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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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50.745208, -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

50.710953, -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:
£500 to £1050

6  |   3  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

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

50.726376, -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

50.739435, -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 £1500 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:
£1300 to £2100

8  |   4  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

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:
£650 to £1690
Short breaks from £121 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Thursday

50.561666, -2.446719

Perfect for families and friends wanting to explore the Jurassic Coast, Sea View Cottage is a charming stone holiday home located on the Isle of Portland, just a few miles from the seaside town of Weymouth. Dating back 300 years this stone cottage has retained it's original character, whilst modern renovations, a cosy wood burning stove and sunny terraced garden makes it an ideal self-catering holiday cottage by the sea. Sleeping four guests in two bedrooms and walking distance to the beach, shops and restaurants, you can either enjoy lazy days on the beach, wonderful walks from the front door or the numerous watersports activities on offer close by. 

Weekly guide price:
£706 to £1257
Short breaks from £88 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.721225, -2.784143

Sitting in the pretty seaside village of Eype on Dorset's beautiful West Coast, Clematis Cottage is everything you could wish for in a coastal holiday cottage. With cosy yet stylish accommodation including a log burner, and garden with fabulous views, the cottage is perfect all year round and within walking distance of the village pub and beach. Coastal walks on the doorstep, along with an abundance of attractions for day trips out.

Weekly guide price:
£600 to £1200

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

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

50.731977, -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.  Chideock 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 three nearby pubs, including one just across the road, 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

50.724099, -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

50.724099, -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

50.736663, -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:
£450 to £850
Short breaks from £350 per night

22+4  |   8  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.739511, -2.823117

Pound Cottage is comfortingly familiar if you loved Famous Five books as a child. The traditional Dorset holiday home has a thriving cottage garden, thick stone walls, original timber floors and beams, and lovely quirks like a wonky roof and low beamed ceilings. Pound Cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms with good self-catering facilities and features. It is in Chideock, a short distance from two pubs and the village shop and only a 20-minute walk to the South West Coast Path in Seatown. 

Weekly guide price:
£695 to £975
Short breaks from £131 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

Lions Lodge

Last Minute Offer:Mon, 11th Dec 2023 for 4 nights, £1095Save £150"5* reviews, hot tub and sleep up to 7. Grab a bargain 4 night stay £1095, 3 night stay £825 and 2 night stay only £575!! Offer includes booking and cleaning fee!!"
50.834101, -1.848082

You and your family will have all the space you need at Lions Lodge. The three-bedroom holiday home sleeps seven people, but the vast backyard makes this place stand out. There is a large lawn, seating and a patio with a hot tub so you can soak your tired legs and sunburned shoulders after a day cycling through the New Forest, climbing at Go Ape, or swimming and surfing at Bournemouth. There are two pubs within walking distance of this welcoming self-catering rental in this quiet village near Ringwood and Poole. 

Weekly guide price:
£1605 to £2175
Short breaks from £248 per night

7  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.740131, -2.788084

Those searching for large group accommodation in Dorset will fall in love with Symondsbury Manor. The beautiful home boasts 11 bedrooms that sleep up to 22 people, expansive living areas that include a ballroom and games room, and lots of original features such as oak panelling and inglenook fireplaces. The owners have updated and modernised the 17th Century building without losing its unique charm or character, making it ideal for family celebrations, wedding receptions, and holidays with friends. There is a pub and a village shop within walking distance, and the Jurassic Coast is only a mile from the door.

Weekly guide price:
£5600 to £7500
Short breaks from £1750 per night

22  |   11  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.642401, -2.462129

Lorton House is an elegant Victorian country house with loads of space for up to 16 people, multiple reception rooms and 16 private acres of grounds. It's a luxurious self-catering property for big groups in Weymouth, just three miles from the beach, harbour and town centre, and ideal whether you are getting together with friends to celebrate a milestone event or catching up with your extended family. There is a pub less than two miles away, and you don't have to leave the grounds to enjoy a leisurely walk through woods and parkland. Durdle Door, the SEA LIFE Adventure Park and Portland Bill lighthouse are all nearby, as is the Jurassic Coast and places like Dorchester and Lyme Regis. A self contained annex is also available at an extra cost of £100 per night brining the total number of guests to 18.

Weekly guide price:
£2750 to £6750
Short breaks from £500 per night

16  |   8  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.843520, -1.112834

Welcome aboard our Luxury Super Yacht Temptation, 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. Have a look at this amazing Waterside Holiday Break Experience on:  www.SuperYachtTemptation.com 

Weekly guide price:
£1800 to £2400
Short breaks from £300 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

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

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