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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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50.635977, -2.085231

Russell Hollow Annexe enjoys a secluded location in the Isle of Purbeck countryside, yet it is only a short walk from the centre of Church Knowle and the village's award winning pub, The New Inn. The one bedroom bungalow is ideal for couples who want the space and time to sit and enjoy beautiful country views after a happy day spent exploring. There are wonderful footpaths to explore, spectacular natural sights like Durdle Door, Wareham Forest and the Jurassic coast, and places of interest that include Corfe Castle, Arne RSPB Nature Reserve, Monkey World, Bovington Tank Museum, and Clouds Hill. 10 minutes from the World Famous Etches Collection fossil museum at Kimmeridge where the ‘Sea Monster’ is in display. The self-catering cottage has fantastic far-reaching views across lush fields from the garden and courtyard, or from a comfortable spot in front of the wood burning stove in the sitting room.

Weekly guide price:
£525 to £625

2  |   1  |   No  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.677938, -2.109779

River View sits in a peaceful location next to a meadow within stepping distance of the Kings Arms in Stoborough and a ten-minute walk from the Saxon market town of Wareham. There is room for up to seven guests plus a cot, making it popular with families and friends who want to be close to Isle of Purbeck attractions like Corfe Castle, Bovington Tank Museum and Monkey World. Beautiful beaches including Swanage and Kimmerage Bay are nearby, and there is a good variety of walking trails and nature reserves where you can enjoy getting close to nature. Poole and Bournemouth are both an easy drive, or there is a train station in Wareham if you want to leave the car. With so much to offer visitors, it is no wonder that River View is a favourite with holidaymakers who fall in love with the natural beauty of the Isle of Purbeck.

Weekly guide price:
£900 to £1800

8  |   5  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.661323, -2.601871

A 17th Century character holiday cottage located in a lovely elevated position within the village of Abbotsbury amongst Dorset's coastal hills. Excellent amenities including pubs, tea rooms and craft shops a short stroll away and within walking distance of Chesil Beach (just twenty minutes) makes this a perfect choice for a seaside holiday. Tourist board rating: 3 Star

Weekly guide price:
£470 to £745

2+2  |   1  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday | 3 Star

50.726376, -2.934258

This pretty holiday cottage is in the heart of Lyme Regis, close to cafes, shops, pubs and attractions, including the beach and historic harbour known as The Cobb. It's ideal for couples, families or friends at any time of the year, not only in the summer. Lyme Regis is part of the Jurassic Coast and is one of the best places in Britain to see fossils. It is also the perfect base for exploring Dorset and visiting places like the English Riviera. Lavender Cottage sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, and has a private courtyard garden. 

Weekly guide price:
£395 to £1878

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.741916, -2.840880

Sitting on the Jurassic Coast in the Dorset village of Morcombelake, this stylish modern holiday home is just perfect for couples who enjoy walking with the South West Coastal Path nearby. An abundance of attractions and lovely beaches for day trips out and a luxurious retreat to return home to at the end of the day.  SPECIAL OFFER ** RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT ON A 7 NIGHT STAY ** for a limited period only.

Weekly guide price:
£525 to £684
Short breaks from £90 per night

2  |   1  |   1  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.711813, -2.760299

With its two beautiful beaches, lively harbour and marina, and a fantastic array of places to eat and drink, it is no surprise that West Bay is a favourite Jurassic Coast holiday destination with people who appreciate that it offers so much while remaining relatively peaceful even in the height of summer. West Bay Cottage is a charming Grade II listed property within walking distance of it all, and only a mile and a half from bustling Bridport. The cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is a favourite with both couples and small families.

Weekly guide price:
£560 to £945

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.647370, -2.365517

Accessed via the rockery and a few steps, Poacher's Cottage is a great choice with families and couples and has its own private sun terrace for relaxing during the warmer months. Ideally positioned just a mile from the gorgeous shingle beach at Ringstead Bay, there are a wealth of attractions for day trips out (Weymouth, Poole and Bournemouth are just a few of the highlights within easy driving distance), and superb walking with the South West Coastal Path easily accessible (a 7-mile walk takes you to Lulworth Cove via Durdle Door). A great base for a seaside break or as a base for enjoying all that Dorset has to offer. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold

Weekly guide price:
£575 to £885
Short breaks from £83 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Monday | 4 Star Gold

50.660824, -2.569231

Within easy reach of the spectacular World Heritage Coast, this historic Grade II listed holiday home sits in the wing of a farmhouse and affords excellent facilities including the use of a hot tub and swimming pool. A remote picturesque position only two miles from Abbotsbury and perfect for discovering the natural beauty of Dorset.

Weekly guide price:
£650 to £800

2  |   1  |   No  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.741916, -2.840880

A stylish luxurious holiday cottage just for two sitting in a superb position in the village of Morcombelake on the Jurassic Coast Dorset. An excellent choice for couples who enjoy walking with the South West Coastal Path nearby, and who want to discover the beauty of Dorset.  RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT ON A 7 NIGHT STAY.  Limited period only.

