Montrose Lodge, Cheltenham

Montrose Lodge is a recently refurbished basement apartment a few minutes' walk from the middle of Cheltenham, and for dog owners it has one particularly welcome habit: guests report their dogs stayed at no extra charge, which they rated a real bonus when weighing the total cost against a hotel. It earns a paw rating of 4.6 out of 5, though from a small pool of pet-stay feedback so far, so treat that as an early read.

The flat itself scores very well with guests generally - a fresh, modern refit with a good kitchen and shower room, plenty of light for a lower-ground floor, and an owner praised for clear instructions and quick communication. A parking permit is arranged for on-road parking outside, which takes the sting out of arriving with a dog, crate and luggage in a busy town. Being self-contained, it offers the usual advantages for pets: your own front door, no lifts or corridors, and a kitchen for feeding routines.

The location is the other big win - restaurants and shops are steps away, the walk into the town centre is flat and short, and Cheltenham's parks and the wider Cotswolds are within easy reach for proper exercise.

Worth weighing before you book: this is a basement flat, and while one guest found it bright, others have reported moisture niggles; housekeeping has drawn at least one sharp complaint, so confirm current standards with the owner. Sound also travels from neighbouring properties - guests have heard dogs barking elsewhere in the building, which cuts both ways: a noise-reactive dog may find it stimulating, and your own barker will be heard. The booking listing publishes no formal pet policy, so confirm terms directly.

Best suited to a couple or small family with a calm dog wanting a central, good-value base with parking sorted.