Bedruthan Hotel & Spa

Bedruthan Hotel & Spa sits on the cliffs above Mawgan Porth on the north Cornish coast, and it is a hotel that has built dogs into the way it runs rather than simply tolerating them. A beach that welcomes dogs all year is a short walk below, the South West Coast Path runs past, and inside, dogs are allowed in far more of the building than at most Cornish hotels of this size.

Dogs stay in selected rooms, up to two per room, and can join you in the Wild Cafe, the Ogo restaurant, the Tranquility Lounge and reception. Dog rooms are set up with a blanket, towel and bowls, there is an outdoor station for rinsing sandy paws, both restaurants have a menu for dogs, and a dog-sitting service means you can use the spa without leaving your dog alone in the room. A pet charge of £20 applies; guests have found the dog fee is not set out clearly when booking, so confirm how it is worked out for your stay.

Guests travelling with dogs talk warmly about the staff and about small touches such as treats and dog beds, and families find it just as well set up for children. Not every stay matches the brochure, though: some owners arrived to find no dog bed or treats in the room, so mention them when you book.

A few other points are worth weighing. Rooms can feel small and a little worn for the price, cooked breakfast may cost extra, and the outdoor pool keeps short afternoon hours. Because dogs are allowed in the restaurants and lounges, the hotel is busy with them, and guests without dogs sometimes complain about barking at dinner. That is good news if you want your dog beside you, but expect a lively dining room.

For owners who want a spa break by the sea with their dog included in almost everything, Bedruthan earns a 4.4/5 paw rating.