Top Things to Do In Cornwall with Dogs on a Rainy Day

Don’t worry - there are plenty of indoor dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall where you and your furry friend can escape the rain, while still enjoying the best of what the region has to offer. 

From historic sites to cosy pubs, here’s how to make the most of a rainy day in Cornwall with your dog…

1. Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Start your rainy day adventure with a visit to Wheal Martyn Clay Works, the UK’s only china clay mining museum, located in St Austell. This unique heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s industrial past. Dogs are welcome in most areas of the museum, including the extensive trails that wind through the old clay pits and woodland.

Even on a rainy day, the museum offers plenty of indoor exhibits that showcase the history of the china clay industry. After exploring, you can warm up in the dog-friendly café, where both you and your pup can enjoy a well-deserved treat.

2. Hicks Bar

When the rain starts to pour, there’s nothing better than retreating to a cosy pub! Hicks Bar, located at the St Austell Brewery Visitor Centre, is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some great food and drink. Named after the brewery's founder, Walter Hicks, this dog-friendly pub offers a warm welcome to all, with a range of more than 15 cask and kegged ales and lagers waiting to be sampled.

While you indulge in a pint of one of our famous brews, your dog can enjoy a Proper Dog - their very own pup-friendly beer! The menu at Hicks Bar features a variety of hearty dishes made with local ingredients, making it the ideal spot to refuel as you shelter from the Cornish mizzle.

3. Charlestown

Charlestown is a charming Georgian port town, famous for its role as a filming location for the TV series Poldark. On a rainy day, the town’s historic harbour, with its tall ships and cobbled streets, takes on a moody, atmospheric feel that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.

Many of the local shops and galleries welcome dogs, so you can happily browse the boutiques between showers. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, head to one of the dog-friendly pubs like the Pier House, where you can hunker down with a drink and a view of the stormy sea.

4. Truro

Cornwall’s only city, Truro, is a fantastic destination for a rainy day. With its historic cathedral, bustling markets and a variety of dog-friendly shops, there’s plenty to see and do. Truro Cathedral has some stunning Gothic architecture and is dog-friendly, so your pup can join you as you explore this impressive landmark.

Afterward, head to the County Arms, a traditional Cornish pub that welcomes dogs with open arms. Tuck into lunch from the seasonal menu, which features pub classics alongside contemporary twists.

5. Mousehole

The picturesque village of Mousehole is one of Cornwall’s most beloved spots, and it’s just as charming on a rainy day. The meandering streets, lined with quaint cottages, boutiques and galleries, are perfect for wandering around with your dog.

When the rain starts to fall, pop into the dog-friendly Ship Inn, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Mousehole harbour while staying warm and dry. The hotel’s bar area is particularly cosy, offering a range of local drinks and a menu of delicious comfort food.

6. Penzance

Penzance is a vibrant town with a rich history and plenty of dog-friendly attractions. Start your visit with a trip to the Exchange Gallery, where well-behaved dogs are welcome. The gallery features contemporary art exhibitions that are sure to inspire, even on a gloomy day.

After soaking in some culture, grab a brolly for a walk along Penzance’s promenade, which offers stunning views of St Michael’s Mount. Penzance has plenty to offer in the way of quirky shops, artisan food joints and antiques, so it’s worth taking a stroll down colourful Chapel Street and beyond to appreciate the town’s unique vibe.

7. Padstow

Padstow is a food lover’s paradise, and it’s also a great place to visit with your dog on a rainy day. The town’s many dog-friendly cafes, pubs and shops mean that you won’t be short of options for staying dry.

While there are some fantastic walks and beaches around Padstow, if you’re looking for things to do indoors with your dog, the National Lobster Hatchery is a fantastic place to visit on a rainy day. This unique marine conservation centre offers an intriguing glimpse into the important work being done to replenish their populations, and some unbelievably teeny baby lobsters!

At the end of a drizzly day in Padstow, get comfy at the Old Custom House to sample some of the best local brews - with your dog by your side, of course. 

Stay Warm and Dry with St Austell Brewery

At St Austell Brewery, we know that a little rain shouldn’t stop you from enjoying everything Cornwall has to offer with your dog. That’s why many of our pubs across the county are dog-friendly, providing a warm and welcoming refuge on a rainy day.

So, whether you’re exploring the industrial heritage of Wheal Martyn, enjoying the charm of Mousehole, or indulging in a pint at Hicks in St Austell, there are plenty of dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall where you and your furry friend can stay dry and have a fantastic day out.