Dog-friendly Restaurants in the Falmouth and Helford Area
Paw-fect places to eat
Long weekends and slow weeks spent in Cornwall hanging out by the coast or wandering through idyllic seaside villages are some of the loveliest ways to escape and unwind in the UK. And for dog owners, these moments are made even more special if their canine companions are made welcome as much as they are.
Each year we help almost 1,000 dogs come on holiday to Cornwall in our pet-friendly cottages, so we understand what it takes to make a holiday experience just right for everyone. We also know that it doesn’t quite feel like a vacation if, while you’re exploring, you’re missing your pooch back at your Cornish cottage. Dogs really are members of the family, so a long day out together is made even better when you can finish off with a hearty meal and a drink somewhere you know the staff will be just as excited to see you, as your four-legged companion.
We’ve rounded up our collection of dog-friendly eateries in the Falmouth and Helford area that will go the extra mile when it comes to welcoming your pooch.
Situated a stone’s throw from the beautiful bay that is Maenporth Beach, with its golden long stretch of sand and turquoise water, is Michael Caines’ relaxed coastal eatery, The Cove.
Its spacious terrace where diners and dogs are treated to uninterrupted views of the beach across the Roseland Heritage Coast takes full advantage of its spectacular location. Heaters, warm blankets and a retractable roof allow guests the luxury to dine al-fresco all year round and share a glass of bubbly while soaking in the sea air. Inside, the sea views still take centre stage thanks to the eatery’s floor-to-ceiling glass-fronted windows, which fill the space with lots of lovely natural light.
Michaels’ passion for fresh, local and seasonal produce is transformed into crowd-pleasing dishes, such as roast Cornish cod with lemon puree, sobrasada, sea herbs and crab, and Phillip Warren beef fillet with horseradish and shallot confit, spinach, king oyster mushroom and red wine sauce.
The family-friendly beachside restaurant has an informal approach to dining, meaning its friendly atmosphere is casual enough to just order traditional Cornish cod and chips and to bring along your canine companions.
Price level: £££
With stunning views and food to match, IndiDog serves high-quality food and a bouncy social atmosphere. Dine to the clinking boats of Falmouth harbour and soak in the far-reaching views of the Carrick Roads towards St Mawes. And feast on beautiful brunches, sharing platters, sundown dinners and creative cocktails, all with your favourite furry friend by your side.
Indidog eatery was designed and created by Simon and Vanessa Clark of Highcliffe Contemporary Bed and Breakfast. They have taken their knowledge of the hospitality industry, eye for contemporary design and ability to notice and incorporate important details, to form a showstopping and delicious dining experience.
Working alongside Paul Ripley, a Michelin Star Chef who’s famed for working for Nathan Outlaw, Rick Stein, The Cornish Food Store and Sharp’s brewery, they have created a unique menu that’s specially designed for Falmouth: set to deliver homemade dishes which celebrate local and seasonal produce, that fits around the lifestyles of those working and living in this vibrant harbour town.
The harbour-side eatery offers treats and water for dogs, a curated gift shop with local items for you and your fur babies, a team of animal-loving staff, and even a little beach where pups can play while the tide is out. Underfloor heating is also at the ready during the winter months, to ensure that dogs stay toasty.
Price level: ££
The Boathouse is one of Falmouth’s most popular pup-friendly pubs and one of only a handful of independent, free houses remaining in the town. The pub has been licensed for over 300 years and has stunning views over Falmouth Harbour, the Penryn River and Flushing and out to the Carrick Roads.
The Boathouse has one of the finest views in Falmouth as it is positioned upon a hillside overlooking Falmouth estuary. Diners and dogs can enjoy the sparkling sea vistas from the new extension. If you’re planning to visit The Boathouse with your pooch, be sure to mention you are bringing your dog when booking, to get a table in the right area.
Whether you’re seeking a light lunch, a decadent dinner or a rich Sunday roast, The Boathouse specialises in expertly made, locally sourced and seasonal food, alongside hand-picked specialty ales and wines.
Price level: ££
Dating back to the 13th century, the historic Pandora Inn sits on a peaceful creek near Mylor, 4 miles north of Falmouth. Dining here is worth savouring as you’d be hard-pressed to find a more picturesque pub with such quaint charm and delicious food.
Dogs are welcome on a lead downstairs, inside and outside. Water bowls are provided and ‘doggie’ biscuits are on hand at the bar. There is also a wonderful private beach for puppies and their pals to run around.
Outside diners can delight in eating and drinking on the pontoon, where tables perch above the water and offer an idyllic spot for al fresco dining during the summer months. Inside the Upper Deck dining room is a wonderful vaulted space that can host group gatherings. Downstairs the beamed ceilings, maritime memorabilia that pepper the walls, fresh flowers for decoration, flagstone floors and a roaring fire, create a warm welcome and an atmosphere that is difficult to leave.
They serve food throughout the day starting with breakfast, morning coffee and rich cakes from 10:30, and then their full menu from 12 noon. The menu highlight is their fresh seafood, with must-try dishes such as fish pie in shallot and pastis cream sauce, steamed mussels and seared scallops.
With its timeless creekside position and 13th Century features, stepping into Pandora Inn is almost like stepping back in time. If you’re searching for somewhere idyllic to dine with big-portion dishes and nearby walks to walk off that extra cheeky pud’, head to Pandora Inn.
Price level: ££
If you’re on the hunt for a beautiful day out where you can reconnect with nature and also indulge a little, head to dog-friendly Trebah Garden.
The sub-tropical paradise with a stunning coastal backdrop is the result of 180 years of inspired and dedicated creation and has been rated as one of the best 80 gardens in the world. The garden was planted by Charles Fox in 1831 and has been compared to a Himalayan valley – a description which it deserves more than any other place in England.
Before or after wandering the gardens, visitors can indulge in nutritious and sustainable menu items from the bright and open Trebah Kitchen, where your canine pals are also welcome to dine with you. Dogs are welcome in Trebah Gardens all year round, they have designated doggie tables in Trebah Kitchen and are also welcome on the garden terrace and in the picnic area.
Discover the magic of this beautiful valley garden, explore under canopies bursting with exotic blooms and follow vibrant tunnels of colour that cascade down to Trebah’s secluded beach on the Helford River.
Price level: ££
The family-owned and run Ferryboat Inn, set in the unspoilt cove of the Helford River, overlooks one of Cornwall’s most magical places and serves up delicious pub fare.
A pub fit for both sunny summer days and crisp wintry weekends, The Ferryboat Inn is perfectly positioned for a pre or post-pub swim and set up for winter months with its homely wood burning fire.
Dating back 300 years, the Ferry Boat Inn looks as charming now as it did back then thanks to its idyllic location nestled on the edge of the Helford Passage. There’s direct access to the beach and water, and the surrounding walks along the wooded banks, sloping fields and coast path are a dog’s paradise. With dogs welcome indoors and out, settle down next to the roaring fire with a menu of their Cornish fare, or be seated on the terrace and enjoy some of the finest views in Cornwall.
Price level: ££
