Your Dog Where To Stay Guide 2013 by BPG Media

FROM THE PUBLISHER OF

YOUR GUIDE TO DOG-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION AROUND BRITAIN

‘Where to stay’ 2013-2014

SPONSORED BY

ADVICE AND TIPS ON HOLIDAYING WITH YOUR DOG

£1.49 WHEN SOLD SEPARATELY

B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering properties reviewed

★ SCOTLAND ★ NORTH WEST ★ NORTH EAST ★ MIDLANDS ★ SOUTH EAST ★ SOUTH WEST ★ EAST ANGLIA ★ WALES ★ 1_cover wts 2013 AT2.indd 6

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Use Medicines Responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible).

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FROM THE PUBLISHER OF

HAPPY HOLS

‘Where to stay’

Make sure your dog ge ts the most out of his holida y by ensuring he’s fit and hea lthy before you go. Bayer Animal Health, sponsors of our ‘Wher e to stay’ guide and manufacture r of the Drontal range of wo rming tablets, recommends that owners ensure their pe t’s worming is up to date. Drontal recommends that adult dogs be wormed at least every three month s and puppies more frequent ly, ideally every two weeks after birth up to three month s of age. To find out more abou t the Drontal range of wo rming products, take advantag e of the free reminder servic e, and find out more generally about worms, check out the new-look website at www.drontal. com You can also play Dro ntal’s worm attack game, eit her live on the website or down load the app.

2013-2014

othing beats a really good family holiday — and to make it a real family holiday, you need to include your dog. More and more dog owners are insisting that when it comes to taking a break, their pets must be included in their plans. And if you’re going to make the most of any trip away, then you need to find somewhere to stay where they’ll welcome your dog and really make him feel at home. That’s where our ‘Where to stay’ guide comes in. Throughout these pages you’ll find reviews of dog-friendly B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering properties, all geared up to give you and your dog a memorable stay. And don’t forget, to get into this guide the accommodation featured has to be truly dog friendly, not merely dog tolerant, so you can be sure that the owners and proprietors will have your pets’ interests at heart. The 50 establishments and properties in the guide cover the length and breadth of Britain, from Scotland to Cornwall, Wales to East Anglia. And all our testers are dog owners so they know what is important to our readers. So sit back, relax, check out our accommodation reviews, and plan that perfect doggy holiday!

Editor ‘Where to stay’ and Your Dog Magazine

‘WHERE TO STAY’ 2013-2014

SUBSCRIPTIONS 0844 848 8257.

Designers: Marisa Bailey, Alex Terry, Anthony Hall.

‘Where to stay’ is produced by the publisher of Your Dog, Britain’s best-selling dog magazine.

EMAIL EDITORIAL: Editorial@yourdog.co.uk EMAIL ADVERTISING ads@yourdog.co.uk

Commercial sales manager: Becky Kane. Advertising: Andrea Marshall, Kay Cotterill.

Your Dog Magazine, 1-6 Buckminster Yard, Main Street, Buckminster, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG33 5SB. Tel. 01476 859830.

Editor: Sarah Wright. Sub editor: Sophie Douglas. Editorial: Kelly Felstead. Admin assistants: Melanie Hudson, Michael Hallam.

Production manager: Sally Evans. Colour repro: Graham Warren. Production secretary: Moira Pritchard.

Chairman: Mike Barnes. Managing director: Alison Queenborough. Associate publisher: Kevin Hughes. Printing: Wyndeham Group. All prices and details are accurate at the time of going to press. We recommend you double-check details before booking to allow for seasonal or management changes.

The paper used for this publication is a recyclable and renewable product. It has been produced using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and elemental or total chlorine-free bleached pulp. This magazine can be recycled either through your kerbside collection, or at a local recycling point. Log on to www.recyclenow.com and enter your postcode to find the nearest sites.

Planning your summer break with your dog? Don’t forget to check out our website www.yourdogholidays.co.uk — it’s packed full of great advice, including travel tips, area reviews, and plenty of dog-friendly places to stay. ‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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‘Where to stay’ 2013-2014

Contents 6 YOUR HOLIDAY STARTS HERE! All you need to know to plan your dog-friendly break.

SCOTLAND 10 Crail Posthouse, Crail, Fife. 11 Lands of Loyal, Alyth, Perthshire. 12 The Croft, Selkirk, Scottish Borders. 13 The Farr Bay Inn, Bettyhill, Sutherland.

NORTH EAST 14 Paddock Cottage, Whitby, North Yorkshire. 15 Harlow Carr Hotel, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

NORTH WEST 16 The Sun Inn, Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria. 17 Alston House Hotel, Alston, Cumbria. 18 Simonstone Hall, Hawes, North Yorkshire. 19 Chesterfield Pet Friendly Hotel, Blackpool, Lancashire. 20 Westfield Lodge, Oxenhope, West Yorkshire. 21 Black Prince Narrowboats, Acton Bridge, Cheshire.

THE MIDLANDS 22 The Old Swan & Minster Mill, Witney, Oxfordshire. 24 Forest Holidays, Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire. 25 Bubbenhall House, Bubbenhall, Warwickshire.

26 Canal Cruising Company Ltd, Stone, Staffordshire. 27 The Maynard, Grindleford, Derbyshire. 28 Billing Aquadrome, Great Billing, Northamptonshire.

WALES 30 Willow Farmhouse, Narberth, Pembrokeshire. 31 Clydey Cottages, Boncath, Pembrokeshire. 32 Miner’s Cottage, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd. 33 Oak Wood Lodges, Rhayader, Powys. 34 Three Rivers Hotel, Ferryside, Carmarthen. 35 Ffynonwen Country Guest House, Aberporth, Ceredigion.

EAST ANGLIA 36 Rainbow Cottage, Sedgeford, Norfolk. 37 Weybourne Forest Lodges, Weybourne, Norfolk. 38 The Hoste Arms, Burnham Market, Norfolk. 39 Ollands Farm Barn, Happisburgh, Norfolk. 40 White Lodge Farm Cottages, Hingham, Norfolk. 41 The Ship, Dunwich, Suffolk. 42 Tydd St Giles Golf and Country Club, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. 43 Holmes House, East Ruston, Norfolk.

44 The Lifeboat Inn, Thornham, Norfolk. 45 Fullers Hill Cottages, Little Gransden, Cambridgeshire.

SOUTH EAST 46 The Chase Lodge Hotel, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey. 47 Pekes Houses, Hailsham, Sussex.

SOUTH WEST 48 Polo Cottage, West Camel, Somerset. 49 Cadgwith Cove Cottages, Cadgwith, Cornwall. 50 The Old Cider House, Nether Stowey, Somerset. 51 Orchard View, Plymtree, Devon. 52 Blagdon Manor, Ashwater, Devon. 53 Trevillick Cottage, Tintagel, Cornwall. 54 The Limes, Swanage, Dorset. 55 The Hunters Inn, Heddon Valley, Devon. 56 Primrose Hill Holidays, Blue Anchor, Somerset. 57 The Cherrybrook, Yelverton, Devon. 58 Retallack Resort and Spa, Wadebridge, Cornwall. 59 North Down Farm, Wiveliscombe, Somerset. 60 Trevone Farm, Padstow, Cornwall. 61 The Montpellier Chapter, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. 62 Our Facebook fans tell us their favourite places to stay.

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PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAY

Enjoy exploring with your dog on holiday.

Your holiday Holidaying with your dog can be great fun — and with a bit of planning you’ll both get the chance to chill out, says Justine Harding.

olidays are precious — a time to get away from the usual routine and enjoy the stimulation of new experiences without being tied to the clock. Taking your dog with you can add to your pleasure but preparation is the key to success.

THINKING AHEAD… If you’re planning a holiday to suit your dog too, take time to think through the details beforehand. By ensuring your travel arrangements, accommodation, and holiday itinerary are all dog friendly, you won’t be faced with the stress of unexpected difficulties.

… ABOUT YOUR ACCOMMODATION When you book your place to stay, don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Ensure the venue welcomes dogs and check

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

to what degree — where do dogs have access to and where are they expected to sleep? On the following pages, you’ll find 50 reviews of genuinely dog-friendly places to stay, where your four-legged friends are actively welcomed rather than just tolerated. Each property has been tested by dog owners and lovers who know what you want from a dog-friendly holiday. Some places will insist that dogs can only be in your room, while at others, it’s access all areas. If you have more than one dog, check if there’s a limit per guest. Can your dog be left there for a while if you want to visit somewhere without him? Ask about the setting — are there any resident dogs or other animals? Is the garden securely fenced or does it open on to a main road? Are there walks close by? If you are planning to camp, think about how you will keep your dog secure at night

Prevent your dog scavenging on carcasses in the countryside.

13/03/2013 14:52

Summer breaks mean a sneaky ice cream treat for you both.

Plan ahead and fill your days with fun events for you both.

Always check whether there are dog restrictions on beaches.

y starts here! doesn’t make for a relaxing getaway. If you are planning to travel by bus or train, check with the service provider that dogs are allowed before buying a ticket. There may be restrictions such as your pet having to be in a carrier.

…ABOUT YOUR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

… ABOUT YOUR AWAY DAYS

With your accommodation settled, consider how you’re going to get there. If it’s a long car journey, plan in several comfort stops. Think about how you are going to get your luggage and your dog to your accommodation safely. A crate keeps your pet safe; alternatively, if he travels on a car seat, a car harness is a good investment. If your dog needs to be moved from his usual travelling position in the car due to extra baggage, check beforehand that he’s settled riding elsewhere in the car — a travel-sick or barking dog

Even if you are a ‘follow your nose’ type of person, consider what you may want to do and how your dog would fit in. Long walks and hikes are not likely to be a problem as long as your dog is fit enough, but you may also visit pubs or restaurants, museums or shops, or want to go on organised trips. While some may be dog friendly, providing your best friend is well behaved, dogs are not always welcome. Consider where your dog can safely and comfortably be left in these situations — and how your options will be affected by the weather. The car is not an option when it comes to leaving

your dog. Equally sitting outside a pub with your dog may be lovely on a warm day, but it’s not so attractive in the rain. Think, too, about how you will manage your dog if you opt for activities such as biking or boating. Would he be rather too keen to get involved or would the idea terrify him? For a water-based holiday, invest in a dog life jacket. If you are planning to holiday with dog-owning friends, you’ll need to think about whether the dogs have met previously and how they get on. If your dogs haven’t met before, introduce them before the holiday, if possible. If not, plan how they can each have their own safe place and be kept separate if necessary. When holidaying with non-doggy friends, especially if this includes children, make sure your dog knows how to meet and greet and accepts that launching himself on to the sofa is not always acceptable.

▼

— tent sides can easily be pushed up by pointy noses. Your dog also needs to be able to have fun but be under control while you’re at your tent generally — a tie-out line and stake can be invaluable.

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PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAY

Think about whether your day trips will be suited to your dog too.

HONE YOUR HOLIDAY SKILLS A well-behaved dog is a great ambassador for his kind and will make your holiday a treat rather than a trial. Here’s how to work on five key skills that will help ensure your dog is a pleasure to spend time with.

TRAVEL HAPPILY

Many travel problems arise from your dog being worried about the car. In these cases, spending time boosting his confidence before a big journey can help. With the car parked, engine off, and doors open, use treats or a toy to encourage your dog to climb in himself. Do not force him. Sprinkle treats around the car, let him find them, and then ask him to get out. Repeat this a few times each day until he’s happily hopping in. Then do the same exercise with some, and then all, of the doors closed. As long as he’s still relaxed, start the car and switch it off immediately. Build up to longer periods of the engine running and then gradually add car movement, starting with just a metre, always rewarding.

SETTLE

There are times when your dog needs to accept there is nothing exciting happening and he should lay down quietly — such as when you want to enjoy a pub meal. Teach this at home by rewarding your dog when he is laying calmly, and ignore any pawing or jumping up. Teach him to settle on a specific mat or blanket. Reward him for going on to the blanket first and use a specific word such as ‘Off’ to call him away from the mat, but don’t reward. Work towards rewarding a relaxed down position on the mat.

Holidaying in the UK means always packing a coat!

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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BE CONFIDENT BEING ALONE

Should you need to leave your dog in a strange room alone, you need to be confident that he will chill out. If you have taught the settle or used a settle mat, use these to help him understand what is required. However, if he isn’t happy being left at home, he’s likely to be worse somewhere new, so boost his confidence in a familiar environment first. Give him a chew or stuffed Kong on his bed or mat and leave the room for a few minutes. If he doesn’t react, gradually increase the time before you return. If he tries to get your attention, ignore him until he settles back to the toy, then praise.

WALK ON A LOOSE LEAD

This is a difficult task for any dog. But to avoid your arms being longer by the end of your holiday, take time to work on this at home. Reward your dog for walking just a few steps at a time beside you on a loose lead. If he forges ahead or sideways, stop and maintain the tension on the lead but don’t pull. Wait, and when he turns back to you, allow the lead to loosen and reward again once he is back beside you. Then ask him to move forwards again. Alternatively invest in a headcollar or harness so your dog doesn’t damage his neck (or your shoulders) by pulling.

TOP TIP!

MEET AND GREET APPROPRIATELY

Whether it’s people, other dogs, or animals, your dog will benefit if he approaches calmly. Strangers don’t often appreciate iate dogs who jump up at them, and it can be scary for children. Prevent this is by teaching your dog to sit in orderr to get fuss. Jumping up should never ver get reward or attention. In addition, teach your dog to o react calmly to other animals. Let yourr dog see them and before he reacts, reward with treats. Don’t force him closer er than he is comfortable. For dogs who o are reactive to other dogs, seek specialist ecialist advice from a trainer or behaviourist. urist.

Our guide features properties that actively welcome dogs, not just tolerate them.

Avoid feeding your dog unsterilised pet food.

13/03/2013 14:08

Perfect packing With your holiday booked and the travel arrangements made, it’s time to think about packing. Here’s our quick guide to what Fido may need… ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

CRATE. DOG CAR HARNESS. EXTENDING LEAD. SHORT LEAD. HEADCOLLAR OR HARNESS. WATER AND BOWL. FOOD AND BOWL. TREATS. CHEWS. KONG. MEDICATIONS PLUS TRAVEL SICKNESS PILLS. FIRST AID KIT. ADAPTIL DIFFUSER. TOYS. A COOL/FLEECE COAT. TOWEL(S). BLANKET(S). SUNCREAM. POO BAGS. TIE STAKE AND LONG LINE. TAILGATE LOCK OR WINDOW VENTS.

LET’S GO! At last, you’re holiday is here. Enjoy a smooth getaway with the following tips.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE Plan to get your dog out for a good walk so he will settle more happily for the journey. If he gets travel sick, check how long before travelling any medication needs to be given. Also avoid giving him a heavy meal before setting off.

WE’RE HERE HEADCOLLAR OR HARNESS

FIRST AID KIT

On arrival at your destination, book in and check the arrangements for dogs before letting your dog out of the car. Keep him on a lead and encourage him to relieve himself before heading to your quarters. Once in your accommodation, keep an eye out as even the best house-trained dog may feel the urge to react to any remaining scent of previous canine guests. Give your dog a drink and decide where he is going to sleep — show him his bed so he knows where he can go. Then, head out to explore and enjoy your holiday — a tired dog will generally be a happy one, and will settle much better in his new environment.

Cliff top walks can be especially dangerous.

KONG TREATS CHEWS

CHECK YOU R DOCUMENT S

Other useful items may incl ude: ■ A map of th e area you’re visiting to iden tify good wal ks. ■ A tide char t — vital for sa fe walks on unfa miliar beache s. ■ A guide bo ok to dog-frien dly pubs and visit or attractions . ■ Vet contac t details for th e area. ■ A dog tag with your mob ile number on if your usual on e doesn’t have it.

STRANGER DANGER

While one of the main attractions of being on holiday is to explore new places, it also means you and your dog are likely to come across unexpected hazards. Beaches are doggy paradise but do check the tides so you don’t get cut off. Cliff top walks can also be dangerous — keep dogs on leads and balls in your pocket. Waterways of all kinds may also prove irresistible but dangerous to dogs. Assess the current and exit points before considering letting your dog off lead. Also be aware of water covered with weed which can catch out unsuspecting canines. You may also come across different domestic or wild animals which your dog isn’t used to. Take heed of notices requesting your dog be kept on a lead. And finally, even on seemingly safe walks, you don’t know what’s around the corner — if you can’t see what’s ahead, keep your dog under control for the safety of all concerned.

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SCOTLAND — CRAIL, FIFE

Spend a while admiring Crail’s charms.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£15 PER DOG PER WEEK Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO, DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“There was a welcome pack waiting for Henry.”

Picture postcard CRAIL POSTHOUSE, CRAIL, FIFE.

Kirkcaldy ruins beckoned for Kelly and Henry.

Accommodation: Self-catering townhouse. Cost: £300 – £725 per week, depending on season; short breaks available. Tested by: Kelly Felstead and Tom Jackson, with Cocker Spaniel Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Tucked in-between two buildings on Crail High Street, the Posthouse looks deceptively small. Once inside, however, the property is spacious, airy, and has lots of rooms to get lost in — great for a game of doggy hide-and-seek. Set over two floors, the Posthouse is very luxurious; the sitting room includes a TV, DVD player, stereo, and iPod dock; there’s a dining/kitchen area, two double bedrooms, a single bedroom, two bathrooms, an upstairs study, and a utility room. It has mostly oak or tiled floors and leather furniture.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? On our first day, owner David Nash called us to welcome us and tell us about places to visit. It’s a three-minute walk to the nearest g grassyy area

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Before we arrived, David and his wife, Marysia, provided information on dog-friendly pubs and walks. There was a welcome pack waiting for Henry in the utility room which included a towel, blanket, and bowls. There was also a welcome basket of goodies for us which included a number of essential items and treats such as a bottle of wine, chocolate, eggs, coffee, and milk.

■ This area is dog walking heaven! The Fife Coastal Path runs through Crail; we were blown away by the rugged coastline, pretty fishing harbours, and stunning scenery. The path passes through some beautiful villages including Pittenweem, St Monans, and Elie. If

The Posthouse looks deceptively small from the outside.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

The luxurious bathroom.

overlooking the sea if dogs need to toilet during the night, as there is no outside space at the cottage. Dogs are allowed everywhere in the house. They can’t be left on their own but this wasn’t a problem; the locals were very friendly, some shops had water bowls outside, and there was a dog-friendly pub across the road.

TOP TIP!

The spacious and airy living room.

your dog can’t walk far, it’s worth making the short journey to these villages either by car or via the hourly dog-friendly bus service. ■ Crail beach is a five-minute walk from the property; we enjoyed sitting on the rocks watching the world go by while Henry rolled in the sand. ■ There are many dog-friendly pubs in the area including the Golf Hotel opposite the Posthouse, which allows dogs in the bar area. ■ Further afield, historic St Andrews is about 11 miles north and definitely not to be missed. ■ We also took a short drive along the Fife Coastal Path road to Kirkcaldy, which has a ruined castle — open to the public — perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea and a secluded beach.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact David and Marysia Nash, Crail Posthouse, 39 High Street North, Crail, Fife on 07969 664273; marysia.nash@blueyonder.co.uk; www.crailposthouse.co.uk

Worming at least every three months will help to keep your canine friend healthy: healthy dogs are happy dogs. 13/03/2013 10:26

SCOTLAND — ALYTH, PERTHSHIRE

Henry enjoyed testing out all the furniture in the hotel.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

Built in 1830, Lands of Loyal looks impressive.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Luxurious living

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

LANDS OF LOYAL HOTEL AND RESTAURANT, ALYTH, PERTHSHIRE.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Country house hotel. Cost: From £140 – £160 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Kelly Felstead and Tom Jackson, with Cocker Spaniel Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Located in picturesque East Perthshire, Lands of Loyal is a stunning sight as you travel along the winding driveway towards this impressive mansion. Built in 1830 and boasting many opulent features more often seen in stately homes — such as a grand staircase, historical wall tapestries, and a roaring log fire — the hotel is ideal for those who like the feel of days long gone. The hotel prides itself on accommodating dogs. Canine guests are welcome everywhere except in the dining room, although Henry was allowed to breakfast with us one morning as we were the only diners. The hotel bar is great for a relaxed, traditional pub-type meal with your dog by your side. There’s a more formal menu in the dining room. Dogs are allowed on the furniture; Henry enjoyed trying out the comfortable sofas and armchairs in the central hall and other areas of the hotel, as well as our lavish four-poster bed.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Hotel owner and general manager Verity Webster, and her husband David, made a great fuss of

Charge for dogs? The stunning central hall.

Henry and introduced us to their Greyhound, Clover. She was regularly seen lying on the sofas in the central hall. Our first walk after arriving was a wet one, and David was on hand to give us towels to wipe Henry’s sopping paws on our return. The hotel garden and grounds give great views of the distant Perthshire hills, and there’s lots of space for dogs to run around. Although the outside isn’t completely enclosed, there is a fence around the garden.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Spare towels, water bowls, dog treats and poo bags are available, plus spare tennis balls. Private dining rooms can be requested if you want to dine with your dog separately from other guests.

Cairngorms — at the end of the hotel drive. ■ The Den of Alyth is a walking hot spot popular with local dog owners; this is a stunning woodland with lots of areas where dogs can go for a dip in the water. ■ Nearby Blairgowrie has a lovely riverside walk — complete with a little waterfall. ■ Further afield lies Glamis Castle — the childhood home of the Queen Mother — which has dog-friendly gardens and a nature trail (dogs must be on leads). The bustling town of Pitlochry is also worth a visit.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Lands of Loyal Hotel and Restaurant, Alyth, by Blairgowrie, Perthshire PH11 8JQ, on 01828 633151; admin@landsofloyal.com; www.landsofloyal.com

£10 PER DOG PER DAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, AT OWNER’S DISCRETION

“The hotel is ideal for those who like the feel of days long gone.”

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ There are various walks near the hotel and the charming market town of Alyth is a short walk away. Experienced walkers can join the Cateran Trail — a 64-mile route which leads to the

Wonderful views.

Beautiful Glamis Castle.

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07/03/2013 09:26

SCOTLAND — SELKIRK, THE SCOTTISH BORDERS

DOGS STAY FO R FREE The Croft is a home from home for dogs and owners.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM

The beautiful borders THE CROFT, SELKIRK, THE SCOTTISH BORDERS.

