The White House, Torquay

The White House is a whole-house rental tucked into Cary Court off Hunsdon Road, in a quiet residential pocket of Torquay set back from the seafront. Three bedrooms each have their own bathroom, the kitchen is set up for self-catering, and because you take the entire property there are no shared corridors or lobbies to steer a reactive or excitable dog through.

Up to two pets are allowed, and the property has an enclosed courtyard, which is the single most useful feature in a town rental because it means a dog can be let out last thing without a lead and a street. No pet fee, weight limit or breed restriction is published, so confirm those with the host, particularly if both dogs are large.

Guests travelling with dogs describe a peaceful spot with a park close enough to walk to for the morning routine, comfortable beds and a warm welcome from the hosts. The house is spacious and clean, and cleaning supplies are left out for guests.

The honest caveats come from the same guests. Hunsdon Road has no street lighting, which is worth planning around for the last walk of the night, whether that means a torch or a loop that returns along a lit street. Housekeeping has also slipped on occasion: dog hair left in the sitting room by a previous party and a damp smell have both been reported, along with hair on a shower head, so it is fair to look the place over on arrival and flag anything to the host early rather than live with it. The walk down to the seafront is straightforward but the return is uphill, so a car makes the bigger coastal walks at Babbacombe and beyond far more practical.

Best suited to a family or small group with one or two settled dogs who want a whole property to themselves in a quiet part of Torquay, and who will drive to the better walks. Less suited to anyone without a car who wants the seafront on foot, or who needs the walking route home to be lit.