8 Church Street, Salcombe

8 Church Street is a cottage in the middle of Salcombe, and the position is its strongest card: the shops, the waterfront and the ferry are all walkable, so a short break with a small dog needs the car far less than most of the South Hams. The property accepts one small dog for a GBP 25 fee, and guests travelling with dogs are clear that being able to walk everywhere from the door is the main draw.

Inside, the cottage is roomier than the street frontage suggests and the kitchen is well equipped, with thoughtful touches guests have appreciated, and the views are good. A parking pass is provided, though it is for a car park a short walk away rather than a space at the property - worth planning for if you are arriving with a dog and a boot full of luggage.

There are real caveats here, and they matter more than usual for dog owners. The outdoor space is a yard rather than a garden, and guests with dogs have found there is nowhere on site for a dog to toilet, so every trip out is a proper walk. The lounge is up steep steps, which will not suit an older or arthritic dog, or anyone expecting to carry one. Guests have also described the cottage as tired and in need of refreshing, reporting a persistent damp smell in the kitchen, mould in corners, a broken shower-room door and a bed well past its best.

The 4.2/5 paw rating reflects that mix honestly. This is a genuinely convenient and affordable Salcombe base that welcomes a small dog, let down by its condition and by outdoor space that is not what the listing implies. It suits owners of one small, well-behaved dog who want to be in the centre of town and will spend their days out, and it will disappoint anyone expecting an enclosed garden or a recently refurbished interior.