Tehidy Country Park Dog Walk: Ancient Woodland and Lakeside Circuit, West Cornwall
Camborne, Cornwall
Tehidy Country Park is the largest area of ancient woodland in West Cornwall, and the lake circuit at its centre gives dogs a satisfying loop through canopy and lakeside path that feels entirely removed from the coastal character of the county around it. The woodland floor is rich with scent year-round: leaf litter, mossy stone, the edges of streams threading through the lower sections. The lake itself is calm and tree-fringed, and most water-loving dogs will spend time nosing along the bank before the path pulls them back into the trees. The Woodland Cafe near the main entrance has outdoor seating and is a reliable start or finish point.
Partial off-lead: dogs can be off lead on the main woodland and lakeside paths when under close control and in sight. Leads are required in the car parks, picnic areas, and play zones near the visitor facilities. Ticks are present in the woodland from March to October - check dogs after every visit. Weekends bring cyclists and families onto the main paths, particularly near the lake. A mid-week morning visit gives the quietest and most spacious experience.
Frequently asked questions
Can I let my dog off the lead at Tehidy Country Park?
Partially. Dogs can be off lead on the main woodland and lakeside paths when under close control and within sight. Leads are required in the car parks, picnic areas, and children’s play zones. There is no confirmed livestock grazing within the country park, so the main reason to put the lead on outside the designated zones is proximity to other visitors and cyclists on the busier paths. The park is most relaxed for off-lead dogs on quiet weekday mornings, particularly away from the lake area.
Is there a cafe at Tehidy Country Park that allows dogs?
Yes. The Woodland Cafe near the main entrance at Tehidy Country Park has outdoor seating and is a practical start or finish point for the walk. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables. The cafe serves hot drinks, cakes, and light lunches. It is managed by Cornwall Council as part of the country park facilities. Check opening times before visiting as hours vary seasonally.
Are there ticks at Tehidy Country Park?
Yes. Dense deciduous and mixed woodland with year-round leaf litter is ideal tick habitat, and ticks are present at Tehidy from March through October. Check your dog thoroughly after every visit, paying particular attention to the head, neck, ears, groin, and between the toes. A tick removal tool and a veterinary-recommended tick preventative are both worth having if you walk here regularly. The heathland edge near the North Cliffs area adjacent to the park also carries some adder risk in warm spring and summer weather.
Where is Tehidy Country Park and how do I get there?
Tehidy Country Park is near Camborne in West Cornwall, approximately 3 miles north of Camborne town centre. The main entrance and North Cliffs car park use the postcode TR14 0HQ off Tehidy Road. There is an alternative car park at Bassett’s Combe on the south side of the park (TR14 9HB). Both car parks are free. The park is managed by Cornwall Council and is open year-round. The A30 passes nearby - the park is well signed from the main road.
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info