Ivy Bank, Windermere

Ivy Bank is a smart, modern townhouse in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, set back just enough from the shops, pubs and restaurants to stay quiet in the evening. It is one of the most consistently praised dog-friendly cottages in the area, with a long run of guests calling it immaculate and returning year after year.

The property welcomes dogs, with up to two typically accommodated. There is no enclosed garden, so this is a base for walking dogs rather than letting them out unsupervised, but the lake, a small back lane and countless walks are only minutes away on foot. Guests also note that dogs are asked to stay on the lower ground floor, which is worth planning around if your dog usually has the run of the house.

What comes up again and again is how clean and well equipped the cottage is, with free logs for the wood burner, safety gates that double up for dogs and toddlers, and thoughtful touches on arrival. Several guests mention being offered water and dog treats at nearby pubs and restaurants, and the owners earn repeated praise for being responsive and helpful.

Ivy Bank is a short, easy walk downhill to Bowness and the lake, around five to ten minutes, and a little further to Windermere town, with a good bus service and plenty of dog-friendly pubs including options along the waterfront. A dog-friendly ferry across the lake towards Ambleside is a popular day out.

The single off-road parking space is tight, fine for a family saloon but a squeeze for larger cars, and nearby street parking is mostly resident-permit only, so a second car can be tricky. The living space sits on the lower ground floor and can feel a little dark, though most guests are out exploring during the day.

Ivy Bank suits dog owners who want an immaculate, central Lake District base and are happy to walk their dogs rather than rely on a private garden, especially couples and families travelling with one or two well-behaved dogs.