Westleigh B&B

Seaside B&Bs don't come much more stylish (or charming) as Westleigh, a cute-as-a-button stone cottage just a couple of minutes' walk from the shingle beach and harbour of the picture-postcard South Devon village of Beer. It's in a terrific location on Lyme Bay – Devon's best-kept secret according to many – backed by the high, white chalk cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, and dog-owners are doubly blessed because Westleigh marks itself out as dog-friendly B&B 'with a difference'. They really do walk the doggy walk here: no extra charges, access to all rooms, dog beds, baths and towels, treats and toys, and even free dog food if required. When guests sit down on arrival to an afternoon cream tea, your dog also gets a special homemade treat, and there are dog-sitting and dog-walking services available too.

To be fair, humans are pampered almost as much at Westleigh. It's a bright, light-filled house with a chic sitting room with leaded windows and open fire, and two very nice bedrooms, both with king-sized beds. The Bell Jar is decorated in a fresh, country style, with dog motifs throughout, and has an en-suite shower room. The Stripey Room (after the curtains) has more of a seaside feel and sole use of a bathroom with bath and overhead shower. There is a third, smaller double room, though it can only be booked with the Stripey Room as it shares the same bathroom. All rooms come with nice touches – ground coffee, fresh milk and homemade biccies, not to mention a fridge for your dog food and all the other things your pet will need for a comfortable night.

Really, they should say 'with two differences' because the other thing that sets Westleigh apart is the owner, Etta Ware, a cordon bleu chef who will serve up private meals with advance notice, taken in the lovely conservatory. Everyone gets an Aga-cooked or continental buffet breakfast in any case, but if you fancy a quiet night in being wined and dined, then you can discuss menus in advance with Etta (from £25 per head), who sources meat, fish and vegetables locally and makes all her own bread. And you didn't really need to ask, but of course, your dog is welcome in the conservatory for dinner as well.