TRAVELS WITH YOUR DOG

website is teeming with ideas for walks with your dog (nationaltrust.org.uk/ features/best-places-fordog-walking). There are miles and miles of paths along the coast and through the woodlands of Cornwall and countrywide.

HAVE A PINT

Lots of pubs welcome dogs. To find one, try doggiepubs.org.uk.

ASK WHAT THEY DO FOR DOGS

Don’t assume that a hotel doesn’t want dogs. Even the five-star Rosewood, in Central London, is pleased to accommodate them in its rooms and restaurants. And elegant Lucknam Park in Wiltshire has Michelinstarred dining, but it also hosts dogs; just ask.

living areas upstairs, to take in the view of Babbacombe Bay. Most thrillingly, there’s a clubhouse off the terrace, with strict instructions: “Children only! And dogs!”

Legend has it that this inn’s seaside charm drew Queen Victoria nearly two centuries ago, when she regularly rowed ashore with Prince Albert from the royal yacht, and its allure remains. Loyal staff have great knowledge of the area, which allowed us to plan walks that would suit our various members. While the dog slept, the rest of us enjoyed the glass-fronted spa, where the waterfall hydrotherapy pool has views over the bay and the immaculate treatment rooms offer quality marine-based Thalgo facials and massages (it is popular, so book in advance).

Later, the five of us gather to relax together. Scandinavians have specific terms for the varying degrees of cosiness; but for my money, there’s no state more snug than that moment before a pleasing meal, when you enjoy a warming drink surrounded by your family, dog at your feet, by a crackling fire. That is the greatest joy of Britain’s cold season.