Crackington Haven
Cornwall
Crackington Haven is a dramatic, unspoilt cove on the north Cornish coast within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty between Bude and Boscastle. The beach is a mix of sand and shingle, backed by extraordinary folded and contorted rock strata that form some of the most spectacular cliff geology in Britain. The South West Coast Path descends steeply on both sides to reach the cove, giving it a genuinely remote character. The Coombe Barton Inn sits above the beach and has been serving walkers and beach visitors for generations.
Dogs are welcome at Crackington Haven year-round with no PSPO restrictions, and the cove is a staple for dog walkers on this section of the coast path. The beach itself is good for a run at low tide, with firm sand and shingle, and the surrounding cliff geology makes it an interesting place to explore. The Coombe Barton Inn is reliably dog-friendly with a garden and bar both welcoming dogs. The cliff walks in both directions from Crackington are among the most dramatic in Cornwall, with significant elevation gain and outstanding views. The cove has excellent parking and is genuinely well-served for its remote feel.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Beach Type
- Sand, Shingle, Rock
- Tide Notes
- North-facing with Atlantic exposure. Good sand at low tide. Beach reduces at high water. Can be rough in onshore winds.
- Facilities
- Coombe Barton Inn (dog friendly). Toilets. Car park. National Trust land adjacent.
- Parking
- Car park at Crackington Haven, EX23 0JG. Charge applies in season. Good capacity.
Dog Friendly Stays Nearby
Make a weekend of it. These are the closest dog friendly places to stay to Crackington Haven, each one checked for its dog policy before we listed it.
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All dog friendly stays in CornwallDog Friendly Hotels Nearby
The closest dog friendly hotels to Crackington Haven. Every dog fact comes from the hotel's own website.
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All dog friendly hotels in CornwallFrequently Asked Questions
Is Crackington Haven dog friendly?
Crackington Haven is a great choice for dog owners, earning a solid 8/10 for dog friendliness. Dogs are welcome on the beach with no PSPO restrictions, and the Coombe Barton Inn , sitting right above the cove , welcomes dogs in both its garden and bar, making it a handy stop after a walk.
Are dogs allowed at Crackington Haven year round?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Crackington Haven throughout the year with no seasonal restrictions in place. There are no PSPO restrictions at this beach, so it's a reliable option for dog owners whatever time of year you're visiting the north Cornish coast.
What should I know before visiting Crackington Haven with my dog?
The beach is a mix of sand and shingle and offers a good run at low tide when the firm sand is exposed. The South West Coast Path descends steeply into the cove on both sides, so be prepared for some serious elevation if you're planning to extend the walk along the cliffs , the views are worth it, but it can be demanding for older or less agile dogs. There's a car park on site (charges apply in season), and public toilets are available, which makes logistics straightforward despite the cove's pleasingly remote feel.
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What’s Nearby?
Walk0 mi awayCrackington Haven to The Strangles Circular
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A fit dog earns a swim at The Strangles, which allows dogs all year, after this steep walk over folded, zigzag coastal rock.
Beach3.3 mi awayMillook Beach
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A tiny, extremely remote shingle cove accessible only via a very steep narrow lane, with year-round dog access and almost guaranteed solitude.
Walk4.3 mi awayBoscastle to Tintagel Coastal Walk
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A dramatic North Cornwall coast walk from Boscastle harbour along towering slate cliffs to the legendary ruins of Tintagel, dog friendly with leads on for cliffs and livestock.
Beach4.9 mi awayWidemouth Bay
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A wide Atlantic surf beach south of Bude with summer dog restrictions on the sand but superb conditions for dogs outside peak season.
Beach6.9 mi awayBossiney Haven
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A hidden cove below dramatic cliffs near Tintagel, with year-round dog access, a waterfall, and a steep footpath that keeps the crowds away.
Walk7.1 mi awayBude Canal and Coast Circular
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A flat, stile-free canal and coast loop that suits any dog, including puppies and older ones, with two beaches for you both to finish on.