Mabel, Whitstable

Mabel is a compact, smartly finished apartment on Cromwell Road in Whitstable, a few minutes on foot from the beach, the high street and the railway station. Its dog-friendly record rests on a small number of pet stays rather than a long history, so the 4.3/5 paw rating is a cautious one - but what there is points the same way. Dog owners choose the flat because it takes pets, and come away recommending it for exactly that.

Up to two pets are allowed, and there is an enclosed rear garden. One house rule to plan around: pets are not allowed on the beds or the furniture, so pack a blanket or a bed of their own. No fee or size limit is published, so confirm those with the managing agency before you book.

The location is the real draw for anyone walking a dog. The seafront is a short stroll away, with the working harbour, the pubs and restaurants of the high street and the station all inside the same radius, and Tankerton Slopes rising above the shore just to the east. Guests rate the position more highly than anything else about the flat.

Two things to weigh. The house is divided into two apartments and sound carries between them, so a dog that reacts to movement overhead is worth thinking about; guests have heard both conversation and barking through the ceiling. The bedroom faces the street and can be noisy on weekend evenings. Reports on upkeep are mixed too: most describe the flat as clean, modern and well equipped, but the rear garden has been found neglected on arrival, including dog mess left uncleared, and there have been complaints about hot water and shower pressure.

Best suited to a couple or solo traveller with one or two settled dogs who want a walkable seaside base rather than a rural one, and who will message ahead to pin down the fee.