Dog-friendly Hotels Dorset

Within 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.

Situated on a 300-acre working sheep and beef farm in the beautiful surroundings of the north west Dorset countryside, and only 5 miles south of the delightful abbey town of Sherborne, these three holiday homes offer a great location to get away from it all. The Farmhouse (UKC2911), which sleeps up to twelve guests, and the smaller wing of the property, Churchill Cottage (ref DQR), which sleeps six guests, have an interconnecting door allowing for both to be booked together (sleeping 18 guests) or independently. Standing detached is The Stables (ref DSG) which sleeps five guests.

The Farmhouse and Churchill Cottage have interesting historical connections, having once been owned by John Churchill, the Duke of Marlborough and the highwayman John Clavell respectively. The Farmhouse offers its own games room with a pool table, and a dining area seating 18, although all three properties have use of a shared outside games room. The properties also have use of the coarse fishing lake, 100 yards away.

The properties are ideal for a family or groups who might wish to get away from it all, and their location lends itself for some fine country walking and cycling. Visit Sherborne with its abbey, castle, fine character shops, cafés and inns. Within easy driving there are also many historic houses, such as Montacute House and Gardens and Stourhead House and Gardens to name just two. For family outings Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum and the Haynes Motor Museum, with its fascinating classical car collection, are worth a visit, and slightly further afield, the ever popular Longleat House and Safari Park is great for a day out.

The south coast resorts of Weymouth, West Bay and Lyme Regis, on the famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast, beckon, with plenty of water activities to enjoy, or going inland to south Somerset, one can take in the Clarks Village Outlet, Glastonbury Tor and the very popular Roman city of Bath with its many tourist attractions. Nearby, visit Cerne Abbas, famed for its chalk giant on the hillside, and just beyond is Dorchester, the county town with its many museums. Shop, pub and restaurant 3 miles.
Churchill Cottage (ref DQR), The Stables (ref DSG) and The Farmhouse (ref UKC2911) can be booked together to accommodate up to 23 guests.

Escape to Wylye Croft: Your Perfect Pet-Friendly Holiday Retreat in Martinstown near Dorchester Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Martinstown, Wylye Croft stands as a quintessential haven for those seeking a tranquil and pet-friendly escape. This enchanting holiday let, a charming five-bedroom home, beckons travellers with the promise of unforgettable memories and breathtaking countryside views. With its impressive vaulted open-plan living area, a wealth of modern amenities, and a strategic location in the heart of Dorset, Wylye Croft is the ideal destination for your next multi-generational getaway.
As you approach Wylye Croft, the verdant beauty of the surrounding countryside welcomes you, setting the stage for an exceptional retreat. This spacious home effortlessly accommodates up to ten guests and their four-legged friends, ensuring that everyone in your party can experience the joy of the countryside together. The heart of Wylye Croft is undoubtedly its vaulted open-plan living, kitchen, and dining area. This airy and luminous space, framed by large windows, provides an unrivalled panoramic view of the rolling hills and meadows that Dorset is renowned for. Picture-perfect sunrises and sunsets become part of your daily routine as you sip your morning coffee or enjoy a delicious meal prepared in the modern, well-equipped kitchen. For those moments when you crave a bit of downtime or need to catch up on your favourite shows, Wylye Croft offers a separate sitting room equipped with a Smart TV. The property features three bathrooms, each designed to offer comfort and convenience, ensuring that everyone can freshen up and prepare for the day’s adventures without any hassle. The attention to detail in these bathrooms is emblematic of Wylye Croft’s commitment to providing a luxurious and welcoming experience for guests.
Outside, the magic of Wylye Croft continues with its beautiful grounds and terrace. The spacious terrace, complete with outdoor seating, a BBQ, and a pizza oven, invites you to dine alfresco while soaking in the breathtaking countryside vista that stretches before you. It’s the perfect setting for memorable family gatherings, complete with the laughter of loved ones and the delicious aroma of freshly baked pizzas.
But Wylye Croft is more than just a luxurious holiday let; it’s a gateway to some of Dorset’s most enchanting day trips and places of interest. Just a short drive away lies the historic town of Dorchester, where you can explore the fascinating Dinosaur Museum, and the picturesque Maiden Castle, or immerse yourself in Thomas Hardy’s literary world at the Hardy’s Cottage. Alternatively, venture further afield to the stunning Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and fossil-rich beaches. Whether you’re seeking relaxation and serenity or a base for exciting day trips, Wylye Croft has it all. Its pet-friendly policy ensures that every member of your family can join in the fun, and its superb facilities promise comfort and convenience. For those looking to create cherished memories in the heart of Dorset’s countryside, Wylye Croft is the ultimate choice for a multi-generational retreat. Beach 8 miles. Pub and restaurant ¾ mile.

