Ghyll Bank Bungalow

Ghyll Bank Bungalow is a genuinely dog-friendly base for exploring the southern Lake District. It is a stone-built, single-storey cottage set in the grounds of Ghyll Bank House on the edge of Staveley, with open fell views over the Kentmere Valley and, on a clear day, out towards Morecambe Bay. As a whole cottage with its own patio and garden, it gives you and your dog private space rather than shared corridors, and there is room indoors for a crate if you travel with one.

One well-behaved dog is welcome, and the setting is the real draw for pet owners. Walks start straight from the door into the surrounding fells, so days can be built around long hikes or shorter ambles depending on your dog. One thing to plan for: there is livestock in the area and the owners keep animals nearby, so dogs need to be kept under close control on walks - a couple of guests have noted the sheep and the need to keep a young dog on a lead rather than letting it roam. The owners also ask that guests avoid setting off fireworks because of the animals close by.

The village of Staveley is about a mile and a half away and makes an easy walk or short drive, with a well-regarded bakery, pub, cafes and a brewery, plus everyday shops. Windermere, Bowness, Ambleside and Kendal are all within comfortable reach for wider days out.

Guests travelling with dogs consistently describe warm, hands-on owners and a comfortable, well-equipped cottage that suits a couple or small family with one dog. With space for a crate, walks from the doorstep and a welcoming host, Ghyll Bank Bungalow earns a 5.0/5 paw rating - just bear in mind the single-dog limit and the need to watch for livestock on nearby walks.