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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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50.711813, -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

50.739435, -2.789163

The Old Rectory is the perfect Georgian country house. The Grade II listed property sits close to the centre of Symondsbury, just a mile and a half from the coast and 100 metres from the Ilchester Arms pub. Eleven double bedrooms comfortably sleep up to twenty two adults, while several rooms also have single beds so that the house can accommodate large parties of up to twenty nine people. Four reception rooms, a large verandah and two acres of gardens means there is ample space, while proximity to country walks, the beaches of the Jurassic Coast and pretty towns and villages make it easy to arrange a stay that everyone will love whether you are there for a family celebration or a team building weekend with colleagues.

Weekly guide price:
£7000 to £9500
Short breaks from £1100 per night

22+8  |   11  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.776887, -2.281483

Whether you're travelling with your kids, extended family or a group of friends, everyone will love Gould's Farmhouse. Four large bedrooms, three bathrooms and three sitting rooms, together with a spacious country kitchen and fantastic garden mean you can enjoy being together while still having your own space. It's on a quiet lane in Milborne St Andrew, within walking distance of a great pub (The Royal Oak), the village shop and a kids playground, and close to the vibrant market towns of Dorchester and Blandford. The Jurassic Coast, Weymouth and Poole are all a short drive away, and there are beautiful National Trust properties like Hardy's Cottage to enjoy. Footpaths, including the South West Coast Path, bridle ways and cycle paths are plentiful so you can be as active as you like, or simply recline on a lounger in the garden with a good book and enjoy not having to please anyone but yourself.

Weekly guide price:
£1450 to £2350

8  |   4  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 5 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.821969, -2.735466

Oozing character and charm, and steeped in history and heritage, this meticulously restored pretty cottage has everything you need for a romantic getaway to the glorious Dorset countryside. Snuggle up by the woodburning fire, enjoy lazing in the roll top bath then turn back the centuries in the nostalgic bedroom having perhaps star gazed with a glass of something fizzy in the garden room. Enjoy day trips to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast, explore the local footpaths or browse the boutique shops in the local towns. Whatley Cottage sleeps two guests in one king-size bedroom and holidays are available all year round. Rated 5 Star Gold with a Rose award from Visit England. Tourist board rating: 5 Star

Weekly guide price:
£700 to £1250
Short breaks from £130 per night

2  |   1  |   3+  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday | 5 Star

Forester's Cottage

Last Minute Offer:Fri, 17th Jan 2025 for 2 nights, £350Save £40"With late departure Sunday. Or 3 nights £390. Includes all utilities, internet, linen, towels etc. No booking fees or vat."
50.861818, -1.871815

A detached, delightful ground level cottage. Visit England rated 4* Stars. Cosy gas central heating included. No stairs accommodation. 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.  Maintained to a high standard, 100% awarded for Cleanliness. Rural aspect, superb location New Forest / East Dorset border, ideal for forest, coast and spectacular countryside, walk or cycle into Moors Valley Country Park with activities for all, easy access into the New Forest National Park, Ringwood Market Town for shopping and New Forest tour bus, your choice of beaches only 8-10 miles away. Children and Pets welcome. EV Charger. Safe Direct Booking with the on-site owner - no booking fees, vat, or security deposit.  Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£770 to £1200
Short breaks from £110 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 4 Star

50.710953, -2.995996

Dating back to the 1800's, The Lodge House is ideally located on the Dorset Heritage Coast with access to a private peaceful beach within strolling distance. Sleeping six, this dog-friendly holiday home is perfect for exploring Devon and Dorset and is surrounded by beautiful countryside and coastline.

Weekly guide price:
£520 to £1100

6  |   3  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.609525, -2.008352

A delightful 19th Century self-catering stone holiday cottage located in a quiet position in a lane off the High Street in the village of Langton Matravers, 5 North Street provides comfortable and relaxing accommodation about a mile and a half inland from the clifftops of the Dorset coast and a few minutes drive from the seaside town of Swanage.

Weekly guide price:
£600 to £1050
Short breaks from £150 per night

4  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.660329, -2.112144

With world class attractions like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door just a few miles away and incredible walking on the doorstep, this stylish contemporary holiday apartment just for two provides a superb base for relaxing and exploring. Located on the Isle of Purbeck, the Jurassic Coast, Poole and Wareham are all within easy reach.  The RSPB Nature Reserve at Arne, from where the BBC Springwatch is broadcast, is very close by.

Weekly guide price:
£450 to £795
Short breaks from £65 per night

2  |   1  |   1  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.660329, -2.112144

The perfect retreat just for two within easy reach of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door on Dorset's World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. Right in the heart of Purbeck, this stylish holiday home provides all the right ingredients for a relaxing break and a great self-catering base for exploring the areas many attractions.  The RSPB Nature Reserve at Arne, from where the BBC Springwatch is broadcast, is very close by.

Weekly guide price:
£520 to £1050
Short breaks from £75 per night

2  |   1  |   2  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

51.019261, -2.005316

Indulge your country cottage dreams in this 16th Century thatched holiday retreat. The Blue Cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms. It is ideal for couples or families and has a modern kitchen and bathroom sitting harmoniously beside thick cobb walls and original oak beams. The detached holiday home has a wonderfully rustic charm and is surrounded by fields and gardens and only 300 metres from the welcoming Horseshoe Inn in Ebbesbourne Wake. It's part of the Cranbourne Chase AONB, and beautiful walks lead in all directions from the village. Shaftesbury and Salisbury are 10 miles away. Stonehenge is half an hour's drive, with Bath, Glastonbury, Longleat and the Dorset Coast also within reach for days out. 

