Hornshayne Farmhouse, Northleigh

Hornshayne Farmhouse is a large, characterful farmhouse on a working dairy farm in the East Devon countryside near Northleigh, and for big family groups bringing their dogs it is hard to beat. It holds a 4.7/5 paw rating, earned by large parties arriving with one, two or three dogs and leaving with very little to criticise.

The fully enclosed garden is what dog owners mention most: dogs can come and go from the house safely while children play outside. Beyond the garden, the owners are happy for guests to roam the farm's fields, around 400 acres of them, which means proper walks straight from the door. Up to two pets can come on a booking.

The owners live next door and manage to be welcoming without hovering. Guests are often invited to watch the milking, see new calves and collect eggs, and a welcome of eggs, milk and wine is left on arrival. Inside, the house is warm and full of character, with a huge kitchen table that seats everyone, a games barn with pool and table tennis, and plenty of room to spread out.

Dog owners should remember that this is a working farm, which cuts both ways. There are cows in the fields in front of the house, chickens about the yard, and the family's own friendly dogs, including a spaniel that likes to wander over and keep guests company, so a dog that reacts to livestock or other dogs will need watching. The farm is remote and reached by narrow, steep lanes, with the nearest supermarkets in Honiton and Sidmouth. The low sofas are hard to get out of for older guests, and the wood chippings in the children's play area have been found sharp.

For a multi-generational gathering where the dogs are part of the family party, Hornshayne Farmhouse offers space, freedom and a properly rural setting within easy reach of the beaches at Sidmouth and Lyme Regis.