THE PALM HOUSE DT4

The Palm House DT4 is a large café in Weymouth with a distinctly family-friendly set-up, including indoor and outdoor under-5s play areas plus its newer pancake house offer. Dogs are welcome both inside and outside, with the exception of the under-5s play area, so it works well for families who want to keep the whole group together.

Alongside the play-focused side of things, it serves all-day breakfast, lunches, pancakes and sweet treats, with a craft area showcasing handmade local gifts. Dogs get a warm welcome too, with fresh water bowls, free treats, dog ice cream and sometimes doggie sausages available, plus handmade dog gifts among the crafts.

A strong option when the group includes little ones, big appetites and a dog who's relaxed around a bit of cheerful family chaos. It is the sort of place designed to absorb several different versions of a day out at once, which is no small achievement.