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Lulworth Cove, a World Heritage Site on the Jurassic Coast, Dorset
Lulworth Cove, a World Heritage Site on the Jurassic Coast, Dorset

Dorset Cottages

An area steeped in history and with wonderfully varied landscapes, Dorset is an ideal location to enjoy some rest and relaxation. Dorset's terrain includes vastly elevated chalk downs, towering limestone cliffs and low clay valleys, as well as a stunning coastline and lush forests, making it a superb area for walking, hiking and cycling.

Where is Dorset?

Dorset is a beautifully rural county in the south west, well-known for its maritime activity. It is a quintessentially southern English holiday spot. Read more

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50.909621, -1.833828

Newly built using traditional techniques and featuring a separate bedroom and shower room, this charming Shepherd's Hut offers couples space and comfort in an idyllic location close to the New Forest National Park and within walking distance of a country pub. Enjoy walking and bike rides through the forest and countryside, and with the coast only half an hour away plus plenty of picturesque towns and villages to explore, your self-catering holiday can be as exciting or relaxing as you choose.

Weekly guide price:
£420 to £580
Short breaks from £85 per night

2  |   1  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 2 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.909621, -1.833828

It's hard not to be wooed by this idyllic romantic retreat set in beautiful rural surroundings on the outskirts of the New Forest National Park. Located in the charming village of Alderholt, Shepherd's Retreat is a cosy bolthole for two. The artisan built hut has everything you need for a self-catering holiday, including a hand built kitchen, wood burning stove, WiFi and a village pub just a short walk away. Enjoy walks and bike rides from the front door or lazy days on the beach, just half an hour away. 

Weekly guide price:
£480 to £620
Short breaks from £90 per night

2  |   1  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 2 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.731977, -2.816261

Are you looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway on the West Dorset Jurassic Coast?   Discover the charm of our old stone cottage situated down a quiet lane in the chocolate box village of Chideock.   The country cottage is complemented by lots of modern amenities and is just a short 15 minute walk to the beach at Seatown. Chideock Cottage is the perfect place to stay. The cottage accommodates up to 3 guests sleeping in two bedrooms and is an ideal location to escape to all year round. Chideock is a lovely coastal village with endless opportunities to explore. You can enjoy a delicious meal at any of the 3 walkable pubs or shop in the local convenience store which is a 5 minute walk away. Take a short trip to the neighboring towns of Bridport and Lyme Regis by car or bus (handy bus stop just up the lane from the cottage) and explore the best of what the Dorset Jurassic Coast has to offer. Parking at the cottage. 

Weekly guide price:
£725 to £1033
Short breaks from £150 per night

3  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.647370, -2.365517

With a ground floor en-suite bedroom and nursery with cot on the first floor, Pheasants Cottage is a perfect choice for families. Sleeping six guests in comfort and style, this beautifully presented flexible cottage sits in a superb position just a mile from Ringstead beach on Dorset's stunning World Heritage Jurassic Coast. Fabulous walking with the South West Coastal Path easily accessible, an abundance of attractions close by including Lulworth, Durdle Door, Weymouth and Poole, and a beach for lazy days. All the right ingredients for a seaside holiday. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold

Weekly guide price:
£840 to £1595
Short breaks from £168 per night

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 4 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 4 Star Gold

50.649020, -2.297235

Set back from a quiet country lane in the peaceful unspoilt village of Chaldon Herring, Rex Officio is a charming holiday home perfect for couples with or without their "best friend".  The kitchen and open-plan living area downstairs is a home from home and has a good range of games and TV channels to occupy the evenings when the pub up the road is closed.  Upstairs it has a really comfy bed with a view of the sky and stars above, lashings of hot water in the ensuite shower.  All of Dorset's favourite attractions are on your doorstep. You can easily reach Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and the Jurassic Coast footpath, as well as drive to charming towns and villages including Dorchester, Moreton and Weymouth.  Bovington Tank Museum and Monkey World are also nearby, as are many walking and cycling trails to suit all abilities.

