Holiday Cottages in Dorset
Dorset combines beautiful countryside, historic towns and villages, sandy beaches and one of Britain's most spectacular stretches of coastline.
The Jurassic Coast runs along the county's southern coastline, offering dramatic cliffs, beaches, fossils and fascinating geology. Inland, the Dorset Downs, rolling countryside and historic villages provide a quieter setting for walking, cycling and exploring.
From the historic streets of Dorchester and Shaftesbury to the coastal scenery around Lyme Regis, Bridport, Weymouth, Swanage and Studland, there's plenty to discover.
Premier Cottages has luxury holiday cottages in different parts of Dorset, giving you the freedom to choose the setting and accommodation that best suits your stay.
Luxury Self-Catering Cottages in Dorset
A self-catering cottage gives you the freedom and privacy to enjoy Dorset at your own pace. Head out for a day exploring the coast, return after a countryside walk or simply stay in and enjoy your cottage.
Our collection includes properties of different sizes, from smaller cottages suitable for couples to larger accommodation for families and groups.
Depending on the property, you may also find features including swimming pools, private hot tubs, games rooms, enclosed gardens and outdoor space.
Cottages for Couples in Dorset
Dorset makes a lovely destination for a romantic break, with quiet countryside, dramatic coastline, historic villages and plenty of opportunities to enjoy walks, good food and time together.
Our collection includes cottages suitable for couples, offering peaceful settings and comfortable accommodation from which to explore the county.
Spend the day walking the coast, exploring historic towns or visiting gardens and attractions before returning to your own private space for a relaxing evening.
Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply looking for time away together, a luxury cottage provides the freedom and privacy to enjoy your Dorset escape.
Family-Friendly Cottages in Dorset
Dorset is an excellent destination for family holidays, with beaches, fossils, wildlife, historic attractions and outdoor activities all within easy reach.
Our collection includes family-friendly cottages, with some properties offering facilities such as swimming pools, gardens and space for children to enjoy themselves.
The Jurassic Coast is especially good for family days out, with beaches, fossil hunting and coastal walks, while attractions such as Monkey World, the Tank Museum and other family attractions provide alternatives when you want a break from the beach.
Large Holiday Cottages in Dorset
Planning a holiday with extended family or friends? Our collection includes larger Dorset cottages where groups can stay together while enjoying plenty of space.
Look for properties with generous living areas, large kitchens and dining spaces, gardens and additional facilities such as swimming pools or hot tubs.
Some larger properties also allow multiple accommodation units to be combined, providing flexibility for family gatherings and group celebrations.
Coastal Cottages in Dorset
Dorset's coastline is one of its greatest attractions, with the Jurassic Coast stretching for around 95 miles from the Devon border to Studland Bay.
The coastline combines dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, sheltered coves, harbours and historic seaside towns. Lyme Regis, Bridport, Weymouth, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Swanage are among the best-known destinations, while quieter stretches of coast offer plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds.
The South West Coast Path follows much of the Dorset coastline, making a coastal cottage an excellent base for walking and exploring the surrounding landscape.
For walking inspiration, see our 8 Must-do Walking Routes on the South West Coast Path blog post, which includes the walk from Seaton to Lyme Regis and the route around St Aldhelm's Head in Dorset.
The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK's most distinctive natural landscapes.
Its cliffs preserve around 185 million years of geological history, making the coastline particularly popular with fossil hunters and anyone interested in geology. Beaches around Charmouth and Lyme Regis are famous for fossil hunting, while viewpoints and coastal paths provide spectacular scenery.
The Jurassic Coast is also an excellent destination for families, with plenty of opportunities to combine beach days, walking and fossil hunting.
Dorset's Countryside and Historic Towns
Away from the coast, Dorset offers peaceful countryside, rolling hills, wooded valleys and attractive villages.
Dorchester is the county town and has strong Roman and literary connections, while Shaftesbury is famous for Gold Hill and its picturesque setting. Sherborne is known for its abbey, castle and historic centre, while Bridport combines an old market town with easy access to the coast.
Dorset is also home to historic estates, gardens and country houses, providing plenty to explore between days outdoors.
Castles and Historic Attractions
Dorset has a long and fascinating history, with historic sites ranging from Roman settlements to medieval castles and country houses.
Corfe Castle is one of the county's most recognisable landmarks, while other attractions include Sherborne Castle, Kingston Lacy and the Hardy Monument.
