Stunning Cottage with Hot Tub (Marldon, South Devon)

This self-catering cottage on Moles Lane sits in Marldon, a quiet village tucked between Paignton and Torquay, and it is set up for dog owners in the ways that actually matter on a wet Devon afternoon. The garden is fully enclosed, so a dog can be let out off the lead without anyone standing guard at the gate. The whole ground floor is hard flooring rather than carpet, which turns muddy paws after a coast walk into a five-minute job instead of a deposit conversation. There is off-road parking at the cottage, so unloading bags and a dog after dark does not involve hunting for a village kerb space.

Cleanliness is the standout in feedback from guests who brought dogs, including travellers who are allergic to dog hair and were actively watching for traces of previous pets. That is a harder standard for a pet-friendly let to hit than it sounds, because back-to-back changeovers are where these properties usually slip.

The setting is rural without being remote. Footpaths run from the village, and there is a garden centre next door serving breakfast, which is a useful low-effort option with a dog in tow. The Paignton and Torquay seafronts are a short drive, and the South West Coast Path is close enough for a proper day out. Inside, a log burner and a hot tub make this work as a cold-weather stay rather than a summer-only one, though firewood is not supplied.

The main thing to settle before you arrive is money: pets are accepted but a supplement may apply, and the amount is not published, so agree it when you book rather than at the door. Kitchen storage is also on the tight side for a longer self-catering stay. For a couple or a small family wanting a warm, easy-to-clean base with a secure garden and countryside on the doorstep, it earns its 4.5 out of 5 paw rating.