Rose Chalet, Saxtead

Rose Chalet sits at Saxtead Bottom, a couple of miles west of Framlingham in rural Suffolk, and the feature that makes it work for dogs is the garden. The wraparound patio and small lawn are fenced off as a secure area, big enough to be useful and split between grass and paving, so a dog can go out off the lead without anyone standing at the gate. Beyond that fence the property has two acres of grounds and a lake, both open to guests, which is a rare amount of space to have to yourself. It earns a 4.4 out of 5 paw rating.

The chalet is one of only three properties on the site, and the quiet is the other thing guests with dogs notice: no passing traffic, no shared corridors, and parking directly outside, so the dog goes from car to door in a few steps. Inside it is more spacious than the word chalet suggests, with seating both indoors and out and views over open fields.

Those fields are where the walking is. Footpaths run off the site into the surrounding farmland and are easy to reach on foot, so a morning walk does not have to start with a drive. Framlingham, with its castle and market square, is a short drive away when you want a change of scene.

Two things to plan around. Up to two pets are allowed per booking, but no charge is published for them, so if a pet supplement matters to your budget, settle it with the owners before you book. And the step down from the chalet into the back garden is a high one, which is awkward with your hands full or with a dog that needs lifting.

It suits people who want a quiet rural base where the dog can be let out into a secure garden and walked straight from the door, rather than anyone after a town-centre stay with plenty to do on the doorstep.