The Walled Garden, Long Melford

The Walled Garden is a whole-property stay in the middle of Long Melford, and the clue is in the name: the garden is walled and secure, so dogs can be let out for a sniff about off the lead without anyone standing at the gate. For a village-centre property that is unusual, and it is the thing guests with dogs mention most.

Dogs stay for £20 per pet, per stay, with up to two pets allowed and a 40 kg weight limit. The owner is clear that this is a dog-only welcome and that dogs larger than a Labrador are not accepted, so it is worth measuring your dog against that before you book rather than after.

The location does a lot of work. A back gate opens onto a country walk, the water meadows are within easy reach for longer outings, and there is a stream walk a couple of minutes from the door. The high street, with its shops, cafes and antique dealers, is close enough to walk to but far enough that you cannot hear it from the property. The owner lives next door and guests describe him as generous with walk suggestions and restaurant recommendations without being intrusive.

Inside it is a spacious, modern bungalow with a large well-equipped kitchen, underfloor heating and a long garden table for evenings outside. Two practical notes: vehicle access to the property is a little awkward, and there is a shower rather than a bath, which matters if you were counting on somewhere easy to rinse a muddy dog.

Best suited to a couple or small family with one or two medium-sized dogs who want a village base with real walking on the doorstep. It earns a 4.6/5 paw rating.