family holiday in Rock. Now dog-friendly, this vibrant home is bursting with character, featuring stylish interiors, an elevated coastal view terrace and a private outdoor heated swimming pool (Easter-October).

Just footsteps from the dog-friendly beach and in a prime position for wonderful walking routes, return home to Trehayl’s cosy lounge and four sumptuous bedrooms.

Click here to find out more about this gorgeous home and to start planning your next dog-friendly north coast getaway.