Kelly and Henry enjoy one of the many walks in the area.

Accommodation: B&B. Cost: £68 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Kelly Felstead and Tom Jackson, with Cocker Spaniel Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION:

The Croft is in a secluded area on the outskirts of Selkirk, blessed with stunning scenery and endless NO walking opportunities. It has 1½ acres of land Can dogs be left consisting mostly of natural pasture unattended? and woodland. YES A gate in the garden leads directly on to Selkirk Common. The B&B has a very warm and welcoming atmosphere inside — definitely a home from home. The dining/living room is cosy “Blessed and looks out on to an outdoor with seating area with a pond and stunning natural waterfall — we found it the perfect spot for birdwatching. scenery.” There are lots of leafl le ets on local attractions tto hand. The entrance to the B&B is tiled — ideal for B muddy paws — and has m a comfy sofa; a dog water bowl could be found next b tto the front door. Dogs can sleep in the bedrooms and are allowed on the furniture. Canine visitors are welcome everywhere in the B&B, but owners are asked to keep them out of Dramatic Kelso Abbey. the dining room if other guests are eating. Enclosed exercise area?

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

Cosy...

...and comfortable.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? On arrival, owner Jean Foster showed us around, and pointed out useful things such as the dog waste bin and spare poo bags in the garden. It was obvious that Jean was a big dog lover; she paid Henry lots of attention, gave him the nickname Henry The Hotel Inspector, and offered to dog-sit so we could eat out in the evenings. She is happy to look after your dogs if you need to go somewhere without them. Jean takes pictures of her canine guests for a pet gallery on The Croft’s website. Jean’s dog, Lucy, quickly became firm friends with Henry. They enjoyed running around together outside and played tuggy with one of Lucy’s toys. However, Lucy only mixes with guests if they agree it’s OK.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There was a welcome pack awaiting Henry from Lucy, which included a blanket, dog treats, and contact

details for a local vet. Dog bowls, towels, and bedding are available if required.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA ■ The location is excellent for dog walking; we enjoyed exploring the different paths on Selkirk Common, stumbling across woodlands, a pretty loch, and amazing views of the town. Several walking routes can be picked up near The Croft including the Borders Abbeys Way — a circular walk through the heart of The Scottish Borders. ■ The pretty border towns of Melrose, Kelso, St Boswells, and Jedburgh are a short distance away. Make a point of visiting the ruins of one of the ancient abbeys.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Jean Foster, The Croft, Selkirk Hill, Selkirk, Scottish Borders TD7 4PX, on 01750 22145; jean@borderscroft.co.uk; www.borderscroft.co.uk

Worming at least every three months will vastly reduce the number of eggs shed into the environment. 07/03/2013 10:26

STAR RATING

SCOTLAND — BETTYHILL, SUTHERLAND

Jess considering a dip in the sea.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Beach-walking paradise

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

FARR BAY INN, BETTYHILL, SUTHERLAND.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Inn with B&B. Cost: From £74 per double room per night, for B&B, depending on season. Tested by: Stephen Jenkinson, with Border Collie Jess.

THE ACCOMMODATION: A traditional rural public house and part of the community, the Farr Bay Inn (known locally as the FBI) was clean, tidy, functional, and great value. There are four en suite bedrooms — one double, two twin, and one double with a single. Evening meals are available in the bar, where dogs are allowed. You can also arrange to have packed lunches for days out. There was a TV, DVD player, bottled water, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a dog bowl in our bedroom. On our second night a jar of home-made dog biscuits for Jess appeared too. You can borrow DVDs and books for free. Dogs are allowed in all the public areas, but must be on leads. They aren’t allowed on the furniture.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Some places say they are dog friendly, but at the FBI they mean it from the heart, which means you can relax. The owners’ young German Shepherd, Bruin, is full of character, so they aren’t troubled by the odd dog hair or a bark in the night. They also ensure Bruin doesn’t trouble guests with any unwanted attention.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? The best thing is the stunning location of the inn — you can walk straight from the car park into the sand dunes, with no road to cross. Go 350m further and you are on the beautiful and often deserted Farr Beach — great for morning walks and just before bed. The free WiFi was very helpful ass mobile phone coverage is limited. Dog beds and blankets are available if required.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ There are miles of empty beaches all along the coast, with direct access from free car parks, plus some of the most stunning and remote moorland and mountain walks the UK has to offer. There are few restrictions on dogs providing you keep them on leads near farm animals and don’t allow them to approach or chase wildlife. ■ The Highland Council has recently updated path signposts and removed misleading anti-dog signage. ■ Borgie Forest is a 10-minute drive towards Tongue. It’s great for sheltered dog walks when it’s raining, and there is free car

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

The FBI is truly dog friendly...

DISCUSS ON BOOKING

...and comfy too.

Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

parking and well-maintained trails thanks to the Forestry Commission. ■ Cape Wrath is a unique dog-friendly adventure at the most north-westerly point in mainland UK, by ferry and mini bus from Durness — a stunning 1½ hour drive west from Bettyhill. Nearby is the equally unique Balnakeil Craft Village — a former Cold War missile early warning station, now a place for great gifts, coffee, books, and chocolate. ■ Remember to keep your fuel tank topped up. Petrol and diesel are generally only available at village shops during the day.

“Some places say they are dog friendly, but at the FBI they mean it from the heart.”

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Karan Fearn, Bettyhill, Sutherland KW14 7SZ, on 01641 521230; info@farrbayinn.co.uk; www.farrbayinn.co.uk

Catching the sea breeze.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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07/03/2013 10:27

NORTH EAST — WHITBY, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Mel, George, and Tilly take a colourful walk.

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, FOR SHORT PERIODS

“There’s a drawer full of dog delights including toys, balls, poo bags, and bowls.”

Dog’s delight

The cosy cottage.

PADDOCK COTTAGE, WHITBY, NORTH YORKSHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering cottage. Cost: £250 – £750 per week depending on season; £25 refundable deposit required. Tested by: Mel, Stuart, and George Hudson, with English Springer Spaniel Tilly.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Paddock Cottage is nestled in the cobbled hilly streets in the heart of Whitby. Parking is a little tricky — there is a pay and display car park just down from the cottage or you can rent a space nearer to the cottage via owner Jeana Shippey before you arrive (this costs £5 per day). The cottage is well decorated throughout and is very clean. A cosy living room with exposed beams has a TV, DVD player, radio/cd player, books, magazines, children’s toys, board

games, and an electric fire. The bathroom, on the ground floor, has a bath and separate shower. Very steep stairs lead up to the first floor bedroom, with a double bed, en suite toilet and basin, and a TV/DVD combo. Climb another set of stairs to a single bed with an open landing — this cottage might not be ideal for elderly people or families with small children. Through another door is the third bedroom with a double bed. Outside there is an enclosed patio garden with garden furniture, and a grassed area for toileting, plus a shed full of everything you need for trips to the beach. However, Tilly managed to open the gate, as it wasn’t totally secure.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Relaxing at one of Whitby’s dog-friendly cafés.

Jeana immediately fussed over Tilly and showed us where everything was, and told us about nearby walks and dog-friendly pubs.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Dog food and water bowls awaited Tilly along with a box of dog treats. Jeana also supplied tea, coffee, sugar, biscuits, and fresh milk. In the living room was a coffee table with a drawer of dog delights

There’s lots to see and do in Whitby, for dogs and owners.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

Curl up under the quilt.

including lots of dog toys, balls, poo bags, leads, and bowls. There was an extensive book of information, including tide tables, lists of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants, dog house rules, and local vet and kennel contact details.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Whitby is a very dog-friendly town. After a long walk along the beach, we found the West Cliff beach lift, which goes up the side of the cliff face, and is open between May 1 and September 30. ■ There are lots of walks direct from Whitby and within the North York Moors. One in particular is Boggle Hole from Robin Hood’s Bay, which takes you along a disused railway. ■ The West Pier hosts many attractions you can enjoy with your dog including a sightseeing bus tour, a sea voyage on the ship Bark Endeavour, or a trip on Elizabeth, the steam bus.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Jeana Shippey, Paddock Cottage, 14 The Paddock, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO21 3DB, on 01947 820370 or 07717 171468; www.directwhitby.co.uk

Always dispose of your dog’s faeces in designated dog poop bins.

07/03/2013 13:36

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Rock and roll!

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

HARLOW CARR HOTEL, HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE. Accommodation: Hotel. Cost: From £60 – £75 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Susan Stevens and Jay Langdon, with Springer Spaniel Cassie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Harlow Carr Hotel (formerly known as The Harrogate Arms) is an 18th century Grade II listed building, 1½ miles from the spa town of Harrogate, with extensive grounds. Dogs are welcomed in all areas of the hotel including the restaurant, which has an open log fire by which you can relax after your meal. There is also a small bar and a tea room. Our room was a good size. The rooms are very clean, with tea and coffee-making facilities, and bottles of water. Breakfast and evening meals are all freshly cooked and tasty.

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs?

The hotel dates back to the 18th century.

that our dog might come back k Your dogs can join wet and muddy, the staff said you at mealtimes. it was no problem as there was a shower downstairs and dog shampoo that we could use if we wanted. Being able to take your dog into the restaurant was lovely, and the welcome from the staff and from people eating there was really friendly. Cassie was plus the River Wharfe also offered home-made low f ffor them to have a splash in. calorie dog treats. ■ For keen gardeners, the Harlow Everyone staying in the hotel or Carr gardens are next door to the just stopping by for a drink seemed hotel. Dogs aren’t allowed, but the to be a dog lover. Harlow Carr kennels provides day care for £5 per dog. OUT AND ABOUT

IN THE AREA: HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The staff were very welcoming on our arrival. Owner Lorraine Swainston and her husband Karl have three dogs of their own who wander around the hotel — a German Shepherd called Shep, and cross-breed rescues Daisy and Tye. Our dog was really made to feel welcome by everyone there.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There is beautiful woodland right on the doorstep of the hotel, so you have an immediate place to take your dog for a walk. When we said

■ There is a lovely walk from the hotel to Harrogate town going through Pinewoods and then Valley Gardens. ■ We visited Brimham Rocks, which are rock formations scattered over 50 acres of Brimham Moors. Cassie absolutely loved this place with plenty of areas for her to run around and explore. Staff were very welcoming and the National Trust shop also welcomed dogs. ■ We also went to Bolton Abbey, which again had wonderful long woodland walks. There were a few areas where dogs must be on leads, but there were plenty of grounds for dogs to run around,

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Harlow Carr Hotel, Crag Lane, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 1QA, on 01423 567950; info@harlowcarrhotel.co.uk; www.harlowcarrhotel.com

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“Everyone staying in the hotel or just stopping by for a drink seemed to be a dog lover.” Cassie parks up.

Mind your step!

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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NORTH EAST — HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Lots of fun is to be had exploring Brimham Rocks.

07/03/2013 13:37

NORTH WEST — KIRKBY LONSDALE, CUMBRIA

Amazing walks overlooking the river Lune.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£10 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“We saw more dogs here than we have ever seen in a town.”

In the Cumbrian hills THE SUN INN, KIRKBY LONSDALE, CUMBRIA. Accommodation: Traditional inn. Cost: From £110 – £168 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Julia and Keith Fisher, with Labrador Jenna and Jack Russell Terrier Patsy.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Sun Inn is a 17th century traditional inn, with four dog-friendly rooms. The rooms are very thoughtfully designed, decorated, and equipped, with flat-screen TVs, WiFi, comfortable armchairs, and tea and coffee-making facilities including a flask of cold milk, plus home-made biscuits. There is a-well presented guide to the hotel, with information on the local area, and a laminated removable map to take on walks, and also a rack on the wall with local magazines. The four dog-friendly rooms are all on the same corridor, which leads straight down the stairs and out of the main door on to the street. The bedroom keyy also opens p

Spectacular local dog walks to be had.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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A traditional 17th-century inn.

the front door so you can go out for night-time toileting. Dogs are welcome in the bar area but not in the dining room, but you can eat from the full menu in the bar with your dog. The bar has a very friendly atmosphere with an open fireplace. There is no car parking at the hotel, but there are car parks in the town which the staff will direct you to.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The staff were very welcoming and all seemed to be dog lovers.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

On the bed when we arrived was a ceramic dog water bowl with a bag of dog biscuits tied up with a pretty ribbon, and p a rope dog toy that was much enjoyed w by our Jack Russell. b There were also dressing gowns and some lovely toiletries for owners. With prior notice the staff Julia, Jenna, can arrange dog and Patsy. sitters and walkers if necessary.

TOP TIP!

Bedrooms include all mod cons.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ There is no specific enclosed area for dogs at the inn, but you only have to go out of the pub, turn right, and walk through a pretty churchyard and you have some wonderful walks overlooking the river Lune. There are plenty of poo bins along these walks. ■ Kirkby Lonsdale seemed very dog friendly. We saw more dogs here than we have ever seen in a town — you might have been mistaken in thinking there was some kind of dog event going on that weekend! It was a very pretty market town with many independent, interesting shops, many of which were dog friendly.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Sun Inn, 6 Market Street, Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria LA6 2AU, on 01524 271965; email@ sun-inn.info; www.sun-inn.info

Rigorous kennel hygiene will help to prevent the spread of parasitic worms.

13/03/2013 10:29

NORTH WEST — ALSTON, CUMBRIA

Alston is one of the highest towns in the UK.

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Toffee and Fudge make themselves at home.

On a high!

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

ALSTON HOUSE HOTEL, ALSTON, CUMBRIA.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Hotel. Cost: From £90 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Cheryl and Michael Marshall, with Schnauzers Toffee and Fudge.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Alston House Hotel is a 17th century building. All rooms have been refurbished and have luxury bathrooms. The rooms are spotless, well appointed, and comfortable, with a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities. Ours had a lovely view of the fells to the front and a garden view to the side. There are parking spaces in front of the hotel and also across the road. The hotel has its own café, bar, and restaurant; dogs are allowed in the café, bar, and parts of the restaurant, although not during breakfast. The café serves light snacks and home-made cakes, with comfy sofas and an open fire. The restaurant and bar overlook a wonderful secluded garden. The food is excellent — the hotel owner, Mike Allchorme, is also the chef.

The hotel has a bar, café, and restaurant.

Charge for dogs?

Luxury bedrooms.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We were shown to our room by one of the staff, who was very friendly and made a fuss of the dogs.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOG/OWNERS? Owners are advised to bring their own equipment for their dogs, although bowls and towels can be provided if required. Dogs can go into the large garden on leads. Daily papers are provided in the café along with a few books and games. Dogs aren’t allowed on the furniture.

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

Hadrian’s Wall and the Coast to Coast cycle route. ■ The route to the hotel has been described as one of the top 10 outstanding drives in the world by the AA. This did not disappoint! With fantastic panoramic views, it really was spectacular winding our way down the road.

Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Alston House Hotel, Townfoot, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3RN, on 01434 382200; enquiries@alstonhouse.co.uk; www.alstonhousehotel.co.uk

“Alston is well known for its quaint cobbled streets and lovely shops.”

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The hotel is just a couple of minutes’ walk from the centre of Alston, which is one of the highest towns in the UK (about 1,000ft above sea level), and it is also well known for its quaint cobbled streets and lovely shops. ■ The South Tyne River flows fairly near to the front of the hotel, and takes you towards the Pennine Way. ■ Just across the road and down a small embankment are some large green fields, excellent for exercising your dogs. ■ It also makes a good base for

TWO

Michael and the dogs on arrival.

Stunning views of the Cumbrian hills.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 09:26

NORTH WEST — HAWES, NORTH YORKSHIRE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

Simonstone Hall is a period property full of charm.

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£10 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

In the old style SIMONSTONE HALL, HAWES, NORTH YORKSHIRE. Accommodation: Country house hotel. Cost: From £60 – £175 per double room per night, for B&B, depending on season. Tested by: Cheryl and Michael Marshall, with Schnauzers Toffee and Fudge.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Simonstone Hall is grand old country house hotel with beautiful views all around. It was once occupied by descendants of the Stuart family, Lord and Lady Wharncliffe. There are eight dog-friendly bedrooms in the hotel. Each room is en suite and has period furniture. Our bedroom was clean, comfortable, and had magnificent views overlooking the garden and fells, with WiFi, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and an iron and f ironing board.

Dogs are welcome in the two bright lounges and in the bar area, where you can eat dinner and breakfast, but not in the restaurant or brasserie areas. The á la carte food was beautiful, and we had the best tomato soup we have ever tasted. An open fire in the bar area was very warm and inviting when we came back from our walk. The outside terrace would be a lovely place for dinner in the summer. There is a wonderful garden where dogs can be taken on a lead, from where you can walk down to a meadow where you can let dogs off the lead.

H HOW DOG FRIENDLY W WAS YOUR RECEPTION? T staff were very friendly and The welcoming and made a big fuss w of our dogs. o

Lots of walks nearby.

A ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOG/OWNERS? F

“The staff were very friendly and welcoming and made a big fuss of our dogs.”

O Owners are advised to bring ttheir own equipment for their dogs. Water bowls are always d available on the terrace, and the a hotel will look after your dog food until required. In the lounges there are board games, books, and daily papers. In the entrance there

Toffee and Fudge enjoying the River Ure.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

Relax on the period furniture...

...and enjoy a luxury meal with great views.

are various leaflets and maps of places and things to do nearby. Well-behaved and clean dogs are allowed on the furniture.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We took a ride out to Leyburn, which was about 18 miles from Hawes. It had lots of shops and pubs. ■ We found information in the hotel about 10 lovely walks between Hawes and Leyburn. We stopped off at Aysgarth falls, close to the River Ure. There is parking by the visitors’ centre for a small fee. The dogs had a great time running around and the views were fantastic.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Simonstone Hall, Hawes, North Yorkshire DL8 3LY, on 01969 667255; enquiries@simonstonehall. com; www.simonstonehall.com

Monthly flea control will help prevent the flea tapeworm infecting your canine friend. 13/03/2013 12:08

STAR RATING

Photo: VisitBlackpool

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Beside the seaside

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

CHESTERFIELD PET FRIENDLY HOTEL, BLACKPOOL, LANCASHIRE Accommodation: B&B. Cost: From £50 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Cheryl and Michael Marshall, with Schnauzers Toffee and Fudge.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Chesterfield was purpose built as a guest house in 1898. With sea views, leading off from Blackpool promenade, it is run by brother and sister Stephen and Julie Clarke. It has nine en suite rooms, which are quite small, but big dogs are welcome as long as they’re happy in small spaces. The rooms are very clean with fresh towels, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities. Parking is provided for up to six cars. Breakfast was lovely, cooked by Stephen, who is a trained chef. Evening meals are also available at an extra cost. There is a small lounge with a couple of slot machines, magazines, and various leaflets and posters of places and things to do and see — and there are plenty! There is a cosy bar/ lounge area in the basement;

dogs are welcome on leads. Dogs can be exercised on the beach which is 50m from the front door.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Upon arrival we were met by Julie, who gave us tea and biscuits. She was warm and engaging, making a fuss of our two Schnauzers, who were given their own water and dog biscuits.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Owners are advised to bring their own dog beds, bedding, bowls, and throws. Dogs receive treats, a towel, and dog mat. If you need to go out for the day without your pet, you can arrange for staff to look in on your dog at regular intervals in your room

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs? The Chesterfield was purpose built in 1898.

(this is free), or he can stay with the owners in their accommodation (for a charge).

...welcomes dogs.

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Blackpool has fantastic entertainment during the high season and there are many walks in and around the area. ■ The state-of-the-art electric tramss run on the new promenade, and are dog friendly. You can travel the e whole length of the Fylde Coast from Starr Gate in the south, right through to Fleetwood Ferry in the north. ■ The beach has some dog restrictions between the North and South Piers, but there are miles of beach to enjoy on either side. ■ We took lovely walks on Lytham Beach and around Fairhaven Lake; the dogs loved the open space as they ccould play on the beach, grass, promenade, or the sand dunes.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

The downstairs bar...

Contact The Chesterfield Pet P Friendly Hotel, 5 Wellington Road, Blackpool W FY1 F 6AR, on 01253 345979; julie@chesterfi eld-hotel.com; ju www.chesterfi eld-hotel.com w

Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, FOR SHORT PERIODS

Cosy bedrooms.

“We took lovely walks on Lytham Beach and around Fairhaven Lake.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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NORTH WEST — BLACKPOOL, LANCASHIRE

Enjoy Blackpool beach.

13/03/2013 16:23

NORTH WEST — OXENHOPE, WEST YORKSHIRE

Feel right at home at Westfield Lodge.

IN BRONTË COUNT RY STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

FIVE LARGE Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

Home from home WESTFIELD LODGE, OXENHOPE, WEST YORKSHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering apartments. Cost: From £339 – £591 per week, depending on season; weekend breaks available. Tested by: Adrian Milledge and Joanne Bednall, with Golden Retrievers Rolo, Indi, and Norman.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Converted from barns, 17 of Westfield Lodge’s 20 apartments are dog friendly and the largest can accommodate up to four people. Ours, a one-bedroomed unit located in the Brontë block, boasted an open-plan living area and enclosed terrace, and afforded superb views of the Yorkshire countryside. Heating, TV, WiFi, bedding, towels, and bed linen were all included in the price.

“When dogs get out of the car here, they sense they are at home.”

Group walks in the Dales.

The dogs loved exploring.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

Enjoying the private terrace.

“When dogs get out of the car here, they sense they are at home,” said manager Robin Jackson. “You can see it in their body language.” And, as far as our three Golden Retrievers were concerned, he was spot on. Tails wagging furiously, they checked out bowls of water and a large flowerpot of juicy beef bones from the local butcher’s. There was a dog-washing facility on site. Dogs are allowed on the furniture if you provide your own covers.

BBC’s ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ — are a short drive away. ■ The Keighley and Worth Valley Steam Railway — the setting for the film ‘The Railway Children’ — runs through five miles of lovely countryside and welcomes dogs on leads at no extra charge. ■ Haworth station is 1½ miles away and can be reached via Penistone Hill Country Park. So too can the village of Haworth, famous as the home of the Brontë sisters. There’s plenty to see and do here, and the village’s steep cobbled Main Street has a wide range of specialist shops, as well as dog-friendly cafés and restaurants such as the Stirrup, where dogs are allowed in the front room. Here the chef endeared himself to our trio of Goldies by giving them sausages. At Haworth Old Hall, a pub at the bottom of Main Street, dogs and humans were welcomed equally (dogs are allowed anywhere on the wooden or stone floors).

