189 holiday cottages in Dorset
Holiday cottages in Dorset put you close to the Jurassic Coast, chalk downs and pretty harbour towns. From sweeping beaches and famous rock formations to quiet villages and market towns, Dorset suits family seaside breaks, walking holidays and easy long weekends. You can mix coast path strolls with swims, fossil-hunting spots and lazy afternoons in picture-postcard settings.
Self-catering accommodation gives you the freedom to plan days at your own pace. Properties listed here are offered through trusted agency partners and inspected to high standards, so you can book with confidence. Choose from coastal apartments, cosy cottages, luxury family homes and countryside barn conversions to match the kind of Dorset break you have in mind.
Holiday cottages in Dorset make it easy to enjoy both coast and countryside. The Jurassic Coast runs the length of the county with cliffs, coves and long beaches, while inland you will find rolling hills, river valleys and peaceful farmland. Dorset works equally well for short breaks and longer holidays, with plenty to do in every season.
Dorset’s shoreline is the star for many visitors. Expect wide sandy stretches, shingle bays and clear water, plus dramatic headlands linked by the South West Coast Path. There are family-friendly beaches with facilities as well as quieter coves where you can swim or sit with a view. From sunrise walks to golden-hour picnics, the coast shapes the day here.
The UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast is famous for geology and sea views, with opportunities to learn about fossils and coastal history. Always keep to safe paths and check local guidance near cliffs. Inland, Dorset’s chalk downs and nature reserves offer gentle trails, big skies and plenty of wildlife. Many cottages sit in rural spots where you can step straight out for a walk.
Dorset’s towns and fishing villages each have their own feel. On the west side, Lyme Regis mixes beaches, a historic harbour and independent shops. Towards Poole and Bournemouth, Sandbanks is known for its sandy peninsula and sheltered waters. Inland towns like Bridport and Beaminster provide weekly markets, independent shops and local produce. Pick a base that suits your plans and you can enjoy mornings on the coast, afternoons exploring lanes and galleries, and relaxed evenings back at your cottage.
Self-catering in Dorset is easy, with farm shops, bakeries and fishmongers across the county. Pick up fresh seafood, seasonal veg and regional cheeses for simple meals at home, or try harbourside pubs and restaurants when you feel like eating out. From laid-back cafés to special-occasion dining, food is a big part of a Dorset holiday.
Dorset is set up for families. Children can enjoy beach days, fossil hunting and dolphin boat cruises, while rainy-day options include the Sea Life Centre in Weymouth, Monkey World or a trip on the steam railway. Many cottages come with gardens, utility spaces and room to spread out, which makes life easier after a busy day out.
Summer is the warmest and busiest, with long days for the beach and evening walks. Spring and autumn bring milder weather, quieter paths and good visibility for coastal views. Winter has its own charm with peaceful towns and dramatic seas, plus plenty of cosy places for lunch after a bracing walk.
Dorset is straightforward to reach by road and rail. Main routes connect the county to the South and Midlands, and trains serve several towns with branch lines towards the coast. A car offers the most flexibility for rural cottages, but town-based stays work well by public transport.
Secure bookings with trusted agency partners
Every cottage inspected to high standards
Hand-picked listings to help you find the right stay
Lime Cottages only works with established holiday cottage agencies, so every booking is secure and professionally managed. All cottages are inspected to high standards by our partners, and we simply bring together the best options to make your search easier. You’ll book directly with the agency, and we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.