Dog Friendly Holidays Dorset
Dorset is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the UK for furry friends all year round. The Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door, Poole Harbour and the South West Coast path make Dorset the perfect dog-friendly adventure. Explore our idyllic selection of pet-friendly hotels and cottages to find the perfect holiday for you and your four-legged friend.
Leigh, EnglandIn the quaint village of Leigh, just south of the picturesque abbey town of Sherborne, this Grade II listed, terraced barn conversion is set in an L-shape around a courtyard on one side with lovely country views over Thomas Hardy’s famous Blackmoor Vale. Set on the edge of an organic farm, it offers an excellent holiday base to explore North West Dorset and South Somerset. Renovated to a high standard with exposed beams, it has been tastefully furnished, and has use of a communal games room with a snooker table, table football and darts.
There is superb country walking available from the doorstep, a village shop within walking distance, golf, horse riding and water activities nearby, as well as canoeing at Halstock Reservoir. Within easy driving distance, you can visit the Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum with its prototype Concorde, the Haynes Motor Museum, with its fascinating selection of vintage motor cars, and Montacute House and Gardens, one of the many historic houses in the area.
Spend days exploring Glastonbury, with its famous and enchanting Tor, the cathedral city of Wells, home to Bishops Palace, the famous Cheddar Gorge and Caves, and the Georgian city of Bath with its delightful Roman baths, museums and of course, shops and restaurants. Travel south where you will find the spectacular World Heritage Jurassic Coast and Chesil Beach, with the popular seaside resorts of Lyme Regis, Bridport and Weymouth, all offer many attractions, sights and activities to enjoy. More locally, Sherborne Abbey and Castle and the market town of Dorchester are not too far. Beach 24½ miles. Shop 500 yards, pub and restaurant 1 mile.£149From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & book
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Acton, EnglandIn a conservation area just a mile from the cliffs and sea at Dancing Ledge, this attractive and very well-equipped stone house enjoys superb views across the countryside towards Swanage Bay. Set with its own garden on the edge of the small hamlet of Acton, it has been completely renovated to a good standard throughout and includes an extension at the rear (part of which is the owners’ accommodation). Each bedroom boasts en-suite bathroom facilities and colour television making it ideal for large family groups holidaying together. Swanage (2½ miles) has a lovely sandy beach, and offers a wide variety of attractions, including shops, inns and restaurants, a theatre, and facilities for tennis and swimming. There are steam trains to the little town of Corfe Castle, and odd pieces of architecture brought from London, including the Wellington Tower on the beach, which once stood near London Bridge. The unspoilt village of Studland (4 miles) has another excellent beach (NT) and is close to woods and downs. North of the village is Studland Heath National Nature Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife ranging from wildfowl to lizards. A ferry runs from Studland across the bay to Sandbanks, from where the bay stretches on to Bournemouth. Excellent walking can be found in this area, with the coastal path running nearby along the cliffs, and the hills at Nine Barrow Down within easy reach. Riding stables at Wareham, 8 miles. Golf 4 miles. Poole and Bournemouth, both 20 miles. Shops ½ mile, three inns within a mile.£196From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Corfe Castle, EnglandThe Old Forge cottage nestles in the small ‘chocolate box’ village of Kingston in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, on the Dorset coastline. Restored and adjoining an ancient stone pub, this traditional single-storey stone cottage (including restored forge) has outstanding views of the historic Corfe Castle and wonderful open countryside of the Purbecks from its flagged courtyard. Although the property is single-storey, there are steps between some rooms and to the bedrooms. There are two double bedrooms, one with en-suite facilities, and one with an additional single bed, and a twin bedroom. The living area has a cosy wood burner and is open to the kitchen/dining area. A family bathroom completes the picture.
Corfe Castle is a very pretty town whichh is overlooked by ancient castle ruins which are now owned by the National Trust.
Nearby is the historic riverside town of Wareham with quayside and is one of the most beautiful towns in the country. Brimming with history, you must see the ancient Saxon walls, pastel coloured houses and enjoy picturesque riverside walks.
Swanage (5 miles) offers swimming, sailing, many shops, pubs and restaurants and a steam railway, and there is easy access to walks along the Purbeck coast.