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

■ We enjoyed lots of walks, especially Penistone Hill Country Park, which is accessed through a fence bordering the complex. ■ The Yorkshire Dales National Park and Holmfirth — the setting for

Contact Westfield Lodge, New Westfield Farm, Upper Marsh Lane, Oxenhope, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD22 2RH, on 01535 646900; enquiry@westfield-lodge. co.uk; www.westfield-lodge.co.uk

We received a very warm welcome from Dennis Pagdin, the owner of the family-run business. He was a fertile source of information and unfailingly helpful. Equally informative was the folder in the apartment which detailed local attractions.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

Worm all newborn pups every two weeks after birth.

06/03/2013 16:45

Why not try a different sort of holiday, on a narrowboat?

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

NORTH WEST — ACTON BRIDGE, CHESHIRE

BOATIN G HOLIDA Y

★★★★★

Plenty of room for canines on board.

★★★★★

All aboard!

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

BLACK PRINCE NARROWBOATS, ACTON BRIDGE, CHESHIRE.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering narrowboat. Cost: £613 – £1,026 per week, depending on season and size of boat; short breaks available. Tested by: Becky Kane, Barnaby Craig, Mandy Atkin, and Andy Davies, with Dobermann Spigit and Chinese Crested Dog Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION:

plenty of space for people and dogs at the back of the boat where We stayed on a four-berth the driver would be. narrowboat with two double beds. There was a TV with Freeview, There was a shower room and and a DVD player on board. toilet between the two cabins, and When holidaying on a table with seating for four at the a narrowboat it is important to front of the boat. The kitchen was remember to keep close control small, but well equipped. of your dog at locks. Also check There was space in the living whether the boat has moved away area to put a dog bed, but, as from the bank after being moored with all boating holidays, space on for the night, otherwise your dog board was very limited. There was might end up in the water when m let out for a morning wee — as le Floating along Henry did! H on the river...

...catching some rays.

Charge for dogs?

£30 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

A catalogue was sent in advance which had lots of information about routes from our chosen base. On arrival we were checked in and shown how everything on the boat worked. We were given quick lesson on how to drive the a quic boat and then we were off.

■ We travelled along the Trent and Mersey Canal, from Acton Bridge to Stockton Heath. ■ There are obviously miles and miles of towpaths to walk along. This was a great holiday for our dogs as they could run alongside the boat as we gently travelled along the canals, and could relax on board when they’d had enough. Henry and Spigit particularly liked sunbathing on deck. Changing ■ There were the locks. a number of dog-friendly pubs along the canal. We ate at The London Bridge at Stockton Heath; although dogs weren’t allowed inside the pub, they had covered seating outside with patio heaters so we were perfectly happy there.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Dogs are allowed throughout the boat but not on the furniture. They can also be left inside the boat if you want to go out without them once moored.

Contact Jo Taylor, Black Prince Narrowboats, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4LA, on 01527 575115; www.black-prince.com

H HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR W R RECEPTION?

Comfort of accommodation:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

N/A Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“Henry and Spigit particularly liked sunbathing on deck.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 09:28

THE MIDLANDS — WITNEY, OXFORDSHIRE

Relax in comfort and luxury at The Old Swan.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£20 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, IF WELL BEHAVED

“The ultimate experience in timeless luxury and relaxation.” Sue and Herbie head out for one of many wonderful walks.

Step back in time THE OLD SWAN & MINSTER MILL, WITNEY, OXFORDSHIRE

A traditional, warm welcome...

Accommodation: Country house hotel and inn. Cost: £175 – £285 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Sue and Mike Corfield, with Border Collie Herbie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Old Swan Inn is a traditional, luxury hotel dating back 600 years, while the Minster Mill next door is more modern and contemporary. Both offer dog-friendly rooms. The stone-built Old Swan Inn provides a delightful warm welcome with its oak beams, log fires, and various seated areas leading off from the main bar and restaurant. Our stay was like taking a journey back in time and was the ultimate experience in timeless luxury and relaxation. Herbie shared our river view double room, which was beautifully appointed with a luxury en suite bathroom and a comfortable king-size bed. There’s a wood-burning stove on the t patio area. We ate dinner in the d restaurant r and a enjoyed an exquisite a gourmet meal. g Dogs are D catered for too and Herbie was provided with his own home-cooked chicken and rice dinner,

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which he ate alongside us in front of the log fire. ...by roaring log fires.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The hotel’s reputation has been built on the back of a genuine warmth and level of professionalism. All the staff were dog lovers and were able to point us in the direction of places for walks and visits.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Doggy visitors receive a dog bed, bowl, poo bags, and dog food, and towels are available on request. Enormous consideration is given to our four-legged friends with a genuine warm welcome provided. Gourmet dog meals are available in the evening. Dogs are allowed in most of the rooms including a specified part of the restaurant, although they’re not allowed on the furniture. Situated in stunning grounds of 65 acres and wild meadow pasture alongside the River Windrush, there are some superb places to exercise your dog along well-marked routes, and there is a fenced exercise paddock at the rear of the inn.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The traditional Cotswold village of Minster Lovell with its ruined minster is just a short walk away. ■ A booklet in the hotel details local walks of various lengths with pubs and villages as a focal point. ■ Just a short drive away are Burford, Witney, and Oxford. ■ We took a circular walk down the Windrush valley to the little village of Crawley with its former blanket mill and pub. The return route passes through the water meadows on the south side of the river before passing through a wonderful copse of old trees and on to the ruins of 15th century Minster Lovell Hall, where dogs on leads are welcome.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Old Swan & Minster Mill, Old Minster, Minster Lovell, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 0RN, on 01993 774441; enquiries@ oldswanandminstermill.com; www.oldswanandminstermill.com

Prevent your dog scavenging on carcasses in the countryside.

13/03/2013 12:40

From the publishers of the ‘Where to stay’ guide...

www.yourdogholidays.co.uk Search Your Dog Holidays for listings, plus advice on travelling with your dog, top tips on equipment you’ll need, staying safe on walks, and much more.

*An A-Z of dog travelling * Dogs on public transport * Packing a doggy suitcase *Settling your dog on holiday * Staying safe on dog walks * Taking a puppy on holiday *Boating with your dog * Camping with your dog * Taking your dog abroad *The top 10 dog-friendly beaches * Regional guides * The National Parks

www.yourdogholidays.co.uk ‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 14:53

THE MIDLANDS — EDWINSTOWE, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

A Golden Oak cabin, the most luxurious of the three cabin types.

SET IN 3,300 ACRES O F FOREST

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

Taking time out.

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£10 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

THREE Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

“Wonderful walks on your doorstep — there really is no need to go any further afield.”

Fabulous forest cabins FOREST HOLIDAYS, SHERWOOD PINES, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering cabins. Cost: £334 – £2,845 per week, depending on season and size of cabin. Tested by: Becky Kane and Barnaby Craig, with Dobermann Spigit and Chinese Crested Dog Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Sherwood Pines Forest Park comprises 3,300 acres of forest and lots of cabins for holidays. We stayed in a three-bedroomed Golden Oak cabin, which was amazing — we walked in and wanted to move in permanently. The modern living space and kitchen/dining area are open plan and very spacious, with plenty of room for dog beds and bowls. There are three bedrooms — one double with an en suite toilet and shower room, and two twin rooms with a separate toilet and bathroom. The kitchen is well equipped. The Forest Retreat is the hub of the site, with a café, bar, shop, and the reception area, where you can book activities. There are seven Forest Holidays ssites throughout the UK each offering different activities. o The modern bedroom.

Room to relax on your private terrace.

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HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Dogs aren’t allowed in the Forest Retreat but there is ‘dog parking’ outside and there are jars of free dog treats on the counter. Checking in was really smooth and a member of staff went through the facilities in our cabin with us. There were poo bags and dog biscuits on the table when we arrived at the cabin. Dogs aren’t allowed in the bedrooms or on the furniture and must be kept on leads throughout the Forest Holidays site, but it’s a short walk to get off site and you are then in Sherwood Pines and free to roam.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? In a Golden Oak cabin — the most luxurious of the three cabin types — you are provided with robes and slippers in the master bedroom. There is a fantastic hot tub on the private terrace and a wood-burning stove in the living area. There is a Wii console in the cabin for which you can borrow games and controls from the Forest Retreat, and an in-cabin entertainment system which offers a wide variety of films, music, TV, and WiFi (all for an extra charge). You can even order a pizza

You’re right in the middle of the forest in these cabins.

to be delivered straight to your cabin with your remote control.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Based in the middle of the forest, with your own hot tub, and wonderful walks on your doorstep, there really is no need to go any further afield. However, there are a number of country parks in the area. We visited Clumber Park and Rufford Abbey Country Park, both of which welcome dogs on leads. ■ There is a Go Ape at Sherwood Pines and a cycle hire centre — although the cycle trails are not suitable for dogs. There’s also archery on site.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Forest Holidays, Sherwood Cabins, Sherwood Pines Forest Park, Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire NG21 9JL, on 0845 130 8223; Sherwood.site@forestholidays. co.uk; www.forestholidays.co.uk

Avoid feeding your dog unsterilised pet food.

13/03/2013 10:01

STUNNIN G WOODL AND WALKS

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

THE MIDLANDS — BUBBENHALL, WARWICKSHIRE

Enjoy the house’s beautiful architecture.

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Edwardian charm BUBBENHALL HOUSE, BUBBENHALL, WARWICKSHIRE. Accommodation: B&B. Cost: From £65 – £70 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Justin Stubbs and Stephanie Spencer, with Dobermann Spigit.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Bubbenhall House is a stunning Edwardian property, tucked away from the rest of the world in the Warwickshire countryside. The grounds have extensive gardens, tennis courts, and a hot tub. The house has some beautiful architectural and period features. We found the accommodation basic but comfortable, although the real bonus of the stay was the charm of the house itself and the gardens, which are teeming with wildlife. We weren’t lucky enough to see the badgers, but we heard that many guests have met Brock on the terraced area at the back of the house. Breakfast is locally sourced and served in the dining room, and the owners were very happy to point us

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Spigit enjoys the garden.

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

in the direction of local pubs and restaurants. The rooms are all en suite with flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, and the usual hospitality trays.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Our welcome was very friendly, with a brief tour of the house and grounds. We also met the resident dog, black Labrador Zippy.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Bubbenhall House is certainly a very dog-friendly property. Dogs can be left in your room, and they are allowed everywhere except the kitchen and dining room. They aren’t allowed on the furniture though. The area is surrounded by some stunning woodland walks, and should you and your dog come back with half the field stuck to you, there is a hose outside for washing down.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: Checking out the bedroom.

Dog friendliness of local area:

■ Just around the corner is Ryton Pools Country Park, a beautiful wooded park with a lake set in about

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

Justin and Spigit rest during a walk.

YES 100 acres, which has a good selection of walks. ■ Royal Leamington Spa, Rugby, and Coventry are very close, and Birmingham’s NEC is within a half-hour drive. ■ We chose to go slightly further afield to Shakespeare’s town, Stratford-upon-Avon. It was vibrant, colourful, and exciting, and the townsfolk and businesses were dog friendly, with bowls of water spotted around. ■ Nearer to Bubbenhall are some quaint English villages with the usual assortment of pubs and restaurants, although none are within easy walking distance.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Bubbenhall House, Paget’s Lane, Bubbenhall, Warwickshire CV8 3BJ, on 0247 630 2409; wharrison@bubbenhallhouse. freeserve.co.uk

“We weren’t lucky enough to see the badgers, but we heard that many guests have met Brock on the terrace.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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07/03/2013 16:22

THE MIDLANDS — STONE, STAFFORDSHIRE

Time for something completely different...

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£15 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

FOUR Enclosed exercise area?

N/A Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“Canal Cruising is very relaxed about dogs.”

Cruising the canals CANAL CRUISING COMPANY LTD, STONE, STAFFORDSHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering narrowboats. Cost: From £481 – £1,766 per week, depending on season and size of boat. Tested by: Becky Kane, Barnaby Craig, Sean Barratt, and Sharron Beasley, with Dobermanns Flora and Spigit.

THE ACCOMMODATION: We travelled on Frances, a four-berth, 48ft narrowboat. A sofa at the front of the boat comfortably seats four people with plenty of room for dogs around it. A fold-down table converts into a double bed. There is a well-equipped kitchen with a full-size fridge and cooker, and a number of storage areas throughout the boat. The toilet and shower are roomy, and the twin beds at the back of the boat are a reasonable size and can be converted into a double bed. The deck at the rear is spacious and our dogs loved joining us out there while we were steering the boat. All bed linen is provided.

“Where shall we go next, Spigit?” asks Sean.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Dogs can’t go on the furniture, but otherwise Canal Cruising is very relaxed about dogs. I rang in advance as the weather was due to be very wet, and I was worried two wet smelly Dobermanns might be a problem, but was assured that the boat would be easily cleaned after our holiday and that it wasn’t a problem at all.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We sailed to Rugeley on the Trent and Mersey Canal and passed a number of pubs on the way. We visited The Crown Inn at Handsacre, Rugeley, where the dogs made friends with a Staffie and a Rottweiler in the bar (dogs are welcome on leads). At The Star in Stone, where dogs on leads are welcome in the bar,

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Spigit explores the tow path.

Owner Karen Wyatt greeted us on arrival, as did the office dog, who seemed very pleased to have some canine friends visiting. Karen directed us to the best spots for Flora and Spigit to stretch their legs while we unloaded the car and boarded the boat.

Fun at the locks.

our dogs made friends with a Dogue de Bordeaux and two Springer Spaniels. ■ Take care with dogs off lead near bridges, as generally they lead to busy roads. It’s best to keep your dogs on leads or locked inside the boat when you’re doing the locks — Spigit had a tendency to jump off and go investigating as soon as the boat went near the edge.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Canal Cruising Co Ltd, Crown Street, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 8QN, on 01785 813982; KWyatt5745@aol.com; www.canalcruising.co.uk

Worming at least every three months will help to keep your canine friend healthy: healthy dogs are happy dogs. 13/03/2013 12:42

HEART OF THE PEAK DISTRIC T

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

THE MIDLANDS — GRINDLEFORD, DERBYSHIRE

A bit of luxury in the heart of Derbyshire.

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Peak perfection

Dog friendliness of local area:

Dogs are welcome in the bar area.

★★★★★

THE MAYNARD, GRINDLEFORD, DERBYSHIRE.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Boutique hotel. Cost: £65 – £155 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Becky Kane and Barnaby Craig, with Dobermann Spigit and Chinese Crested Dog Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Maynard is a beautiful luxury hotel in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Our room was very spacious with plenty of space for Spigit and Henry’s beds. It was up a couple of flights of stairs, which was tricky when juggling luggage and dogs, but the views were worth it. The rooms are very well equipped and furnished to a high standard, and the bathrooms are amazing.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The staff at The Maynard were very helpful. They told us about a great little walk to take the dogs

Charge for dogs?

on straight away, and gave us a key to the front door so that we could take the dogs in and out when reception was closed. They also printed out some dog walking guides for us.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There are magazines to read in the room, and a variety of things you can buy. Tea and coffee-making facilities with biscuits are provided, along with toiletries. We ate in the hotel and the food was fantastic — the poshest fish and chips I’ve ever had! Dogs are welcome in the bar area and outside terrace but not in the fine dining restaurant or the lounge. You can request to eat in the bar with your dog.

Rooms are furnished to a high standard.

■ There is nowhere to exercise your dog at the hotel, but a short distance away is a fantastic walk on a public footpath starting at the train station. You can walk alongside the river through woodland, and up and down hills. ■ We took the dogs to Matlock Bath and had a drink at The Fishpond pub. We then followed The Lovers’ Walks, a set of woodland walks. ■ Dogs on leads are welcome on the cable cars at The Heights of Abraham (although they can’t go on the underground tours). ■ Nearby is Chatsworth House, where you can have a picnic in the grounds (dogs aren’t allowed in the house). ■ The lovely market town of Bakewell is nearby which is worth a visit.

Enjoying the Derbyshire countryside.

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

“What a fantastic walk!” says Henry.

£5 PER DOG PER NIGHT

Contact The Maynard, Main Road, Grindleford, Derbyshire S32 2HE, on D 01433 630321; 0 info@themaynard.co.uk; i www.themaynard.co.uk w

Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“Nearby is Chatsworth House, where you can have a picnic in the grounds.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 12:42

THE MIDLANDS — GREAT BILLING, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

There’s something for everyone at Billing Aquadrome.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

One of the caravans.

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT ATAA GLANCE GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£16.50 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

Fun for all the family BILLING AQUADROME, GREAT BILLING, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering caravans. Cost: £245 – £575 per week, depending on season and size of caravan. Tested by: Michael Hallam and Caroline Walpole.

THE ACCOMMODATION:

Billing Aquadrome is a leisure TWO park boasting a marina and Enclosed a host of entertainment centres, exercise area? set in the beautiful Nene Valley NO countryside. It offers something for the whole family, including dogs. Can dogs be left unattended? The site consists of two and three-bedroomed caravans. We NO stayed in a six-berth, three-bed caravan. Also available are self-catering lodges, and camping sites. The caravans are modern and well equipped. “The site The first thing we noticed was has an how quickly the heating system warmed the whole caravan. indoor The open-plan living and dining fun dog area is very spacious. Dogs are show every allowed in all the rooms but not on the furniture, although there’s month.” plenty of room for a dog p bed in the living area. The b Michael explores the area. flooring at the entrance to tthe caravan was lino, which was easily cleaned after w

returning from a muddy walk. The best thing about the park is the layout. The entertainment and activities are located near the entrance so you can enjoy them if you wish, but you can escape and enjoy the quiet of the countryside in the comfort of your caravan too.

fun dog show every month with prizes in more than 10 light-hearted categories. All dogs are welcome and it is a great chance for owners and dogs to socialise. Dogs are welcome at all the festivals and fairs held in the park throughout the year.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

All the staff seemed genuinely pleased to receive dogs, with many sharing stories and pictures of their own pets. Although dogs must be kept on leads throughout the park, the staff were quick to point out the nearest areas where we could let dogs off for a run — on the edge of the park and only a five-minute walk from our caravan. There is lots of helpful information in the welcome pack such as local walks and details of local vets.

■ There are lots of country walks on the doorstep of the park. We went on two long walks which all began at marked gates on the boundary of the parks. ■ The walk along the canal, which runs through the top of the park, is particularly scenic — but check there are no horses in the field before letting your dog off the lead. ■ There are a number of country parks all within driving or walking distance. Sywell Country Park, which is only two and a half miles away, comes highly recommended and has activities for younger family members too.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

Enjoy a walk along the canal.

Though dogs are not allowed inside any of the activity centres, the bars and restaurants have large decking areas where you can eat with your dog. The site has an indoor

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Spacious inside.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Billing Aquadrome, Crow Lane, Great Billing, Northampton NN3 9DA, on 01604 408181; www.billingaquadrome.com

Worming at least every three months will vastly reduce the number of eggs shed into the environment. 13/03/2013 13:15

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14/03/2013 12:54

WALES — NARBERTH, PEMBROKESHIRE

Take time out at this Victorian stone farmhouse.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ ★★★★★

Agility on site

AT A GLANCE

WILLOW FARMHOUSE, NARBERTH, PEMBROKESHIRE.

Dog friendliness of local area:

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“Agility and dog training can be booked at no additional cost.” Fancy some agility?

Accommodation: Self-catering farmhouse. Cost: From £500 – £1,300 per week, depending on season; £100 refundable deposit required. Tested by: Sue and Mike Corfield, with Border Collie Herbie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Nestling in the heart of the rolling west Wales countryside, Willow Farmhouse is a tastefully decorated, fully restored, Victorian stone farmhouse with three double bedrooms. It is set in extensive grounds, which include a secluded walled garden (with outside toilet), a lawn and patio area, and a large, private, enclosed, two-acre meadow — ideal for ball games with your dog or just to sit and enjoy the splendid unspoiled views of the Preseli hills. This is a wonderful base for exploring Pembrokeshire’s coastal paths and ruined castles. There is ample room to relax in front of the many log fires during the evening and a welcoming Rayburn keeps the large dining room warm and friendly. The rooms are comfortable and tastefully

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Jenny was there to meet us and show us around the property, and gave both us and Herbie a warm welcome.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Dog bowls and poo bags were provided for Herbie, and crates were available if needed. There was also access to dog washing facilities. Dogs are allowed in the downstairs rooms and Jenny requests that you keep them in the kitchen overnight. Dogs aren’t allowed on any furniture.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA

Fun on the beach.

furnished and the kitchen is very well equipped. The owner, Jenny Thomas, is a dog trainer and behaviourist. There is an agility course on site where agility and dog training can be booked at no additional cost. There are also kennels at the side of the farmhouse which can be booked for £10 a day, which includes walking and feeding.

■ We visited the lily ponds at Bosherton and explored the path

TOP TIP!

Mike and Herbie take in the scenery.

that takes you down to a lovely beach and on to some beautiful coastal paths. ■ We also walked to St Govan’s chapel at St Govan’s Head. Saint Govan was a hermit who lived in a fissure on the side of the coastal cliff close to Bosherton. The chapel was built in the 14th century. ■ We took in the sights of Tenby and Saundersfoot, a lovely village with a super beach and plenty of places to eat, including a fish and chip shop that served the best fish and chips we had ever eaten — however, dogs aren’t allowed. This was just a 15-minute drive away from Willow Farmhouse. ■ We visited in October and dogs were allowed on all the beaches we visited, but check before you go as Tenby has restricted areas during the summer months.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Jenny Thomas, Willow Farmhouse, Blaenpentroydin, Llanddewi Velfrey, Narberth, Pembrokeshire SA67 7EL, on 01834 861312; info@willowfarmhouse. co.uk; www.willowfarmhouse.co.uk

Always dispose of your dog’s faeces in designated dog poop bins.

13/03/2013 09:49

MENTIO N YOUR D OG MAGAZ INE AND YO UR DOG STAYS F OR FREE!

STAR RATING

WALES — BONCATH, PEMBROKESHIRE

There’s a huge choice of beaches in the area.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

Comfy beds...

