Platform One, Paignton

Platform One is a self-catering apartment on Youngs Park Road in Paignton, a short walk from Goodrington's beaches and right beside the steam railway line, where the passing trains turn out to be more of a feature than a nuisance. For anyone travelling with a dog the useful part is the layout: a self-contained flat with a small private yard, so there is somewhere to step out first thing without a lead and a shared corridor.

What comes through most in guest feedback is how little friction there is. The apartment is well equipped for its size, the open-plan lounge and kitchen get plenty of light, and the outside space is the kind you actually sit in. Dog owners rate the position for walking above almost everything else: there is a large park and a dog-friendly beach within easy reach, along with a stretch of sand where dogs are not permitted, so it is worth knowing which is which before you set off.

The wider area gives you more than a single beach walk. Goodrington runs onto the coast path, the seafront walk into Paignton proper takes in the pier and the harbour, and the steam railway and boat trips make it easy to reach Dartmouth and the other Riviera towns without moving the car. The shops are close enough to reach on foot.

Two things to settle before booking. The listing takes one pet rather than two, so this is a stay for single-dog households. And a pet charge applies on top of the rental without the amount being published, so ask when you enquire. On the practical side, freezer space in the fridge is limited - a minor point on a short break, more of one on a longer self-catering stay. For a couple or a small family with one dog who want Goodrington on the doorstep, Platform One is a comfortable, low-fuss base and earns a 4.5 out of 5 paw rating.