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.
Bettiscombe, England
4.00Marshwood Manor offers excellent accommodation and facilities in a tranquil rural setting, surrounded by Dorset’s loveliest countryside, and only 5 miles from the unspoilt beaches and golden sandstone cliffs of the coastline. The estate’s 10-acres of lawn, garden, pasture and woodland offer plenty of room for adults to stroll and children to play.
The properties have been carefully formed from a fine original range of buildings next to the manor house and may be booked together to accommodate larger groups holidaying together (property refs DEY, DFA, DEX, DUS, DWS and UK41304). Previously filmed for BBC television, all retain character and charm, whilst offering comfortable holiday accommodation fitted to a high standard throughout. Each has its own garden or courtyard with furniture, and all enjoy shared use of the extensive gardens and grounds. There is a large lounge bar/games area with table tennis. Approached along a private drive and set well back from the road, the cottages are perfectly positioned for enjoying this delightful corner of Dorset.
There is a variety of beautiful beaches, both sand and pebble, within a five to ten mile radius, including those at Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Seatown, Eype, West Bay and Burton Bradstock. Fossil-rich cliffs define this dramatic stretch of coastline, which encompasses the 2,000-acre National Trust estate of Golden Cap. This is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and superb walking country, both on the rolling chalk hills overlooking fertile inland valleys and on the coastal footpaths offering spectacular clifftop views. It is also an area full of romance and history, with three ancient hill forts and the house and gardens of Forde Abbey all nearby.
A range of attractions is on offer in nearby country towns. Lyme Regis is a pretty seaside resort, its elegant colour-washed buildings and promenade lining a handsome harbour. Motor boats can be hired and there are fishing trips, a sailing school and a windsurfing school. Bridport is a thriving market town, featured on TV’s River Cottage, the Port Bredy of Hardy’s novels, offering a good choice of shops, inns, restaurants, an arts centre and a sports centre with indoor pool. The coastline is excellent for sea fishing and inland waters offer good coarse fishing. Golfers will find courses at Lyme Regis and West Bay and there is also horse riding nearby within 5 miles. Caterers are available locally. The local shop at Marshwood and two charming thatched country pubs are within a short drive. Shops 2 miles.£155From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & book
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Salwayash, England 5.00Set in beautiful west Dorset countryside, just a short distance from the market town of Bridport, West Bay (scene of the TV series Broadchurch) on the World Heritage Jurassic Coast and the popular seaside resort of Lyme Regis, this single-storey, terrace barn conversion, for two, is excellent holiday accommodation for those wishing to enjoy some wonderful scenic coast or country walking, perhaps with the dog. The dramatic coastline stretches from Lyme Regis, all the way to Weymouth and Portland, taking in the famous Chesil Beach and Golden Cap, and has some superb little seaside resorts to explore. Inland, one will find much to enjoy ranging from Forde Abbey and Gardens, Broadwindsor Craft Centre and just over the border in Somerset, Barrington Court and Montacute House (both NT), Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum and the Haynes Classic Motor Museum. Beach 5 miles. Shop 1½ miles, pub and restaurant ½ mile.£55From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Bridport, England 5.00This delightful, period, former Coach House, set in a secluded village location, has been refurbished to a high standard. It offers spacious, detached holiday accommodation and is situated in the historic, popular village of Chideock - ½ mile from the World Heritage Coast between Bridport and Lyme Regis. The village boasts a post office, shop and two excellent pubs. Good restaurants, street markets and shops within a few minutes’ drive at Bridport, Charmouth, West Bay and Lyme Regis. Visitors can wander down to the beach at Seatown and enjoy the famous Anchor Pub, swimming, fossil hunting and superb, scenic coastal walking. Shops ¼ mile.£108From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
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.£308From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Mangerton, England 5.00Welcome to Regina Cottage, a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Mangerton, Dorset. Immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings of this quaint village, where time seems to slow down, and every moment is an opportunity for relaxation and exploration.
Mangerton is a hidden gem, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Begin your journey by strolling through the winding lanes lined with picturesque cottages, each telling a story of the village’s rich heritage. The vibrant local community welcomes visitors with open arms, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel like a part of the family. For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding countryside provides an abundance of scenic walks and hiking trails. Explore the rolling hills and meandering paths that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, allowing you to soak in the panoramic vistas of the Dorset landscape. Capture the essence of the season as you wander through fields adorned with wildflowers or experience the crunch of leaves beneath your feet in the crisp winter air.
Mangerton is also a gateway to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and fossil-rich beaches. Spend a day exploring the dramatic coastline, discovering ancient rock formations and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the awe-inspiring moments along the way. For those seeking a taste of local culture, Mangerton offers a variety of charming pubs and eateries, where you can savour traditional Dorset fare and mingle with friendly locals. Whether you’re enjoying a pint by the fireplace or savouring a hearty meal, you’ll find a warm welcome and a genuine sense of community.
Regina Cottage is your gateway to the enchanting experiences Mangerton has to offer. Embrace the holiday spirit as you create lasting memories in this picturesque Dorset village, where every day brings new adventures and the promise of relaxation. Welcome to the magic of Mangerton – your perfect holiday destination.£126From 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
Weymouth, EnglandMarkham House is a wonderful modern holiday home offering lovely accommodation that is perfectly situated to explore this delightful part of Dorset. It is situated just over a mile from Weymouth’s golden sandy beaches and its pretty harbour; dotted with pubs restaurants and independent shops. This accommodation is perfect for couples or families, offering a cosy lounge and light and airy kitchen diner. From there, patio doors lead you onto the patio and into a south-facing secure garden with enough space for the kids to burn off energy or simply a place to relax with a drink or good book, after a day exploring Weymouth and the surrounding areas. It sleeps five in three bedrooms upstairs, with one single, one twin, a king-size ensuite and a separate family bathroom. There is also off-road parking for two cars.