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Sit back and relax!

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

CLYDEY COTTAGES, BONCATH, PEMBROKESHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering cottages. Cost: £500 – £2,200 per week, depending on season and size of cottage. Tested by: Emma and Callum Aspinall and Adam Lister, with Yorkipoo Pebble.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Clydey Cottages, set on two sites, comprises five dog-friendly cottages at Fron Fawr, and 10 cottages at Clydey. We stayed in a stylish, spacious, four-bedroomed cottage at Fron Fawr. There is an open-plan kitchen with dining area, with a large, range cooker and all mod cons. A large living room has a wood-burning stove, comfy sofas and chairs, and a slate floor. There is a large flat-screen TV, DVD player, and a selection of board games. French doors lead out on to a patio area, and a gate leads up to a raised enclosed garden. Behind a hedge you’ll find children’s toys, a decking area, and a large hot tub. Fron Fawr is set in 48 acres. We found an ideal walk for Pebble up through the fields to a lovely wood.

Adam, Callum, and Pebble outside the cottage.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Our welcome was very friendly and relaxed. One of the owners, Dewi Davies, came to see us to give us some information about the local area and the Clydey site.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? On arrival we found a lovely flower arrangement and coffee, tea, some very tasty Welsh oat cakes, and jam for us, and dog bowls, chews, and poo bags for Pebble. There was a full instruction book for the cottage, about the surrounding area and places to visit and eat out. Dogs aren’t allowed on the furniture and are not allowed upstairs in the cottages.

OUT AND ABOUT I THE AREA: IN ■ You can use the leisure ffacilities at the Clydey site, iincluding heated indoor sswimming pool, sauna, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, games a room, soft play area for younger children, and game consoles for older children. However, dogs are not permitted on the site. ■ Each morning children can help feed the animals at Clydey, where they have

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs? ...and cosy sofas.

chickens, pigs, goats, donkeys, and sheep. ■ Five miles from Cardigan Bay, there is a huge choice of beaches in this area. We went to Poppit Sands — great for families and dog walkers, although there are dog restrictions in the summer months. ■ From the beach you can take a fully guided boat trip to explore the amazing coastline, where you can regularly see bottle-nose dolphins and Atlantic grey seals. ■ We ate at the nearby Nags Head Inn — a lovely large traditional family pub, which was very dog friendly. ■ We visited Mwnt Beach, a sandy beach with lots of steps in a small cove. There are dog restrictions from May 1 to September 30, but the cliff-top views out to Cardigan Island are amazing. ■ Newport Sands Beach has no dog restrictions and you can drive straight on to the beach.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Dewi and Jacqui Davies, Fron Fawr Cottages, Boncath, Pembrokeshire SA37 0HS, on 01239 698619; info@clydeycottages.co.uk; www.clydeycottages.co.uk

£25 PER DOG PER WEEK* Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“You can use the leisure facilities, including heated indoor pool, sauna, hot tubs, games room, and soft play area.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 15:12

WALES — BLAENAU FFESTINIOG, GWYNEDD

Take in a scenic walk in the area.

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, IN THE KITCHEN

“There were Welsh cakes for us and biscuits for Fudge.” A comfy bedroom.

Spectacular Snowdonia

A terraced holiday home in the heart of Snowdonia.

MINER’S COTTAGE, BLAENAU FFESTINIOG, GWYNEDD. Accommodation: Self-catering cottage. Cost: £315 – £510 per week, depending on season; short breaks available. Tested by: Andrea Marshall and Steven Walters, with Labrador Fudge.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Miner’s Cottage is a lovely terraced cottage situated in Snowdonia. There is a lounge/dining room and a very spacious kitchen with a tiled floor that also runs into the utility room. The bathroom is also downstairs. Upstairs there are two bedrooms — one double and one single — plus a cot if needed. There is an enclosed garden at the rear of the property, which also allows parking for one car (although if you have a very large car you may find it a bit of a squeeze). There is also a dog poo wormery for easy disposal of your dog’s waste. Everything you could need is E provided in the cottage — both p for f you and your dog. WiFi is also available. a

H HOW DOG FRIENDLY W WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

Fudge enjoying the Welsh outdoors.

The owners, Richard and Jan T Ingham, were very In welcoming and met us w on our arrival. There o was a lovely little chalk w board on the kitchen b ttable with a welcome greeting on it, plus g Welsh cakes for us W and dog biscuits for a Fudge. There was F also a welcome letter a

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written personally to her. Both Richard and Jan were very helpful and told us about the area and showed us where to go to take one of their favourite walks. Dogs aren’t allowed upstairs in the property. Throws are provided to place on to furniture downstairs to allow your dog to relax in comfort. Well-behaved dogs can be left alone in the property in the kitchen.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There is a pet pantry in the kitchen which contains dog bowls, treats, a brush, shampoo, towels, a lead, and spare poo bags. A stairgate and crate are available too. There is information about local walks, leaflets about attractions in the area, and useful contact numbers.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ At the end of the road is a dog-friendly pub — Y Meirion. They brought a bowl of water over to our table for Fudge and made her feel welcome. ■ Just a 10-minute walk from the cottage is Ffestiniog Railway from where you can take a steam locomotive and enjoy the spectacular scenery while travelling

There’s everything you need in the kitchen.

through Snowdonia National Park. h hS d i N i lP k Dogs can travel for £2.50 each (guide/assistance dogs go free). Dogs are not allowed in first class areas of the train. ■ Llechwedd Slate Caverns are a 25-minute walk from the cottage. You can visit the surface of the mine, and see a slate mill and Victorian village. Dogs are allowed on the site but not on the two underground tours. There is a dog-friendly pub on site — The Miners’ Arms. ■ There are lots of scenic walks in the area; some you can take from the cottage and others that you will find just a short drive away.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Richard and Jan Ingham, Miner’s Cottage, 9 Glynllifon Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3AF, on 01582 391582; richardingham2@hotmail.com or jan.ingham@ntlworld.com; www. northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk

Rigorous kennel hygiene will help to prevent the spread of parasitic worms.

13/03/2013 10:11

WALES — RHAYADER, POWYS

The cabins are set in 19 acres of land.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Lovely log cabins

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

OAK WOOD LODGES, RHAYADER, POWYS.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering log cabins. Cost: From £283 – £785 per week, depending on season and size of lodge; short breaks available. Tested by: Emma and Callum Aspinall and Adam Lister, with Yorkipoo Pebble.

THE ACCOMMODATION Oak Wood Lodges comprises 11 log cabins set in 19 acres of land. There are two and three-bedroomed cabins — our two-bedroomed cabin had a double and a twin room. There’s an open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area, and a shower room. Bed linen is provided, but not towels. In the lounge we had a flame-effect electric fire which made the lodge very cosy in the evenings. There was also a small flat-screen TV with DVD player, a selection of books, and a jigsaw puzzle. There is a beautiful view of the countryside as you step out from the French doors on to the veranda, where there is an outside eating area with a picnic bench. Each cabin has two car parking spaces. There is an area of grass outside where you can let your dog off the lead and where children can play, and across from the green is a woodland area which has a dog poo bin.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? On our arrival we were greeted at reception by the owner, Tim Dobb, who explained where our lodge was located and arranged to come and see us at the lodge to go through

any questions we had. He was very friendly and suggested local dog walks and places to eat.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There was a full information pack in the lodge including details about the area and things to do. There was a greetings card and some Thorntons chocolates left on the dining table for us. Dogs are allowed anywhere in the lodge but not on the furniture or the beds, and the shower is not to be used to clean your dog. You can leave your dog in the lodge if you arrange it beforehand with the owners.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We ate at The Triangle Inn in Rhayader, a small, traditional cosy pub which welcomes dogs. The staff there were very friendly, even when Pebble decided to bark at anyone coming into the pub. ■ The main part of Rhayader town is very pretty with a selection of shops. Other dog-friendly pubs include The Elan Hotel and the Eagles Inn. ■ This is an ideal location to see red kites — Gigrin Farm in Rhayader is a feeding station and rehabilitation

Charge for dogs?

Log cabin luxury.

centre for the birds. Dogs are welcome on leads. ■ We went to Elan Valley, just 15 minutes’ drive away, where there is a series of reservoirs and six dams, with outstanding views. ■ We also visited Devil’s Bridge waterfalls and nature trail, a 30-minute drive from the lodge. There’s a spectacular 300ft waterfall, although there are lots of steps and some are extremely steep. ■ From Devil’s Bridge you can take the Vale of Rheidol Railway steam train to Aberystwyth. This has some lovely views of Rheidol Valley. Dogs are welcome for £2.50 each.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Tim Dobb, Oak Wood Lodges, Llwynbaedd, Rhayader, Powys LD6 5NT, on 01597 811422; tim@oakwoodlodges.co.uk; www.oakwoodlodges.co.uk

Outstanding views at Elan Valley.

£3 PER DOG PER NIGHT FOR FIRST DOG, HALF PRICE FOR ADDITIONAL DOGS Maximum number of dogs allowed:

SIX Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT

“This is an ideal location to see red kites.”

Dogs are welcome on the steam train.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 10:11

WALES — FERRYSIDE, CARMARTHEN

Enjoy stunning views over the bay.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, IF WELL BEHAVED

Sitting on the edge of the bay THREE RIVERS HOTEL, FERRYSIDE, CARMARTHEN. Accommodation: Hotel and spa. Cost: From £94 – £160 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Gill Arney and Derek Hamilton, with Dobermann Beau and Golden Retriever Ellie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Three Rivers is a quiet Welsh pub-style hotel and spa, with 15 spacious, en suite bedrooms. There are also self-catering cottages available. Our room was on the second floor (there’s a lift available). There are views over the bay, which are stunning in the moonlight. We ate in the restaurant, at a lovely big corner table with room to put the dog beds down so that Beau and Ellie didn’t

“Views over the bay are stunning in the moonlight.”

Gill, Ellie, and Beau take a trip to the beach.

disturb anyone. There is a big welcoming fire, and a good choice of pub food. A basic breakfast buffet is served in the restaurant each morning. Although there’s no enclosed exercise area, the hotel is right on the beach, only separated by a railway track, and there’s a pedestrian crossing over it.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We had a very warm welcome from manager Caroline Watkins, who made a fuss of our dogs and told us about her own. Dogs are welcome in all areas apart from the swimming pool. The hotel’s resident German Shepherd, Dolly, likes to wander around to see people, but you can tell her to go away if you have a dog like Beau who doesn’t enjoy ccanine company.

A ANY ADDED EXTRAS F FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

Make the most of the stunning Welsh scenery.

F From the outside of the hotel you wouldn’t know that it boasts a 13m swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and gym. There’s also a nine pin skittle alley. Well-behaved dogs are allowed to stay in the rooms

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You wouldn’t know it was a spa from the outside...

...but inside you’ll find a 13m pool.

unattended, and Caroline will let them out for a wee if you go out for the day. A dog walker is available if required.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Pembrey Country Park is a six-mile drive away. As well as a long sandy beach there’s a dry ski slope, toboggan ride, crazy golf, pitch and putt, train rides, adventure play area, equestrian centre, and a variety of nature trails. ■ Kidwelly Castle is very close by, and Carmarthen is about an eight-mile drive away.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Three Rivers Hotel and Spa, Poachers Rest, Ferryside, Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire SA17 5TU, on 01267 267270; enquiries@threerivershotel.co.uk; www.threerivershotel.co.uk

Monthly flea control will help prevent the flea tapeworm infecting your canine friend. 13/03/2013 10:27

WALES — ABERPORTH, CEREDIGION

The oldest part of the guest house is around 300 years old.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

A warm Welsh welcome

★★★★★

Down on the beach.

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

Basic but comfy bedrooms.

FFYNONWEN COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE, ABERPORTH, CEREDIGION.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: B&B. Cost: From £69 per double room per night, for B&B; short breaks available. Tested by: Kelly Felstead and Tom Jackson, with Cocker Spaniel Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Ffynonwen Country Guest House is set in 18½ acres of countryside, a few miles from the stunning Ceredigion coast. The building retains the traditional character and feel of its original purpose as a working farmhouse. Ffynonwen means white spring in Welsh, and the spring still provides the property with its water supply. There are four double rooms and two twin rooms which are all basic but clean and dog friendly, and all en suite, with tea and coffee-making facilities. The bar and lounge area, which includes an open fire, cosy sofas, a TV, and massive bookshelf full of books, is the original part of the property and around 300 years old. In summer, the guest house runs a separate restaurant area — where dogs aren’t allowed — and offers barbecues outside. If your dog isn’t good around animals keep him on a lead when outside the guest house, as there are resident dogs and cats roaming around, plus pigs and horses.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Owners Neil and Stefani Flower were waiting to greet us when we arrived. They were very welcoming,

big dog lovers, and happy to tell us about dog-friendly places to visit — their local knowledge was invaluable. They have four dogs — two Border Collies and two Rough Collies — who are allowed to socialise with visiting dogs. Dogs are allowed in all areas of the guest house. They are also welcome to explore all of the property’s land.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Canine guests have a dog bed in their room, and dog towels and spare bowls are available to borrow. Details of a local vet’s, which can schedule in an appointment for visiting dogs immediately, can be provided. Local maps are available for guests to borrow. Neil and Stefani are keen for owners to tell them about good dog-friendly attractions so they can inform future guests.

Charge for dogs?

£3 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

■ There is a circular h l walk lk ffrom the h guest house called the Poetry Trail. It was created in memory of the late archdruid Dic Jones. Signs and plaques featuring his phrases are located along the trail. ■ Further afield, Pembroke Castle is a great day out for history lovers and is dog friendly throughout, excluding the café.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Neil and Stefani Flower, Ffynonwen Country Guest House, Aberporth, Cardigan, Ceredigion SA43 2HT, on 01239 810312; ffynon.wen@btinternet.com; www.ffynonwen.co.uk y

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“The owners’ local knowledge was invaluable.”

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Aberporth has a beach and a dog-friendly pub, and is located on the Ceredigion Coast Path. We enjoyed a fantastic walk along the path with stunning coastal views. ■ Poppit Sands is a dog-friendly beach about 10 miles away.

Kelly and Henry admire the views.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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13/03/2013 10:28

EAST ANGLIA — SEDGEFORD, NORFOLK

There are lots of countryside walks to enjoy in the area.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£15 PER DOG PER WEEK Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

Over the rainbow

The pretty cottage...

RAINBOW COTTAGE, SEDGEFORD, NORFOLK. Accommodation: Self-catering cottage. Cost: £288 – £437 per week, depending on season. Tested by: Liz Thomas and Lesley Turner, with Cocker Spaniel Poppy.

THE ACCOMMODATION: This is a lovely one-bedroomed, cottage in a small village near Hunstanton and Sandringham. You can park on the road outside the cottage. There’s a well-equipped kitchen with all mod cons, a downstairs bathroom with bath and overhead shower, and a dining room with a very large dining table. Downstairs is tiled throughout — perfect for muddy paws. There’s a stairgate you can use if you don’t want your dog going upstairs. Upstairs there is a lounge with a sofa, sofa bed, and TV, and a double bedroom with a cot and a fold-out chair bed suitable for a child, and a TV. Outside there is an enclosed

“North Norfolk has a number of beautiful beaches, many of which are dog friendly throughout the year.”

...with comfy bedroom...

garden without grass, but there is a green over the road. Dogs are allowed anywhere in the cottage, except for the bedroom, and not on the furniture.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? On arrival there was a bowl of water for Poppy and a hook outside for tying dogs to while you unload the car. We didn’t see the owner but there was a key safe at the back of the cottage, meaning we didn’t need to arrive at a specific time.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? On the table there was a welcome note, poo bags and a chew for Poppy, and wine and a lovely bag of o crisps for us.

O OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ A couple of minutes’ walk takes you straight into the beautiful local countryside where there are plenty of walks. Throughout Sedgeford there are a number of poo bins. ■ The local pub, The King William IV, allows

Poppy enjoying the sandy beach.

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dogs on leads, and does lovely food. ■ We ate at The Orange Tree in Thornham, which isn’t far by car and worth a visit — it even has its ...and well-equipped own dog menu, kitchen. including pigs’ ears in gravy. Also o in Thornham are The Lifeboat Inn and The Old Coach House, which both welcome dogs. ■ North Norfolk has a number of beautiful beaches, many of which are dog friendly throughout the year although some have restrictions, so do check first. Heacham beach is just five minutes away by car. ■ It’s a beautiful area to explore with dogs. From the Peddars Way National Trail to the bird reserves at Titchwell, there’s something for everyone.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Jacqueline Sindle, Rainbow Cottage, 1 Greenhaven, Cole Green, Sedgeford, Norfolk PE36 5LS, on 01485 572402; Sindle965@ btinternet.com

Worm all newborn pups every two weeks after birth.

13/03/2013 10:15

There are lots of lodges to choose from at Weybourne.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

Welcome to the glades

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Time for tea.

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

WEYBOURNE FOREST LODGES, WEYBOURNE, NORFOLK.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering lodges. Cost: £250 – £950 per week, depending on season and size of lodge. Tested by: Liz Thomas, Lesley Turner, and Stella Ray, with Cocker Spaniel Poppy and Border Terrier Bruiser.

Charge for dogs?

THE ACCOMMODATION:

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

Weybourne Forest Lodges has a range of lodges of different sizes, set in a forest glade. We stayed in a two-bedroomed lodge called Sheepfold, which was warm and welcoming. It has one double and one twin room, a large living/dining room, a well-equipped kitchen with a microwave and dishwasher, and a bath with overhead shower. Dogs aren’t allowed in the bedrooms, but are allowed on the sofas if you provide covers and throws. To the front of the lodge there is a veranda with a table and chairs, and at the back there is a barbecue with a large picnic bench. The site has a number of resident animals, including pigs, ducks, sheep, and red squirrels, so bear this in mind when exercising your dogs. Bedding is provided but you will need to bring your own towels and tea towels. Any electricity used is charged separately.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We were showed around our lodge, and told where we could walk the dogs. A welcome folder had lots of information including details of dog-friendly pubs and cafés.

£25 PER DOG PER WEEK

Dogs must be on leads throughout the grounds, but can be let off lead in the forest.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There are plenty of poo bins around the lodges and forest, and in season there is an information centre on site. There is also a laundry room on site. Guests staying in the lodges can join Pinewood Leisure Centre for £20 per week for a couple or £25 per week for a family. This gives you use of the swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and gym. However, dogs aren’t allowed and can’t be left in the lodges unattended.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We went to Holt for the day and visited the Christmas Shop where the dogs were very welcome. ■ The Kings Head in Holt is dog friendly — they are welcome in the bar. ■ We also went to Overstrand and d the dogs had a fantastic time on the beach — check restrictions on dogs depending on the season. We went to The Cliff Café where dogs are welcome. ■ There are some amazing

TWO Weybourne Priory.

walks be h had lk to b d iin the h area. IIt iis worth visiting Salthouse Beach, Weybourne cliffs, Holt Park, Sheringham Park, and Kelling. In Kelling we had cake and coffee at The Old Reading Rooms — dogs are welcome at the tables outside. ■ Holkham beach is a bit of a drive but fantastic. ■ The ruins of Weybourn Priory are definitely worth a visit.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Weybourne Forest Lodges, Sandy Hill Lane, Weybourne, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7HW, on 01263 588440; www.weybourneforestlodges.co.uk

Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“There are some amazing walks to be had in the area. area.”

Enjoy a range of country walks.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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EAST ANGLIA — WEYBOURNE, NORFOLK

LEISURE CENTRE ON SITE

13/03/2013 10:16

EAST ANGLIA — BURNHAM MARKET, NORFOLK

Enjoy a sumptuous break at The Hoste Arms.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

All mod cons in your room...

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£15 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES, IF WELL BEHAVED

Boutique luxury THE HOSTE ARMS, BURNHAM MARKET, NORFOLK. Accommodation: Boutique hotel and beauty spa. Cost: From £130 – £520 per double room per night, for B&B, depending on season. Tested by: Becky Kane and Barnaby Craig, with Dobermann Spigit and Chinese Crested Dog Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Hoste Arms is a beautiful 17th century coaching inn with luxurious rooms and a beauty spa. We stayed at The Railway House, which is owned by The Hoste a little further down the road, where all of the bedrooms are dog friendly (there are a limited number of dog-friendly rooms within the main hotel). There are also self-catering properties available. A bit of luxury.

“The Hoste couldn’t be more dog friendly.”

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The Hoste couldn’t be more dog friendly — the staff made a fuss of Henry while stepping H over Spigit, who, as o always, was lying in a their way. On arrival t we were given a map w sshowing dog-walking routes near the hotel, and a list of doggy rules which d were all reasonable. Dogs aren’t allowed on the furniture, although they can sleep on your bed as long as you use a throw.

Henry and Spigit enjoy the beach.

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Dogs are allowed in the bar at the front of the hotel (which has a beautiful open fire), in the lounges, and in the conservatory. The lounges are great for enjoying afternoon tea or a drink during the day — the seating and surroundings are really sumptuous. There is always at least one dog in The Hoste, if not a lot more. We ate in the conservatory with our dogs and three other tables had dogs too. You can enjoy your meal in a bit of luxury, and the food is amazing.

TOP TIP!

...and a luxurious bed too.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Dog bowls are available on request, as are pet sitters or details of dog walkers. The beauty spa is a great added perk for owners.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ North Norfolk is beautiful and packed full of dog-friendly beaches. We went to Heacham beach and along the embankment at Burnham Overy Staithe (be careful where you park due to the tide). ■ Burnham Market is a lovely village with lots of independent shops, many of which will let your dog in if you ask. ■ Holkham beach is a must visit. ■ Some of the local golf courses allow dogs, but check beforehand. ■ Fakenham Raceourse welcomes dogs on leads.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Hoste Arms, The Green, Burnham Market, Norfolk PE31 8HD, on 01328 738777; reception@thehostearms.co.uk; www.thehoste.com

Prevent your dog scavenging on carcasses in the countryside.

13/03/2013 10:08

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

EAST ANGLIA — HAPPISBURGH, NORFOLK

This 17th century barn is really dog friendly.

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Nestled in Norfolk

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

OLLANDS FARM BARN, HAPPISBURGH, NORFOLK.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering barn. Cost: £325 – £650 per week, depending on season. Tested by: Liz Thomas and Lesley Turner, with Cocker Spaniel Poppy.