Foxglove is the WOW factor, this brand new larger than standard shepherds hut has had no expense spared when building. From the moment you see it to the first step it you will be amazed. Taking the short walk from the carpark through the garden you are welcomed to a stunning garden space with bench seat, BBQ/Fire pit and sail to keep you cool on those stunning summer days. 3 Steps directly leads you into the shepherds hut where you will find a fitted kitchen with fridge, oven with electric hob, and breakfast bar. The seating area is well positioned directly in front of the electric wood burner with views across the open countryside.
The bedroom area offers a raised king-size bed and the shower room is located at the rear here you have a cubicle shower, toilet, basin and Heated towel rail. The Wessex Ridgeway Trail nearby is a magnificent ridge-top route crossing Dorset’s rural heartland and is suitable for walking and cycling. The local pub is a 5-minute walk from Foxglove, which is open Thursday until Sunday lunchtime. There are also a variety of excellent pubs within a short drive of the property. There are many places to visit nearby in Blandford, there is the Royal Signals Museum, The Blandford Fashion Museum and a brewery which offers tours, as well as local shops, cafés and restaurants. There is a variety of National Trust sites within easy reach, including Kingston Lacy House, Badbury Rings, Hod Hill, Hardy’s Cottage and the Cerne Abbas Giant. You can explore the New Forest National Park with its free roaming ponies and visit Cranborne Chase with its diverse landscape.
You can head towards the coast to visit the scenic Jurassic Coast and spend the day wandering the cliffs along Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. The coast is a 35-minute drive. The whole family can enjoy a day at the Dorset Heavy Horse Farm, where you take have a horse drawn carriage ride, feed the farm animals or ride the ponies. Further afield, you can explore Shaftesbury, Poole, Bournemouth, Weymouth and Dorchester. More activities in the area include walking or cycling along the North Dorset Trailway or golf at nearby Ashley Wood. More exhilarating sports can be found at Gorcombe Extreme Sports, which has an assault course, archery, go karting and paintballing. Shop 2 miles, pub 880 yards (open Thurs-Sun).

A classic modernised Victorian villa, full of open spaces and ideal for large group bookings such as stag and hen parties. This large house, full of exciting features, gives the perfect solution for families and friends to gather together and enjoy a fabulous holiday by the sea. The Victorian villa is situated in its own grounds and comfortably sleeps up to twenty six guests over three.
Just 5 minutes’ walk away from the award winning family friendly beach at Bournemouth and Boscombe, the house is also just 2 minutes away from the beautiful Boscombe Chine Gardens with their children’s play areas, a mini golf course, a basketball court, a nature trail and a public art arena. The property itself is light and spacious, with charming period Victorian touches and plenty of modern facilities, with a lovely warm and quality feel. An elegant winding staircase in the entrance hall reveals stained glass windows and there are solid doors, attractive sash windows and tiled cast-iron fireplaces in many of the bedrooms. There is ample parking for seven cars and plenty of free-parking in the road. An enclosed garden at the rear of the property is a great place for al fresco dining and relaxing. The property also has its own full-size American pool table.
Only 1 mile from the town centre of Bournemouth, an area which has become famous for its seaside water sports. The Coastal Activity Park at Boscombe Beach offers over twenty activities on the sea and sand, so there is always plenty to do for any type of party group and for all ages There are the traditional bucket-and-spade and deck-chair delights as Bournemouth Bay offers over 7 miles of golden sands. A trip on the Land Train from Boscombe to Bournemouth Pier is a must, as there is some wonderful cliff to views and plenty of choice to enjoy stop-offs in the tea rooms, ice cream parlour’s, cafés, traditional pubs and fish restaurants. Then, of course, there is the famous Bournemouth night life, with streets full of restaurants, wine bars, cocktail bars, themed pubs and some amazing night clubs, so you can feast and party through the night! Beach 1 mile.

The Retreat is a semi-detached, Grade II listed, stunning five bedroom country house nestled at the heart of the pretty Dorset Village of Burton Bradstock. Set just ½ mile from Hive Beach, on the world heritage Jurassic Coast, it’s perfectly located between Weymouth and Lyme Regis. The house itself is perfect for large family groups with stylish and flexible accommodation over three floors. The social hub is a large kitchen/dining room and is perfect to relax, cook and enjoy each other’s company. The stylishly furnished living room is the perfect space in which to relax after a busy day exploring.
The village of Burton Bradstock is a beautiful place to explore, with village inns, a restaurant and a superb café directly on Hive Beach. A little further afield is the harbour settlement of West Bay which is a spectacular place to while away a few hours. The pretty harbour has a back drop of stunning sandstone cliffs and beautiful beaches.
The Market towns of Dorchester and Bridport are a short drive away and offer a wide variety of independent shops and eateries. This luxury holiday home will have you enchanted from the moment you step inside, and will have you longing to return.
The Retreat can be booked together with Coach House Retreat (UK32202) to accommodate up to 17 guests.

