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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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50.710953, -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

50.771924, -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:
£595 to £750
Short breaks from £100 per night

2+1  |   1  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

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:
£665 to £890
Short breaks from £120 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

Forester's Cottage

Last Minute Offer:Fri, 17th Apr 2026 for 3 nights, £480Save £20"3 nights to Monday morning/2 nights to Sunday evening. Includes all utilities, broadband, beds made with quality linens, towels etc. No booking fees, vat or security deposit."
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

50.660824, -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:
£600 to £800
Short breaks from £150 per night

2  |   1  |   No  |   No  |   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  |   1  |   Enquire  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Friday

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

50.747997, -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:
£600 to £1050
Short breaks from £95 per night

4  |   2  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 2 (off peak) | 5 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Monday

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

50.724915, -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

50.771924, -2.780632

Strongate Cottage is a welcoming 17th-century thatched Cottage, full of character, charm, and original features. Rated 4★ by Visit England, it offers a comfortable retreat. Set in the peaceful village of Salway Ash, the cottage sits at the end of a long, winding lane on a small working farm with its own spring water. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside, it provides a wonderfully tranquil escape—an ideal base for exploring everything Dorset has to offer. Inside, the cottage sleeps four and includes all modern conveniences. The well-equipped galley kitchen features an oven and hob, dishwasher, microwave, washing machine with tumble dryer, fridge with freezer compartment, and traditional flagstone flooring. One step leads down into a cosy open-plan lounge and dining area with two comfy sofas, a smart TV, and a dining table perfect for relaxed meals after a day of adventuring. Upstairs are two bedrooms: one with twin beds and a chest of drawers, the other with a brass double bed and a large fitted wardrobe. Both rooms overlook the pretty garden. The modern bathroom offers a bath with shower attachment, toilet, sink, and ceramic tiled floor. Outside, the garden is a delightful sanctuary with a wooden table and chairs, colourful flower borders, and a grassed area. Birds visit regularly, along with the occasional pheasant, duck, and chicken. Parking for two cars is available. A travel cot and highchair are provided, and the Cottage includes free WiFi, night storage heating, and all linen and towels. Well-behaved dogs are welcome (£20 per dog per week, usually up to two depending on size/breed). Non-smokers only, please. The Cottage is just 10 minutes from the Jurassic Coast at West Bay, known for its dramatic cliffs, harbour, and role in ITV’s Broadchurch. The seaside town of Lyme Regis, with its historic Cobb and charming shops, is 25 minutes away. Fossil hunting at Charmouth is highly recommended, and walkers will love the panoramic views from Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast. The nearest town, Bridport, offers independent shops, a vibrant twice-weekly street market, arts venues, cafés, and a lively vintage quarter. A scenic drive or bus ride along the coast road to Weymouth provides sweeping views across the coastline to Portland on clear days. With coastal paths, countryside trails, historic villages, and plenty of welcoming pubs, cafés, and restaurants, Dorset is a wonderful area to explore and we look forward to welcoming you to our little gem .   For more details, visit: www.strongate.co.ukFor enquiries, please contact Tess on 07792 609617.

Weekly guide price:
£845 to £1160
Short breaks from £150 per night

4 + 1  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Weekly guide price:
£725 to £1025
Short breaks from £150 per night

3  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

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

Preferred arrival day: Flexible

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.   ***Minimum nights stays apply. For a quote please contact owner.***

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

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