THE ACCOMMODATION: This is a typical 17th century Norfolk barn, with a large lounge/ diner and one bedroom, plus a double sofa bed. There’s a fabulous log burner making the whole property warm and cosy. Also downstairs is the toilet and shower room, and there is a well-stocked galley kitchen. The gallery bedroom, with a king-size bed, has paddle stairs leading up to it, which may be tricky for some dogs. Outside there is a secure, pretty courtyard, and at the bottom of this is another dog-friendly, secure, beautiful garden. You can also use the paddock. The courtyard has a table and chairs, and barbecue. Also available is The Old Forge property, just up the road, which sleeps up to 10 and is also dog friendly.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Owners Kim Holt and Mary Ann Stuart made us feel very welcome and are genuine dog lovers, owning Lurchers and Deerhounds themselves. It was great to feel at ease without worrying what Poppy might do to let me down. Dogs are allowed on the furniture and anywhere in the barn.

Charge for dogs? On the doorstep of beautiful Norfolk countryside.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

well worth a visit and are both dog friendly. The Nelsons Head at Horsey welcomes dogs.

On our arrival we found biscuits and towels for Poppy, and for us there was milk in the fridge, fresh eggs, fresh home-made bread, WANT TO FIND home-made blackberry and OUT MORE? apple jelly, oat cookies, chutney, Contact Ollands Farm Barn, Short sweets in a jar, and some Lane, Happisburgh, Norfolk NR12 handmade chocolates. 0RR, on 01692 652280; Lots of information about the mastuart@talk21.com; local area was provided in the barn, www.ollandsfarmbarn.co.uk as well as books to read, maps, and DVDs. The well-stocked If you need to go out kitchen... for the day without your dog, Kim and Mary-Ann can provide doggy day-care, and a crate is available for loan on request. There is also a kennel available if required.

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

NO, BUT DAY CARE AND KENNELS AVAILABLE

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ You can take a walk or a short car ride to the local beaches and woods. There are a number of foot and bridal paths nearby and you’re on the doorstep of the beautiful Norfolk countryside. ■ Waxham and Sea Palling beaches are

...and gallery bedroom.

“There’s a fabulous log burner making the whole property warm and cosy.” ‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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07/03/2013 16:48

EAST ANGLIA — HINGHAM, NORFOLK

There are three beautiful barn conversions to choose from.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE £25 PER DOG PER WEEK/ WEEKEND

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

ONE, DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“White Lodge Farm is the perfect retreat to relax and unwind.”

A rural retreat

Kelly and Henry at Hingham.

WHITE LODGE FARM COTTAGES, HINGHAM, NORFOLK. Accommodation: Self-catering cottages. Cost: From £395 – £2,495 per week, depending on season and size of cottage. Tested by: Kelly Felstead and Tom Jackson, with Cocker Spaniel Henry.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Luxurious inside and peaceful outside, this is the perfect retreat to relax and unwind. White Lodge Farm Cottages consist of three beautiful barn conversions set in acres of meadows in the heart of Norfolk. Guests can choose from Diary Cottage and Stable Cottage, which both sleep up to six people plus infants, and The Barn, which sleeps up to 12 guests. We stayed in Stable Cottage. Facilities include a farmhouse kitchen and dining area, sitting room with log burner, hallway with

Tiled flooring throughout.

chairs for relaxing and reading, hayloft overlooking the kitchen, two double bedrooms, and a twin bedroom. The tiled and wooden flooring throughout is handy for muddy paws. All three cottages have enclosed gardens and are surrounded by miles of open countryside — the spectacular sunsets were a delight.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Tony Richardson, who owns White Lodge Farm cottages with his wife Helen, welcomed us on our arrival and told us about suitable dog-friendly pubs and walks nearby. The couple have two dogs and so are very knowledgeable on where dogs are welcome — don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations on walks and pubs. Dogs aren’t allowed in the bedrooms or on the furniture, and can only be left unattended in the cottages if they’re crated.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? In the kitchen there was a pack for Henry consisting of a welcome letter, biscuits, poo bags, a small towel — which Henry was allowed to keep — and a leaflet on nearby walks, pubs, and attractions.

Kelly and Henry take in the sights at Thetford Priory.

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Luxurious inside.

There was also a dog bowl and mat, a welcome letter for us, and a leaflet on being in the countryside with your dog. There’s a kennel three miles from White Lodge Farm which takes dogs during the day.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The charming village of Hingham is a short walk from the cottages and has various local amenities. ■ The White Hart Hotel allows dogs in the bar area — we enjoyed a lovely roast dinner there with Henry lying next to the table. ■ There are many tracks around White Lodge Farm where you can go for long walks and take in the Norfolk countryside, but dogs must be on leads. ■ Also worth a visit are Thetford Forest and Thetford Priory which are short car journeys away.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Tony and Helen Richardson, White Lodge Farm Cottages, White Lodge Farm, Hardingham Road, Hingham, Norfolk NR9 4LY, on 01953 850435; yd@whitelodgefarmcottages.co.uk; www.whitelodgefarmcottages.co.uk

Avoid feeding your dog unsterilised pet food.

13/03/2013 09:20

STAR RATING

EAST ANGLIA — DUNWICH, SUFFOLK

Andrea, Coco, and Honey get windswept on Southwold pier.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

A breath of fresh air THE SHIP, DUNWICH, SUFFOLK. Accommodation: Traditional inn. Cost: From £97.50 – £135 per double room per night. Tested by: Andrea McHugh and Rick Telford, with Labrador Oscar and Maltese X Chinese Cresteds Coco and Honey.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Ship is a traditional inn and restaurant with 15 bedrooms. The quaint village of Dunwich is steeped in medieval history and parts of the pub date back to Tudor times. We stayed in Seafields, a clean and comfortable family suite with a double bed downstairs and two twin beds upstairs, with beautiful views over the sea marshes. A cosy bar, blazing log fire, friendly staff, and exceptional food are the hallmarks of this lovely inn.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We were made to feel very welcome and relaxed. We arrived on a busy Sunday lunchtime and the bar was packed with walkers and their dogs enjoying a rest and refreshments.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS: There is a very secure garden/picnic area that contains the oldest fig tree in England — referred to in the Domesday book of 1086. Dogs are welcome everywhere apart from the large restaurant, but the bar, conservatory, and a small separate dining room mean there is no need to leave your dog unaccompanied. Some ground-floor rooms open

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

The Ship is a lovely, traditional inn...

AT A GLANCE

...with very comfy bedrooms.

Charge for dogs?

£5 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

directly on to the garden area. Information books contain detailss of some lovely local dog walks.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The Ship is two minutes from a pleasant shingle beach, open to dogs all year. The shingle means you can walk without your dogs becoming covered in sand — a real bonus! ■ Dunwich Heath is a National Trust conservation area and a five-minute drive from The Ship. We spotted lots of deer so if your dog is likely to give chase he must be kept on the lead. From July to September the area is ablaze with purple and yellow heather and home to many species of birds and wildlife. ■ We also did a 4½-mile round walk from The Ship around Dingle Marshes, one of the largest freshwater reed beds in Britain, where you can see bittern and harriers hovering overhead. The walk takes you through woodland, marshes, and back along the shingle beach. ■ We had a wonderful lunch at the nearby Westleton Crown, sister hotel to The Ship. This was incredibly dog friendly and the food was simply delicious.

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Directions for inn-to-inn walks are available. ■ We visited the pretty nearby town of Southwold for a stroll along the pier. This is a must-see attraction that welcomes dogs in most cafés and shops. The Under the Pier show by artist Tim Hunkin is simply hilarious and my favourite invention was the Rent a Dog machine, where you held the lead of an automated dog and took it for a walk on a treadmill.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Ship Inn, Dunwich, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 3DT, on 01728 648219; info@shipatdunwich.co.uk; www.shipatdunwich.co.uk

Relaxing by the log fire.

Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“A cosy bar, blazing log fire, friendly staff, and exceptional food.”

Trying out the Rent a Dog!

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

40-41 White Lodge-The ship sd sw.indd 41

13/03/2013 10:30

EAST ANGLIA — WISBECH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

STAR RATING

Milo fancies a spot of golf.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£30 PER DOG PER WEEK Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

Great for golf

Lovely lodges.

TYDD ST GILES GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, WISBECH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE. Accommodation: Self-catering lodges. Cost: From £270 per week, depending on season and size of lodge; short breaks available. Tested by: Richard, Linda, Leon, and Robbie Marseglia, with Sprocker Milo.

THE ACCOMMODATION: There is a range of self-catering lodges at Tydd St Giles Golf and Country Club, with two or three bedrooms. The lodges are spacious, well equipped, and furnished to an extremely high standard. The open-plan design meant Milo could be with us all the time and didn’t feel excluded.

French doors open up to an enclosed decking area surrounding most of the lodge, but small dogs might get through the fence.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We booked in at the main reception, where staff were extremely helpful and friendly. When we rrequested details of tthe nature trail, one member of staff went m out of her way to o provide us with p tthe information we requested. w

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

“The open-plan design meant Milo could be with us all the time and didn’t feel excluded.” 42

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

42-43 Wisbech-East Ruston sd sw OK.indd 42

On arrival at our lodge there was a welcome pack, including information about things infor to do and see in and around the area, and a complimentary bottle of wine. There was also a dog bowl and a golf ball. In the lodge there’s a selection of dog magazines, and there’s a dog bin along the nature trail.

Linda and Milo check out the decking.

Relax in comfort.

TOP TIP!

Large and comfy living space.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We took Milo for a walk on the nature trail which went around the outskirts of the site and golf course. ■ We also visited the on-site pub for a few drinks. The staff and locals made us feel very welcome. ■ The leisure centre has a heated indoor pool, a fitness suite, and café. You can also purchase pamper and spa packages at the nearby manor. ■ The site is especially geared towards golfers and there is a fishing lake on site too.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Kirkgate, Tydd St Giles, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 5NZ, on 01524 781453; enquiries@pureleisuregroup.com; www.tyddgolf.co.uk

Worming at least every three months will help to keep your canine friend healthy: healthy dogs are happy dogs. 13/03/2013 11:11

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

Walks on your doorstep

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

Cosy rooms.

HOLMES HOUSE, EAST RUSTON, NORFOLK.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering cottage. Cost: From £335 – £765 per week, depending on season; short breaks available. Tested by: Liz Thomas and Lesley Turner, with Cocker Spaniel Poppy.

THE ACCOMMODATION: This is a lovely house with off-road parking, a large enclosed garden with barbecue and seating, and a huge tree in the garden hung with bird feeders. We saw lots of wild birds in the garden during our stay, including a woodpecker. Under the stairs is a big dog bed and water bowl. The large dining room has a big table and bench chairs, and the kitchen is equipped with everything you could need. Off the hall is a shower room, with a washing machine and wash basin. The lounge has three large sofas, TV and DVD player, and a wood-burning stove. There’s plenty of local information provided including dog-walking maps, and there’s a bookcase filled with books and DVDs. The downstairs has stone floors throughout. The open-tread stairs have a stairgate at the bottom if yyou require it. Upstairs there is U one double and o one twin room, o a bathroom with a double w sshower, and a seating area on the landing, Happisburgh which is perfect lighthouse. for watching

the birds, and converts into a small double bed.

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Anyone for cricket?

Enclosed exercise area?

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

YES

Roger Caswell, the owner, was there to welcome us all on arrival. He told us about the dog-proof garden (once the gate is shut) and other dog rules.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There was a welcome pack on arrival including dog biscuits for Poppy, and milk, fresh bread, cake, and jam for us. There were also some beautiful fresh roses in the dining room window. Dogs can go on the furniture as long as you use the large throws provided. Also provided are spare leads and high-vis collars, plus dog tags with the cottage’s details on. There’s a poo bin in the garden. There is a dog day-care service nearby should you want to go out for the day without your dog.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ There are fantastic dog walks right from the cottage. Turn left and you’re on Weavers’ Way (a 56-mile footpath that runs from Cromer to Great Yarmouth),

Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

and you can follow the old railway line up to Stalham. Turn right and you can head into o the village. ■ Bacton Woods are nearby, as well as a number of dog-friendly beaches. We had a lovely long walk at Happisburgh beach. ■ Kingfisher Café, on Walcott sea front, is dog friendly. ■ There are lots of dog-friendly pubs nearby, including The Pleasure Boat at Hickling (in the bar — dog treats aplenty), The Vernon Arms at Southrepps (dogs on leads are allowed in the bar), and Nelson Head, Horsey (well-behaved dogs on leads are allowed in the bar).

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Holmes House, Holmes Road, East Ruston, Norfolk NR12 9JU, on 01692 650083; www.eastrustoncottages.co.uk

Liz and Poppy.

“Th “There was a welcome pack on arrival including dog biscuits for Poppy, and milk, fresh bread, cake, and jam for us.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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EAST ANGLIA — EAST RUSTON, NORFOLK

Holmes House is ideal for dogs.

13/03/2013 11:11

EAST ANGLIA — THORNHAM, NORFOLK

Dogs are part of life at The Lifeboat.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£10 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

Scenic Norfolk Accommodation: Hotel. Cost: From £130 – £150 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Becky Kane and Barnaby Craig, with Toy Poodle Mirabelle.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Lifeboat is a 16th century smugglers’ inn. Owned by chef Marco Pierre White, it is welcoming and friendly, with the highest standards, and serves great food. The 13 bedrooms are tastefully decorated and are clean and fresh with a seaside feel, with tea and coffee-making facilities, hairdryer, telephone, TV, and en suite bathrooms, plus free WiFi. Our room had a sea view and watching the sunrise in the morning was amazing. You can exercise your dogs in the back garden. There is a substantial car park just across the road.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

Getting warm by the fire.

“The fire is perfect for drying off and getting warm following a nice long walk along the beach.”

Stylish and modern bedrooms.

THE LIFEBOAT INN, THORNHAM, NORFOLK.

We were greeted by a friendly receptionist on arrival, who told us where we could take Mirabelle for a walk and where within the hotel we could eat with her. There isn’t a long list of doggy dos and don’ts, and we instantly felt relaxed — the huge open fire helped with this. The fire is perfect for drying off and getting warm following a nice long walk along the beach.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

NEW 44-45 Lifeboat-Fullers Hill sd sw OK.indd 44

TOP TIP!

ANY EXTRAS FOR DOGS/ OWNERS? There are fantastic walks and beautiful scenery right on the doorstep. The staff are very dog friendly and dogs are part of the norm at The Lifeboat. Dogs are allowed everywhere throughout the hotel, except the main dining room/restaurant.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Thornham is a lovely village. Both the Old Coach House, which is the sister hotel of The Lifeboat, and The Orange Tree are dog friendly and do fabulous food. The Pets Emporium at The Old Apple Store is worth a visit too. ■ There are a number of great dog-friendly beaches in North Norfolk, our favourites being Holkham, Old Hunstanton, and Snettisham. There’s also Peddars Way which provides miles of walking along the North Norfolk coast. When you get tired you can hop on the Coast Hopper bus which is dog friendly. ■ There are a number of dog-friendly establishments you can eat or drink at in the area.

Dogs are welcome in the bar.

Our favourites are: Waterside Bar in Hunstanton, the Mariners at Old Hunstanton, Briarfields and Titchwell Manor, both at Titchwell, The White Horse at Brancaster Staithe, and Deepdale Café at Burnham Deepdale.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Lifeboat Inn, Ship Lane, Thornham, Norfolk PE36 6LT, on 01485 512236; reception@lifeboatinn.co.uk; www.llifeboatinnthornham.com

Worming at least every three months will vastly reduce the number of eggs shed into the environment. 13/03/2013 12:43

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

Down on the farm

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

Checking out the airfield.

★★★★★

FULLERS HILL COTTAGES, LITTLE GRANSDEN, CAMBRIDGESHIRE.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering apartments. Cost: £75 – £150 per night; additional excessive cleaning charge of £20 – £100 payable if necessary. Tested by: Helen Taylor and Sue Foster, with Labrador-cross Ella, Great Danes Gilbert and Bentley, and Labrador Phizz.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Fullers Hill Cottages are based in the south Cambridgeshire countryside, just 12 miles from Cambridge. The four barn conversions are family owned, on a working arable farm and private airfield. The Little Gransden Flying Club and vintage aircraft museum are based on the small airfield, which is licensed for 32 aircraft a day but only has one or two take offs/landings per day. We stayed in The Stables, The super-smart which sleeps w lounge... ttwo plus two more on a sofa m bed. There b are other apartments available, sleeping up to six people. ...and designer kitchen.

The very smart apartment is of a good size, with an open-plan kitchen, dining, and sitting room, luxury fabric sofa bed, dining table, 3D TV, and free WiFi. It has hardwood floors throughout with a stable front door, which leads into an entrance room suitable for dog crates and bedding.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We were greeted by one of the owners, John Jefferies, who was keen for us to meet and introduce our dogs to his own pet dog.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? We were provided with a dog bowl and bag of treats. John also gave us details of four walks we could take from the apartment. Dogs are allowed anywhere that people are allowed — with it being a working farm, some areas were out of bounds for safety reasons because of the farm machinery. Dogs are also allowed on the furniture in the apartments.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The walks through and around the farmland, leading to a local

Charge for dogs?

wood, varied from a mile up to 4½ miles. The flat countryside had many footpaths and bridleways. ■ There are some Wildlife Trust Woodlands nearby, which are known to have fallow and muntjac deer so pay attention to any on-lead signs. ■ We enjoyed a short journey into nearby Cambridge. We parked next to a vast green parkland area on the edge of the city. The dogs enjoyed their off-lead running in the park with some of the local friendly dogs, but make sure your dog is OK around bikes if you go into the city as there are a lot of cyclists. ■ We went sightseeing around historic Cambridge with all its beautiful buildings. Even though some paths were narrow for our large group of dogs, locals and students were friendly and considerate.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“Make sure your dogs are OK around bikes if you go into Cambridge city.” Exploring historic Cambridge.

Contact Mark and John Jefferies, Fullers Hill Cottages, Fullers Hill, Little Gransden, Cambridgeshire SG19 3BP on 07881 936071; bookings@ fullershillcottages.co.uk; www.fullershillcottages.co.uk

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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EAST ANGLIA — LITTLE GRANSDEN, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Standing guard outside the apartment.

13/03/2013 12:43

SOUTH EAST — KINGSTON UPON THAMES, SURREY

Taking in the Thames.

DOGS STAY FO R FREE

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT ATAA GLANCE GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

By the riverside THE CHASE LODGE HOTEL, KINGSTON UPON THAMES, SURREY. Accommodation: Hotel. Cost: From £69 – £145 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Paul and Clare Hampel and Francesca Covolan, with Welsh Terrier Griff.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Chase Lodge Hotel is a small, family-run hotel located a few minutes from the River Thames. Dogs are allowed in all parts of the hotel, other than the dining and breakfast room. An excellent continental breakfast is included in the price and there is a small bar, although the hotel doesn’t offer lunch or dinner. The rooms are all individually designed and all have free WiFi. Ours, a family room, had a large en suite bathroom with a jacuzzi bath and shower. The hotel was very clean throughout. The hotel doesn’t have a private e car park but resident parking permits are available at a small

Enjoy an excellent breakfast before heading out.

charge (Monday to Saturday). Based on the photos in the reception area, the hotel attracts a lot of celebrities. A well-known rock star from one of the UK’s biggest bands was staying while we were there!

feature was the friendliness of the staff — it was exceptional. Nothing was too much trouble. Some rooms have direct access to the street, making late-night toileting easy.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION?

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

The staff were all dog lovers and made us feel extremely welcome.

■ The Chase Lodge is perfectly located for walks along the River Thames and visits to Bushey Park and Richmond Park. ■ Hampton Court is a three-mile walk along the river. ■ The hotel recommended two pubs/restaurants that were a short walk away along the river and both were very dog friendly: The Boaters Inn, which allows dogs on leads, and Bishop Out of Residence, which allows dogs in the downstairs rooms. Griff was provided with a water bowl and a bowl of dog biscuits — he’s never had it so good!

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? While we were happy with every aspect of the hotel, a unique

Rooms are all individually designed.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Nothing is too much trouble at Chase Lodge.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

Contact The Chase Lodge Hotel, 10 Park Road, Hampton Wick, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey KT1 4AS, on 020 8943 1862; info@chaselodgehotel.com; www.chaselodgehotel.com

Always dispose of your dog’s faeces in designated dog poop bins.

13/03/2013 15:15

SOUTH EAST — HAILSHAM, SUSSEX

MANOR HOUSE Pekes Cottages are certainly unique.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

Rooms with a view

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

PEKES HOUSES, HAILSHAM, SUSSEX.

AT ATAA GLANCE GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering cottages. Cost: £375 – £2,120 per week, depending on season and size of property. Tested by: Bob and Liz Scott, with Border Collies Sprout and Snip.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Pekes Estate, set in 28 acres, is very secluded and looks over lovely open country. The manor house itself dates back to 1430. There are four cottages on the estate that welcome dogs. We stayed in Tudor View, which is situated close to the manor. As its name suggests, it has lovely views looking across the valley, and has a fenced-in garden. The cottage, which is all on one floor, is centrally heated, with an open fire in the sitting room. It is carpeted throughout and there are many original fixtures and fittings. It has two bedrooms — one double, with a king-sized bed, and one twin. The double room also has a door out to the terrace. The kitchen has all mod cons, and the lounge has a TV and radio, with DVD player available on request. In the main grounds you can use the heated indoor swimming pool, tennis court, sauna, jacuzzi, badminton court, walled garden, and lovely formal gardens. In the cottage there was lots of information on the history of the estate, plus details of dog-friendly walks, pubs, and restaurants. You can also order estate-grown veg, eggs, and logs, as well as home-cooked meals.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Eva Morris — whose family has owned the estate for over 100 years — and her team were delighted to meet us all and quickly showed us around, pointing out the doggy places to go. Dogs can’t go on the furniture unless you bring their own blankets. All poo must be picked up in the grounds, although no poo bags or bins are provided.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? The 350yd front drive running from the manor past the front of Tudor View is perfect for morning and evening exercise. The wonderful grounds are also a great sniffing challenge.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Sussex County Council has produced a series of informative walking leaflets called ‘Paths to prosperity’, which can be found in the cottage. ■ Chiddingly Church, about two miles and a pleasant walk from Pekes, is one of the only churches with a spire in the county and is well worth a visit. The Six Bells pub next to the church allows

Charge for dogs? Exploring the kitchen.

dogs both in and outside and is very dog friendly. ■ The Cuckoo Trail, Ardingly Reservoir, Friston Forest, and the Cuckmere River are all well-known local areas close by.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

FOUR Enclosed exercise area?

