Trinity Mews

Trinity Mews is a gated cluster of self-catering apartments on Trinity Hill, a few minutes' walk above Torquay harbour, and it is a popular choice for dog owners who want to leave the car parked and walk everywhere. Most guests arriving with a dog find a welcome pack waiting, with treats and in some apartments a bowl, bed and even a ball, and many say the dog was as well looked after as they were.

Only a set of the apartments take dogs, and you need to request a pet-friendly one when you book, as the standard apartments do not allow them. The fee is £15 per dog per night. The published limit is one dog per booking, although some guests have stayed with two, so if you have more than one, agree it with the operator before you travel rather than assuming. If you want the basket and bowls, ask for them at booking too, as one family found nothing laid out on arrival.

Guests are consistently happy with the location, the comfortable beds and the little extras such as tea, coffee and biscuits. The front courtyard is handy for a quick comfort break but is shared with the non-pet apartments, so dogs stay on the lead there. The weaker reviews focus on condition rather than the dog welcome: some apartments feel dated, a few guests noticed musty bathrooms or linen, and visitors without dogs have occasionally complained of a doggy smell or pet hair, which is worth knowing if anyone in your party is sensitive. Apartment 10 in particular draws complaints about being dark and noisy.

For walks, the harbour, the promenade and several dog-friendly beaches are all within easy reach on foot, and the town's cafes and pubs are a short stroll downhill. The return trip is steep, and parking on the slope can be awkward, but permits are provided.

Best for couples and small families with one dog who want a central Torquay base with the harbour on the doorstep. It earns a 4.4 out of 5 paw rating.