Yamthwaite, Grizedale

Yamthwaite is a self-catering cottage tucked into the hamlet of Grizedale, deep in the forest between Hawkshead and Coniston, and it is about as natural a fit for a dog as a Lake District bolthole gets. With walking and biking trails leaving almost from the front door and Grizedale Forest on the doorstep, dogs and their owners are spoiled for somewhere to roam.

The cottage welcomes up to two small dogs, and owners travelling with dogs are consistently delighted. A recurring theme is how much the dogs themselves seem to enjoy it, with several guests singling out how thoroughly their spaniels took to the forest trails. Inside, a woodburning stove and a comfortable, well-equipped layout make it an easy home from home after a muddy day out, and there is bike storage for anyone combining walks with the area's mountain-bike routes.

There is one practical point worth knowing. The cottage has no enclosed front gate, so it is best suited to a settled dog that will not wander off, though guests note there is very little passing traffic on the lane. There is also a pond in the garden, which is part of the charm of the wildlife-friendly terrace but worth bearing in mind with an inquisitive dog or young children. Beyond that, the welcome is wholehearted, and the surrounding area is made for dog walking.

Grizedale puts you within easy reach of Hawkshead, Coniston Water and the southern lakes, with the dog-friendly Eagles Head pub nearby for an evening meal. Yamthwaite suits dog owners who want a quiet, characterful forest cottage with brilliant walking straight from the door, and who have a calm dog happy to stay close. For a Lake District break built around the dog, it earns a 4.8 out of 5 paw rating.