Swan Cottage, Kidlington

Swan Cottage sits right on the Oxford Canal at Thrupp, a couple of miles north of Kidlington, and it suits dog owners almost by accident of geography - the towpath starts at the door, and you can walk for miles in either direction without meeting a road. Guests travelling with dogs consistently pick this out as the main draw, along with the fact that two canalside pubs are within walking distance along the same path.

The cottage is a two-bedroom whole-house let, recently renovated, with hard flooring throughout the ground floor - a small detail that matters more than it sounds when a dog comes back wet from the canal. There is a decent-sized enclosed garden, though dog owners have flagged gaps in the hedge, so a lead is sensible until you have walked the boundary yourself. The stairs are traditional cottage stairs and one tread has been reported as having loose carpet, worth knowing if you have an older or less sure-footed dog.

The owners come in for repeated praise on the practical side: clear instructions for access, parking and key collection, and quick responses when something needs fixing, including over a bank holiday weekend. Check-in has occasionally gone astray, with the cottage not fully ready on arrival, though that was sorted quickly by phone.

Location is the other reason to book. Blenheim Palace is a short drive, the Cotswolds are within easy reach, and Oxford is close enough for a day out without the cottage feeling suburban - it is tucked between the canal, the river and the railway line, and guests describe it as quiet and authentic rather than noisy. Best suited to a couple or small family with one or two dogs who want towpath walking on the doorstep and a base for Oxfordshire days out; less suited to anyone who needs a fully dog-proof garden. It earns a 4.5 out of 5 paw rating.