Seaport Lodge, Newquay

Seaport Lodge is a large bungalow above Mawgan Porth on the north Cornwall coast, a few miles up from Newquay, and its main draw for dog owners is space. The garden is big, the house is big - parties of seven have found it roomy rather than cramped - and there are sea views across the bay towards Newquay. Up to two pets are allowed.

The garden is where the feedback splits, and it is worth reading both sides before you book. Dog owners agree it is large and that dogs love it; they disagree on whether it is properly enclosed. Some found it secure enough to turn two energetic dogs loose in; others found their dogs could get through the gate, and thought fencing on either side of the property was needed to close it off. Treat it as unproven and check the current arrangement with the owner if you are relying on a secure garden.

The house rules are unusually explicit and worth knowing in advance. Pets must not be left alone anywhere on the property, garden included, so this is not somewhere to leave a dog while you go out for dinner. Pets are also kept off the beds and furniture, and you are asked to remove every trace of the dog inside and out before you leave, or a cleaning charge may follow. None of that is unreasonable for a holiday let, but it does rule out the more relaxed approach some owners take.

Location works well for walking. Mawgan Porth beach sits below the property, the coast path runs along the cliffs above the bay, and the lanes inland give an alternative route. Newquay's shops and restaurants are a short drive.

Reported niggles are minor - the front and patio doors are stiff to lock, and the sofa has picked up some stains. For a group holiday with a couple of dogs and someone always in the house, Seaport Lodge earns a 4.4/5 paw rating.