Planning a dog friendly holiday to Cornwall? Whether you’re exploring coastal walks or seeking out hidden gems with historical charm, St Mawes Castle is a must-visit spot – and yes, your four-legged friend is welcome too! Perched above the stunning Carrick Roads, this impressive fortress is packed with history, boasts jaw-dropping sea views, and makes for one of the most dog friendly places to visit in the area. Here’s everything you need to know for a pleasant day with your pup at St Mawes Castle.
St Mawes Castle is Dog Friendly
This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase or sign up for anything from this website, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
St Mawes Castle is ideal for family outings and is one of those rare historic attractions that caters to all ages – and dog friendly days out! Its fascinating history, incredible views, and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect blend of education and fun. Pair it with a walk along the coast or a picnic overlooking the miles of Cornish seascape, and you’ve got yourself a top-tier day out.
Table of Contents
St Mawes Castle History
Let’s go back (way back) to the 1500s when Henry VIII was busy building forts to defend England’s southern coast. St Mawes Castle and its partner across the water, Pendennis Castle, were built to protect Falmouth against possible invasion from France and Spain. This symmetrical little stunner is one of the best-preserved coastal artillery fortresses in the UK and a beautiful example of Tudor military architecture.
The castle was never attacked (probably because it looked too fabulous to mess with), but it played a role in multiple conflicts, including the English Civil War and World War II. Now, it’s a peaceful place for members, locals, and tourists (plus their dogs!) to explore.
You can even visit Pendennis Castle by hopping on the St Mawes Ferry across to Falmouth — a scenic and fun way to continue your historical adventure. The boat ride is dog friendly and only takes 20 minutes. It’s a stress-free way to explore, especially if you prefer not to navigate the Cornish country roads.
Are Dogs Allowed at St Mawes Castle?
Yes, dogs are allowed at St Mawes Castle! If your pup is on a lead and well-behaved, they’re free to wander around the site with you, including the outdoor areas and the gardens. The English Heritage staff are super welcoming — it’s clear they love a furry visitor!
Water bowls are dotted around, and plenty of shady spots if it’s sunny. Don’t forget to snap a few pics of your pooch posing on the ramparts with the sea behind them!
Where To Park For St Mawes Castle
Parking in St Mawes is a breeze — the castle has a pay-and-display car park. However, English Heritage Members can park for free. There’s also a car park in the village, which is a 15-minute walk.
It can get busy in the peak holiday season, so arrive early if you want to grab a good spot. If you’re staying locally in one of the lovely dog-friendly cottages nearby, stretch your legs and walk up to the castle instead. Also, keep in mind that Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before your visit and pack accordingly for you and your dog.
St Mawes Castle Tickets
Tickets for St Mawes Castle are reasonably priced. But if you want free entry, becoming an English Heritage Member is the way to go. You’ll get unlimited access to over 400 historic places across England — including Pendennis Castle, which makes a great follow-up visit. This value-for-money option allows you to explore multiple historic sites without breaking the bank.
As a bonus, new members receive a handbook worth £10, packed with inspiration for future adventures. Check the English Heritage website for up-to-date opening times, ticket prices, and special offers. There’s often a deal or two, especially for families.
Membership Prices (2025):
- Individual (18+) – £82 a year (£6.83 per month)
- Senior (65+) – £69 a year (£5.75 per month)
- Joint (2 adults) – £144 a year (£12 per month)
- Family – Same as individual/joint, and kids go free!
- Occasionally, there are special offers on joining.
English Heritage Offer
English Heritage Deals: Get 20% off memberships purchased by direct debit by using the promo code PV20OFF at the checkout. It is valid until 31 December 2025. Making a single membership £57.60 per year and a couple’s membership £100.20. Get yours here.
Things To Do in St Mawes
Once you’ve had your fill of castles and canons, St Mawes itself is a charming little coastal village. You can grab a Cornish pasty or treat yourself to an ice cream. There are plenty of places to sit and soak in the sea breeze. You can also take your dog for a walk along the beach or visit the local shops in St Mawes. Check out my guide on Things To Do in St Mawes with Your Dog for more ideas.
