Stoke Place

Stoke Place is a grand country-house hotel in 26 acres of parkland at Stoke Poges in Buckinghamshire, a short hop from London yet properly leafy, and it puts real effort into welcoming dogs. Rather than simply allowing pets, it lays on a genuine dog experience: cosy bedding, bowls, treats, a special dog menu and even a pet owner's guide are provided for four-legged guests.

Dogs stay in the Garden Rooms or the Gatehouse Rooms, set a little apart from the main house with their own outdoor access and private outside space - handy for easy comfort breaks and for coming and going without traipsing through the hotel. Beyond the rooms, the grounds are the real draw: 26 acres of parkland to explore, with more scenic walks nearby. Dogs are welcome in the bar too, where you can dine from the restaurant menu with your dog beside you, and there is covered outdoor seating for meals together.

Up to two dogs of any size can stay, kept on a lead around the property, and there is a £30 charge per dog. As booking sources differ on whether that is per night or per stay, it is worth confirming the current terms when you book.

Being straight about it: this is a characterful older property, and guest feedback on rooms and upkeep is mixed - some find it charmingly traditional, others a little tired - so it suits dog owners drawn by the space, parkland and thoughtful dog welcome rather than a slick, modern finish.

It works well for dog owners wanting a parkland country-house base within easy reach of London and Windsor, with a proper dog offering - couples and small families with one or two dogs will get the most from it, and it earns a 4.3/5 paw rating.