Pentire Headland Walk
Devon
The Pentire Headland pushes out into the Atlantic north of Polzeath on the north Cornwall coast, and this 4.8km circuit traces its edges with views across the Camel Estuary to Stepper Point, out to the Mouls island bird sanctuary, and along the rugged cliffs towards Port Quin. The headland is wild and exposed, with the coast path following close to cliff edges where the sea pounds against dark slate and the turf is cropped short by salt wind. In spring the cliff tops are thick with thrift, sea campion and kidney vetch, and the whole headland has an exhilarating, windswept character. With 173 metres of ascent across the undulating path, this is a short walk that feels bigger than its distance suggests.
This is a dramatic dog friendly walk with limited off-lead potential as livestock grazes the headland fields and the cliff edges demand close control. Leads should be kept on throughout, particularly near the cliff edges where drops are sheer and unfenced. The Atlantic wind carries powerful salt and seabird scent that keeps dogs alert, and the terrain is varied with grassy paths, rocky sections and occasional scrambles. There is no water access from the cliffs themselves. New Polzeath and Polzeath have parking, and the Oystercatcher bar at Polzeath welcomes dogs. The Rumps, the jagged double headland at Pentire's tip, is the dramatic highlight and worth the walk alone. Best on a blowy day when the sea is at its most impressive.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 4.8 km (3.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 1 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Coastal
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Limited
- Parking
- National Trust car park at Pentire - fee for non-members
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pentire Headland Walk dog friendly?
Pentire Headland Walk is a well-regarded dog friendly route, rated 8 out of 10. Dogs are welcome throughout the 4.8km circuit, and after the walk the Oystercatcher bar at nearby Polzeath also welcomes dogs, making it a solid day out for you and your dog.
Can dogs be off lead at Pentire Headland Walk?
Off-lead opportunities here are very limited. Livestock grazes the headland fields, and the cliff edges are sheer and unfenced in places, so leads should be kept on throughout the walk. It's not the right choice if your dog needs a good off-lead run, but the varied terrain and powerful coastal scents make it a stimulating outing all the same.
What should I know before visiting Pentire Headland Walk with my dog?
The headland is wild and exposed, with close cliff edges and 173 metres of ascent across undulating ground, so it's worth being prepared for a walk that feels more demanding than its short distance suggests. There's no water access from the cliffs themselves, so bring plenty with you. Parking is available at the National Trust car park at Pentire, though there's a fee for non-members, and New Polzeath and Polzeath also have parking nearby.
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