No 5 Compass, Ilfracombe

No 5 Compass is a self-catering apartment on Capstone Crescent in Ilfracombe, a few minutes' walk from the harbour and looking straight out over the bay. It suits dog owners who would rather have their own front door, kitchen and balcony than negotiate a hotel corridor, and it earns a 4.5/5 paw rating from guests who brought a dog along.

The owner plans for dogs rather than merely tolerating them. Guests travelling with pets mention arriving to find dog treats and a brush waiting alongside the usual welcome touches, and several describe the flat as being as well set up for the dog as it is for the people. The hosts come across as friendly and quick to respond if anything is needed during a stay.

The location does a lot of the work. Capstone Point and the headland path are on the doorstep, and there is a grassed area at the end of the road that visitors with dogs rate for a last walk before bed. The seafront, harbour and coast path are all within an easy stroll, so the daily walk sorts itself out without getting in the car.

Two things are worth knowing before booking. The apartment is reached by several flights of stairs with no lift, and that comes up repeatedly from guests who brought a dog: fine for a fit young spaniel, harder work for an older or heavier dog, and a chore for the last toilet trip of the night. It is also a flat within a shared building with other occupants below, so comings and goings with a dog are audible, and that has not sat comfortably with everyone who has stayed.

The property's booking listing does not publish its pet terms, so the number of dogs allowed, any size limit and whether a pet charge applies are all worth confirming with the owner before you book. Best suited to one or two able-bodied dogs whose owners want a sea-view base for exploring North Devon.