Dog-friendly Hotels Dorset

Set in the unspoilt village of Bothenhampton about a mile from Bridport and the new harbour of West Bay, where the TV series ’Broadchurch’ was filmed, and its beaches. The historic rope-making town of Bridport with its twice weekly market is a gateway town to the Jurassic Coast, England’s only natural World Heritage Site. Sweet Briar (ref 8234) and Buzzards (ref 8235, first floor) are in the east wing of an old country house and Farthings (ref 19292) is in the west. Many badgers have made their sets in the hill behind, and there is an abundance of wildlife. Perfect for relaxing or more invigorating walking holiday in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which includes extensive National Trust land. Chesil Beach, one of the finest barrier beaches, begins at West Bay. Lyme Regis with its Cobb and the famous fossil beach at Charmouth are close by. Not far away is the ancient town of Dorchester with its Iron Age hill fort and Roman town house and many other sites of historic interest. Spend a day at Abbotsbury Swannery, the only place in the world where you can walk among the baby swans (hatching from May). Golf course and leisure centre nearby. Bike hire available locally. Ideal for exploring the Jurassic Coast or for just relaxing in this tranquil village. Shop, pub and restaurant¾ mile.

Nestling in a tranquil location on the Devon/Dorset border, this well-presented single-storey barn conversion is set within the 40 acres of the owner’s home, which was the setting for The French Lieutenant’s Woman. It lies ½ mile from the popular medieval port of Lyme Regis with picturesque harbour known as the Cobb. Wonderful scenic walking abounds, with the South West Coastal Path just 500 yards away. Shop and pub ½ mile.

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.

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.

Old 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.

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.

This secluded cottage boasts sweeping views across the fields. Located behind a beautiful pub where the owner lives, you can still enjoy the peace and quiet in this tranquil village. There is a private patio area with French doors leading from both the living area and the spacious kitchen/dining room.
With so much to do in the area you won’t be short of places to visit, such as Monkey World and Bovington Tank Museum. Close to the Jurassic Coast, you cannot miss a visit to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Also well worth a visit is St Nicholas’ Church in Moreton, one of the few places where you can see Laurence Whistler’s stain glass windows and is also the final resting place of the adventurer Lawrence of Arabia. After your day of exploring you can come back to your tranquil holiday home and walk just around the corner for your evening meal and a drink at the pub. Beach 5¼. Shop 1 mile, adjacent to pub/restaurant.

This delightful detached single storey holiday home with large lawned garden and plenty of parking, is located on a quiet residential street only a 10-minute drive from the cosmopolitan seaside city of Bournemouth.
Inside, this immaculately presented home has a light and airy living/dining room with sofa bed, with French doors to the lovely, well-maintained garden and sitting-out area with rattan furniture. There is a large bedroom with a 6ft super kingsize bed (which can be split to make twin beds) and a TV. The well equipped kitchen has a door to outside. Extra thought has been put into ensuring guests with young children are well catered for, with a highchair, baby bath, changing mat, toddler toilet steps and seat all readily available in the property.
There is so much do to in this ever popular area. Bournemouth itself has a host of year round entertainment and leisure for all ages – Oceanarium, Bournemouth Eye, Compton Acre Gardens and shopping centre, various eateries, theatre, mainline station, bars and clubs. There are bands playing outside in the warmer months and a wonderful holiday atmosphere! Take a ride on the Bournemouth Eye, which rises high above the town to give the most amazing panoramic views over the whole area. At the foot of the pier is the fascinating Oceanarium, where the whole family can discover life beneath the waves. Compton Acres Gardens in Bournemouth and the delightful Exbury Gardens, 18 miles, are both worth a visit. Beaulieu, with its world-renowned National Motor Museum, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey, are 20 miles away. The beautiful New Forest National Park is within 5 miles, and for those who enjoy the thrill of a theme park, Paultons Park is 25 miles away. Other places of interest include Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, Adventure Wonderland, Christchurch Priory, Mudeford Key, Poole Harbour, Highcliffe Castle and the National Trust’s Brownsea Island.
There are a number of nature reserves close by, one of 40 acres just a short walk away. Nearby Boscombe Chine Gardens offer a good mix of flower beds, grassy areas and a mixture of deciduous and coniferous trees, growing on steep banks on either side of the Chine. In addition to the wildlife, there is also a water themed play area, crazy golf and a cafe. Hengistury Head is 7 miles away, not only a nature reserve it is a place where archaeology has been ongoing for many years. 8 miles from the cottage is Poole, which boasts being the second largest natural harbour in the world, and with Sandbanks, a peninsula, being one of the most expensive pieces of land - some notable footballers and their families have bought properties on this spit. A short drive takes you to the New Forest National Park with its famous wild ponies, or head for the Purbecks and enjoy coastal walks and pretty villages. Christchurch is nearby with castle and harbour, or visit Beaulieu in the New Forest, with the National Motor Museum. The New Forest National Park, where you can see the free-roaming ponies, donkeys and cattle and enjoy off-road walking, riding and cycling. The quaint market town of Fordingbridge is close by with its famous stone bridge and fine arches, plenty of shops, pubs, a café and riverside location to enjoy, and closeby is a waterpark. Both Wimborne and Ringwood are a short drive, which also have a selection of shops, pubs and eateries. Shop 1 mile, pub ¼ mile.

