Oak Cottage, Harrietsham

Oak Cottage is a converted barn on a small Kent smallholding off Holm Mill Lane, a couple of minutes from Harrietsham and tucked under the North Downs. The whole property is let to one party and comes with a private log-fired hot tub, but the detail that matters most for dogs is the enclosed garden: secure enough to let a dog and a small child out together without anyone standing guard at the gate, and the feature dog owners here pick out first.

The setting is the other draw. Alpacas and chickens are kept on the land around the cottage and guests describe them as unexpectedly quiet neighbours, with the owner happy to introduce children to them. Fresh eggs, milk, bread and cake are left for arriving guests, and the host is friendly and quick to help without being intrusive. The cottage is finished to a high standard, with a large shower, robes and a bunk bed for children.

Two things are worth thinking through before booking with a dog. There is livestock on the land, so a dog that chases alpacas or poultry will need to be kept under control outside rather than given free run of the place, and the enclosed garden is the right spot for off-lead time. The owner also keeps a dog of her own around the property, which is a bonus for a sociable dog and something to weigh if yours would rather not meet another.

Beyond that the guest feedback is close to uniformly positive, with only minor notes about a squeaky bed and small comfort tweaks. The North Downs Way is within reach for longer walks and Leeds Castle and Maidstone are a short drive. No pet fee or limit on numbers is stated on the booking listing, so agree both with the owner when you book.

Best suited to dog owners who want a quiet rural Kent bolthole with a secure garden, a hot tub and animals on the doorstep.