Little Corners, Twyford

Little Corners is a self-contained annexe apartment at Twyford, in the countryside just south of Winchester, and it has real strengths for dog owners. The standout is the outdoor space: an enclosed garden that guests describe as safe to let a dog potter about in, backing onto a pond with ducks on it. A dog bed has been provided for arriving guests, and the apartment itself is quiet and carefully decorated, with the beds, linens and shower drawing particular praise.

The location works for the sort of trip that involves a dog. Winchester city centre is a short drive, the surrounding lanes and footpaths are walkable, and the property is tucked away enough to feel peaceful without being remote.

It is the pet-specific caveats that hold the paw rating at 4.3 rather than higher, and they need stating plainly. The reviews carry a report of a dispute over a 200 pound charge for paw prints left on white bed linen, alongside complaints that no cleaning equipment and no stair gate were provided. Separately, an allergic reaction to the sofa, and only the sofa, has been reported, which suggests soft furnishings are not always deep-cleaned between stays with dogs. Taken together the practical advice is clear: bring your own throws and covers for beds and sofas, bring a basic cleaning kit, and get the damage and cleaning terms confirmed in writing before you arrive.

Two points outside the dog question are also worth knowing. There are connecting doors through to the main house with no visible locks or bolts, which several visitors found uncomfortable, and the kitchen has a hot plate rather than an oven. Ants around the front door and kitchen have been reported in warm weather.

Little Corners suits owners of a settled, clean-living dog who will bring their own covers, and who value an enclosed garden within reach of Winchester more than they mind a firmly enforced damage policy.