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.
Litton Cheney, England
2.00Within 2 miles of the famous Chesil Beach and World Heritage Jurassic Coast and between West Bay and Portland Bill, this Grade II 13th-century stone tithe barn, situated in Litton Cheney on a working farm, has been restored and extended to provide excellent detached character accommodation for 19 guests, in this sought after part of West Dorset. It offers a great location for enjoying this holiday area, and boasts nine en-suite bedrooms (five doubles, one with an additional single, and four twins), each with TV, and a large kitchen, ideal for self catering with a large group. There is even the added benefit of a self-service bar, so you can keep your friends and family entertained throughout the evening. The original stone barn, now a very impressive vaulted and beamed living/dining room, comfortably accommodates eighteen. There is plenty of room for all; guests can relax and unwind in the large garden, the children can play in the games room equipped with pool table, there is fishing (by arrangement with the owner) in the 2-acre coarse fishing lake, or simply wander down to the village pub to wine and dine, or enjoy some glorious country walking.
Within a few minutes’ drive is Chesil Beach at Burton Bradstock which stretches for 17 miles from Portland to West Bay and is a unique shingle ridge and natural beauty spot. The pebbles on the beach are said to increase in size from east to west, the largest being at Portland where a centre for wind and kitesurfing can also be found. West Bexington and Abbotsbury are a short drive away with opportunities for swimming and fishing. Abbotsbury is home to the swannery which is a popular family attraction for holidaymakers and where visitors can walk amidst colonies of nesting mute swans in a natural wildlife habitat. Originally established by Benedictine monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury, the swannery was used to provide food for their banquets and has been featured in films including Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. The Abbotsbury Sub-tropical Gardens, which were established in the 1700s by the Countess of Ilchester, are another place of interest to visit. Magnolia and camelia collections are of particular note as well as rhododendrons and hydrangeas; a gift shop, restaurant and plant centre complete the facilities for a good day out. There is much to see and do in Dorset for families, especially at Weymouth, a short drive away, which offers many attractions including the Sea Life Museum, or visit Dorchester with its many attractions and shops. Further afield, family days out include Wool with its Tank Museum and Monkey World, or admire the natural arch of Durdle Door and the almost circular cove of Lulworth on the way to Wareham and the Isle of Purbeck. To the west one can see the magnificent World Heritage Coast and visit West Bay, Eype, Charmouth and of course the ever popular seaside resort of Lyme Regis, with its pretty harbour and Cobb. Shop 3 miles and pub 400 yards.£297From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & book
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Corfe Castle, England 5.00The Old Guildhall, reputed to be the original meeting place of the ancient order of stone cutters and marblers, is a unique and individual property with contemporary and quirky design practically combined with many original period features. The house has many original works of art on display which adds to the ambiance, and has been featured in the House and Garden magazine. The owner thoughtfully provides a luxurious hamper. The stunning village of Corfe Castle stands at the gateway to the Isle of Purbeck, and is dominated by the ruined castle, which is a delight any time of year. Other family attractions include a model village and interactive exhibition, the village museum, a steam railway and many shops, and Corfe Common is found just on the edge of the village with the Purbeck Way walking route passing through it to reach Chapman’s Pool and the South West Coast Path. The village is constructed almost completely from the local grey Purbeck limestone and around the village square there are a small collection of shops clustered together. The UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline is a short drive away, with the famous Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Discover the town of Swanage with its beach, boat trips, Durlston Country Park and Steam Railway. Monkey World and the Tank Museum are also close by. Shop and pubs 100 yards.