Blodfa, Holyhead

Blodfa is a large house in Holyhead with an enclosed back garden, and that garden is the single thing dog owners mention most. A secure outdoor space in a whole-house let removes most of the friction of travelling with a dog - no lead every time you open a door, no shared hallways - and guests with everything from a chihuahua to a pair of small dogs have found it works.

No formal pet terms are published on the property's booking listing, so agree numbers and any charge with the host directly. What is clear from guests is that dogs are genuinely expected rather than tolerated, and that families bringing both children and dogs have found the house handles the combination well.

The house itself is bigger than most dog owners expect at this price. Bedrooms are large, the beds get specific praise, and there is a welcome pack of biscuits and milk waiting. The host is responsive and easy to reach by message, which comes up again and again.

Anglesey is what you come for. The beach is a short walk down the road, Breakwater Country Park and Trearddur Bay are both about five minutes by car, and there is a good half-day walk out to South Stack lighthouse and back. Because the island has a main road running its length, nothing is more than about thirty-five minutes away, which makes this a practical base for exploring rather than just a place to sleep.

Two caveats. Holyhead town itself is quiet - there is a decent bistro and a museum, but guests looking for a lot going on have found it thin. And the house has been renovated to a DIY standard: mismatched tiles, door frames out of true, patchy plastering and the odd kitchen door that will not open. None of it affects a dog, and most guests shrug it off, but it does not show in the photographs.

At 4.6/5 for paws, Blodfa suits dog owners who want a secure garden, room to spread out, and beaches and coast path within a few minutes' drive.