A stunning shepherd’s hut nestled within the owner’s grounds in a pretty Dorset hamlet, overlooking lovely countryside and a small stream. This shepherd’s hut is perfect for an ’away from it all’ break. This peaceful village setting is an ideal location to relax and unwind for a romantic weekend away. It is also perfect to use as a base for a longer stay from which to explore this stunning county. From its picture postcard villages to the dramatic Jurassic Coastline, Dorset offers something for everyone, so whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation you are sure to find your thing.
The accommodation on offer is small yet perfectly formed, with everything you need and with its cosy seating area with wood burner (logs provided), comfy double bed and separate shower room and small kitchen to rustle up a quick lunchtime treat! There is also an outdoor bath with hot and cold running water, perfect for a bath under the stars! With a great local pub just a 1½ miles away, a good evening meal is just a short stroll away and with a hearty farmhouse breakfast available by request at the owner’s’ B & B just across the road you may never wish to leave. Beach 14 miles. Shop 1¼ miles, pub 1½ miles and restaurant 3¼ 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.

The New Inn Barn (UK31813) is a converted barn for up to six people provides excellent accommodation for families and friends who are looking to enjoy a break and get away from it all. The house has a large meadow outside, perfect for a game of football, plus your enclosed garden with a hot tub at the back. Inside, it has been decorated and equipped to a very high standard. It has two king size bedrooms, one with an en-suite and there is also a family bathroom, a wonderful well-equipped kitchen, a spacious living and dining room with large TV. There is a comfortable sofa bed in the living room which is suitable for two adults.
The New Inn Farmhouse (UKC1891) which has six bedrooms, three with en-suite facilities, two lovely reception rooms, a wonderful well-equipped kitchen, a spacious dining room with large TV, and a fantastic bright family room with stunning floor-to-ceiling doors that overlook the garden.
To make your stay that bit more special, the owners offer an in-house dining experience. Perhaps treat yourself and arrange the chef to come and cook you a delicious meal? The experience can be tailored to suit your needs, please arrange this direct with the owner. If you are not dining al fresco in the garden or in the hot tub relaxing, then there is a wealth of attractions for families to enjoy.
Within an easy drive is Longleat House and Safari Park a great day out for all. Guests can also spend some time at Stourhead House and Gardens and heading just to the other side of the abbey town of Sherborne, a favourite with everyone is the Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum, with its feature aircraft carrier deck. For lovers of vintage classic cars of a bygone day, then the Haynes Motor Museum is well worth a visit to see an array of superb classic car collections. Further inland into south Somerset, you can spend days out taking in the ever-popular Clarks Factory Village, Glastonbury and on to Cheddar Gorge and Caves. Wander into the quaint town of Shaftesbury with its famous Gold Hill, Sherborne with its wonderful shops and abbeys, or go south towards Dorchester the county town, Weymouth with its award-winning beach and seaside atmosphere and the famous Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. There are country walks locally, beautiful scenery, village pubs to wine and dine in, golf and many historic houses in the area, and on your return, relax and unwind in the hot tub, have a barbecue or amble down to the nearby village pub. Shop ½ mile, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate 22 guests.

This beautiful Victorian house, situated in 30-acre grounds, and is a small vineyard, close to the Georgian market town of Blandford, makes a great home from home for families or groups to enjoy Dorset. The property offers a small, outdoor heated swimming pool, a hot tub for 6 and a tennis court to enjoy at your leisure. Downward Vineyard has eight spacious bedrooms, all with TVs and three with en-suite facilities, and also boasts two wonderful living rooms, both leading into the large conservatory. There is also a large games room with a pool table and table football for all to enjoy, or why not go outside and play croquet in the garden?
Set in 30 acres of what used to be a vineyard, you can wander around the grounds, relax in the pool or hot tub, burn off some energy on the tennis court or have a barbecue for all to enjoy. Ashley Wood 18 hole golf course is accessible along a bridle way from within the grounds or would be a 2-minute drive from the property. Within easy driving, you can exploring Shaftesbury, Wimborne, Poole, Bournemouth, Dorchester, Weymouth and Portland, making Downwood Vineyard a good base for taking in the best the county has to offer. Slightly further afield you can visit the popular Isle of Purbeck, with its rugged and picturesque coastline, or take a ride on the Swanage Steam Railway, with its 6 miles of track going through scenic Dorset countryside. There are many family attractions nearby, enjoy a day at Monkey World, the Bovington Tank Museum, historic houses such as Kingston Lacy, Milton Abbey and Althelhampton, or the sandy beaches at Sandbanks, Bournemouth, Weymouth and Poole. Beach 18 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.