The Granary, Llanrhystyd

The Granary is a converted stone building at Felin Carrog, a few miles inland from the Ceredigion coast between Aberystwyth and Aberaeron, and its selling point for dog owners is a completely enclosed private garden. Guests come back to that detail more than any other: a lawn and gravel area, walled and gated, where a dog can be off the lead safely while you get the kettle on.

It is let as an entire property with its own parking and its own entrance, separate from the owners' house, so there are no shared doors or corridors to negotiate. Families, couples and solo guests all bring dogs here and describe the same experience, which is a place set up for it rather than one that merely allows it. A pet charge of GBP 4 per pet, per night applies, and only the number and type of pets agreed at the time of booking are allowed. No weight limit is published, so raise that with the owners if you are bringing a large dog.

The cottage itself gets close to unanimous praise for cleanliness and fit-out: a wood burner with logs available from the owners, a fully equipped kitchen, a choice of bath or shower, and fresh eggs from the chickens on site. It is very quiet, with views across the owners' gardens.

For walks and days out, the beaches around Llanrhystyd and Aberaeron are a short drive, and there is a dog-friendly pub in the village itself. Aberystwyth is about eight miles away.

Two practical warnings. There is no mobile signal at the property, though the wifi is strong, so anyone who needs to stay reachable should plan around that. The lanes in are narrow, taxis need booking ahead, and takeaway delivery is not happening. For dog owners who want a spotless rural base with genuinely secure outdoor space and the coast nearby, The Granary is an easy recommendation at 4.8/5.