Poole is just 8 miles north east and has the largest natural harbour in Europe. It caters for most tastes with water sports, coastal and woodland walks, and a plethora of shops.
Bournemouth is a little further east with miles of beautiful sandy beaches and provides traditional seaside attractions including a pier, amusement park and rides to keep the children entertained. Award-winning beach at Studland, 9 miles away. Arne RSPB nature reserve, 6 miles.£116From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Wareham, EnglandSympathetically converted, this lovely detached coach house stands within its own large garden, with views over the shared swimming pool (open from May weather dependent) from its open-plan living room. It enjoys use of the owners’ woodland grounds, with shady walks leading down to a river.
For history enthusiasts, Wareham is a treasure trove of ancient sites and stories. Explore the well-preserved town walls and immerse yourself in the town’s Saxon past. Don’t miss the impressive Wareham Town Museum, where artifacts and exhibits transport you back in time. Nearby, the dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle, 6 miles, stand sentinel over the countryside, providing a glimpse into England’s turbulent history.
Just a short drive away lies the vibrant coastal resort of Bournemouth. Here, guests can soak up the sun on the golden sands, stroll along the bustling promenade, or indulge in some retail therapy at the eclectic shops and boutiques. For those seeking a taste of adventure, water sports and beach activities abound, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Poole, 7 miles, is a coastal gem, known for its picturesque harbourside and bustling quayside. Take a leisurely stroll along the quay, where traditional pubs, seafood restaurants, and quaint shops line the waterfront. Here, you can savour freshly caught fish and chips, or indulge in a relaxing afternoon tea while watching boats gently bob on the water. Nearby Brownsea Island, a short ferry ride away, is a nature lover’s paradise. This tranquil sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including red squirrels and a multitude of bird species.
Studland Bay is also close by with a sandy beach and ferries to the Channel Islands (summer only) and France. Shops ¼ mile.£115From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Winfrith Newburgh, EnglandTranquillity Cottage is a delightful 17th-century thatched cottage, located just 3 miles from the UNESCO Jurassic Coastline with highlights such as the beauty spot of Lulworth Cove and the spectacular rock formation of Durdle Door and Lulworth Castle almost on the doorstep.
Offering very attractive and comfortable accommodation, this property boasts its own large garden bordering open countryside. One of a small row of Grade II listed cottages, it nestles in the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Traditionally decorated and with beams and exposed brickwork throughout you’ll have no trouble relaxing in this wonderful cottage. Open the front door and step into the charming, beamed living/dining room, with an open fire in an inglenook fireplace and cosy furniture to snuggle into it’s a perfect getaway at any time of the year. The country style kitchen is well-equipped for cooking a superb holiday feast. Steep, curving stairs take you up to the first-floor landing with the twin bedroom leading to the double bedroom. Both the bedrooms have sloping ceilings and beams.
This is Hardy Country, with Dorchester, 8 miles, the centre of events in The Mayor of Casterbridge. Weymouth, 11 miles, with its award-winning golden sandy beach and traditional harbour front. An award-winning traditional village store is just 200 yards, as well as a choice of good pubs serving food nearby. It is also a great location with so many popular tourist attractions less than 10 miles away, including Monkey World, Bovington Tank Museum and National Trusts Corfe Castle, Arne Nature Reserve, Ringstead Bay and Kimmeridge Bay with Etches Fossil Collection, all of which all make great family days out.
