Cottages in Dorset
Our exclusive collection of holiday cottages in Dorset are perfectly placed for exploring this ancient and welcoming county. Dorset is a land steeped in history, from the fossils at Charmouth on the Jurassic Coast to The Cobb at Lyme Regis. Plus, dinosaurs once walked here! Venture to charming inland Dorset, with its hamlets of thatched cottages, beamed pubs and watermills, and you'll feel as though you've walked into a living, breathing Thomas Hardy novel, or soak up the idyllic wiles of Dorset's coast. If you need more temptation, try our Lyme Regis webcam for inspiration.Read more
About Dorset
Dorset is the ideal holiday choice for short breaks as well as longer escapes to the country, as it’s so accessible yet feels like another world. The majority of this county is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which says it all, so expect some spectacular views. And not to forget, there's plenty of things to do to keep you entertained. Go coasteering, quad biking or kite surfing if you're feeling adventurous, or head out on a hot air balloon ride to get those unrivalled views! Dorset is also a great place for fishing and rockpooling, providing hours of fun for the young and old alike.
The coastline here is something special, with cliffs rippling up out of layers of centuries old sediment, bringing fossilised treasures for lucky beachcombers. You can walk for miles along the undulating clifftops between beaches and coves so bring your binoculars (and the dog) for spotting the seaside pub you’re aiming for. You’ll need good walking boots and perhaps your swimming gear to have a paddle around Lulworth Cove and swim through Durdle Door. Go on an adventure to the Isle of Purbeck, a region renowned for its wildlife, beauty and cliff top walks.
But don’t be entirely distracted by the deep blue, the green can be just as beguiling. Inland Dorset is leisurely drives through leafy lanes opening up to the best of British landscapes; rolling hills, fields and farmland fading away as far as the horizon, woodland colours changing with the seasons, and plenty of beautiful gardens. Pretty little villages with trickling streams to bustling market towns, Dorset is characterful and enchanting.
Holidays in Dorset
Whether you choose country or coast, a pretty village setting or somewhere along the Jurassic Coast, places of interest will always be within arm’s reach. A day trip to the Isle of Portland to visit the famous quarry museum, Chesil Beach for the photo opportunities and fossils and of course the stunning landforms around Lulworth and Durdle Door.
There are many historic and beautiful towns to explore; Sherborne with its Abbey and distinctive architecture, Cerne Abbas home of the famous giant, from Lyme Regis in the west, past Charmouth, Weymouth, to Corfe Castle near Swanage and Studland, and Bournemouth in the east of the county, you’ll need to keep coming back for more. Fill up your family holiday in Dorset with child friendly days out to the wonder that is Monkey World or better yet, the Marble Museum – we promise it’s more entertaining than it sounds. Take trips on the steam train or simply spend your days relaxing and eating - Dorset is a hub for good food with gems such as River Cottage in Axminster and Hix Oyster & Fish House in Lyme Regis.
Where to stay in Dorset
Our collection of Dorset escapes range from country breaks to coastal houses, all handpicked and inspected by our local team. Dog friendly Dorset cottages welcome four-legged friends and this is definitely a good county to bring them to, with opportunities for walkies around every corner. Take them to a cottage by the sea for sandy paws and salty coats from running in the sand dunes. When the Jurassic Coast is calling, a beach cottage by the sea will make all your holiday dreams come true.
Or leave everyone else behind and take a romantic trip to Lyme Regis with a long weekend for two, our live stream Lyme Regis webcam will be all the temptation you need.
We have 56 self catering cottages in Dorset
7 nights from £453
Gamekeeper's Cottage
45232 bedroom cottage with outside pool near Dorchester, Dorset.
Second in a row of pretty terraced cottages, this stylish property has been newly renovated to a very high standard. Gamekeeper's Cottage is one of four at Dominey's Yard, nestled ...
7 nights from £453
Dominey's Yard
7 nights from £2018
7 nights from £659 *
Gardener's Cottage
45253 bedroom cottage with outside pool near Dorchester, Dorset.
A stay at Gardener's Cottage brings you everything you could wish for in a holiday location - spacious rooms, beautiful furnishings and a stunning setting complete with outdoor hea...
7 nights from £659 *
7 nights from £453
Woodcutter's Cottage
45242 bedroom cottage with outside pool near Dorchester, Dorset.
Rolling hills, bustling market towns, rich history and stunning beaches - have we persuaded you to holiday in Dorset yet? Finding a lovely cottage to stay in is the only thing you ...
7 nights from £453
7 nights from £453
Poacher's Cottage
45222 bedroom cottage with outside pool near Dorchester, Dorset.
Tucked away in the picturesque village of Buckland Newton, Poacher's Cottage is one of four gorgeous properties making up Dominey's Yard. Situated perfectly for exploring the beaut...
7 nights from £453
7 nights from £459
Old Sandpitts Cottage
45042 bedroom thatched cottage near Bridport, Dorset.
Tucked away down its own private track, this picture-perfect thatched cottage is a little gem. Surrounded by its own private garden, the cottage is very peaceful and offers space f...
7 nights from £459
Need more time? Reserve any cottage for up to 24 hours before booking.
24hr no commitment reservations
You can reserve your holiday dates on your favourite cottage for up to 24 hours. You might need to check with other guests in your party or simply consider whether this cottage is right for your holiday, either way we’re happy to give you the time to step away and mull over your options before paying a penny.
We’ll send you a reminder to see if you want it or not so you won’t lose out. Take time to think it over, you don’t have to rush your decision. Have a cup of tea and when you’re ready, hit the button to book your holiday and start looking forward to it.
7 nights from £871
The Old Mill
45032 bedroom, unique, dog friendly converted mill near Dorchester, Dorset.
If you are looking for a beautifully unique and special property for a perfect Dorset holiday, then look no further than The Old Mill. Formerly a working mill, this gorgeous proper...
7 nights from £871
7 nights from £573
Old Sandpitts Lodge
43773 bedroom thatched self catering cottage near Bridport, Dorset.
This very attractive thatched, detached property is in a tucked away rural setting in unspoilt west Dorset. Old Sandpitts Lodge is a very easy short drive inland from the fabulous ...
7 nights from £573
7 nights from £519
Ivy Cottage
41222 bedroom, dog friendly cottage in Cattistock near Dorchester, Dorset.
Imagine life in a tranquil Dorset village and Ivy Cottage is just the sort of place you may picture in your mind. Set in the midst of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now ren...
7 nights from £519
7 nights from £1853
The Old Manor House
41245 bedroom, dog friendly cottage close to the beach near Lyme Regis.
Less than half a mile from the World Heritage Jurassic Coast, The Old Manor House is a beautiful 16th Century, Grade II Listed house, full of character with a delightful enclosed g...
7 nights from £1853