Low Skelgill, Windermere

Low Skelgill is the kind of Lake District bolt-hole dog owners hope to find: a secluded farmhouse let on the fells above Windermere, with lake views from the lounge and bedrooms and walks starting straight from the house. Guests with dogs are close to unanimous about it, and it earns a 4.6/5 paw rating, with some families coming back again and again.

One dog is accepted per booking. In practice the setting does most of the work: owners describe walking out into woods and fields, up to Wansfell Pike or across to Troutbeck without getting in the car, and dogs being able to wander the grounds while they sit out front with a morning cup of tea. It is a working farm, so sheep often graze close to the house. Returning guests keep dogs under control when the flock is about and only let them run free when the fields are empty.

The owner, Sue, gets warm mentions for being welcoming and responsive, and the farmhouse itself is described as homely, clean and comfortable. For an evening out, the Mortal Man in Troutbeck is a friendly dog-welcoming pub on the way back, and Windermere and Ambleside are only a few minutes' drive.

The caveats are mostly about getting there and the age of the fittings. The approach is a steep, narrow single-track lane with sharp bends and few passing places, which some guests found stressful and which has cost at least one car some damage. The kitchen and bathroom are dated, the fridge is small for a self-catering week, there is no washing machine, and the heating has not always reached every radiator in cold weather.

For walkers with one dog who value a quiet, remote base with views over the lake more than modern finishes, Low Skelgill is a standout. Drivers of low or wide cars should plan the route in carefully.