Stepping Stones, Catterick

Stepping Stones is one of the better-set-up large group houses in North Yorkshire for parties travelling with dogs. It sits on Low Green in Catterick village with a stream running past the front door and the River Swale a short walk on, and multi-dog family groups have used it happily - it earns a 4.6/5 paw rating.

What makes it work is that the house has clearly been thought about with animals in mind. Wooden floors run through the living space, which makes clearing up after wet or muddy dogs a straightforward job rather than a week-long argument with a carpet. Guests also describe the whole property as safe and secure inside and out, so children and dogs can move around without someone permanently posted at a gate. Add a hot tub, a sauna, a games room with a full-size snooker table, darts and table football, and a dining table big enough for everyone at once, and the house holds a group together on a wet day.

The walking is genuinely good. The stream outside the door leads on to riverside paths along the Swale, there are ducks to keep less energetic dogs interested, and the surrounding area gives you plenty of choice for longer routes. Takeaways are within walking distance and there is a friendly local pub close by, so an evening out does not mean a drive.

A few practical notes. The layout is a maze, and three bedrooms cannot be reached from one side of the property upstairs, which is worth planning around when you decide who sleeps where and where the dogs settle. The kitchen has been described as needing some attention. The listing allows two pets per booking, but larger family groups have stayed with three, so if your party is bringing more than a pair, agree the number directly before you book.

Best suited to a big family or friends group with two or three dogs who want space, a games room and riverside walks from the door.