Weekly guide price:
£525 to £684
Short breaks from £90 per night

2  |   1  |   1  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.647370, -2.365517

Sitting on Dorset's World famous Jurassic Coastline, Gamekeeper's Cottage is an excellent choice for couples wanting to explore the many attractions of this beautiful part of the South West. With superb walking (including a 7 mile each way walk to Lulworth Cove via Durdle Door), an abundance of attractions close by (Weymouth, Bournemouth and Poole to name just a few) and a lovely beach to walk to for relaxing, Gamekeeper's Cottage is perfect for a break away or holiday at any time of the year. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold

Weekly guide price:
£530 to £725
Short breaks from £76 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Monday | 4 Star Gold

50.647370, -2.365517

Foxes Cottage ticks all the boxes for a holiday in Dorset, whether you simply want to relax on a beach, discover the many attractions of the area including its stunning Jurassic Coastline, or lace up your walking boots and explore the South West Coastal Footpath. Just a mile from Ringstead Bay beach, this well presented self-catering retreat is a popular choice with couples. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold

Weekly guide price:
£530 to £725
Short breaks from £76 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday | 4 Star Gold

50.703984, -2.725296

Whether you're after adventure and non-stop activity or are searching for somewhere to put your feet up and unwind, this charming thatched holiday cottage fits the bill. Minnie's Cottage is in the friendly village of Burton Bradstock, within walking distance of the village shop and two pubs and only a 10-minute stroll through fields to Chesil Beach on the Jurassic Coast. West Bay and Bridport are nearby with an excellent array of amenities, while Durdle Door, Portland Bill and Weymouth are all within reach for a day out. The cottage sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms and is suitable for couples and families. 

Weekly guide price:
£535 to £1095
Short breaks from £110 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.724099, -2.934548

Up the stairs and under the eaves, is a wonderfully secluded master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. The view from the smaller upper window shows Lyme Bay from a different perspective.The very comfortable bed (6') can be arranged either as a superking or as twin singles

Weekly guide price:
£1046 to £1800
Short breaks from £175 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.726376, -2.934258

Teal House is ideally placed in the very heart of the coastal town of Lyme Regis with pubs, shops and cafes within a pebble's throw. Beautifully presented throughout to accommodate large groups of eight guests, this welcoming holiday home is perfect for families (including extended families) and friends who want to holiday or just get away for a few nights together in this beautiful part of Dorset.

Weekly guide price:
£922 to £2310
Short breaks from £140 per night

8  |   4  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.713417, -2.633007

A stone thatched holiday cottage in the attractive Dorset village of Litton Cheney between Bridport and Dorchester. Just three miles from the beach at Burton Bradstock on the Jurassic Coast, this is an ideal place for exploring the Dorset coastline.

Weekly guide price:
£725 to £1775
Short breaks from £250 per night

8  |   4  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.647370, -2.365517

The Hyde is a very popular choice at Upton Grange which provides a warm welcome to couples, friends and families and sits in an enviable position within a mile walk of the lovely beach at Ringstead Bay on the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline in Dorset. Whether you want to relax by the sea or enjoy Dorset's many attractions, with Weymouth, Poole, Bournemouth, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door close by, you will be hard pushed to find a more idyllic and convenient location for your holiday. Tourist board rating: 5 Star

Weekly guide price:
£900 to £1700
Short breaks from £129 per night

2-6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 5 Star

50.724099, -2.934548

 Accommodating up to 6 guests, the pink thatched cottage has 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.  The house is attractively and comfortably furnished with a mixture  of pieces made by local craftsmen and antiques. The modern kitchen has been recently refitted and does not detract from the original charm of this 19th Century cottage. The bedrooms each have excellent beds and their own private bathroom or ensuite. Newly installed heating, broadband internet and other modern features all contribute to a high level of homely comfort.  ​ Bedroom One This bedroom has a  truly Victorian feel to it, with antique furniture and paintings of Lyme by local artists. Fabulous views of sea and sky  without even having to get out of bed.  All bedrooms have their own bathroom and w.c.   Bedroom Two ​With its seafaring theme, this bedroom (with two single beds) has two additional and separate “study” areas; the views from the desk, however, challenge the m

Weekly guide price:
£1250 to £3100
Short breaks from £286 per night

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.745208, -2.874039

Befferlands Cottage is a spacious converted two storey barn.  The interior benefits from a large sitting room with high vaulted ceilings which leads to an open plan, fully equipped kitchen with dining area.  The sitting room has a lovely huge picture window which allows light to flood in and the kitchen has the advantage of a stable door.  There are two stylish bedrooms both of which benefit from their own bathrooms.  A double bedroom with an ensuite bathroom with both bath and shower and a twin room with its own bathroom right next door.  Both bedrooms are recently refurbished and have ample wardrobe space.  The cottage has its own parking a small private garden perfect for relaxing or a barbecue.  Well behaved dogs are welcome by prior arrangement at a charge of £20 per dog (2 dogs maximum). 

Weekly guide price:
£1155 to £1260
Short breaks from £165 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.647370, -2.365517

With a fabulous four-poster double, Owls Roost is a popular choice with couples looking for a luxurious retreat. Perfectly placed just a mile from Ringstead Bay beach on Dorset's world famous Jurassic coastline, guests can enjoy plenty of sea air, attractions including Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Poole and Weymouth, as well as miles of coastal footpath to explore. Tourist board rating: 5 Star

Weekly guide price:
£700 to £1130
Short breaks from £100 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   No  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday | 5 Star

50.747997, -2.816861

This charming holiday cottage is at the end of a quiet country lane in North Chideock, two miles from the Jurassic Coast and within easy reach of Seatown, Bridport and Symondsbury. It sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is the sort of place where couples and families can enjoy fantastic walks and bike rides from the door, fun days finding fossils, and spectacular views from the South West Coast Path. Walk or cycle along a historic holloway to Colmer's Hill, visit specialist museums and shops in Dorchester, or pay a visit to Portland Bill. There is always something wonderful to see and fun to do when you stay at Maple Cottage at Chideock Grange Holiday Cottages. 

Weekly guide price:
£550 to £1050
Short breaks from £79 per night

4  |   2  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Monday

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