Olivers Barn, Newbury

Olivers Barn is a barn conversion at Fishers Farm in Shefford Woodlands, a hamlet in the Lambourn Valley west of Newbury, and what makes it work for a dog is the ground it sits on. Guests travelling with dogs describe the garden as properly dog-proof and the driveway as long and private, so the first and last walk of the day happen well away from any road. It is a working farm, though, and the owners' rule is that dogs stay on a lead throughout the grounds.

Inside it is a barn done properly: large rooms, en-suite bathrooms, a comfortable lounge and a wood burner, finished to a standard guests keep picking out. It sleeps a large party, and groups bringing dogs to a get-together are the obvious fit; parties of six adults plus children and a dog have used it comfortably. The kitchen is well equipped, the arrival instructions are clear and accurate, and the owner has a good record of sorting problems quickly when something goes wrong.

The heating runs on air source heat pumps and there is an EV charger on site, which matters if you are driving a long way with a dog and would rather not plan a charging stop around it.

One caveat is worth taking seriously before you book. The Pheasant Inn nearby gets good reports for its food, but guests warn that walking there along the road means lorries and fast-moving traffic, so drive the short distance rather than walk it. Beyond the driveway and the grounds this is not a property for strolling straight out of the gate. Drive to the walking instead: the Lambourn Valley, the Ridgeway and the downs around Great Shefford are all close, and Avebury, Hungerford, Basildon Park and Ardington House are within easy reach for a day out.

Best suited to a family or a group who want a smart, spacious rural base with a secure garden, and who are happy to get in the car to walk the dog. It earns a 4.4/5 paw rating.