Weekly guide price:
£485 to £975
Short breaks from £97 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.802068, -2.396024

The whole family will love Groom Cottage. Sleeping six people in three rooms, the single storey stone cottage is one of several superb holiday properties on Doles Ash Farm which can be hired individually or depending on availability, hired together to accommodate larger groups. Doles Ash Farm is surrounded by private gardens and fields in the Piddle Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close to Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport and the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. Closer to home, there are miles of walks that lead from the property, although with facilities like an indoor swimming pool, games room, outdoor children's play area and animals to pet, you could quite easily spend a happy holiday without going much further than the front door.

Weekly guide price:
£750 to £2000

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

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

50.951216, -2.573677

A Grade Listed Self Catering Cottage located in the village of Nether Compton. Private, peaceful and off-grid but with all modern inconveniences including Wifi. Within walking distance to the nearest pub and easily accessible to busy areas. Located in woodland with a lake view. Nature lovers, keen walkers and cyclists retreat. Sleeps 6 across 3 bedrooms and a den room with a pull out bed. Dog friendly with an enclosed garden. EV Charger.  

Weekly guide price:
£1725 to £2082
Short breaks from £290 per night

6  |   3  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.771924, -2.780632

Strongate Orchard is a single static home situated on a small working beef farm, a 10 minute drive north of Bridport, Dorset.  Secluded location at the bottom of a long winding lane with no passing traffic.  A great base and ideal location for either a family farm stay or adults, you will likely see our animals in the field next door, birds in the Orchard, and there is also plenty of outside space for ball games.   We are located within Dorset's Natural Landscape and the World Heritage Jurassic coastline along with Bridport, famous for it's twice weekly street market and antiques quarter, is a 10 minute drive away. The coastal village of Charmouth is ideal for fossil hunting and we offer short breaks as well as 7 night stays. 

Weekly guide price:
£630 to £840
Short breaks from £110 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.771924, -2.780632

Strongate View Apartment, our 4* Visit England rated apartment is located in the village of Salway Ash, 4 miles from the vibrant market town of Bridport with it's popular antiques quarter and the world famous Jurassic coastline & the South West coastal path. Lyme Regis & Charmouth, famous for fossil hunting, are a 20/25 minute drive away.   The Apartment is first floor and whilst attached to our home it's private with it's own entrance.  Idyllic view of Marshwood Vale, rural and quiet location.  The Apartment has one bedroom with king size bed, it's a perfect choice for a couple and an ideal location to explore any time of the year.  A comfy fold out day bed is available if adults would prefer separate beds, or if you have a child.  Highchair and travel cot also available.  Pet friendly too 

Weekly guide price:
£560 to £700
Short breaks from £90 per night

2+1  |   1  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 1 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.771924, -2.780632

Strongate Cottage is a traditional thatched cosy chocolate box cottage with pretty garden located on a small working beef farm, rural and secluded within the village of Salway Ash with unspoilt countryside, it's a perfect base for relaxing, recharging batteries and exploring, pet friendly too.   We are located within Dorset's Natural Landscape and the World Heritage Jurassic coastline, SW coastal path.  The vibrant flourishing market town of Bridport and the harbour of West Bay is a 10 minute drive away.  The coastal village of Charmouth is ideal for fossil hunting and Lyme Regis is beautiful too and well worth a visit during your stay.

Weekly guide price:
£805 to £1120
Short breaks from £140 per night

4 + 1  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.731977, -2.816261

Are you looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway on the Dorset Jurassic Coast?   Discover the charm of our 19th-century cottage situated down a quiet lane in the centre of Chideock.  The country cottage style is complemented by lots of modern amenities and just a short 15 minute walk to the beach at Seatown. YChideock Cottage is the perfect place to stay. The cottage accommodates up to 3 people 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 two 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. Unleash your inner archaeologist at Seatown beach while hunting for fossils and get ready to make lasting memories at Chideock Cottage.

Weekly guide price:
£695 to £995
Short breaks from £149 per night

3  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.736663, -1.828872

Located on a tree lined road this 8 bedroom detached property, with off road parking, is ideal for family get togethers with something for everyone.  Superfast 1GB broadband and 2 x 55-inch smart flat-screen TV’s, Sky TV and TV apps with 100’s of shows and films to suit every age. The property is less than a 1-minute walk to 100’s of square meters of grassy woodlands, with a children’s play area and a purpose-built athletics track. The property has a well-equipt kitchen with an American Fridge Freezer, Microwave, 2 hobs, 2 high spec ovens and a belfast sink.   All the bedrooms contain beds with pocket sprung mattresses, white 100% cotton bed linen for the perfect nights sleep.  

Weekly guide price:
£3000 to £4575
Short breaks from £350 per night

22+4  |   8  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.724159, -2.934815

Dolphin Cottage is a charming thatched holiday home on Marine Parade in Lyme Regis. Built around 1800, it has many original features and sleeps four people in two bedrooms with two bathrooms. You'll love falling asleep to the sound of the waves and having breakfast on the private waterfront terrace, being just steps from the sand and around 100 yards from shops, bars, and restaurants. The UNESCO Jurassic Coast and South West Coast Path are literally outside the door, making this self-catering cottage a firm favourite with families and couples in all seasons. 

Weekly guide price:
£750 to £1850
Short breaks from £110 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Thursday

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

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