£115From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Puncknowle, England 4.00These delightful holiday cottages are set in the peaceful conservation village of Puncknowle, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Jurassic Coast is just 1½ miles away with superb scenic walking. Each cottage is finished to a high standard offering very comfortable holiday accommodation and is set in the same smart courtyard area as the owners’ homes. The ‘chocolate-box’ village of Burton Bradstock is 3 miles with a good small beach. Abbotsbury, along the coast, has its famous swannery and sub-tropical garden. Further east is the Victorian seaside town of Weymouth, with Blue Flag beach, sea fishing, windsurfing, Sealife Centre and two RSPB nature reserves. Monkey World and the Tank Museum near Wool are great places for a family day out. Dorchester, the county town also known as Thomas Hardy’s ‘Casterbridge’ is 30 minutes’ drive and has a lively weekly market and beautiful Maiden Castle. To the west is the market town of Bridport which was Thomas Hardy’s ‘Port Bredy’ and has the twice weekly market as featured in the popular TV programme River Cottage. The picturesque harbours of West Bay are a great place for fishing. Lyme Regis is an attractive seaside resort which enjoys a dramatic setting with high cliffs, landslips and handsome harbour, known as The Cobb. Both Lyme Regis and Charmouth are renowned for their prehistoric fossils which are displayed in the local museum and on sale in the fossil shops. Local pub serving good food 250 yards.£70From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Poole, EnglandBaywell House is a great pet friendly holiday home set in a residential area just half a mile from Hamworthy beach and just over a mile from Poole’s historic quayside and bustling town. With two bedrooms, a modern stylish bathroom on the first floor along with a separate sitting room, dining room and kitchen provide comfy accommodation for four guests and their four-legged companions. Outside you will find an enclosed garden, sitting out area and garden furniture.
This home is perfectly located within Poole, situated just a short walk from the beautiful Poole Quay and Britain’s largest natural harbour, where you can do a variety of water sports. There are several waterfront cafés and bars where you can enjoy a drink while watching the boats leaving the harbour.
Nearby is Sandbanks Beach well known for its beautiful golden sands and clear waters, as well as its amazing homes. Take a boat trip to Brownsea Island with its variety of wildlife, and maybe you will be able to catch a glimpse of the red squirrels who live here. Another popular attraction is to take the chain ferry across to Studland where you can then explore further down the Jurassic Coast, where it would be well worth a visit to Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. You can also visit the charming village of Corfe Castle, home to the ruins of a thousand-year-old castle.£65From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Bridport, EnglandThe Coach House Retreat is a loving converted coach house nestled at the heart of Burton Bradstock a truly traditional Dorset coastal village, with its picture postcard cottages, traditional village inns, Village shop and a cliff top restaurant. Did we mention its also just a 15-minute stroll to the glorious Hive Beach, just a small stretch of the Jurassic Coastline and home to a wonderful beach front Café. Having been lovingly renovated, this charming holiday home offers all the creature comforts you would expect from a modern, luxury holiday home. With three beautifully appointed bedrooms and a large open plan living space this holiday home is just perfect for friends and family to enjoy a fabulous break in this wonderful part of Dorset.
Stunning countryside walks and miles of coastline to explore you won’t need to use the car, however just over 2 miles away is the pretty Georgian town of Bridport with a wide variety of independent shops, cafés and pubs, it’s well worth a visit. Other places to visit include the pretty harbour of West Bay or why not reach new heights and climb Golden Cap, Dorset’s highest point and marvel at the stunning coastal views. If that all sounds a little tiring, so why not just simply relax at the Coach House Retreat and enjoy good conversation with some great local food and drink. Beach ¾ mile. Shop 350 yards, pub 50 yards and restaurant ½ mile.
Coach House Retreat can booked together with The Retreat (M555306) to accommodate up 17 guests.£125From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Bridport, EnglandLying in the charming village of Bothenhampton, Woodbrook Cottage encapsulates that perfect combination of a tranquil rural setting close to a stunning coastline. At the cottage, you can rest and unwind as you look out across the peaceful countryside and its abundance of wildlife.