Weekly guide price:
£525 to £900

2  |   1  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

Forester's Cottage

Last Minute Offer:Fri, 12th Jun 2026 for 7 nights, £890Save £20"Or 5 nights available within the week, please enquire. Includes all utilities, broadband, beds made with quality linens, towels etc. Sleeps 4. No booking fees, vat or security"
50.861818, -1.871815

A detached, delightful ground level cottage, no stairs. Visit England rated 4* Stars and 100% awarded for cleanliness. Cosy gas central heating and all utilities, broadband, quality linen and towels included. Two bedrooms - a kingsize double and a twin bedroom, sleeps 4 plus a cot for an infant. Each bedroom has an en-suite shower room with wc and hand basin.  Open plan living, dining and fitted kitchen maintained to a high standard, Games room and furnished garden ideal for alfresco dining. Rural aspect, superb location on New Forest / East Dorset border, perfect for a variety of sites and pursuits. Walking or cycle route into Moors Valley Country Park  activities. Easy access to all areas of the New Forest National Park, Dorset heathland and your choice of beaches. Ringwood Market Town and New Forest tour bus. Children and Pets welcome. EV Charger by arrangement. Safe Direct Booking with the on-site owner - no booking fees, vat, or security deposit. Enquiries welcome. Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£770 to £1200

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 4 Star

50.747997, -2.816861

The Garden Studio is a gorgeous getaway for couples or individuals. The sweet 16th-century holiday cottage is a beautiful alternative to glamping, giving luxuries like a king-sized bed and ensuite shower room for the cost of staying in a shepherd's hut or camping pod. It is part of Chideock Grange in North Chideock, a peaceful place with no passing traffic and easy access to fantastic footpaths and cycleways. Guests can walk to the beach at Seatown, which is around two miles away, Symondsbury and Colmer's Hill. The South West Coast Path and the UNESCO Jurassic Coast are stunning in any season, and there are many local sights and attractions to delight.

Weekly guide price:
£500 to £650
Short breaks from £150 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.909621, -1.833828

Located on the edge of the Dorset village of Alderholt is this pretty holiday cottage for two with log burner and romantic double bedroom. The Hampshire riverside county town of Fordingbridge is just three miles away and the New Forest National Park is five minutes in the car with miles of forest tracks and trails for cyclists, walkers and horse riders.

Weekly guide price:
£530 to £695
Short breaks from £100 per night

2  |   1  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.909621, -1.833828

Offering the perfect blend of rustic charm, cosiness with log burner and modern day conveniences to ensure a high standard of comfort, Barn Cottage sits on the outskirts of Alderholt in Dorset. A pretty village with pub for meals out, a mill serving cream teas at the weekend, and a shop for forgotten provisions, Alderholt is just three miles from the county town of Fordingbridge and a five minute car ride into the New Forest National Park with an abundance of forest tracks to satisfy the keenest of walkers, cyclists and horse riders. This welcoming holiday cottage is a perfect self-catering base for exploring both Dorset and Hampshire including the Forest and South Coast.

Weekly guide price:
£540 to £885
Short breaks from £105 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.683500, -2.135853

Escape to Maranatha, a peaceful one-bedroom Dorset holiday cottage tucked away in the stunning Purbeck near Wareham. Perfect for couples, this charming retreat sits in three acres of gardens and orchards, offering a private, relaxing base to explore Dorset and the Jurassic Coast. Enjoy breakfast with birdsong, spot deer from the garden, or wander straight into Worgret Heath Nature Reserve. With Wareham’s riverside pubs, historic sites, and lovely walks just two miles away, and coastal gems like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door nearby, Maranatha is ideal for a romantic getaway, scenic adventure, or a quiet break with all the comforts of home.

