Fistral Breeze, Newquay

Fistral Breeze is a whole-house self-catering property a short walk from Fistral Beach in Newquay, on Cornwall's north coast. Having the entire house to yourselves is much of the appeal for a dog-friendly trip: no shared corridors, no reception to steer past and no other guests to work around, just your own front door and an enclosed garden behind it.

Two well-behaved pets are welcome, which makes this one of the more workable options in Newquay for a two-dog household, as most self-catering along this stretch caps at one. The garden being enclosed matters more than it sounds, since it means a dog can be let out last thing without anyone getting dressed and finding a lead. There is also an outdoor shower, which is the single most useful thing a property near a surf beach can offer once a dog comes back caked in wet sand. Guest feedback consistently describes the house as exceptionally clean and thoroughly kitted out, down to small details like dog blankets among the things left ready for arrival.

The location does most of the work. Fistral Beach is a few minutes on foot and the coast path runs along the headland above it towards Towan Head, so a proper walk starts at the door rather than after a drive. Seasonal dog restrictions apply on the main Newquay beaches over the summer, as they do along much of this coast, so it is worth checking the dates before a high-season stay. Out of season the sand is open again and there is plenty of unrestricted beach within a short drive year round.

The house suits owners who want a calm, well-kept base within walking distance of the sea rather than a town-centre spot with the nightlife on the doorstep. With two pets allowed and a garden to let them into, it works particularly well for households who usually find themselves squeezed out by a one-dog rule.