YES

Contact Eva Morris, Pekes, Nash Street, Golden Cross, Hailsham, Sussex BN27 4AD, on 020 7352 8088 or 01825 872229; pekes.afa@virgin.net; www.pekesmanor.com Bob, Liz, and the dogs.

FREE FOR FIRST TWO DOGS, £7 PER DOG FOR ADDITIONAL DOGS PER STAY.

Can dogs be left unattended?

“The wonderful grounds are also a great sniffing challenge.”

Splash around in the heated indoor pool.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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07/03/2013 14:45

SOUTH WEST — WEST CAMEL, SOMERSET

Make sure you spend some time at Ham Hill Country Park.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£20 PER DOG PER WEEK Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO, DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

NO, BUT KENNELS AVAILABLE

“Eggs, honey, and cakes on arrival were a lovely surprise.”

Country life POLO COTTAGE, WEST CAMEL, SOMERSET. Accommodation: Self-catering cottage. Cost: From £275 – £575 per week; short breaks available. Tested by: Gill Arney and Derek Hamilton, with Dobermann Beau and Golden Retriever Ellie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Polo Cottage is spacious with dog-friendly floors throughout. The superb kitchen includes a cooker, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge/ freezer. The ground floor double bedroom, which has an en suite bathroom, has patio doors leading to an enclosed patio with furniture — a lovely peaceful place to sit in the Somerset sunshine. Upstairs there’s a lounge/diner, with TV and DVD player. The cottage adjoins the owners’ farmhouse, with the front garden En suite wetroom.

allocated to Polo Cottage. The garden is enclosed, although the wall is low.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We had a very warm welcome from the owner, Sarah Theo-Jones, and the fresh eggs, honey, and home-made cakes on arrival were a lovely surprise.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Heated kennels are available for your dogs for an extra charge, including a small outdoor run. If you’re going out for the whole day then Sarah will look in on your dogs if you wish. An outdoor dog shower was useful after muddy walks, and Sarah quickly appeared with towels to dry the dogs down.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ On our first night we strolled to the nearby Walnut Tree pub, where you can eat in the garden with your dog. ■ For coffee or lunch, visit Oliver’s coffee house in Sherborne, where you can sit inside or out with your dogs. ■ We also spent an evening at The Arch bistro in Sherborne,

Dog-friendly floors throughout.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

Gill, Beau, and Ellie.

enjoying absolutely delicious food on the terrace. The owner even shared his recipes with us. Beau is 10 years old and arthritic so we took a comfy bed and his warm coat in which he settled comfortably for the evening. ■ Ham Hill Country Park is a must for dog owners with splendid views, several car parks, a pub, and toilets on site. ■ Local footpaths near the cottage allow quick walks before you go out for the day.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Polo Cottage, Castle Cary, Somerset on 01237 459981; bookings@holidaycottages.co.uk; www.holidaycottages.co.uk

Enjoy dinner at The Arch bistro nearby.

Rigorous kennel hygiene will help to prevent the spread of parasitic worms.

12/03/2013 16:09

FISHING VILLAG E

STAR RATING

SOUTH WEST — CADGWITH, CORNWALL

Spend some time in this traditional Cornish fishing community.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

Beach heaven

Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

CADGWITH COVE COTTAGES, CADGWITH, CORNWALL. Accommodation: Self-catering cottages. Cost: £230 - £1,350 per week, depending on season and size of cottage; short breaks available. Tested by: Bob and Liz Scott, with Border Collies Sprout and Snuff.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Cadgwith Cove Cottages has many properties, set in Cadgwith and the surrounding villages. We stayed in Rose Cottage. It is extremely comfortable, with two bedrooms, and wooden flooring and rugs throughout. The oil-fired cooker in the kitchen is fantastic for cooking. There is also a wood-burning stove in the living room, plus TV with Freeview, DVD player, stereo, and all mod cons in the kitchen. An open-tread staircase leads to the two bedrooms, one en suite. There is no garden as such — just a small terrace outside the property. This means a trip to the beach or the coastal path (both about two minutes from the house) with poo bags at the ready. Dogs can’t be left alone in the cottages, but a woman in the village offers a dog-sitting service. Plenty of other Cadgwith Cove Marvel at the spectacular coastline.

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs?

Liz, Sprout, and Snuff enjoy some sea air.

Cottages’ properties have enclosed gardens and Debbie Collins, who runs the company, can recommend the right cottage for you.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? On arrival we found a delicious cake and a tea tray ready with coffee, tea, milk, and sugar.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There are no specific facilities for dogs. You are asked to bring your own dog beds and blankets if your dogs like to sleep on the furniture.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Cadgwith Cove is very dog friendly, and dog poo bins are plentiful. The fishermen launch their boats from the main beach every morning, meaning a plentiful supply of fishy bits for dogs to roll in and eat! There is a second beach in Cadgwith but there are restrictions on dogs between Easter and September. ■ The Cadgwith Cove Inn was well frequented by locals’ and visitors’ dogs; the landlady supplied biscuits at intervals to all the four-legged customers, as long as their owners allowed.

£25 PER DOG PER WEEK

■ The Old Cellars restaurant allows dogs in the outside cobbled eating area, while the Cadgwith Cove Crab Shop allows dogs to sit outside. ■ There are plenty of walks straight from the cottage. The coastal path runs either side and there are lots of paths leading off it. ■ The Lizard peninsula has lots of footpaths in every direction. Lizard village and National Trust lighthouse are well worth a visit. Dogs are welcome on leads round the lighthouse. ■ The peninsular is home to some of the best sandy beaches in the country, including Kynance Cove and Kennack Sands — check dog restrictions though. There is information in the cottages about where you can go with your dogs. ■ Cornish pasties and crab sandwiches are a must! The Snack Shack on the Lizard does a good pasty and you can take a supply home with you. ■ Ruan Minor has shops and a weekly market, and nearby Mullion also has shops and a good pub.

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“Home to some of the best sandy beaches in the country.”

Rose Cottage...

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Debbie Collins on 01326 290162; covecottages@aol.com; www.cadgwithcovecottages.com

...is well appointed throughout.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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12/03/2013 16:09

SOUTH WEST — NETHER STOWEY, SOMERSET

Sue and Viv enjoy a fabulous cooked breakfast.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£3 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO PER ROOM Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

“Dogs are welcome in the lounge, which has the kind of sofas you don’t want to leave.”

Checking out the spacious bedroom.

Home comforts THE OLD CIDER HOUSE, NETHER STOWEY, SOMERSET. The accommodation: B&B. Cost: From £65 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Sue Jackson and Viv Simmons, with terriers Mollie and Titch.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Old Cider House has five en suite bedrooms with TV, Freeview, and WiFi available, and a continental or fabulous cooked breakfast. Eggs came from a local farm or the owners’ hens. We had delicious home-made bread, and sausages and bacon from the local butcher’s. Evening meals are available by prior arrangement. Dogs are allowed to sleep in the rooms but not on the beds. They aren’t allowed in the dining room or kitchen, but there is a terrace in the garden where guests can eat with their dogs. The spacious bedrooms are all furbished to a very high standard with a selection of reading material in each room, and home-made biscuits and fresh milk are provided for tea and coffee. Dogs are welcome in the lounge, which has the kind w of sofas you don’t o want to leave w Resident animals cconsist of Ozy, a nine-year-old black n LLabrador (who likes tto collect napkins iin his mouth), and hens in the garden, h sso we kept Mollie and Titch on a

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leads in case they chased the chicks. The Old Cider House has a microbrewery so we had a fascinating tour conducted by owner Ian Pearson.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We couldn’t have had a warmer welcome from Ian, who took us up to our room overlooking the enclosed garden, which had a bin for dog poo.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? On arrival in our room we found a welcome pack consisting of poo bags and home-made dog biscuits, dusted with parmesan cheese, shaped like cats. There were also two dog tags stating ‘I am staying at Old Cider House’. Ian brought a water bowl up to our room, and dog towels, a hose, and shampoo were available on request for muddy dogs. An information file was also provided. Ian has written a booklet of walks of varying lengths which can be done straight from the Old Cider House. On our second night the owners invited us to join them for dinner in the Ancient Mariner pub, opposite Coleridge’s cottage

The Old Cider House also has a microbrewery.

— they couldn’t have been more helpful about places to visit and entertained us royally.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We sampled The Rose and Crown and the Ancient Mariner in Nether Stowey, both of which had very good food and were dog friendly. ■ The West Somerset Steam Railway welcomes dogs for £2 each (and they get their own tickets), as do Hestercombe Gardens and Fyne Court (dogs must be on short leads at both), and several beaches. ■ We visited Dunster Castle and town, and Watchet, a bustling but very friendly town. ■ The owners organise a Somerset cider tour, various other walking tours including Coleridge’s cottage and the Quantock Hills, and several real ale walks.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Ian Pearson and Lynne Abbott, 25 Old Castle Street, Nether Stowey, Somerset TA5 1LN, on 01278 732228; info@theoldciderhouse.co.uk; www.ochc.co.uk

Monthly flea control will help prevent the flea tapeworm infecting your canine friend. 07/03/2013 15:14

SOUTH WEST — PLYMTREE, DEVON

Unwind with views of Dartmoor in the distance.

300

ACRES ORCHAROF DS

STAR RATING Feel at home at Orchard View.

Darling buds of May revisited ORCHARD VIEW, PLYMTREE, DEVON.

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

Cider apples opposite the farm.

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs?

£20 PER DOG PER WEEK

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

THE ACCOMMODATION:

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We met owner Sue Tidball in the shop as we were asking directions — the barns are in an isolated location, and so we

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

Accommodation: Self-catering barns. g Cost: £350 – £900 per week, depending on season and size of barn. Testers: Sue Jackson and Colin Seymour, with terrier Mollie.

We stayed in Orchard View, one of two superbly renovated barns at Little Clyst William Farm, surrounded by 300 acres of orchards and farmland. This really is just like ‘The Darling Buds of May’, with cider apple orchards opposite, a lucky swallow’s nest above the porch, and wonderful views over misty fields with Dartmoor beckoning in the distance. Orchard View sleeps six with two double bedrooms (one en suite), a twin room, bathroom, and downstairs toilet. The other property, called The Barn, sleeps four. Orchard View has been sympathetically renovated, with light, spacious rooms and an open-plan kitchen/dining room with a lovely big kitchen table and very comfortable sofas. The lounge has a TV, DVD, and WiFi, with French windows opening on to an enclosed courtyard garden with barbecue. Tea, coffee, and milk are provided.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

There is a dog bin outside the cottage in the courtyard.

followed her back to the farm. Sue couldn’t have been more welcoming, and her husband, Mike, turned up later for a chat with his very friendly young Springer Spaniel, Duke, and was similarly interested in Mollie and gave us all the information we needed. In addition to Duke, there were sheep and cattle on the farm. We felt immediately at home. The following morning Sue showed us around the farm, including an old cider press up the road. There are plenty of places to walk dogs on or near the farm but it depends on the time of year — Sue is happy to provide information as to which walks are most suitable. Mike moved the sheep from the orchard so we could walk Mollie there. Dogs aren’t allowed on the beds, but they are welcome anywhere else. If there is an accident, there is no charge but Sue asks that owners clean up after their dogs with wipes which she provides.

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

YES

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

Can dogs be left

■ Mollie was made very welcome unattended? at The Blacksmiths Arms in Plymtree NO (dogs must be on leads). We also visited the Mason’s Arms at Branscombe. ■ Branscombe has a long pebble beach which is dog friendly year round, so we walked Mollie there and along the cliffs above which give a terrific view over the Devon/Dorset coast. The café there is dog friendly as is a caravan park at the top of the cliffs. ■ We also visited Honiton market and had Mollie sets out to enjoy the a lovely cup of coffee pebble beach at Branscombe. at the Boston Tea Party café.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Mike and Sue Tidball, Orchard View, Little Clyst William Farm, Plymtree, Devon EX15 2LG, on 01884 277370; sue_tidball@hotmail.com

“Branscombe has a long pebble beach which is dog friendly year round.”

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07/03/2013 15:14

SOUTH WEST — PLYMTREE, DEVON

Unwind with views of Dartmoor in the distance.

300

ACRES ORCHAROF DS

STAR RATING Feel at home at Orchard View.

Darling buds of May revisited ORCHARD VIEW, PLYMTREE, DEVON.

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

Cider apples opposite the farm.

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs?

£20 PER DOG PER WEEK

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS?

THE ACCOMMODATION:

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We met owner Sue Tidball in the shop as we were asking directions — the barns are in an isolated location, and so we

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

Accommodation: Self-catering barns. g Cost: £350 – £900 per week, depending on season and size of barn. Testers: Sue Jackson and Colin Seymour, with terrier Mollie.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

There is a dog bin outside the cottage in the courtyard.

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

YES

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

Can dogs be left

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Mike and Sue Tidball, Orchard View, Little Clyst William Farm, Plymtree, Devon EX15 2LG, on 01884 277370; sue_tidball@hotmail.com

“Branscombe has a long pebble beach which is dog friendly year round.”

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07/03/2013 15:14

SOUTH WEST — ASHWATER, DEVON

ACRES O F GARDEN S

Blagdon Manor is a luxury country house hotel.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£8.50 PER DOG PER NIGHT Maximum number of dogs allowed:

THREE, DEPENDING ON SIZE Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

“They even provided Herbie with a sausage for breakfast.”

Feast fit for a king

Enjoying the beach.

BLAGDON MANOR, ASHWATER, DEVON. Accommodation: Country house hotel. Cost: From £145 – £205 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Sue and Mike Corfield, with Border Collie Herbie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: With seven en suite bedrooms, Blagdon Manor Hotel is a superb luxury getaway. There is a comfortable lounge and bar area available to dogs and owners. There is also a bright conservatory restaurant but dogs are not allowed in there. Herbie shared our double room which was beautifully appointed with a comfortable king-sized bed. The room has access to a back staircase which leads directly into an undercover courtyard — an ideal drying area for dogs. Dinner in the restaurant was delicious, imaginative, and beautifully produced. The hotel places emphasis on the quality of its food, with most meals made using local produce. Breakfast each morning was a feast fit for a king and set us up for the a

Relaxing with a drink in the garden.

Comfy king-sized bed.

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day ahead. Nothing was too much trouble — they even provided Herbie with a sausage for breakfast.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Owners Liz and Steve Morey and their two lovely chocolate Labradors, Mace and Cassia, all provided us with an enthusiastic and warm welcome. Both Steve and Liz are dog lovers, and Mace and Cassia were very friendly towards other dogs and people. All the staff made a fuss of Herbie and seemed to be dog lovers.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? A welcome pack for dogs comprised a dog bed, bowl, towel, poo bags, and some home-cooked treats. Lots of dog towels were available too. Situated in around 20 acres of landscaped gardens and pastures, the hotel provides great opportunities for exercise. Paths have been created through the fields making t it i ideal for those early morning and late evening m walks. The fields are fenced. w There’s croquet in the T

grounds d and d a giant-sized i i d chess h game on the terrace. Dogs can’t be left alone in the rooms, but there are local kennels available if you ask.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ Because Blagdon Manor is in a secluded area away from the main tourist hubs, it provides a perfect setting to wind down. ■ The hotel’s central location, close to the Cornish border, means it is perfect for touring the beautiful bays and beauty spots in both Devon and Cornwall. ■ We got away from the crowds and visited the idyllic Carlyon Bay near St Austell, which is a privately owned beach open to members of the public and dogs. ■ Charlestown — a secluded fishing port a short distance from St Austell — was next on our list, and a trip to Crowdy Reservoir, with its awe-inspiring scenery, and visiting a nearby farmhouse for a cream tea was the icing on the cake.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Call Steve or Liz Morey at Blagdon Manor, Ashwater, Devon EX21 5DF on 01409 211224; stay@blagdon. com; www.blagdon.com

Worm all newborn pups every two weeks after birth.

13/03/2013 11:52

STAR RATING

On Cornwall’s edge

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★

CREAM TEA ON ARRIVA L

Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

TREVILLICK COTTAGE, TINTAGEL, CORNWALL.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Self-catering cottage. Cost: £300 – £1,000 per week. Tested by: Jo, Ben, and Pearl Boughton-White, with Whippets Peggy-Sue, Elsie, and Hilda.

Charge for dogs?

£20 PER DOG PER STAY Maximum number of dogs allowed:

THE ACCOMMODATION: This typical Cornish cottage is at the end of a bumpy track, and is one of the last properties before you reach the dramatic coastal path. Parking is in the cottage bounds and once you have closed the gate the whole property is secure for the dogs to explore. Trevillick Cottage is full of charm with flagstone floors, a wood-burning stove, old wooden doors, and a welcoming warm Aga — although even more welcoming were the scones, local jam, and clotted cream waiting to be devoured on our arrival. The cottage has everything you could ever want, from a large selection of kitchen equipment and utensils to plenty of towels and even board games. The three bedrooms are really comfortable with plenty of space. The upstairs bathroom has a roll-top bath, and beautiful views from the window. The upstairs might not be ideal for young children as there is no landing and the stairs are very steep — although our three-year-old managed fine with supervision. The facilities are great, with plenty of room for wellies, dog towels, and coats, and there is also

THREE

...with a lovely wood-burning stove.

The cottage is full of charm...

a utility area with washing machine and tumble dryer.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Our Whippets were very pleased with the dog biscuits provided.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? A dog towel, poo bags, towels, a water drinking bowl, and even Trevillick Cottage dog leads are available. There is also a list of dog-friendly beaches and walks nearby, and details of local vets and groomers.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ With the coastal path just minutes from the cottage it is perfect for dog walks. There are some great fields that the Whippets used as a race track.

Enclosed exercise area?

Tintagel drive ■ Ti t l iis a ffew minutes’ i t ’d i away. Trebarwith Strand is nearby, and has a great dog-friendly sandy beach at low tide. The Port William Inn is dog friendly. ■ We spent our days driving down the coast stopping at the fabulous sandy beaches and villages and sampling the delicious pasties and ice cream. ■ Padstow is under an hour’s leisurely drive away and Port Isaac is even closer. ■ Daymer Bay was a real find and recommended to us by the cottage owners. It was the most picturesque dog-friendly sandy beach — the Whippets exhausted themselves chasing balls and exploring every inch.

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

“Our Whippets were very pleased with the dog biscuits provided.”

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Melanie King, Trevillick Cottage, Tintagel, Cornwall PL34 0DN, on 07876 501503; mel@easy2name.com; www.trevillickcottage. co.uk

Exploring the coastline.

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SOUTH WEST — TINTAGEL, CORNWALL

“Catch me if you can!”

13/03/2013 11:52

SOUTH WEST — SWANAGE, DORSET

Take in the dramatic scenery of the Dorset coast.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

YES

Room at the top Victorian guest house The Limes.

THE LIMES, SWANAGE, DORSET. Accommodation: B&B. Cost: From £92 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Andrea and Maddie McHugh, with Maltese X Chinese Cresteds Coco and Honey.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Limes is a family-owned Victorian villa guest house, with 12 bedrooms. Our room was at the very top of this lovely house and had a sea view. The Limes is situated fairly near the top of a steep hill, so may not be ideal for less mobile people, but there is parking outside and a small private car park. The rooms are spotlessly clean, the beds are comfy. We were assured that the carpets were robust and that we weren’t to worry about dirty paws. Breakfast is freshly cooked and delicious.

“Breakfast was freshly cooked and delicious.”

Beautiful coastline to explore.

Birdwatching at Durlston.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The owner, Lyn Fegan, was very friendly, and a big dog lover, so made us very welcome.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Dogs are welcome in all areas apart from the restaurant. A bright, cheery conservatory is available for dog owners to breakfast in. Owners are advised to bring their own dog bedding, but Lyn provided sheets to use as covers in case our dogs jumped on the furniture. A park five minutes away is perfect for exercising dogs. There is a drying room to dry off wet dog coats, and Lyn provided us with information on dog-friendly restaurants, pubs, and walks. A comfortable lounge contains a library of books and a games room houses a pool table. There is also a small bar.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The Limes is centrally located for visiting Swanage town, beaches, and local attractions. The town is very dog friendly and the beaches allow dogs, although there may be restrictions during the summer. ■ We ate at Tawny’s wine bar in

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Getting comfy in the room.

Swanage — this was a busy, informal dining experience with delicious food, artistic surroundings, and a warm welcome for all dogs. ■ Durlston Country Park is a few minutes’ walk away. It’s very dog friendly, and a perfect place to start exploring Dorset’s World Heritage coastline. We enjoyed a lovely coastal walk with stunning sea views and even spotted a couple of dolphins in the distance. Dogs are allowed into the visitors’ centre, and afterwards we took our drinks outside and relaxed in the sunshine looking out over the sea — lovely! ■ The next day we took the steam train from Swanage and explored the ruins of the spectacularly romantic Corfe Castle (dogs are welcome on short leads). Travelling by steam train was great fun and there were lots of other dog owners on board.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Lyn Fegan, The Limes, 48 Park Road, Swanage, Dorset BH19 2AE, on 01929 422664; info@ limeshotel.net; www.limeshotel.net

Prevent your dog scavenging on carcasses in the countryside.

13/03/2013 11:42

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

SOUTH WEST — HEDDON VALLEY, DEVON

The Hunters Inn is set in beautiful Exmoor.

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

Down in the valley

★★★★★ Luxurious bedrooms.

★★★★★

THE HUNTERS INN, HEDDON VALLEY, DEVON.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Traditional inn. Cost: From £100 – £140 per double room per night, for B&B. Tester: Kelly Felstead.

Charge for dogs?