Weekly guide price:
£700 to £980
Short breaks from £130 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   No  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.722408, -2.007266

Welcome aboard our Classic Yacht Nadine, including a Hot Tub Jacuzzi on the upper deck, a Master Double Cabin with ensuite Bathroom, a Twin Bed Cabin with ensuite Shower Room, a spacious soulful Lounge, a Kitchen Galley, an Alfresco Dining Deck, a Sun Deck and a beautiful waterside sea view across the bay. There is also SuperFast BT Broadband, WiFi and SKY TV. 

Weekly guide price:
£1800 to £2400
Short breaks from £360 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 1 (off peak) | 1 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.720495, -1.887175

Driftwood House is a holiday home in Bournemouth town centre that sleeps six guests across three bedrooms. The townhouse sits behind a gated entrance and features an open-plan living space, a courtyard garden, and secure parking. Bournemouth beach, the pier, and the town gardens are all within walking distance. Cafés, shops and traditional pubs are close by, including The Dancing Jug and The Goat and Tricycle. Guests can easily reach Sandbanks beach, Poole Harbour and the Jurassic Coast by car. This self-catering holiday home in Bournemouth suits families, couples and business travellers visiting Dorset’s south coast.

Weekly guide price:
£791 to £1668
Short breaks from £113 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.733333, -1.972336

Sarnia Retreat is a holiday home in Poole sleeping six guests across three bedrooms, with off-road parking and a large enclosed garden. The house has been recently refurbished and includes flexible bedrooms, a bright living room and a kitchen that opens straight onto the garden. Poole Harbour sits only a few minutes away, along with the historic streets around Poole Quay. Sandbanks beach and the waters of the harbour are close by for sailing, swimming and coastal walks. This self-catering holiday home in Poole suits families, friends or business travellers exploring Dorset’s coastline and the famous Jurassic Coast.

Weekly guide price:
£581 to £1699
Short breaks from £83 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.713990, -1.973455

Catalina Breeze is a bright holiday apartment in Poole with space for three guests across two bedrooms. The first-floor apartment has its own private entrance and includes a comfortable living room, modern kitchen and a small balcony for morning coffee or evening drinks. Off-road parking and storage for beach gear make it easy to enjoy days by the water. Poole Harbour, the historic quay and Sandbanks beach are all close by. This self-catering holiday apartment in Poole suits couples, friends or a small family wanting to explore Dorset’s coastline, sailing waters and the dramatic landscapes of the Jurassic Coast.

Weekly guide price:
£560 to £1039
Short breaks from £80 per night

3  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.724915, -1.900113

The Hideaway is a stylish holiday home in Westbourne near Bournemouth that accommodates up to eight guests across four bedrooms. Set over three floors, this modern self-catering property has spacious living areas, a contemporary kitchen with dining space, several en suite bedrooms, and secure off-road parking. Located within easy reach of Bournemouth's award-winning beaches and the lively town centre, the house also sits close to Westbourne's independent cafés, restaurants and boutiques to offer guests a fantastic array of places to shop and eat. This holiday rental provides a comfortable and well-located base for families, groups of friends or business travellers visiting the south coast with convenient access to Poole, Sandbanks and the Dorset coastline.

Weekly guide price:
£1414 to £2897
Short breaks from £202 per night

7+1  |   4  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.722436, -1.810659

Seaview Retreat is a stylish holiday apartment in Southbourne near Bournemouth with spectacular uninterrupted views across Dorset's coastline from the enclosed balcony. Sleeping four guests across two bedrooms and with two bathrooms, this modern self-catering apartment features an open-plan living space, a contemporary kitchen and an enclosed balcony with panoramic sea views. Located on Southbourne's clifftop, the apartment sits opposite miles of sandy Blue Flag beaches and is only a short walk from the popular Spyglass & Kettle pub and Southbourne High Street. Hengistbury Head and Mudeford Spit are also nearby, while Bournemouth and Christchurch provide further places to explore along this well-loved stretch of the Dorset coast.

