Dorset Vacation Rentals

On the English Channel's coast and just east of Devon, you'll find the small county of Dorset. The area is popular with visitors, with no shortage of cottage rentals. On the Dorset coast, you'll find a mixture of large Victorian family properties and modern apartment blocks with sea views, and inland, you'll find traditional chocolate-box style Dorset country cottages. All make the ideal base for exploring the county.

How to get to Dorset

Dorset is served by Bournemouth International Airport, but most visitors will probably find it more convenient to fly into other nearby airports that offer more international routes, such as Bristol or London. From there, you can reach Dorset vacation homes easily with public transport. However, it’s much more advisable to book a hire car and drive yourself, if only because Dorset is largely rural and you’ll need your own vehicle to see the majority of the attractions in the area.

Sample Delicious Local Seafood, Cakes, and More

Dorset's coastal location guarantees a great selection of locally caught shrimp, fish, and lobster in the region's pubs and restaurants. The region's culinary highlights include fish and chips, best enjoyed in the open air on the harbourside at Weymouth, or afternoon tea at 1930s-style Steam Vintage Tea Rooms in Bournemouth.

Beaches and Fossil Hunting – What More Could the Kids Ask For?

Dorset is home to some of the UK's best beaches, perfect destinations for family days out. Bournemouth's beaches, the most popular, boast showers, watersport opportunities, and eateries. If you'd prefer to head off the beaten track, head to Eypemouth Beach. This hidden gem is excellent for surfing and beachcombing, and active types will love hiking the cliff paths.

The Dorset area sits on the Jurassic Coast, named for the many fossils found on the region's beaches. For the best fossil hunting, check out Charnmouth, where you can join a guided fossil hunt with an expert.

Find Out About British History and Wildlife on Days Out in Dorset

Dorset oozes history, and one of the best places to see it is in the village of Sherborne. Start at the Abbey, which dates back over 1,000 years, before heading to Sherborne Castle, whose history stretches from the Spanish Armada to the D-Day landings. If wildlife is more your thing, you'll love Monkey World, the UK's biggest primate rescue centre.

Frequently Asked Questions