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
Places To Eat In St Mawes
St Mawes is an absolute dream for foodies. Whether you’re craving Cornish crab, a cheeky cream tea (jam first, you’re in Cornwall now), or Michelin-worthy fare, you’ll find something to tickle your tastebuds here.
I’d highly recommend getting a crab sandwich from the St Mawes Seafood Bar – it’s one of the best I’ve ever had. They even have meal deals that include a Tarquins gin in a tin, crisps, and cake. At The Watch House, we had an incredible meal – a shellfish platter with prawns, scallops, crab claws, mussels, and scallops, as well as lemon sole katsu curry! Book ahead, especially in summer — it’s popular for a reason.
Prefer a pint? The Rising Sun is a classic inn that exudes coastal charm. Its terrace offers lovely views. The solid pub fare, including pie and mash, burgers, and roast dinners. Whilst The Victory Inn is the oldest and only traditional pub in St Mawes, with low ceilings, wooden beams, and a roaring fire in winter, full of character.
Want to know more? Check out my guide to the best places to eat in St Mawes with your dog, which includes whether they welcome dogs.
Places To Visit Near St Mawes
A short drive away, Trelissick Garden offers glorious riverside walks and lush gardens. The estate features 30 acres of vibrant gardens and 375 acres of parkland and woodland walks, boasting stunning views over the River Fal. The estate also houses the historic Trelissick House, an art gallery showcasing local Cornish artists, a second-hand bookshop, and the Crofters Café. A ferry service operates from Falmouth via St Mawes during the summer months, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic journey along the Fal River.
Dogs are welcome at Trelissick Garden on a short fixed lead. If you have an extendable lead, you will need to swap it for a fixed one at the entrance. You’ll also be asked to keep your paws on the path to protect the delicate flora and fauna of the garden.
National Trust Membership
A National Trust Membership gives you unlimited access to hundreds of historic houses, beautiful gardens, and stunning nature reserves across the UK. It’s totally worth it if you love days out, discovering hidden gems, and getting free parking at most locations. I love our couples membership; it’s only £13.40 per month, and most locations are dog-friendly.
Things To Do Near St Mawes
Village hopping near St Mawes is a lovely way to explore Cornwall’s quieter charms, with each spot offering its own character and delights. Start with Portscatho, a laid-back fishing village with art galleries, coastal walks, and one of the best beachside delis in the county. Just up the road is Gerrans, where you can visit the 13th-century church and enjoy peaceful countryside views.
A short drive away, Portloe is picture-perfect with its tiny working harbour – a dream for photographers and an excellent spot for a peaceful wander. Veryan, known for its unique roundhouses, offers a touch of local folklore and beautiful walks through wooded valleys.
Don’t Get Caught Short 💩
Tuff Pets Dog Poop Bags are premium, extra thick, and environmentally friendly, providing a reliable and eco-conscious solution for pet waste. These zero-waste, home-compostable poo bags allow pet owners to care for their pets and the planet simultaneously, making walkies so much easier.
Stay in St Mawes
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Ship and Castle
We stayed at the Ship and Castle Hotel, which offers dog-friendly rooms with serious sea-view perks. We were upgraded to a balcony room overlooking the harbour — Ivan absolutely loved people-watching and boat-spotting from his new favourite spot. The room was clean and modern, and he had space for his bed and bowls, plus essentials like a coffee pod machine and good WiFi. Parking’s easy too, with a nearby pay-and-display just a minute away (only £6 for 24 hours).
Travelling with your Dog
FunnyFuzzy is a brand that offers stylish and practical accessories for travelling with pets, focusing on comfort, safety, and convenience. Their product range includes cosy pet carriers and cushioned car seat covers designed to make journeys more enjoyable for pets and their owners. These accessories often feature durable materials, easy-to-clean fabrics, and thoughtful design elements like secure fastenings and ventilation to ensure pets are comfortable and safe on the go.
Follow Us on Social Media
Don’t Miss Out – Subscribe to my Monthly Newsletter
Do you want to be the first to read my latest blog posts? You can stay up to date with the best dog friendly travels by signing up for my mailing list:
Related Articles
Things to Do in Lostwithiel with Your Dog
Things to Do in St Austell with Dogs
Dog Friendly Pubs in Charlestown, Cornwall