£8 PER DOG PER NIGHT

THE ACCOMMODATION: Resembling a Swiss chalet, The Hunters Inn is located in the heart of the unspoiled and charming Heddon Valley in North Devon. The e inn is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Exmoor and is a short walk from the coast. The inn has 10 rooms, and several are dog friendly. Each room has an en suite bathroom, plus tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, and broadband. Dogs are allowed in all areas except the breakfast room. If guests want to breakfast with their dogs a table can be set up in the bar area. Dogs need to be on leads in the bar and the garden. Canine guests aren’t allowed on the furniture. The bar area has a very cosy and relaxing atmosphere, with comfy leather sofas next to a log fire.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The owners, staff, and regulars were very friendly and welcoming. While having a drink in the bar I was greeted by one of the customer’s dogs — a Dachshund called Frankie. Owner David Orton said many regular customers brought their dogs to the inn. During my stay I also met two dogs, Eric and Casper, who

Dog friendliness of local area:

Maximum number of dogs allowed:

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ This area is massive walking territory; visitors can explore the West Exmoor coast via the South West Your dog can join Coast Path, which runs you for breakfast. through Heddon Valley. ■ There are several belonged waymarked walks which can b l d to a member b off staff ff — they were sitting quietly in the be accessed directly from The bar while she was at work. Hunters Inn. David was happy to point out ■ Further east you can explore dog walks in the area. Woody Bay — a quiet and wooded cove offering spectacular views over the Bristol Channel. ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR

DOGS/OWNERS? Treats are available for dogs and dog bowls can be supplied if necessary. Some of the rooms are larger than others; if you mention on booking that you’re bringing a large dog, David and his wife Deborah will try to allocate you more space. There is Wonderful views. a dog-sitting service available locally if guests need to go out without their dog, provided plenty of notice is given beforehand.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact David and Deborah Orton, The Hunters Inn, Heddon Valley, Parracombe, Exmoor, Devon EX31 4PY, on 01598 763230; info@ thehuntersinn.net; www.thehuntersinn.net nn.net

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“Located in the heart of the unspoiled and charming Heddon Valley in North Devon.”

Cosy up by the fire.

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13/03/2013 10:44

SOUTH WEST — BLUE ANCHOR, SOMERSET

The bungalows are spacious and wheelchair accessible.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£15 PER DOG PER WEEK, ASSISTANCE DOGS FREE Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

Something for everyone

All mod cons...

PRIMROSE HILL HOLIDAYS, BLUE ANCHOR, SOMERSET. Accommodation: Self-catering bungalows. Cost: £380 – £560 per week, depending on season; short breaks available. Tested by: Gill Arney and Derek Hamilton, with Dobermann Beau and Golden Retriever Ellie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Primrose Hill Holidays comprises four self-catering bungalows; we stayed in Oak Bungalow, which is spacious, with panoramic stunning views of Blue Anchor Bay, Dunster Castle, North Hill, and towards the Exmoor National Park and the Quantock Hills. French doors open from the large lounge on to the small garden, which has furniture, and a barbecue is available on request. Our bungalow had two

“There were details of local walks in the bungalow.”

bedrooms, one double and one with bunk beds. There was a TV, DVD player, and CD/radio in the lounge, and WiFi. There was a wetroom, and the kitchen had all mod cons. There is a communal laundry facility and a large DVD, video, and book library, together with board games, a pool table, and dart boards. There’s a large map on the wall to plan your day’s itinerary.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? We had a very warm welcome from owner Jo Halliday, who showed us round quickly and efficiently.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Time to relax.

Derek, Beau, and Ellie take a trip to the beach.

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There were details of local walks in the bungalow, and we were told on arrival about local dog-friendly places to go. The bungalows are wheelchair accessible, so if you have a dog who’s elderly or convalescing after an operation this would be an ideal place to come. There’s a useful hook outside for securing your muddy dog before hosing him down. If you forget towels then Jo has a stock of them on hand. Dogs are allowed anywhere in the property, but not on the furniture.

...and a comfy bedroom.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA ■ We strolled down to Blue Anchor beach, less than 10 minutes away, and enjoyed coffee and cake at The Driftwood Café on the seafront. ■ Dunster beach and village are both well worth a visit. ■ Porlock Weir is a lovely place to wander round — enjoy lunch or cream tea at the dog friendly Bottom Ship Inn. ■ We dined out at The Smugglers, which was within walking distance (dogs are welcome except at Sunday lunchtime). Beau doesn’t like other dogs getting too close so we had a table where we could put his bed down and allow him to curl up out of the way. Simon, the landlord, treated the dogs to some biscuits. ■ You can see the steam train from the bungalow, and Blue Anchor Station is a just a short walk away if you want to experience a train ride — dogs are welcome too.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Jo Halliday, Primrose Hill, Wood Lane, Blue Anchor, Somerset TA24 6LA, on 01643 821200; info@primrosehillholidays.co.uk; www.primrosehillholidays.co.uk

Avoid feeding your dog unsterilised pet food.

07/03/2013 14:20

STAR RATING

SOUTH WEST — YELVERTON, DEVON

Stop and take in the views from the clapper bridge at Postbridge.

Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★

A Devon treat

Dog friendliness of local area: Resident Lurcher, Tigger, is a bit shy.

THE CHERRYBROOK, YELVERTON, DEVON.

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: B&B. Cost: From £79 – £99 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Sue Jackson and Viv Simmons, with terriers Titch and Mollie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Built 200 years ago as a farmhouse, the Cherrybrook is now a small, family-run guest house with seven en suite bedrooms with flat-screen TVs/DVD players, radio/alarm clocks, free WiFi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. There is also a licensed bar and dining room providing delicious three-course evening meals. A special drying room is available to dry wet coats and there’s a rack for walking boots — you can also borrow wellies if you need to.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Both Mollie and Titch were given a warm welcome by the owners, Dave and Judy Martin. Tigger, the resident Lurcher at Cherrybrook, was large but shy and kept away from our bouncy terriers.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? A bowl of treats and a water bowl are provided in your room, along with poo bags and dog towels. The owners are happy to wash and dry any wet towels or dog clothing, and will provide bedding, dog food, or bowls if necessary. There is a container of poo bags at the back door, and several dog

poo bins in the semi-enclosed garden — the entrance being a cattle grid. There are three acres of mown meadows for the dogs to run around in, and moorland is just outside the back door. For about half of the year there is use of 12 acres of totally enclosed farmer’s fields immediately outside the back gate. Dogs are allowed in the bar as long as the other residents don’t object; the only place they aren’t allowed is the dining room. They aren’t allowed on the furniture. Dave has provided a selection of laminated walks nearby which are dog friendly, and will provide maps to suit individuals — you don’t need to use the car at all if you stay here!

★★★★★

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

DISCUSS ON BOOKING Enclosed exercise area?

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

YES

Contact The Cherrybrook, Two Bridges, Yelverton, Devon PL20 6SP, on 01822 880260; info@thecherrybrook.co.uk; www.thecherrybrook.co.uk

Your room has all mod cons.

Can dogs be left unattended?

NO, UNLESS CRATED

“You don’t need to use the car at all.”

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ We visited the East Dart Hotel for an excellent cream tea — dogs are welcome on leads. ■ We visited the historic clapper bridge at Postbridge before walking at Bellever Tor. ■ The Plume of Feathers, Princetown, and the Forest Inn at Hexworthy both welcome dogs. ■ Packed lunches can be ordered from Cherrybrook if required.

Picturesque Cherrybrook.

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07/03/2013 14:21

SOUTH WEST — WADEBRIDGE, CORNWALL

Enjoying the 5km walk around the resort.

SET IN 100 ACRES

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

Spa getaway RETALLACK RESORT AND SPA, WADEBRIDGE, CORNWALL.

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs?

£40 PER DOG PER WEEK Maximum number of dogs allowed:

TWO Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

Accommodation: Self-catering houses. Cost: From £299 – £3,299 depending on season and size of house; short breaks available. Tested by: Sue Jackson and Ivan Seymour, with terrier Mollie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Retallack Resort is a huge complex of luxury self-catering houses, set in 100 acres. Our house had a spacious living area and large bedrooms with comfy beds, Egyptian cotton sheets and towels, and a beautiful bathroom. The kitchen had a washer/dryer, fridge freezer, dishwasher, and granite worktops.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The general info booklet in the house listed nearby dog-friendly beaches, and the receptionists were extremely helpful about anything else we wanted to know. Dogs aren’t allowed in the bar b or spa buildings, although in i summer they are allowed in an a outside seating area. On arrival, guests are asked to pay a a £250 deposit on their credit £ cards in case of damage. c

Look behind you, Mollie!

“The general booklet in the house listed nearby dogfriendly beaches.”

There was a large private terrace, fully equipped with seating, and barbecue. Some of the houses have hot tubs too. Included in your stay is use of the indoor pool, steam room, gym, tennis courts, playground, golf course, and pitch and putt course.

The large bedrooms have comfy beds.

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A ANY EXTRAS FOR D DOG OWNERS? If you book the ‘Cool Canine’ break, you will receive a welcome pack including dog chews, a ball and thrower, two packets of dog treats, a small throw, a dog toy, and poo bags in a special

TOP TIP!

Retallack Resort has a large number of houses.

dispenser. There are plenty of dog bins outside.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ There are kennels at St Columb Major and Wadebridge and dog-walking services at St Columb Major and Newquay. ■ There is a 5km walk around the resort including a wooded area and lake. ■ We visited Treyarnon Bay, Constantine Bay, Fistral beach, Watergate Bay, Crantock, and Harlyn Bay. ■ We had a very good breakfast at the dog-friendly Swan Hotel in Wadebridge. ■ The Fort Inn, Newquay, allows dogs on leads, and dogs are welcome in the sofa area of the Lakeside Café and Restaurant at Newquay boating lake (but not in the restaurant).

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Retallack Resort and Spa, Winnard’s Perch, St Columb Major, Wadebridge, Cornwall TR9 6DE, on 01637 882500; stay@retallackresort. com; www.retallackresort.co.uk

Worming at least every three months will help to keep your canine friend healthy: healthy dogs are happy dogs. 07/03/2013 14:01

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

Exploring Somerset’s gems

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

Nestled in unspoiled countryside.

★★★★★

NORTH DOWN FARM, WIVELISCOMBE, SOMERSET. Accommodation: Farmhouse B&B. Cost: From £78 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Joanne Bednall and Adrian Milledge, with Golden Retrievers Rolo, Indi, and Norman.

THE ACCOMMODATION: North Down Farm nestles in 100 acres of unspoiled countryside on the slopes of the Brendon Hills. The four comfortable and tastefully decorated double or twin en suite rooms in the farmhouse have TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Dogs are allowed in all parts of the house except the dining room with its antique furnishings. Our hearty breakfast, cooked with fresh local produce, was the perfect start to a busy day of walking and sightseeing. There is also a self-catering log cabin available, with a lounge, bathroom, kitchenette, and bedroom, with a gate leading directly into a large field.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Owner Jennifer Blackshaw greeted us warmly while the welcoming committee included friendly canine residents, Russian Black Terrier Meisha, Miniature Dachshund Evatoo, and German Shepherd-cross Jay, along with two visiting Yorkshire Terriers. Jennifer didn’t seem fazed by the carpet of cream hairs about to be left by our three Golden Retrievers.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Although North Down is a working farm, dogs can be let off the lead providing they don’t chase cattle or sheep, and are free to roam in the fields that don’t contain livestock. Dog bowls, information about the area, and a drying room are all available on request.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA:

AT A GLANCE Charge for dogs? All rooms in the farmhouse are en suite.

impressive choice of real ales (dogs are allowed in the bar). ■ Dogs are allowed on Kilve beach — shale and rock — all year round, as well as on shingly Dunster and sandy Blue Anchor beaches. ■ Rolo, Indi, and Norman couldn’t resist a ride on the steam train, courtesy of West Somerset Railway. We climbed aboard at pretty Washford Station and disembarked at Minehead (dogs cost £2 each, and receive their own tickets).

■ North Down Farm is ideally situated for exploring Somerset’s gems: Exmoor, the Quantock WANT TO FIND Hills, the Brendon Hills, and OUT MORE? Taunton Vale. Contact North Down Farm, ■ In Wiveliscombe, the dog-friendly Pyncombe Lane, Wiveliscombe, Bear Inn serves wholesome pub Somerset TA4 2BL, on 01984 food with friendly locals who didn’t 623730; jenniferblackshaw@ mind Norman throwing his bowl btinternet.com; around (dogs must be on leads). www.north-down-farm.co.uk ■ At charming Kilve, which lies within the Quantock Area Of Down on Natural Beauty about 15 miles the beach. away, there is a fascinating fossil beach. A short walk from there is The Chantry tea rooms and gardens where you can sit amid the ruins of an early 14th century chantry and enjoy a cream tea. ■ The 17th century coaching inn, The Hood Arms, at Kilve, offers a friendly welcome, dog biscuits, a fine dining experience, and an

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

THREE Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended?

“The welcoming committee included friendly canine residents.” The dining room with antique furniture.

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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SOUTH WEST — WIVELISCOMBE, SOMERSET

Off exploring the local dog walks.

13/03/2013 09:30

SOUTH WEST — PADSTOW, CORNWALL

These houses are owned by chef Rick Stein, whose seafood restaurant is nearby in Padstow.

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★ AT A GLANCE

Charge for dogs?

£25 PER DOG PER WEEK Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

NO Can dogs be left unattended?

“A 10-minute walk leads to a beautiful small beach with rock pools and golden sand.”

Relaxing Padstow TREVONE FARM, PADSTOW, CORNWALL. Accommodation: Self-catering houses. Cost: From £1,000 – £2,500 per week, depending on size of house; short breaks available. Tested by: Emma Aspinall and Adam Lister, with Yorkipoo Pebble.

THE ACCOMMODATION: Trevone Farm comprises four contemporary houses owned and run by chef Rick Stein and his ex-wife Jill. We stayed in St Cadoc house. It has three bedrooms, with open-plan living downstairs. The kitchen is equipped with everything you need, and there’s a large dining table, a big, comfy, corner sofa, wood-burning stove, 3D flat-screen TV, WiFi, DVD player, and lots of books and games. There’s also a cloakroom and downstairs toilet. There’s a separate conservatory-style area with comfy seats; this is shut off from the rest of the living area by patio doors. The master bedroom is en suite with a large shower, and there’s a main bathroom with bath and overhead shower. The bedrooms are light and airy with luxurious furnishings. There are plenty of soft white towels, and two large white dressing gowns w iin each room. The house has slate flooring downstairs and wooden d flooring upstairs. Outside there is a small garden accessed by large patio doors, Picturesque with a decking eating Padstow. area with picnic table, and an outside shower.

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

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TOP TIP!

The houses are stylish and modern...

The garden isn’t enclosed, but you can exercise your dog in the field next door.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? The keys were left in a safe so we didn’t meet the owners on arrival. There are no restrictions on where dogs can go in the houses, but they can’t go on the furniture. Dogs can’t be left unattended but the owners can provide details of dog-sitters if required.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? There was a special ‘Friends of Chalky’ pack (Chalky was Rick’s old dog), which included suggestions of dog walks, dog-friendly beaches, and dog-friendly places to eat, and two large dog blankets. For us humans, a complimentary crate included a small bottle of Rick Stein champagne, Rick Stein strawberry jam, marmalade, shortbread, and chocolates, plus fresh bread, butter, tea, and coffee, with milk and freshly squeezed orange juice in the fridge.

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ A 10-minute walk leads to a beautiful small beach with rock pools and golden sand. There are

...with luxurious furnishings throughout.

dog restrictions b between Easter d and October. ■ Padstow has lots of small shops, cafés, delis, Rick Stein’s fish and chip shop, seafood cooking school, patisserie, gift shop, and plenty of pubs. The Old Custom House offers reasonably priced food, and allows dogs on leads. ■ From Padstow harbour we walked along to the ferry point where we caught the ferry across the Camel estuary to Rock, a small popular village. ■ We had an amazing meal at The Rick Stein Seafood Restaurant. I’d recommend booking as it gets really busy; however, dogs aren’t allowed.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact Trevone Farm, Trevone, Padstow, Cornwall PL28 8QN, on 01841 532700; reservations@rickstein.com; www.rickstein.com

Worming at least every three months will vastly reduce the number of eggs shed into the environment. 13/03/2013 11:32

STAR RATING Dog friendliness of accommodation:

★★★★★ Comfort of accommodation:

Lap of luxury

★★★★★ Dog friendliness of local area:

★★★★★

There’s a relaxed atmosphere throughout the hotel.

THE MONTPELLIER CHAPTER, CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

AT A GLANCE

Accommodation: Hotel. Cost: From £130 per double room per night, for B&B. Tested by: Sue and Mike Corfield, with Border Collie Herbie.

THE ACCOMMODATION: The Montpellier Chapter is a Grade II listed hotel situated in the chic Montpellier district of Cheltenham. The interior is modern, and there’s an informal, friendly, and relaxed atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in any of the 17 feature bedrooms, and are welcome in most of the public rooms including the bar and conservatory, but not in the restaurant. All rooms are en suite — some with spectacular monsoon showers — with tea and coffee-making facilities, fluffy towels and robes, and lots of lovely toiletries. There’s also WiFi and TVs. The rooms are luxurious and decorated with lovely textures and contemporary design. The lounge has lo welcoming w A spot of log fires, and lo shopping. there’s a t

The stunning conservatory.

delightful conservatory ry adjacent to the bar for tea, coffee, and snacks, which are served throughout the day. It’s a bit of a local landmark, with claret-coloured glass, and there’s a glass-veiled courtyard where you can eat too. We ate a delicious dinner and enjoyed a wonderful freshly cooked meal with local produce. There’s also a selection of set-menu lunches and dinners. There’s a park nearby which is ideal for exercising dogs.

HOW DOG FRIENDLY WAS YOUR RECEPTION? Our reception was warm and all the staff were helpful and dog friendly. They were able to point us in the direction of local parks and places for walks and visits.

ANY ADDED EXTRAS FOR DOGS/OWNERS? Doggy ggy visitors receive a lovely comfy bed along with a water bowl, and a pack detailing a selection of nearby walks and dog-friendly pubs. The hotel also houses a a beautiful spa.

Charge for dogs?

NO Maximum number of dogs allowed:

NO MAXIMUM Enclosed exercise area?

YES Can dogs be left unattended? Chic, modern furnishings.

YES, IF WELL BEHAVED

OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA: ■ The chic individual, local shops in Montpellier are a real attraction with numerous unique shopping opportunities a world away from the usual large chains. I took the opportunity to visit the local hairdresser’s, where Herbie was welcome. ■ We took a walk on Cleeve Hill which is located just a few miles outside Cheltenham offering fantastic views of the spa town and the surrounding countryside.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Contact The Montpellier Chapter, Bayshill Road, Montpellier, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3AS, on 01242 527788; montpellier@chapterhotels.com; www.themontpellierchapter hotel.com

“Doggy visitors receive a lovely comfy bed along with a water bowl, and a pack detailing a selection of nearby walks.”

‘Where to Stay’ Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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SOUTH WEST — CHELTENHAM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

The Montpellier Chapter is a Grade II listed hotel.

13/03/2013 13:16

READERS RECOMMEND

Here’s one I tried earlier... We asked our Facebook fans to let us know about their favourite dog-friendly places to stay. Here are some of their suggestions... NORTH WEST ■ Marie Scott said: “We stayed at The How Holiday Cottage, in Patterdale in The Lake District, last August. There were marvellous walks from the door. All the places we visited were dog friendly including the shops in nearby Keswick. Our dog, Rodney, went on his first boat trip around Lake Ullswater.” ■ Nicola Carr said: “For a very special treat we stayed at Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel, in Windermere in The Lake District. It is very dog friendly. Not only did the staff provide blankets for the furniture and towels for rainy days (of which there are many in the Lakes), they also gave us a bag of treats. The rooms open on to the garden, where there are dog bins. There is a spa for you to relax and a Michelin-starred restaurant, plus plenty of fantastic walking. What more could you want?” ■ Helen Marsh recommends Low Nest Farm B&B, near Keswick in The Lake District. She said: “The best dog-friendly holiday ever. Fantastic hosts, great accommodation, dogs get a welcome pack of treats, poo bags, covers for the furniture, and plenty of space to exercise off-lead. Also, Keswick is the best dog-friendly town in the UK. Dogs are welcome in pubs, cafés, and most shops.”

NORTH EAST ■ Hayley Coel recommends Laverock Multi-dog Holiday Cottages, near Barnard Castle, Co. Durham. She said: “We took four dogs at the end of August last year. We had a lovely, relaxing time. The cottages are on a working sheep farm where you have a fenced-in garden, and a large field nearby to run the dogs. They are 10 minutes from Barnard Castle and 10 minutes from lots of lovely walks. You can hire the indoor arena to train your own dog or have agility or sheepdog lessons. The owners were really helpful. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting a peaceful break.”

Your Dog Magazine www.yourdogholidays.co.uk

62 Readers recommend sd kf.indd 62

THE MIDLANDS ■ Debbie MacAulay said: “Stables Lodge self-catering accommodation, in Burnaston, Derbyshire, is awesome for dogs (and their owners). Dogs are given bowls, towels, poo bags, and treats for their holiday and there is an enclosed run at the rear of the lodges. Lots of nearby attractions — such as the Heights of Abraham, the tram museum, and stately homes — welcome dogs too.”

SOUTH WEST ■ Sabine Bogensperger said: “A favourite place of mine is the Godolphin Arms, in Marazion, Cornwall. It is right on the beach and by the causeway to St Michael’s Mount. “When we visited we got a doggy welcome pack (towel, bowl, biscuits) which was fab and the staff were amazing. Dogs are allowed on the boat over to St Michael’s Mount and on the island but not in the gardens and castle.” ■ Jessica Sjöholm recommends the Fairwater Head Hotel, in Hawkchurch, Devon. She said: “A small bag of doggy treats was waiting in the room for us on arrival. Dogs are not allowed in the restaurant but we had our own private table set up for us in a quiet room so our dog could join us for meals. “We were given information about dog-friendly pubs and attractions. There are lots of walks nearby and it’s a short drive to the Jurassic coast in Dorset.” ■ Kirsty Plane said: “Last summer we stayed in First Step Cottage, a self-catering property in Misterton, Somerset. The cottage was dog friendly and we received a welcome pack containing dog chews. The owner left us a map and a handwritten note with directions to the nearest wood. “A 30-second walk from the house was an enclosed park with numerous dog bins and dog poo bag dispensers at all of the entrances. We found we could take our dog practically anywhere nearby, including Cheddar Gorge, Becky Falls, and Otley Hall, plus walk around a nearby reservoir.”

TOP TIP!

