Wheelbarrow Castle, Stoke Prior

Wheelbarrow Castle is a big, characterful country house near Leominster that works well for large family gatherings where the dogs come too. Groups of fourteen, fifteen and more have stayed here with one or two dogs in tow, and it earns a 4.4/5 paw rating.

Space is the main draw. There are two lounges, a large kitchen-diner that can seat everyone, plenty of bedrooms and a hot tub that is a favourite with most groups. Dogs fit easily into a house this size, and the setting suits them: public footpaths run right beside the house, and the surrounding countryside of north Herefordshire is good walking country. Days out at Ludlow, Croft Castle, Berrington Hall and Queenswood Country Park can all include the dogs.

The owner lives next door and is quick to sort out problems, from a hot tub issue to the wifi, and some groups found a welcome hamper waiting. The house takes up to two pets per booking.

The biggest caveat for dog owners is the garden. It is not enclosed or fenced, and several groups with dogs said so, some resorting to garden furniture to make a makeshift pen. If your dog is likely to wander, plan to supervise it outside. The garden is also steep in places, which is harder going for less mobile guests.

The house itself divides opinion. Many groups find it comfortable and well equipped, with one of the best-stocked kitchens they have come across, but others found it tired, pointing to sticking doors, cleaning that had been missed in the kitchen, worn garden furniture and rooms in need of some attention. The owner's home is attached, so loud late-night music is not a good idea, and guests have occasionally been contacted by the owner after checkout about how the house was left. The village pub has closed, so plan meals in.

For a multi-generation get-together with a couple of well-behaved dogs, where space and a hot tub matter more than polish, Wheelbarrow Castle is a solid choice.