Conveniently located just back off the road, this homely and comfortable semi-detached property is in a semi rural location, perfect for exploring this ever popular area. With Wimborne, Bournemouth, Salisbury, Ringwood, Fordingbridge and the New Forest all within easy access, there is something for everyone, all year round. Oakdene Lodge has an extensive enclosed lawned garden and a sitting-out area under a canopy of wisteria, plus private parking. There is a property attached which is occasionally used by the owner, and a wooded area to the back of the garden. Inside, there are features such as an open fire, parquet floors in the living areas and slate tiled floor in the farmhouse style kitchen/dining room. As well as the large main living room, there is a separate sitting room with table and cosy wood burner.
Oakdene Lodge is located near to Moors Valley Country Park, which is great for all ages and is also dog-friendly. As well as scenic walks and excellent wildlife spotting, there are many recreational activities such as orienteering, cycle hire, angling, horse riding, GoApe Treetop Adventure, Segway and more! Avon Heath and Queens Copse are other nearby walking areas. There is a ski centre in the area as well as other activities including clay pigeon shooting, quad biking, golf and fishing. There is a lovely thatched roof pub/restaurant about a 5-minute walk away. Many holidaymakers visit The New Forest National Park where you can see the free-roaming ponies, donkeys and cattle, and enjoy off-road walking, riding and cycling. The quaint market town of Fordingbridge is close by with its famous stone bridge and fine arches, plenty of shops, pubs, a café and riverside location to enjoy. The priory town of Christchurch is also a short journey away with its beautiful harbour. Oakdene is in an ideal location for leaving the car and exploring close by attractions by foot.
Close by is a waterpark and both market towns of Wimborne and Ringwood are a short drive away, which also have a selection of shops, pubs and eateries. The coastline with its beaches at Bournemouth and Poole is within easy reach, as is the city of Salisbury with its medieval cathedral. There are many places of interest for the family to visit, including Marwell Zoological Park, New Forest Otter and Owl Wildlife Park or a day out at Beaulieu Motor Museum to name but a few places of interest nearby. Further afield, but worth the trip are Stonehenge, Monkey World and the Tank Museum near Wool and Southampton with its maritime history and West Quay shopping centre. There is much to visit further afield, in particular the unspoilt countryside of Dorset, famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast from West Bay, Bridport and on to Weymouth with its superb scenery and coastal walking. Spend a day at Lyme Regis with its harbour, renowned Cobb, beach and shops and enjoy fossil hunting, boating, swimming and fishing. There are many historic houses to visit in particular Forde Abbey and Gardens, or family attractions such as Pecorama, the quarries at Beer, or inland at the Fleet Air Arm Museum at Yeovilton which is an adventure in itself. Beach 8 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub/restaurant ¼ mile.