Cornwallis House, Oxford

Cornwallis House is a whole-house rental on a quiet residential street in east Oxford, and it solves the problem that makes city breaks awkward with a dog: it has its own enclosed garden. Dogs can be let out first thing without a lead and a walk, which is not something most Oxford accommodation can offer at any price.

The rest of the location works in a dog's favour too. Florence Park is around the corner and gives a proper run; the Thames towpath is close enough to walk into the centre along the river, past the college rowing crews, rather than along main roads. For anyone who would rather not walk it, buses reach the centre in about fifteen minutes. Guests travelling with dogs, including those bringing two, have found the arrangement comfortable and the house well set up for self-catering, with a properly equipped kitchen, comfortable beds and a street quiet enough that road noise does not carry.

The owner is responsive and communicative before and during a stay, which comes up repeatedly. No pet fee, weight limit or maximum number of dogs is published, so check directly if you are bringing more than a couple of dogs or a large breed.

The caveats are about the house rather than the dog welcome. There is one bathroom, which is tight for a full party of five, and the stairs are steep - worth a thought with an older dog. The shower has drawn complaints for being underpowered, the house has occasionally been cold on arrival in winter, and dusting has been flagged as patchy. The centre is a genuine twenty-minute walk, so anyone wanting to step straight out into the colleges should look elsewhere.

Best suited to a family or small group with one or two dogs who want space, a garden and quiet, and do not mind travelling in and out of the centre.