This is an excellent location to enjoy Weymouth’s beach, harbour, shops, and many family attractions whether you choose to walk, catch a bus at the bottom of the road or decide to drive. The Rodwell Trail is a sixteen-minute walk away, offering a relatively flat path to Sandsfoot Castle and gardens and onto Portland Harbour. Weymouth is the perfect holiday destination year-round offering activities at the seaside or in the countryside, not to mention its history.
Spend a long weekend, a week or even longer and we’re sure you’ll want to come back and spend more time. There’s world-famous sailing at the National Sailing Academy, which was home to the 2012 sailing Olympics, as well as coastal walks along Chesil Beach and Portland which are all part of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. The property is within easy driving distance of Dorchester, Bridport, and Abbotsbury, with its swannery and tropical gardens. With so many places to discover locally, you may not venture far, however, a little further afield, you will find plenty of places to explore from family fun at Dorset Adventure Park or the wonders of the New Forest National Park.
Whatever your reason for choosing Markham House, we are certain it will have you longing to return.£79From 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.£114From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Bournemouth, EnglandWoodside is a wonderful property located in the peaceful village of Mudeford and from here it is only a short walk to the Quay and beach. Mudeford Wood is just a stones throw away and ideal for stroll along the stream (River Mude) or walking dogs, with a field to one side of the wood leading to the community centre. The property is a bungalow, with everything on the ground floor. There are three bedrooms all with kingsize beds, but each bed is a zip and link so can be made up as twin beds (standard configuration is 2 doubles & 2 singles). There is an open plan kitchen and dining room which leads into the living room with a large smart TV to watch your favourite shows and movies. There is one bathroom with a shower in the room.
Outside there is the enclosed patio area with seating for you to enjoy sitting outside. Mudeford is a charming village with local shops, pubs and a selection of restaurants which look out over Mudeford Quay and the pretty harbour area. You can get a boat across the water to Hengistbury Head and from here another ferry can take you up the river to Christchurch Quey and the town during the summer months.
Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve is home to many plants, birds and insects. Mudeford Quay is a popular area for watersports such as sailing and windsurfing, or you can have a go at crabbing to see how many you can catch. The wetland terrain of Stanpit Marsh is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is home to a great number of native birds. Christchurch is within easy reach of Woodside with its weekly market, selection of high street shops, eateries and a harbour to wander around. The Regent Centre in Christchurch holds a variety of shows across the year which are worth watching. There are many places worth a visit during your stay, including the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Further afield you can visit Swanage, Corfe Castle, Stonehenge, Marwell Zoo, Monkey World, The Tank Museum, Peppa Pig World, Beaulieu Museum and so much more.£84From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
Bridport, EnglandOld Dairy Cottage is located just 5 miles from the stunning Jurassic Coast and South West Coastal Path and is an ideal one bedroom holiday home retreat for keen walkers and nature lovers. It is excellent holiday accommodation for those wishing to enjoy some wonderful scenic coast or country walking, perhaps with the dog. It’s one of six homes surrounding a former farmyard which has been transformed with lawns, trees and perennials. This cosy and characterful property enjoys views across a wild valley, perfect for guests in search of a relaxing break. Its proximity to the local village pub, ¼ mile, shop, 1½ miles and coast just 5 miles, makes it an enviable location.
As you enter through the stable door, the hallway leads to a large open plan kitchen and living space which is colourful and comfortably furnished with two sofas, one of which is a double sofa bed and can accommodate an extra two guests. There is also a 32” Smart TV with a DVD player, an electric wood burner and a dining table. A high ceiling and exposed beams give a bright and spacious feel, with cosy sofas to curl up on after a long day of exploring. The well-equipped kitchen ensures you have everything you need if you fancy some home cooking, the shower room is also on this level, there is one step up from the hallway leading to the inviting double bedroom which has a lovely view out over the garden. From the living area there is a peaceful rear, enclosed terrace and small lawn, with beautiful views across the valley, a haven for birds and butterflies, there is a small shallow unfenced pond in the garden so children should be supervised.
Set in beautiful west Dorset countryside, just a short distance from the market town of Bridport, West Bay (scene of the TV series Broadchurch) on the World Heritage Jurassic Coast and the popular seaside resort of Lyme Regis. The village of Salwayash is a perfect base from which to explore the stunning Jurassic coastline, which offers endless different walks and hiking routes. The popular and lively town of Bridport is only 3 miles away, famous for its many different markets which sell delicious local produce. The bustling harbour town of West Bay is also close by, just 5 miles away. The dramatic coastline stretches from Lyme Regis, all the way to Weymouth and Portland, taking in the famous Chesil Beach and Golden Cap, and has some superb little seaside resorts to explore. Inland there is much to enjoy, ranging from Forde Abbey and Gardens, Broadwindsor Craft Centre and just over the border in Somerset, Barrington Court and Montacute House (both National Trust), Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum and the Haynes Classic Motor Museum. Beach 5 miles. Shop 1½ miles, pub and restaurant ½ mile.£65From price per night based on 7 night stayExplore & bookPrice Match GuaranteeDogs Stay Free
