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Barney’s Cornwall: Fowey Valley’s VIP shares his top pet-friendly attractions

“Great stay, our dog is in love with the golden-haired receptionist”
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Meet Barney our reception dog…and we’ve even been privy to a high-profile wedding here. But there’s still so much more to know about Best Western Fowey Valley Hotel.

After all, you don’t get a 4.5 star average rating across hundreds of TripAdvisor reviews without doing something very right.

Super pet-friendly, all of our guests (furry or otherwise) receive the warmest of South Westerly welcomes here in Lostwithiel – with our great food, outdoor swimming pool and idyllic location just some of our hallmarks.

Moments from the county’s oldest building, the Duchy Palace, and just a 10-minute drive from the Eden Project and National Trust sites galore, it’s little wonder guests keep flocking back to our tranquil pocket of Cornwall.

But what does the real star of the show have to say? When not helping out on reception, Barney – our devoted Golden Retriever – can be found enjoying some of the area’s most stunning scenery, trails and activities.

Here, he shares his top recommendations for those visiting us with like-minded four-legged friends, as we uncover Barney’s Cornwall…

Gaze in awe of the Eden Project

It’s famous the world over for housing the world’s largest rainforest in captivity, stunning plants, striking contemporary gardens and exciting year-round family events… but did you know the Eden Project is also a haven for pets?

Dogs like Barney can enjoy vast swathes of outdoor paths at Eden, with water bowls at the ready and even an undercover doggy dining area! In fact, in 2018, it was voted the best dog-walking destination in the world by TrustedHousesitters.

No small feat, but plenty of scope for small paws to explore one of Britain’s most astonishing natural attractions on a dog-friendly day out.

Eden Project

Follow the River Fowey down to Lantic Bay

It could hardly be more picturesque. Join the peaceful Fowey by the grounds of our hotel and follow it as it weaves though stunning National Trust woodland and the sleepy villages of Lerryn, St Veep and Penpoll.

How far you wish to travel on foot is up to you, but for those who make it as far as Lantic Bay it won’t have been a wasted journey. This large, shingly beach on a beautiful bay is a great spot for paddling and picnicking – needless to say, dogs like Barney just love it.

Those with a vehicle may well prefer to head to the south coast on four wheels, to make the most of time at this enchanting enclave.

lantic bay 

Discover The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Heligan might be one of the most mysterious estates in England, but these proudly pet-friendly gardens aren’t a secret to Barney and pals.

Lost to the brambles of time since the outbreak of WW1, this Sleeping Beauty was re-awakened in 1990 to become Europe’s largest garden restoration project. Today, Heligan’s 200 acres are a paradise for the explorer, plant lover and of course, dog owner – with pets able to be included in everything.

Don’t miss out on a cream tea, or an up-front and personal encounter with the resident goats, as you make your way through this most Cornish of delights.

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Lose yourselves at Lanhydrock

Flapping ears, panting tongues and wagging tails are a common sight upon pulling into the grounds of this majestic National Trust property.

It’s fair to say historic Lanhydrock is a favourite among dogs and their owners, with the wooded estate that surrounds the main garden and house a haven for those who just like cutting free. Enjoy unique walks by the flowing Fowey with the aid of trail maps available at the reception and shop.

Best of all, a dog-friendly café serves homemade dog treats, provides water bowls and gives you all a chance to catch a breath.

Lanhydrock

Let loose in Cardinham Woods

A certified Barney favourite, this largely flat and pathed terrain is ideal for off-lead adventure with your canine companions.

With all the hallmarks of a great doggy day out – a shallow spot of river, extremely dog-friendly café and endless sandy paths – walkers will also rejoice in the stream-side paths, fresh air and stunning viewports which make Cardinham Woods such a local favourite.

If you’re walking from the hotel be sure to leave yourself around 2 hours to make it there, or alternatively make use of its accessible carpark. Join us back at Best Western Fowey Valley to show off your snaps, and let your furry friend grab some well-earned zzzzzs…

Cardinham Woods

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