Bay Dream, St Ives

Bay Dream is a modern self-catering house on Richmond Way, on the Carbis Bay side of St Ives, and the whole-house layout is what makes it straightforward with a dog. There are no shared corridors or communal lounges to negotiate, just your own front door and an open-plan living space where the dog settles in with you rather than being shut away.

Up to two dogs are welcome, at £40 per pet, per week, flagged at the time of booking. Free parking comes with the house, which counts for a lot in St Ives where spaces are scarce and expensive in season, and the train station is a few minutes away, so the harbour and town centre are reachable without moving the car. There is a small courtyard at the back, useful for a quick step outside or drying off wet towels, though it is a yard rather than a garden.

The owner draws consistently warm comments: friendly, quick to reply to a message, and around when needed without hovering. The house itself is repeatedly described as spotless, modern and well equipped, compact but cosy rather than cramped, which is what you want when a sandy dog comes back in.

The walk down to the beach is short but steep, worth bearing in mind for an older dog or anyone facing a heavy carry back up, and the Carbis Bay to St Ives coastal path is on hand for longer outings with wide sea views. Seasonal dog restrictions apply on the main St Ives beaches over the summer, so check the current dates before you go.

Bedding and mattress comfort is the one thing that comes up more than once, so it is worth bringing your own dog bedding rather than relying on what is there. For a couple or small family who want a hassle-free base near the coast with the dog genuinely part of the trip, Bay Dream is a strong pick and earns a 4.4/5 paw rating.