Slightly further afield, you can visit Swanage, Poole and Poole Quay and Harbour which boast the second largest natural harbour in the world and from here you can take the ferry to Sandbanks or Brownsea Island Nature Reserve with its red squirrels. Or even take the ferry for the day to visit the Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey. Shop 200 yards, choice of good pubs serving food nearby.£74From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Portland, EnglandClose to the seafront at Chiswell near the southern end of the famous Chesil Beach, this charming refurbished, 200 year old holiday cottage retains period features, offering stylish and comfortable accommodation. A nearby coastal path winds around Portland’s miles of remote Jurassic Coastline, ideal for sea fishing, and within easy reach is the Georgian seaside town of Weymouth, with its Blue Flag beach, Sea Life centre and RSPB nature reserve. Windsurfing, diving and yachting are popular in the area. Shops, pubs and restaurant within 300 yards.£66From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Osmington, EnglandWelcome to the Old Milking Parlour, a charming holiday retreat nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Osmington in Dorset. Immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings of this quaint village, where history and natural beauty blend seamlessly to create a perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Osmington, with its thatched cottages and rolling hills, offers a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern convenience. Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the village, discovering its historic landmarks and admiring the timeless architecture that transports you to a bygone era. The Old Milking Parlour’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the enchanting countryside and nearby attractions. Nature enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the stunning landscapes surrounding Osmington. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on scenic trails that wind through the Dorset countryside, revealing panoramic views of lush green fields and the sparkling coastline. The South West Coast Path beckons, offering a breathtaking journey along the cliffs, where the fresh sea breeze invigorates the senses.
For those seeking a more relaxed pace, Osmington Mills provides a charming spot for a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy a meal at the local pub, where hearty fare and friendly faces await. The nearby beaches, such as Ringstead Bay and Bowleaze Cove, invite you to bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. History buffs will be enchanted by the village’s rich heritage, with the iconic Osmington White Horse overlooking the landscape as a testament to centuries past. Explore the nearby market towns of Weymouth and Dorchester, each offering a unique blend of shops, cafes, and cultural attractions.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or simply a peaceful retreat, Osmington in Dorset has something for everyone. The Old Milking Parlour awaits, providing a cozy haven in the midst of this enchanting village, ensuring a memorable holiday experience for all.£90From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Wimborne, EnglandThis detached holiday cottage, next to the owner’s home, is accessed via an unmade lane and is a short walk from Wimborne with its pubs, restaurants and shops. Visit National Trust Kingston Lacy, Poole and its natural harbour and quay, Brownsea Island or sandy beaches at Sandbanks, Bournemouth and Studland. To the west is the Purbecks, with Saxon Wareham, Corfe Castle (National Trust) and the seaside at Swanage, with its steam train and promenade. The New Forest National Park is a 20-minute drive. Shop and pub serving food ¼ mile, restaurant 1 mile.£59From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Wootton Fitzpaine, EnglandIn a fine location in the scenic Marshwood Vale, midway between the popular and picturesque seaside resort of Lyme Regis and Bridport, on the famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast and only 3 miles from the quaint seaside resort of Charmouth, these three holiday cottages, situated on a working beef farm, offer comfortable accommodation and a great location to enjoy the best of West Dorset. Stable Cottage, (ref 14804) is a detached honey coloured cottage looking out over the courtyard, Foxglove, (ref 25230) comprises of a single storey barn conversion with a couple of steps up to the living/dining room/kitchen and 2nd bedroom, and Bluebell Cottage (ref 26933) is split-level 3 floor accommodation; and all of these holiday properties can be booked independently or together. All have a small patio area. There is wonderful scenic walking from the doorstep into the Marshwood Vale and on the coast some stunning scenery overlooking the whole of Lyme Bay from Portland down to Torquay and, not for the faint hearted, walking up to the top of Golden Cap - the highest point on England’s South coast with breath taking views. Guests can enjoy this beautiful stretch of coast, taking in some fossil hunting, boating, swimming, and golf nearby. Explore the many little seaside resorts such as West Bay, Eype, Sidmouth, Beer and Seaton and in particular Lyme Regis with its traditional harbour, famous Cob and variety of little shops. Further afield within easy driving is Weymouth with its Blue Flag sandy beach, Sealife centre, Time Walk and many other family attractions or going west, days out at Exeter with its cathedral, catacombs, shops and restaurants. Going inland explore this pleasant part of Dorset, taking in Beaminster, Broadwindsor, and Forde Abbey and Gardens. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.£44From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Lyme Regis, EnglandA characterful cottage resting centrally in Lyme Regis, Dorset. Woodburning stove. Close to amenities and the beach. Family-friendly. Contemporary. Charmouth 2.9 miles; Axminster 5.4 miles; Bridport 9.7 miles; Sidmouth 15.6 miles.£99From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
