Bay Dream, St Ives

Bay Dream is a modern self-catering bolthole on the edge of St Ives, and its whole-house layout makes it an easy choice for anyone travelling with a dog. There are no shared corridors or communal lounges to navigate, just a private front door, a comfortable open-plan living space, and a small enclosed courtyard at the back where a dog can potter about off-lead. Being an entire property rather than a hotel room, it suits couples and small families who want their dog settled in with them rather than tucked away.

The owners welcome up to two pets per booking, with a charge of £40 per pet, per week. Beyond that the setup is refreshingly low-fuss: hard floors and a wipe-clean kitchen area make it simple to clear up after a sandy beach walk, and the sofa is fair game for a dog that likes to curl up beside you in the evening.

Guests travelling with dogs single out how hands-on and friendly the host is, popping by to check everything is in order without being intrusive. The wider impression from recent visitors is of a spotless, well-equipped space that feels cosy without being cramped, with thoughtful touches that make a short break easy.

The location is a real draw for dog owners. The property sits a short, if steep, walk from the beach, with the Carbis Bay to St Ives coastal path close by for longer outings and wide sea views. The train station is only a few minutes away, so it is easy to reach St Ives town centre and its harbour without moving the car, and there is free parking on site along with a shop and pub within walking distance.

The walk down to the sand is steep, which is worth bearing in mind for older or less mobile dogs, and the outdoor space is compact rather than a full garden. For a couple or small family after a comfortable, hassle-free base near the coast where the dog is genuinely part of the trip, though, Bay Dream is a strong pick and earns a 4.5/5 paw rating.