Pelham House, Keswick

Pelham House is a spacious four-star holiday home in a quiet residential street in Keswick, and it makes an easy, comfortable base for a family holidaying with a dog in the northern Lakes. Its biggest draw for dog owners is the location: it sits directly across from Fitz Park and is a short, flat walk from the town centre, Derwentwater and the fells beyond.

Guests travelling with dogs consistently describe feeling genuinely welcome, with the whole house open to pets rather than dogs being confined to one room. There is plenty of space inside for a couple of dogs and a larger family group, comfortable living space to relax in after a day on the hills, and room to dry off boots, towels and wet dogs. Having Fitz Park on the doorstep is a real bonus for quick morning and evening walks without needing the car.

The house works well for bigger parties, with reviewers happily staying as families of four to six people plus a dog or two, and praising the practical kitchen, comfortable beds and good communication from the owners.

One honest and recurring caveat: a rug in the lounge tends to hold a doggy smell, which several guests have noticed. It does not stop the house being a good pet-friendly choice, but if your family is sensitive to it, it is worth being aware of. A few guests have also felt the interior is a little dated in places and could do with a refresh.

Overall, Pelham House suits dog-owning families who want space, a genuinely dog-welcoming whole-house setup and a brilliant park-and-town location in Keswick. For an active Lakeland break with the dog, it is a practical and well-placed choice.