Dog-friendly Hotels Dorset

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, 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.

This lovely, semi-detached barn conversion for two is tucked away in the Dorset Hills in west Dorset, and on the edge of the south Somerset border. It is an excellent holiday home in which to enjoy this wonderful area and unwind. There is superb scenic country walking, for you and your dogs, a lovely Dorset village on the doorstep and village pubs to wine and dine in. Explore the famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast and Chesil Beach, taking in Weymouth, West Bay (scene of the TV series ’Broadchurch’), Bridport, Charmouth and the jewel in the crown of west Dorset, the ever popular Lyme Regis. Visit nearby Forde Abbey and Gardens and the quaint town of Beaminster, or venture inland and explore south Somerset. Beach 11 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub 1½ miles and restaurant 4 miles.

This comfortable and welcoming, thatched, detached former farmhouse dates back to 1750, and has many features such as beams, low lintels and sloping floors. The main house has two living rooms and a dining room which seats up to 18. There is also an indoor swimming pool and a games room, making it ideal for family gatherings and celebrations. The old creamery, located in a separate building next to the main house, has been converted into an annexe with an additional two en-suite bedrooms, and still has the exposed stone walls and floors! From the farmhouse gardens there are far-reaching views over countryside and rolling hills and it is conveniently located for trips to Lyme Regis, West Bay and Bridport. There is a local bus service for those wishing to explore the area without using the car. Park Farmhouse is located on the coast road in the heart of the charming historic village of Chideock with a pub and restaurant a couple of doors away. Julia Bradbury’s ‘Best Walks With A View’ includes a walk which encircles Park Farmhouse. A popular farm shop is about a mile away with outside seating with glorious views over the National Trust land and the famous Golden Cap which is the highest point on the south coast!

Steeped in history, Chideock was recorded in the Domesday Book as Cidihoc. In 1379-80, John de Chideock, a manorial lord, built Chideock Castle, just north of the village. During the Middle Ages, ownership passed to the Catholic Arundell family, who used it to provide refuge for priests and loyal followers during subsequent persecution. In 1802 the Arundells were succeeded by the Weld family of Lulworth Castle who in 1810, built Chideock Manor. Park Farmhouse once served the occupants of the manor for many years with cream from the creamery.

The stunning and dramatic Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site covering 96 miles of coastline and is less than a mile away at Seatown. It is also known for its fossil hunting. The beaches of West Bay and Lyme Regis have a traditional feel with gift shops, tea rooms, inns and restaurants. Lyme Regis with The Cobb and harbour was the setting for the filming of The French Lieutenant’s Woman. More recently, Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ and Thomas Hardy’s ‘Far from The Madding Crowd’ were both filmed here. Renowned TV chef Mark Hix has an Oyster and Fish House in Lyme Regis. There are other pretty villages such as Beer and Branscombe within easy reach or you may wish to visit the numerous stately homes and gardens in the area. You can also discover Dorset’s sandy bays, rugged hill top walks and tiny coves. Fishing is available locally. Beach ¾ mile. Shop 240 yards, pub and restaurant 50 yards.