For families, the Tank Museum and Monkey World offer very different experiences, while the county's museums, historic houses and archaeological sites provide plenty of options for days out.
Dorset has also provided the setting for numerous films and television programmes. Our Iconic UK Filming Locations blog post explores the Broadchurch connection with West Bay and the Dorset coast.
Dorset Food and Drink
Dorset has a strong food culture, with local produce, seafood, farm shops, country pubs and independent restaurants found throughout the county.
The coast provides plenty of fresh seafood, while inland farms and producers supply local meat, cheese, cider and other ingredients.
Staying in a self-catering cottage gives you the flexibility to explore local food shops and markets before preparing your own meals, or to enjoy Dorset's pubs and restaurants during your stay.
Dog-Friendly Cottages in Dorset
Dorset is well suited to holidays with dogs, with beaches, countryside, woodland and coastal paths providing plenty of opportunities to explore together.
A number of Premier Cottages in Dorset welcome dogs, allowing you to bring the whole family along.
Check each individual property listing for its specific dog policy, facilities and any applicable charges.
Choosing Your Luxury Cottage in Dorset
With a range of luxury cottages across Dorset, you can search according to your dates, group size, location and the facilities that matter most to you.
Looking for somewhere close to the coast? Want a swimming pool or hot tub? Need somewhere family-friendly or dog-friendly? Perhaps you're looking for a romantic cottage or a larger property where everyone can stay together.
Use the filters on this page to narrow down the collection and find the Dorset holiday cottage that's right for you.
Why Book a Premier Cottage in Dorset?
Premier Cottages is a collection of independent holiday cottage owners who share a commitment to quality. Our properties are 4 and 5 Star luxury self-catering accommodation, giving you a consistently high standard while retaining the individual character of each cottage.
When you book through Premier Cottages, you book direct with the owner. This means you can communicate with the people who know their cottage and the local area best, while enjoying the privacy, flexibility and space of a self-catering holiday.
From coastal escapes and family holidays to romantic breaks and larger group stays, discover a Dorset cottage that's right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luxury Holiday Cottages in Dorset
What areas of Dorset have holiday cottages?
Premier Cottages has luxury holiday cottages in different parts of Dorset, including properties close to the countryside and within easy reach of the Dorset coast. The collection changes as new properties join, so check the current cottages above for the latest locations.
Are Premier Cottages in Dorset luxury cottages?
Yes. Premier Cottages specialises in high-quality self-catering accommodation, with properties achieving a 4 or 5 Star grading through our quality standards. Individual cottages vary in style, facilities and setting.
Are there coastal cottages in Dorset?
Yes. Our collection includes cottages within easy reach of the Dorset coast and Jurassic Coast.
Can I find cottages near the Jurassic Coast?
Yes. Some Premier Cottages in Dorset are well placed for exploring the Jurassic Coast, its beaches, coastal paths and fossil-hunting locations. Check each property listing for its precise location and distance from the coast.
Are there family-friendly cottages in Dorset?
Yes. Our Dorset collection includes family-friendly properties, with some offering gardens, swimming pools and other facilities.
Can I find cottages with swimming pools in Dorset?
Yes. Some Premier Cottages in Dorset offer swimming pools. Depending on the property, pools may be private or shared, so check the individual cottage listing for full details.
Are there cottages with hot tubs in Dorset?
Yes. A number of Premier Cottages in Dorset have hot tubs.
Are there large cottages for groups in Dorset?
Yes. The Dorset collection includes larger properties suitable for family gatherings and holidays with friends.
Are there dog-friendly cottages in Dorset?
Yes. A number of Premier Cottages in Dorset welcome dogs.
Is Dorset good for walking holidays?
Yes. The Jurassic Coast, South West Coast Path and Dorset countryside provide extensive opportunities for walking, from shorter coastal strolls to longer hikes.
Can I book a Dorset holiday cottage direct with the owner?
Yes. Premier Cottages is a collection of independent holiday cottage owners, and properties are booked direct with the owner. This gives you the opportunity to communicate directly with the people who know the cottage and its local area best.
Find Your Luxury Holiday Cottage in Dorset
From the fossil-rich Jurassic Coast and sandy beaches to peaceful countryside and historic towns, discover a luxury holiday cottage for your next Dorset escape.
Browse our collection, choose your dates and use the filters to find the perfect cottage for your holiday.