Weekly guide price:
£847 to £1531
Short breaks from £121 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.713130, -1.982651

Quayside is a modern holiday apartment in Poole, Dorset, located just a short walk from Poole Quay, the ferry terminal and The Brewhouse. Sleeping up to four guests, this stylish third-floor self-catering apartment features a bright, open-plan living space, a private balcony, and a spacious bedroom with a super king bed that can be arranged as twins. The harbourfront, historic quay, restaurants and boat trips are all within easy reach, while nearby beaches at Sandbanks and Bournemouth offer miles of sandy coastline. With excellent transport links and a central location for exploring Dorset, Quayside provides a convenient base for couples, families or friends.

Weekly guide price:
£747 to £1224
Short breaks from £81 per night

2+2  |   1  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.720152, -1.927846

The Laurels is a spacious holiday house in Penn Hill near Poole and Bournemouth in Dorset, sleeping eight guests across four bedrooms. This stylish self-catering property offers generous living spaces, including an impressive open-plan kitchen with a dining area, a large lounge with a 75-inch Smart TV, and a private, enclosed garden with a deck and outdoor dining. Located just 1.4 miles from the beach and a short stroll from the cafés, restaurants and independent shops of Penn Hill, the house is well placed for exploring Sandbanks, Poole Harbour and the wider Dorset coastline while enjoying the comfort of a modern holiday home.

Weekly guide price:
£1085 to £3492
Short breaks from £155 per night

8  |   4  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.724617, -1.951483

Chalice Close is a contemporary holiday rental near Poole offering stylish self-catering accommodation in the lively Ashley Cross area of Dorset. Sleeping up to four guests across two bedrooms, this modern apartment features a bright open-plan living space with skylights and Juliet balconies, a well-equipped kitchen and secure garage parking for two cars. Restaurants, cafés and independent shops are just a short walk away, while Poole Harbour and Sandbanks Beach are within easy reach. Pet friendly and thoughtfully designed, this holiday cottage in Dorset suits couples, friends, families and corporate stays looking for comfort, convenience and easy access to the coast.

Weekly guide price:
£998 to £1941
Short breaks from £85 per night

4  |   2  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.718203, -1.951799

Pottery Place is a spacious holiday rental in Ashley Cross near Poole, offering contemporary self-catering accommodation for up to eight guests. This gorgeous Dorset holiday home features four bedrooms with flexible bed configurations, a light-filled living area with bi-fold doors opening to a private garden, and driveway parking for two cars. Located within walking distance of cafés, restaurants and independent shops in Ashley Cross and a short drive from Sandbanks Beach and Poole Harbour, this holiday cottage in Dorset suits family holidays, group breaks and corporate stays alike. With modern interiors, excellent transport links, and easy access to the coast, Pottery Place provides a relaxed, well-located base for exploring Dorset.

Weekly guide price:
£1379 to £2771
Short breaks from £197 per night

8  |   4  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Holiday Cottages in Dorset

Where to Stay in Dorset

More than half of Dorset has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and three-quarters of the coastline has been appointed a World Heritage Site. There are many well-known scenic spots along the coast that are worth a visit, such as Lulworth Cove, the Isle of Portland and Durdle Door. Alternatively, enjoy some seaside fun and visit the popular coastal towns of Weymouth, Lyme Regis and cosmopolitan Bournemouth.

Dorset Travel Guide

Before booking your holiday cottage in Dorset, you can find all the information you need for your trip. For more tips, check out our complete Dorset Guide.

When to Visit Dorset

The superbly scenic location makes Dorset a great choice for a UK holiday to suit all tastes and ages. The beautiful surroundings that the county has to offer also help to make it a great year-round destination.

Summer in Dorset presents a mix of warm, sunny days with some hotter than others. The temperatures are between 19°C and 21°C and with longer days and lots of sunshine, so summer here is a great time to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Spring in Dorset is mild and comfortable with average temperatures of around 10°C to 17°C. During this time, Dorset is generally pretty quiete as the majority of visitors stay during summer, making it a great time to visit if you seek fewer crowds.