WALES ■ Jane Holmes said: “The Falcondale Hotel in Lampeter, Ceredigion, is an excellent hotel and very dog friendly. It has links with an excellent local dog trainer so guests can benefit from that, subject to availability.”

SCOTLAND ■ Gaynor Simpson recommends Hazel Cottage, a self-catering property, on Loch Awe, Argyll. “It’s a lovely big house with enclosed decking so the dogs are safe. Dog bowls and poo bags are provided, plus stairgates,” she said. “There are lots of fab walks nearby, plus Inveraray Jail (20 minutes drive away) is a dog-friendly attraction, where you are encouraged to bring dogs in with you. Great pub lunch in The George Hotel in Inveraray; dogs can be taken into the bar and are offered a bowl of water.” ■ Carol Polhill said: “Our flyball team recently stayed in a B&B called Jessie Macs, in Birnam, Perthshire. It was totally dog friendly. There were lovely big rooms, and the owners were doggy people and couldn’t do enough for us. We had 10 dogs with us overnight!”

Always dispose of your dog’s faeces in designated dog poop bins.

13/03/2013 15:59

YOUR DOG PROMOTION

HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS DOES YOUR DOG SUFFER FROM TRAVEL SICKNESS? Dorwest Herbs have two natural solutions, Scullcap & Valerian Tablets to calm anxious travellers and Digestive Supplement Tablets for true motion sickness. Both products are made to pharmaceutical standards of purity and safetyy to ensure effective results. Leaflets available, call 01308 897 272 or visit www.dorwest. com to place your order.

SAY HELLO TO MY LITTLE FRIENDS… We are constantly reminded about the effects of the sun on our skin. Well skin cancer can affect our dogs as well, and it’s actually on the up as more people realise the dangers for our beloved pets. These specially formulated, non-greasy, vanilla scented and alcohol free products offer essential protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Available from all good pet stores nationwide or call 01704 550044 for your nearest stockist.

THE ANCOL CAR HARNESS is strong and lightweight with padded chest area for extra comfort. The seatbelt fits directly into the cars OEM seatbelt socket and is fully adjustable allowing a comfortable seating and standing position for the dog. – Visit www.ancol.co.uk for your local stockist.

DOGIT DESIGN CARGO DOG CARRIER With Dogit Design Cargo, your pet goes where you go. Via plane, train, boat or automobile, pet transportation has never been safer or more convenient. 3-in-1: Can be used as carrier, bed, or for crate training. Durable, pet-friendly and available in 4 sizes. For more information call 01977 556622 or visit www.hagen.com

Before you set off on your dog-friendly holiday, make sure you have all the right gear to make your journey and your stay enjoyable for you ou and your dog.

THE CARPET ...best ever pet hair remover! Instantly lifts, gathers and removes even the trickiest of pet hair and fluff. Simply wipe surface for Magical results on home furnishings, car/caravan/motorhome interiors, fleeces, horse rugs etc. Great value for robust product Single £8.45 Double £12.95 pack inc p+p. To order call 01285 760656 or visit www.besteverpethairremover.com ANIMALARM is an innovative temperature monitoring device that sends you a text message to your mobile phone when the temperature in your vehicle reaches a level that may be dangerous to your dog’s health. AnimAlarm can also be used in other environments. So for peace of mind, visit our website at www.theanimalarm.com for further information. Tel: 01452 702062.

INVEST IN A ROOF BOX to make packing easier and quicker — by freeing up valuable boot space your dog will be happier too. Call The Roof Box Company on 01539 621884 or visit www.roofbox. co.uk/yd

TRAVEL SICKNESS IN DOGS involves two components; motion sickness and fear. Both can cause nausea and excessive salivation, but fear may also cause your dog to pant, tremble, bark, whine. As a result, reducing your dog’s stress levels will, in most cases, help significantly reduce the symptoms of travel sickness. Luckily, the innovative pheromone product Adaptil is clinically proven to comfort and reassure dogs in challenging situations and can make travelling by car less stressful for all concerned. www.adaptil.co.uk

KONG - the perfect holiday toy for dogs! Stuff with KONG Stuff’N snacks or regular food to keep your dog amused during journeys and use unstuffed for fu fun throw ailable from pet and retrieve games. Available ces. shops and vet practices. pany.com www.KONGcompany.com

‘Where to Stay’ Stay Guide 2013 - 2014 4

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14/03/2013 13:16

TO ADVERTISE HERE PLEASE CALL KAY ON 01476 859838 OR EMAIL K.COTTERILL@BPGMEDIA.CO.UK

The dog friendly holiday guide Planning a holiday and would like to take your dog? Here are some fantastic dog friendly destinations to check out. To advertise here please call Kay on 01476 859838 or email k.cotterill@ bpgmedia.co.uk

CHESHIRE

We are a 4* holiday park with high quality fully equipped caravans and lodges for hire. Nestling in a quiet valley surrounded by woodland walks, the park is perfect for dog walking. We are located 8 miles east of the Roman city of Chester. Visit our website and see our virtual tour on www.ridgewaypark.com or ring 01928 734981.

BOATING

COTSWOLDS Does doggy get bored on the way to the West? Stop for a rest at Hope Orchard B&B

Luxury waterways holidays. Pets welcome Tel. 01455 212671 www.ashbyboats.com

(between J 10 & 11 of the M5)

01452 855556

www.hopeorchard.com CORNWALL

LUXURY COTTAGES in 5 acre grounds. Magnificent countryside between Looe and Bodmin Moor. Every comfort for you and your pets. Tel: 01579 320355 www.caradoncottages.co.uk CARAVAN SLEEPS 6/8 Quiet dog friendly park close to A30, beaches & great walks. Available all year. Tel: 01720 423175.

*** LOOE CORNWALL *** WELCOMING & MEMORABLE Pet friendly Stone Cottages in private Hamlet. Great Coast, beach & Moorland walks Tel: 01503 220333

www.tremaine-green.co.uk

Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages near Looe and Polperro in SE Cornwall Set in a beautiful, tranquil Cornish valley between Liskeard and Looe, an ideal centrally located base from which to explore Cornwall by road or rail. Special offers for couples.

TRENONA FARM HOLIDAYS Pets welcome. 3 Star B&B and 4 Star S/C cottages. Free Wi-Fi. Near St Mawes & south coast. Wheelchair accessibility. Tel: 01872 501339 www.trenonafarmholidays.co.uk

Tel: 01579 343572 www.badhamfarm.co.uk

ST. IVES BAY - LOVELY PEACEFUL LOCATION NEAR MILES OF SANDY BEACH. First class apartments & bungalows, sleeping 2/6 persons. Dog friendly beach a short walk away with acres of grassy dunes for you & your dog(s) to enjoy. Garden and play area. Parking. Dogs very welcome. Colour brochure 01736 752594. www.sandbank-holidays.co.uk.

BEAUTIFULLY CONVERTED SELF-CATERING BARNS

Creekside Cottages,

Book a fabulous holiday cottage for you and your dog(s) in Cornwall. Go roaming the fields, enjoy the costal path & explore the best beaches in Britain. Pets stay free, November to April each year. Trenance Farm Cottages, Mullion, Cornwall. TR12 7HB

Nr Falmouth, Cornwall Self catering waters edge, village & rural cottages sleeping 2 - 10. Dogs Welcome.

01326 375972 www.creeksidecottages.co.uk

COTTAGES

The Ridgeway Country Holiday Park, Frodsham, Cheshire.

over 3,800 pet friendly cottages

Visit www.welcots.co.uk or call 0845 268 7020 #Selected properties and subject to availability. See main brochure or website for full Terms and Conditions.

CUMBRIA CUMBRIA/RAVENSTONEDALE. At foot of Howgills 18th century farmhouse, ensuite accommodation. Colour TV, tea/coffee facilities, own entrance. Dogs welcome. B&B £28. Three nights £75. Telephone 01539 623671. www.farmhousebandbcumbria.co.uk

CROSSFIELD COTTAGES

S/C cottages peaceful Eden Valley. All dogs welcome. Guests fishing. Excellent base Lakes, Borders, North Pennines, Hadrian’s wall.

LANGDALE VALLEY

Luxury Holiday Caravans for Hire Bellamy Silver Award For a free colour brochure telephone 01539 437231 Pets welcome Please ask about short breaks Greenhowe Caravan Park, Great Langdale, Ambleside, Cumbria/Lake District LA22 9JU

www.greenhowe.com

Availablity & booking ring 01768 898711 info@crossfieldcottages.co.uk www.crossfieldcottages.co.uk

DEVON NORTH DEVON - CHITTLEHAMHOLT. Peaceful, glorious countryside. Lovely woodland walks. Just 9 holiday caravans on quiet farm. Easy reach sea/moors. From £138-£395 per caravan pw, discounts for couples. 01769 540366 www.snapdown.co.uk

set in 25 acres of woods and fields between Looe and Bodmin Moor. Pets welcome (Unlimited) Dog creche.

DARTMOOR. Well-equipped barn conversion. Self catering. Idyllic moorland position. Dogs welcome. Book direct, avoid agents fees. Tavistock 01822 810687. www.dartmoorholidays.co.uk

We really welcome dogs and are flexible on number! Five comfy old stone cottages, self-catering, round an 18thC watermill & stream in 13 beautiful acres of secluded traffic-free valley in the South Hams, Devon, & just a five minute drive from the dog-friendly beach at Slapton. Own fenced gardens, logburners, walks from your cottage door down green lanes, plenty of dog-friendly beaches & pubs locally. Great for walkers & nature-lovers, a tranquil rural retreat for winding down or exploring beautiful south Devon. Close to Coast Path in AONB.

Open all year, short breaks too autumn to spring. Call Christine on 01803 770219 or see

Tel: 01579 320880 www.dogs-holiday.co.uk

www.watermillcottages.co.uk

Northcote Manor Farm North Devon Edge of Exmoor & close to beaches 5 beautiful, cosy cottages Dogs welcome - they love it here! 34 acres of woods and fields - wonderful walking

Contact: Linda on 01271 882376 info@northcotemanorfarm.co.uk www.northcotemanorfarm.co.uk

www.trenancefarmholidays.co.uk 01326 240 639

FREE Woof Guide

FREE Pet Pack

Superb Facilities

“Pet Friendly” Holidays from only

SEA VIE W

HOLID

LUXURAY HOMES & Y LODG ES PL

£89

US G

Call 0844 7700 675 woolacombe.com/yd

REAT CAMPIN G& T

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DORSET

Spectacular & stylish dog friendly self catering in St Ives, Cornwall carbisbayholidays.co.uk/dog 01736 630015

60-62 classi hol suppAT.indd Sec1:64

WHITE TOPPS Holiday accommodation EXCLUSIVELY for guests with dogs, any breed any number. Parking. Veggies welcome. Open from March to October. 450 yds. Dog Friendly Beach. Perfect for Spring break. For fact sheet write to: 45 Church Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth, BH6 4BB. Or telephone: 01202 428868

Email: thedoghotel@aol.com www.whitetopps.co.uk

13/03/2013 13:33

NORFOLK

PEMBROKESHIRE

NORTH NORFOLK COAST. Some of our holiday properties welcome dogs so please call for our free colour brochure. 01263 823010 www.keys-holidays.co.uk

Broadland Holiday Village Discover the delights of the Forgotten Norfolk Broad with your Faithful Friend The perfect holiday for the whole family! 01502 573033 www.broadlandvillage.co.uk

Tamarisk Farm Cottages. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside on our organic farm with stunning sea views our cottages are the perfect base for exploring West Dorset. Phone Josephine on 01308 897377 or e-mail holidays@tamariskfarm.com or visit our web-site

www.tamariskfarm.com/holidays

www.hallfarm.com Call: 01692 630385 Email: cottages@hallfarm.com An ideal base for your holiday and exploring the Norfolk Coast, self catering accommodation at affordable prices. Get 10% off any weeks holiday in 2014. Quote HFCYD

Near Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, dog friendly beaches and pubs. Swimming pool and children’s play areas. 7 cottages or B&B Tel: 01239 612370 www.cottages-wales.com Email: info@cottages-wales.com

FRANCE

Dogs and their owners will find everything they need for a comfortable stay at the 5 ★ Cefn Du farm. The three self-catering cottages have their own securely fenced garden/patio area.

Featured in Your Dog Holiday supplement May 2011

HOLIDAY WITH YOUR DOGS IN THE BURGUNDY FRANCE. The large garden is fully fenced (2metres high). All dogs welcome. www.takeyourdogsonholiday.com

ISLE OF WIGHT

BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR WATERSIDE PROPERTIES Tourist Graded, sleeps 4. Fantastic sea views, peaceful tranquil setting situated by RSPB/ National Trust/Beach. Excellent Walks. Dogs welcome. All mod cons. Parking.

Tel: 02380 632506/07966 381271

To find your perfect Norfolk holiday T: 01328 856853

kettcountrycottages.co.uk info@kettcountrycottages.co.uk ‘Cherry Trees’ cottage is an ideally located, comfortable & spacious dog friendly holiday home in beautiful North Norfolk’s Burnham Market. Close to dog-welcoming Holkham & Brancaster glorious beaches, Cherry Trees sleeps 5 & has a large fully enclosed garden.

For more information

www.harbourside-iow.co.uk

www.glavenvalley.co.uk/cherrytrees or tel: 01858 540044

Island Cottage Holidays

Ollands Farm Barn & The Old Forge

Isle of Wight & Dorset Cotta Cottages

01929 481555

www.islandcottageholidays.com Two cottages situated in a quiet village. 10 minutes drive to the beach.

The best dog-friendly self-catering accommodation in North Norfolk. Everything you need for the perfect holiday with your dogs – unlimited dogs welcome Ollands Farm Barn sleeps 2-4 and is the perfect romantic hideaway The Old Forge sleeps up to 10 and is great for big family gatherings

5 comfortable self catering chalets on the shores of Lochgoil in the heart of Argyll Forest Park. Each chalet sleeps 4 and has superb lochside views.

PETS WELCOME FREE. Short breaks available. T: 01301 703 249 M: 07747 802792

mail@argyllchalets.com www.argyllchalets.com

Wilderness

Cottages

Throughout Scotland

01239 831530 www.cefnduholidaycottages.co.uk

Truly Dog-Friendly Holidays! whether you choose our well-equipped static caravans with enclosed gardens for your peace of mind or our camping & caravan site overlooking the beautiful Dogs Free of Charge Preseli mountains For more information call Julie on 07989 109099

Escape to North Norfolk and explore beautiful countryside, spectacular coastal walks, fine food and above all some wonderful accommodation. Our extensive range of holiday cottages have been hand selected and all provide a real home from home.

ARGYLL FOREST PARK

Darroch Mhor, Carrick Castle, Lochgoil, Argyll. PA24 8AF

Cefn-Du Holiday Cottages

with no limit to the number of well-behaved dogs

Discover Norfolk, in your own time...

SCOTLAND

www.nashmountain.co.uk SCOTLAND

Tel: 01456 486358 Brochure Available www.wildernesscottages.co.uk

ARDOCH LODGE Up to 4 dogs welcome 2 log cabins and cottage set in 12 acres of grounds, spectacular mountain scenery. Well equipped and heated. Open all year. No extra charges for dogs. Call 01877 384666 or email ardoch@btinternet.com Yvonne & John Howes, Ardoch Lodge, Strathyre, FK18 8NF

www.ardochlodge.co.uk KILLIECRANKIE, HIGHLAND, PERTHSHIRE. Very comfortable traditional country cottage. Sleeps 5, wood burning stove. Wonderful scenery, great walks. Telephone 01796 470017. www.athollcottage.co.uk

SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND, GARLIESTON, GALLOWAY. Cottage in fishing village. Sleeps 4 with dog-proof garden. Ideal for peaceful walking, fishing, golf, bird watching and exploring.

Dogs welcome. Tel: 01522 788439

SCOTTISH BORDERS A chalet-style guest house set in 25 acres. All rooms en suite. Well behaved pets (including horses) welcome by arrangement. Ferniehirst Mill Lodge A country lover’s paradise AA ★★ 01835 863279 e: ferniehirstmill@aol.com www.ferniehirstmill.co.uk

For prices, prices, availability availability and and special special offers: offers: For www.ollandsfarmbarn.co.uk www.ollandsfarmbarn.co.uk Tel: Tel: 01692 01692 652280 652280 Email: Email: mastuart@talk21.com mastuart@talk21.com

NORTHUMBERLAND THE BLACKCOCK COUNTRY INN by Kielder Water

Bailey Mill set in the Scottish Cumbria borders.

Large secluded and secure gardens backing onto woodland. Very dog and owner friendly.

LES ROUTIERS UK B&B 2013

Call William on 07971 097 998 www.dogfriendlyholidays.net

Dogs are very welcome in the rooms and the Bar where their own menu is served

Self catering apartments or B&B by forests with miles of freedom for dogs. On site bar, meals, horse riding and hot tub. Tel: 016977 48617 Email: info@bailey-mill.co.uk

NEW FOREST Touring Caravans/Camping

GREEN PASTURES FARM Enjoy England ★★★ Tel: 023 8081 4444

Tel: 01434 240200

www.blackcockinn.co.uk

www.bailey-mill.co.uk NORTHUMBERLAND

BORDER FOREST HOLIDAY PARK 9 out of 10 Dogs prefer Border Forest Holiday Park, Northumberland.

DAY KENNELING AVAILABLE

We are situated on the Pennine Way with direct access onto the Mighty Kielder Forest with miles of walks. This peaceful park has pitches for tourers and tents Self Catering Cottages & Lodges

NORFOLK

Tel: 01830 520259 www.borderforest.com

enquiries@greenpasturesfarm.com

www.greenpasturesfarm.com

Norfolk near Sandringham/beaches

Open all year. Detached bungalow in 1/6th acre, sleeps four All mod cons electric included

ALL DOGS WELCOME, FREE For brochure phone 01553 630356

www.southsideholidayhome.co.uk

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TO ADVERTISE HERE PLEASE CALL KAY ON 01476 859838 OR EMAIL K.COTTERILL@BPGMEDIA.CO.UK

DORSET

Over 250 of our holiday cottages throughout Northumberland welcome dogs (and their owners!) Visit: www.northumbria-cottages.co.uk Or tel: 01665 830783

SOMERSET BEAUTIFUL COTTAGES in a farm setting right in the heart of the Somerset Levels. Plenty of walks and trails from the doorstep. Call 01458 253886 or visit www.thorneyfarmcottages.co.uk

Bailiff’s Cottage, North Quarme Picturesque cottage nestled in a private valley on Exmoor in the National Park. Sleeps 6. Dogs welcome.

Tel: 01643 851435 bailiffs@northquarme.co.uk www.northquarme.co.uk

WWW.YOURDOG.CO.UK

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TO ADVERTISE HERE PLEASE CALL KAY ON 01476 859838 OR EMAIL K.COTTERILL@BPGMEDIA.CO.UK

SUFFOLK MIDDLETON... HERITAGE COAST Dunwich 3 miles. 2 very comfortable fully equipped cottages. Each sleeps 2 adults. Pets welcome free. Good walking area.

Tel: 01728 648377 www.suffolk-selfcatering.co.uk SUSSEX SEAFORD, SEA FRONT. Attractive Victorian terraced cottage, only yards from beach, sleeps 5. Dogs go FREE. Tel: 020 8542 5073 or 07922 222508 www.beachcottages.info WEST WITTERING. Lovely cottage by dog friendly beach. 2 bedrooms/ bathrooms, all mod cons. Wi-Fi. 10min shops/restaurants. 07973 553573 Email: esoralex@aol.com. Adorable small cottage in the grounds of a Tudor Manor. Full central heating, colour TV, microwave, telephone, use of indoor heated swimming pool, sauna/jacuzzi and tennis. Large safe garden. Pets welcome. £450-£820 pw. Breaks £286-£410 (2 nights with the 3rd night free) Tel: 0207 352 8088

WALES

WARWICKSHIRE

SNOWDONIA & LLEYN PENINSULA

Quality Narrowboats on the canals in the Heart of England Enjoy a holiday in the countryside and take your dogs with you.

5 star farm holiday cottage near Criccieth with lovely views. Sleeps 4 (discounts for couples). Dogs welcome; enclosed garden and walks from doorstep. Underfloor heating and log fire. Fishery onsite. 07753 818414 www.criccieth-holiday-cottage.com

www.kateboats.co.uk phone 01926 492968 for a free brochure

Craig Y Nos Castle situated within the Brecon Beacons National Park. 2 nights B&B £150. Dogs go free ‘woof’ 01639 730725 www.dogfriendlywales.com CARMARTHENSHIRE

STUNNING MOUNTAIN RETREAT

Great forest walking trails from the door. Converted barn with private garden. Sleeps 4 in two en suite bedrooms. Easy access to West Coast and Brecons.

See our super website at www. brechfaholiday.co.uk or telephone 01267 220 518

YORKSHIRE PADDOCK COTTAGE, WHITBY TOWN CENTRE. Sleeps 5, 3 bed, South facing garden and patio fully enclosed. Parking for 1 car. Also other town centre cottages all pet friendly open all year. Pets go free. Tel: 01947 820370. www.directwhitby.co.uk

WHITBY COTTAGES Tel: 01723 871028 www.whitbycottages.com

pekes.afa@virgin.net

DATING SNOWDONIA DOGS WELCOME 8 self catering cottages with private beach set in the tranquility of Caernarfon Bay

WWW.YOURDOG.CO.UK

Proud to be a pub that serves great food, not a restaurant that sells some beer! Tel: 01347 868386 www.forrestersarms.com

12 cottages set around the harbour. Dogs welcome & stay Free.

www.pekesmanor.com

Please mention Your Dog Magazine when replying to advertisements

We are centrally located for all North Yorkshires attractions, near the famous white horse. Guided walks available, friendly bar and open fires!! CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2013

www.bachwen.co.uk

Luxury Dog Friendly Yorkshire Lodges Short Breaks All Year Round Tel: 01748 822406 www.dogfriendlylodges.com

WWW.YOURDOGDATING.COM

YOUR DOG GOES EVERYWHERE WITH YOU. SO DOES

FIND US ON: AND THERE’S ALWAYS THE NEWSAGENT’S SHELF.

(search Your Dog Magazine)

www.yourdog.co.uk ● facebook.com/yourdogmagazine ● Twitter: @yourdog

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