plural of nouns (compounds)

[Branqa]

our hotel is very near the coast. it's only about ___ walk.

a) five minute b) five minutes' c) five-minutes.

which of these is the correct answer and why?

[Mister Micawber]

five minutes'-- because there is no indefinite article.
_________________
Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Arthurivan]

I would say 'five minute' walk. A compound noun does not necessarily need a hyphen. 'Five minute' is being used as a unit. I would also put the article 'a' in front of 'five minute.'

It's only about a five minute walk.