Paws on the Beach returns to Watergate Bay this weekend

A popular dog-friendly event returns to Watergate Bay this weekend, bringing a day of activities for pets and their owners while raising funds for animal welfare.

Paws on the Beach will take place on Saturday 11 April from 11:00 to 15:00, in partnership with the RSPCA Cornwall branch and Watergate Bay Hotel. The free event is open to all, with dogs welcome on the beach throughout the day.

Organisers say the event will feature a range of canine-focused activities, including a dog show, agility sessions, and opportunities to get advice on behaviour and training. A clinical canine massage therapist will also be offering guidance.

Families are also catered for, with children’s activities including agility, arts and crafts, and face painting, alongside a raffle and tombola. All donations will go towards supporting the RSPCA Cornwall branch, which runs a rehabilitation and rehoming centre in St Columb.

Poppy Pudner, events and activities lead for RSPCA Cornwall, said the organisation was “absolutely delighted” to be working with Watergate Bay Hotel again.

She said: “Our partnership with the team there has created a truly special event for dog lovers and families alike. The past two years have been a huge success, with hundreds of happy faces and plenty of wagging tails, so we’re excited to welcome everyone back in 2026 – a particularly special year as we celebrate 30 years of caring for animals at our centre in St Columb.”

The dog show will run throughout the day, with categories including prettiest pooch, most handsome hound, best rescue, and waggiest tail, before culminating in the “Paws on the Beach top dog” finale.

While entry to the event is free, there is a £2 fee per dog for each class entered in the show, with proceeds supporting the charity.