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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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50.741916, -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

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

50.647370, -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

50.834101, -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

50.747997, -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 £100 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.747997, -2.816861

Stay in this charming period cottage in the heart of West Dorset's beautiful countryside. Foxglove Cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms and is perfect for couples or families who love walking and cycling. It's at the end of a peaceful rural lane in North Chideock, close to the fantastic Hell Lane Holloway that leads through stunning scenery to Symonsbury and Seatown. The South West Coast Path is another favourite footpath, but there is such a wide variety that you'll never run out of options. Guests enjoy exploring West Dorset and the Jurassic Coast, mixing days at the seaside with sightseeing, fossil hunting and visiting local attractions like the Bovington Tank Museum and Abbotsbury Swannery.

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

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

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:
£490 to £820
Short breaks from £95 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

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

50.750987, -2.165436

A comfy choice for families or couples, Glebe Cottage is in Bloxworth and convenient for beautiful Dorset beaches including Poole, Weymouth, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, Swanage, Bournemouth, Studland, the Purbeck Heritage Coast and the Jurassic Coast. The cottage is also handy for Dorset attractions like the Bovington Tank Museum, Monkey World and many lovely National Trust properties.

Weekly guide price:
£300 to £750
Short breaks from £65 per night

3-4  |   3  |   1  |   Enquire  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (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

50.726376, -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:
£560 to £770
Short breaks from £80 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

50.771924, -2.780632

Our 4* Visit England Apartment is located in 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 couples and an ideal location to explore any time of the year.  A fold out day bed is available if required (best suited to a young child) and a highchair and travel cot also available.  Pet friendly too 

Weekly guide price:
£525 to £770
Short breaks from £75 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 secluded village location 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:
£700 to £1050
Short breaks from £100 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.  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

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