Barriemore Oban

Barriemore is a warm, genuinely dog-friendly guest house on the seafront at Oban, the gateway to the Scottish Isles, and it is the kind of place that clearly puts thought into welcoming four-legged guests rather than just permitting them. Set in a handsome Victorian villa looking out over the bay, it pairs a lovely, relaxing atmosphere with a hospitable host who makes dogs feel at home.

The little touches are what stand out. Owners are asked to mention their dog when booking, and the house can provide bedding and bowls if needed, along with a wee treat on arrival. There is a woodland walk right behind the property, so a stroll with the dog is easy before setting off to explore, and rooms are cleaned after canine guests using vacuums made for pet households - a reassuring sign of a place well used to dogs.

Up to two dogs can share a room. The only asks are the sensible ones: dogs should not be left alone in the room, and should be on a lead when coming and going through the building, out of consideration for other guests.

Beyond the dog-friendliness, Barriemore is comfortable and beautifully kept, an easy walk from Oban's harbour, restaurants and the ferry terminal for day trips to Mull, Iona and beyond. Oban itself is a relaxed, walkable town with plenty for dog owners on the doorstep.

It suits dog owners after a comfortable, characterful seafront base with a genuinely warm welcome for dogs and easy access to the islands - couples and small families with one or two dogs will get the most from it, and it earns a 4.7/5 paw rating.