The Milking Shed, Langport

The Milking Shed is a converted barn on a smallholding at Muchelney, just outside Langport on the Somerset Levels, and it is set up for dogs with more thought than most self-catering barns manage. The owners provide a dedicated dog exercise field, bowls and treats, and a dog wash area for the muddy end of a walk, along with towels for drying a dog off before it comes back indoors.

The barn itself is spacious and fully equipped for self-catering, with a large, comfortable bed and an outside sitting area. It sits in a secluded spot, which is rather the point: there is no passing traffic and no immediate neighbours, so a dog that reacts to comings and goings has a quiet time of it. The owners live in the main house and guests describe them as warm, welcoming and quick to help.

Up to two dogs can come, and how you book affects what they cost: the owners do not charge for dogs on a direct booking, while an agency booking can carry a pet charge. That is worth a moment's arithmetic before you pick a channel.

The Levels are flat, which makes this an easy base for older dogs and for anyone who would rather not tackle hills. Footpaths run out from the village across the moors, the River Parrett Trail passes close by, and Muchelney Abbey is a short walk away. Langport, with its shops and pubs, is a couple of miles up the road.

One practical quirk to know about: the central heating is controlled from the owners' house rather than from the barn. They will happily adjust the temperature and the timings, but it means walking over to ask rather than turning a dial, which some guests have found a faff. There is an electric fire in the lounge if you want quick heat in the evening.

With a 4.5/5 paw rating, The Milking Shed suits dog owners who want space, seclusion and somewhere secure to let a dog stretch its legs, and who do not mind a rural setting where the nearest town is a short drive. It is less suited to anyone wanting to walk to restaurants and nightlife from the door.