Winter in Dorset means shorter days and cooler temperatures of around 6°C to 8°C. During this time the days tend to be clear, cold and crisp, making for a great time to visit the multiple Christmas markets scattered around the towns.

What to Do in Dorset

A history that stretches back to the Neolithic era, Dorset is a fascinating place for those interested in exploring the intriguing backstories of Viking raids, Roman invasions and Saxon conquests. There are many well-preserved historic sites in the area, such as Lulworth Castle and Park, built in 1608, Sherborne Abbey, the 'Cathedral of Dorset' dating back to 705AD and the 1000 year old Corfe Castle – one of the most famous landmarks in Dorset that now stands as an iconic, eerie ruin.

Dorset is also a great holiday spot for children. There are plenty of exciting attractions to keep younger visitors amused and entertained, such as the internationally acclaimed Monkey World – an important rescue centre where you can meet the apes and Honeybrook Farm. There are also a variety of water sports thanks to the maritime background of the area.

Of course, a stay in a Dorset holiday cottage would not be complete without fossil hunting along The Jurassic Coast and following in the footsteps of dinosaurs - England's first natural World Heritage Site and one of the wonders of the natural world rated, up there alongside the Grand Canyon!

How to Travel to Dorset

If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to Dorset, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.

London: 123 miles

Birmingham: 175 miles

Glasgow: 458 miles

Liverpool: 267 miles

Bristol: 66 miles

Manchester: 254 miles

Leeds: 289 miles

Edinburgh: 461 miles

Newcastle: 378 miles

There are multiple ways to travel to Dorset, its excellent public transport means you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.

Learn More About the Region

Dorset is a sublime blend of beach and countryside, laid back sand-between-your-toes and a chic seaside resort. Independent boutiques sit beside surf shops stocking seaside essentials and gourmet cafes serving homemade ice cream and fish caught within sight of your table.

Most guides for a holiday in Dorset will point you in the direction of Bournemouth and Weymouth. While these are great places to visit, there is far more to this great county.

Dorset FAQs

  • Which part of Dorset is the best?

One of the most popular places to visit in Dorset is Wareham, as this is where the renowned tourist attraction Durdle Door is situated. The natural limestone arch sits on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth and is a free outdoor attraction that brings visitors here year-round.

However, there are many more great places to visit in Dorset such as Lulworth Cove, Sherborne Castles and Gardens plus many more. All of these places in Dorset have much to offer from stunning beaches to historic towns and lots of countryside to explore.

  • Why is Dorset famous?

Dorset is most famous for the limestone arch, Durdle Door. The attraction is featured on numerous postcards and is a beautiful sight to see that attracts people from all over the country.

Being situated on the Jurassic Coast is another reason why Dorset is favoured among tourists. The stunning coastline and countryside that surrounds the county creates a beautiful setting to enjoy a holiday here.

  • Is Dorset expensive?

A trip to Dorset can be done on a budget and can be as expensive as you choose it to be. With free attractions such as Durdle Door and other great walking routes around the county, you don’t have to spend a lot when visiting here.

  • Which is the prettiest town in Dorset?

There are a number of pretty towns situated in Dorset, all of which have their own unique attractions and surroundings.

The quaint village of Shaftesbury is situated on the Hovis Hill. This hilltop settlement is located on the south coast and is encompassed by rolling hills and lush greenery. With old cottages lined up and down the hill, it is a very pretty town that offers an old English feel, which is why it is considered one of the prettiest places in Dorset.

If you are seeking a stunning town on the coast in Dorset, you will want to go to Lyme Regis. The quaint seaside settlement sits along the Jurassic Coast and offers a long stretch of golden sand for visitors to enjoy, making it a particularly pretty town to visit.

Dorset Inspiration