Acorn Lodge, Kelsale

Acorn Lodge is a self-contained lodge on the edge of Kelsale, a couple of miles north of Saxmundham and a short drive from the Suffolk Heritage Coast. It is a whole-property rental with its own grounds, and it is one of the most consistently praised dog-friendly lets in this part of Suffolk.

Up to two pets are welcome per booking. No pet charge is stated on the listing, so check the current terms when you reserve. The garden is the reason people book it: the fencing wraps right around the lodge and has been escape-proofed with hidden wire mesh, and owners of determined escapers report it holding up. Dog bowls, treats and a few other extras are waiting on arrival, which regularly takes guests by surprise because they have packed their own.

The owners live within the grounds and are described as welcoming without being intrusive. The lodge itself is modern, spotless and very well insulated, with a log burner, a whirlpool bath and room to spread out comfortably.

The setting is quiet and properly rural, with public footpaths leading from the door and hares in the lanes. Dog-friendly beaches at Southwold, Walberswick, Dunwich, Thorpeness and Aldeburgh are all a short drive, there is a farm shop down the road and dog-friendly pubs nearby, and Saxmundham's supermarkets are a few minutes away.

A few caveats. There is a laurel bush in the garden, and laurel is toxic to dogs if they chew fallen twigs or leaves, so it is worth watching a dog that picks things up outdoors. Occasional noise carries from the neighbouring farm, including festival music on some weekends, so check nothing is scheduled if quiet evenings matter. The wifi has been unreliable, the fridge is small for a week of self-catering, and there is a dishwasher but no washing machine.

Acorn Lodge suits dog owners who want a secure garden, coastal and countryside walking within easy reach, and a calm out-of-the-way base rather than somewhere in the middle of a town.