Lake District Stunning Lodge, Cockermouth

Lake District Stunning Lodge is a comfortable, spotlessly kept holiday lodge on a small, quiet park in the countryside north-east of Cockermouth, and it has won over a lot of people travelling with dogs. It sits on the northern edge of the Lakes rather than in the middle of them, which makes it a handy, peaceful base for Cockermouth, Bassenthwaite Lake and the northern fells, and it earns a 4.8/5 paw rating.

The biggest draw for dog owners is the large, dedicated dog field on the park, with seating for people, where dogs can be let off the lead safely. It comes up in review after review, from owners of a single Westie to couples with two small dogs. The lodge's wraparound terrace is another favourite, giving dogs room to sit out and keep an eye on things.

The owner gets consistently warm praise for being responsive and accommodating, leaving a welcome note with contact details and treats for the humans. The lodge itself is clean and homely, with two bathrooms, a roomy bedroom, parking right beside the door and a freezer that guests packing lunches find handy. A garden centre with a café is next door.

There are some caveats worth knowing. The gate latch on the veranda can be awkward to close properly, which matters if you are relying on it to keep a small dog in. There is some traffic noise from the main road during the day, though it goes quiet at night, and there is no open countryside for long walks straight from the door, so owners of bigger dogs will want the car. One stay found the living room smelling of smoke, and a few kitchen items could do with updating.

For couples or small families with a dog or two who want a clean, well-run lodge with its own dog field and easy access to the northern Lakes, this is a very good choice.