Woodbrook is a lovely, detached cottage built in 2002 by local builders using original Bothenhampton stone. The cottage incorporates wonderful features including a delightful shepherd’s hut outside, a 4-poster bed, and a cosy wood burner. The well-equipped kitchen and dining room combine a large original 19th Century farmhouse table, American style fridge/freezer and tall larder fridge, and ample cutlery and crockery alongside two dishwashers to create the perfect hassle-free space to host family gatherings or reunions amongst friends.
Featuring coastal influences throughout to reflect the wonderful location of the cottage, the rooms are tastefully decorated in cornflour white to combine a feeling of calm and freshness. Original paintings from local artists showcase the stunning area, and Californian artworks provide pops of colour. Throughout the cottage, you’ll find statement pieces such as the 4-poster bed, antique French bed and armoire, and featured alongside these is bespoke furniture to ensure your stay is perfectly comfortable and just right. With the owners located nearby, you have the reassurance that they are on hand to assist if you need, whilst retaining your privacy to enjoy your peaceful holiday.
After a day exploring the stunning World Heritage Jurassic Coast or strolling through the gorgeous countryside, chat and relax in the sitting room on comfortable leather sofas with warm light provided by the wood burner, chandeliers, and floor lamps. From here you can look out through the French doors leading to the private patio. In this outdoor area, you can sit back and relax on the finest quality, sustainably sourced teak furniture. Alternatively, you can savour a moment of calm and reflection in the handcrafted shepherd’s hut for two, which has been affectionately nicknamed the Tea Junction.
Woodbrook Cottage provides the perfect holiday base for experiencing the beauty and unique energy of Dorset. There’s something for everyone from wandering among the stalls at Bridport’s markets, walking the famous South West Coast Path, swimming in the sea, fishing and crabbing at the harbour, and fossil hunting at nearby Charmouth. The area is rich in history and culture as exemplified by the local festivals, Iron Age hill forts, Bronze Age barrows, and the only thatched brewery which is nearby for you to visit. There is also a thriving local food and drinks scene which boasts a variety of award-winning dishes and drinks for you to savour and enjoy. For thrill-seekers jump aboard the Rib Charter boats or swing through the treetops at the Tunnel, Charmouth. There’s so much to explore from the local harbours and nearby Chesil Beach to the famous Cobb at Lyme Regis, and the renowned Abbotsbury Swannery and Sub-Tropical Gardens. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, now part of the National Landscapes, is truly unforgettable and Woodbrook Cottage is the perfect location to create memories to last a lifetime.£115From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Weymouth, EnglandWelcome to Gwen’s House, this well presented terraced house, located within walking distance of award winning sandy beaches. Entering the property, the living room is well positioned at the front of the property with comfy sofas and Smart TV, the dining room is at the rear of the property with access directly on to the well equipped kitchen with electric oven, gas hob, fridge, microwave and washing machine. The family bathroom is located at the rear of the property on the ground floor with bath, shower cubicle, W/C and basin. The rear door from the kitchen leads you into the courtyard garden where you will find outdoor furniture to relax after a day exploring. Upstairs there are two bedrooms, one with a double bed and bunk beds and the other bedroom offering a double bed. The perfect location to enjoy Weymouth’s beach, historic harbour, shops, and many family attractions.
The home of the 2012 Olympic sailing academy is located less than 10 minutes away here you try your hand at many different water sports. For the walkers among us, you have the pick of many miles of coastal walks, on the famous Jurassic Coastline taking in the sites such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Do not forget the camera on this trip. Chesil beach and Portland are a short distance away, here you can explore many small coves perfect for swimming or relaxing on a sunny day. If you are arriving by train, Weymouth train station is located 3-minute walk from the property, this is the perfect place to jump on and explore further afield. Please be aware parking for this property is charged at £5.00 per day for a permit. Purchased via the owner. However local council carparks are less than a 5-minute walk away and are charged daily. Beach ¼ mile. Pub and restaurant ¼ mile.£69From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Bournemouth, EnglandCoastal Dream is a delightful, light and airy, single-storey detached bungalow located in a quiet residential cul-de-sac, near Christchurch and less than a mile from the sea at Mudeford. Perfect for couples, or friends and family holidaying together, and dogs are welcome too, guests will find plenty to do. Coastal Dream enjoys an enclosed lawned garden with patio and private parking for two cars, it is attractively decorated with modern furnishings offering a comfortable stay.
