Quirky Romantic Cottage in the Wye Valley, Goodrich

This is a small, characterful cottage tucked into an old estate garden at Goodrich, between Ross-on-Wye and the Forest of Dean, and the gardens are the reason to bring a dog here. They are substantial, private and heavily planted, with a fire pit and room for a barbecue, and dog owners describe them as the best part of the stay - somewhere a dog can potter about off-lead while you sit outside, rather than a token patch of lawn.

Guests travelling with dogs consistently describe the garden as well enclosed, though one party travelling with a puppy found gaps in the fencing that a determined explorer could get through. Both things are probably true depending on the size and temperament of the dog, so walk the boundary when you arrive rather than assuming it is escape-proof, particularly with a small or young dog.

The building itself is a genuine one-off. Dating from around 1900 and built around a spiral staircase that runs up through the middle, it feels far grander inside than its footprint suggests. That staircase is worth a thought before you book: open spiral treads are awkward for a dog with stiff hips or short legs, and carrying a heavy dog up and down them is not a small job. The host is warm and thoughtful, and arrivals come with a welcome pack, walking books and local information.

Beyond the garden, the location is quiet and rural, with Goodrich Castle a short drive away and the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean walks within easy reach. The honest caveats are that the WiFi is limited, and that some bedroom furniture, linen and towels are tired compared with the setting. Nothing is published about the pet arrangements, so any charge, a limit on dog numbers and rules about leaving a dog alone in the cottage all need settling with the owner directly.

Best suited to a couple with one or two garden-loving dogs who want somewhere unusual and quiet, and who do not need a staircase a dog can manage on its own. It earns a 4.5/5 paw rating.