Cottages in Dorset

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.