Mudeford itself is a charming village, Mudeford Quay, which is a former fishing village and now a suburb of the borough of Christchurch, is the entrance to Christchurch harbour and offers spectacular views out to sea, with local shops, pubs and restaurants all set in a pretty harbour area. Avon and Friars Cliffe beaches are less than one mile away, offering golden stretches of sand lined with traditional style beach huts, and is an ideal place for cycling, exploring the beaches and dog walking too, with the delightful, scenic views. Why not jump on the local ferry that takes you from Mudeford Quay across to Hengistbury Head, which is a fascinating place for its wide variety of wildlife habitats, archaeology, geology and has long sandy beaches - a perfect place to go on a sunny day.
Located within easy reach, just 15 minutes away, you also have the New Forest National Park, which is a must for anyone visiting this area for beautiful scenic walks, and to see the New Forest ponies roaming free. Bournemouth is just along the coast with great shops and beaches, as is Poole with its large natural harbour. Further afield to the west is the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline, with Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Explore the Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey on a day trip from Poole harbour or the Isle of Wight from Lymington. The medieval city of Salisbury and its cathedral, maritime Southampton, Stonehenge, Marwell Zoo, Monkey World, the Tank Museum, Exbury Gardens, Peppa Pig World, Winchester cathedral, Beaulieu Museum and Exbury Gardens are just a few of the places you can also visit from Coastal Dream. Other activities nearby include, horse riding, rambling, fishing, cycling, watersports, golf, swimming and browsing the art work at the local galleries. Beach 1 mile. Shop 500 yards, pub and restaurant ½ mile.£96From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Swanage, EnglandSweet Pea Cottage is a charming Grade II listed Purbeck stone character cottage, that dates back to the early 1800s. This semi-detached property has been renovated and thoughtfully decorated using natural local materials such as Purbeck flagstones and lime mortar for the walls. The cottage is set in the private Encombe Estate within the delightful hamlet of Kingston, opposite the historic church, and just 100 yards away from the pretty local pub and restaurant which has a large garden boasting far reaching views over the countryside to Corfe Castle and beyond.
Sweet Pea Cottage is a pretty, comfortable and cosy home, making it an ideal getaway for couples or small families, with an extensive shared lawned garden, which offers distant views of grazing cattle. The cottage has been tastefully furnished and co-ordinated with soft colours, and has an open plan living space with a feature inglenook fireplace and wood burner. There are two sumptuous bedrooms which are en-suite and enjoy splendid views over the surrounding countryside. The owner provides Cath Kidston and The White Company bed linen and towels.
This is the ideal base for exploring the Dorset Heritage Coastline and countryside. There is a wealth of attractions nearby including the National Trust Corfe Castle, Arne Nature Reserve, Lulworth Castle, The Blue Pool, Lulworth Cove, Dorset Waterpark, the Jurassic Coast and the beaches at Studland, Swanage and Kimmeridge Bay. Further afield you will find Dulston Country Park, Monkey World, Bovington Tank Museum, and Fossil Forest, which takes you back 135 million years. The market towns of Wareham and Dorchester are both within easy driving distance. Bournemouth and Poole are just 25 miles away. Shop 1 mile, pub and restaurant 100 yards.£84From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Lyme Regis, EnglandAn idyllic holiday home lying at the heart of Lyme Regis in Dorset. Expansive sea views. Character features. Close to beach. Private terrace. Axminster 5.5 miles; Bridport 9.6 miles; Sidmouth 15.5 miles.£204From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
