Dorset

We selected the [listingCount] homes worth renting in this location

Book a stay in one of the best homes in [destination]

Netflix

Library of Books

Board Games

Entertainment

Bathtub

Rain Shower

Luxury Toiletries

Bathroom

Dishwasher

Microwave

Cafetiere

Kitchen

Kitchen & Dining

Black-Out Blinds

Iron

Washing Machine

Dryer

Ironing Board

Bedroom & Laundry

Hot Tub

Wellness & Fitness

Wi-fi

Internet & Office

Fireplace

Central Heating

Underfloor Heating

Heating & Cooling

Multiple Sets of Keys

Parking Available

Parking & Access

Barbeque

Garden

Outdoor

Welcome Hamper

Nice to haves

Pets Allowed

Pets

Part of a manor that dates back to the sixteenth century, this beautiful listed barn conversion is not your average country cottage. With enough design credentials for a magazine spread, the home mixes old and new with aplomb. Gather in the grand room to see a space with cathedral-like ceilings and antler chandeliers, with pops of bright modernity from the aquamarine walls and huge pieces of artwork hanging on the walls. There are cosier spots too, including bedrooms that have been tucked up in the rafters ensuring a snug night's sleep, as well as a log-burning fire in the second living room. Comprised of two adjoining barns, the home has got enough room to seat the entire party, with two kitchens for whipping up a feast — ask ahead and the owners will provide you with eggs from the grounds' chickens. Outside, there's a private covered hot tub, a barbecue area and pretty walled gardens to explore, but beyond the gates, one of England's most beautiful counties awaits — Cranbourne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be reached in less than fifteen minutes by car, as can the architecturally unique town of Blandford Forum.

Hammoon Manor

Satellite / Cable TV

Smart TV

Streaming Services

Hair Dryer

Toiletries

Blender

Coffee Maker

Cooking Essentials

Freezer

Fridge

High Chair

Kettle

Kitchen Utensils

Oven

Stove

Toaster

Cleaning Products

Cot / Crib

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Hangers

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Free Parking On Premises

Private Entrance

Self Check-in / Check-out

Balcony

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Outdoor Seating

Patio / Terrace

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Fire Extinguisher

First Aid Kit

Smoke Detector

Other

Get far away from the madding crowd in Thomas Hardy’s Dorset with this beautiful home – it’s the perfect romantic retreat. Surrounded by woodland, relax in the hot tub with a glass of fizz (or whip up a smoothie with the blender in the kitchen), and when the sun sets, cosy up by the fire pit. There’s a hammock to unwind in as well. 

The sylvan setting can be admired through the French doors in the living room, too – keep your eyes peeled for visiting wildlife. At the end of an idyllic day, head up to bed in the treehouse-like bedroom with its honeycomb-shaped, whitewashed wood ceiling before exploring the area the following morning. 

Out and about, the market town of Blandford Forum, with its array of eateries, is a six-minute drive. Alternatively, the National Trust’s Kingston Lacy, a country house and estate near Wimborne Minster, is eight minutes in the car, while Thomas Hardy's Cottage is twenty-three minutes. Further afield, Sandbanks, with its award-winning beach and chic boutiques, is just over a thirty-five-minute ride, so there’s plenty to keep you busy here.

Honey Bee Cottage

Amazon Prime

Drying Rack

Free Parking On Street

Access to Beach

Connected to the mainland by a tombolo, the isle of Portland is a pretty spot off the Dorset Coast. This chic house is in the village of Fortuneswell in the north of the island, and it makes the perfect place to begin your adventures. 

The home effortlessly blends contemporary chic with traditional charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere that isn't short on style. Take in the stunning sea views from the top floor master bedroom – binoculars provided, or get cosy around the fireplace in the living room with a glass of wine and a good book; you can take your pick from the squashy sofa and the retro hanging egg chair. There's also a fantastic dining space, complete with an exposed stone wall where you can share a delicious home-cooked feast with your guests. 

This home might not have its own outdoor space, but it is only an three-minute walk away from the eighteen-mile long pebbly Chesil Beach. Paddle in the water, then enjoy a long coastal walk as you breathe in the fresh air. And, if you take a ten-minute drive to the south of the island, you can visit the historic Portland Bill Lighthouse and admire the curious Pulpit Rock too. 

Island Tides

Luxury Bedding

Desk

Temperature Control

Early / Late Check-Out Available

Gated Community

Helipad

Single-Level Home

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Throws

Pet Bowls

Child Friendly

A historic gatehouse on the grounds of the Shaftesbury Estate in rural Dorset, this petite one-bed lodge has recently undergone a loving refurb by one of the estate owners, Lady Shaftesbury. She obviously has a great eye for design, as her palette of delicious apricot and duck egg blue stylishly updates this vintage cottage into not just a twenty-first-century home, but a home with charm and character. There are plenty of thoughtful touches we found exquisite, from soft dressing gowns to the complementary breakfast hamper – and everything, from Egyptian cotton bedding to the plush sofas, is of boutique hotel quality. The hosts are attentive, meticulously committed to making sure your every whim is met. All in all, this cosy country hideaway is perfect for city escapes, with nearby the great beaches of the Jurassic coast, the New Forest, the National Trust property of Kingston Lacey, cities like Salisbury or Portsmouth and traditional seaside in Bournemouth. And while it feels like one of a kind, a twin lodge and two maisonettes in a neighbouring cottage are also available, so you can bring your friends too (although you might want to keep this little secret to yourself). 

A Little Peach

If you’ve been dreaming of a classic countryside escape, look no further than this 16th-century, Grade II listed cottage. Set within the Cranbone AONB, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful countryside, while the nearest pub and farm shop in Winterborne Whitechurch are just a short walk away. It’s also a great base for exploring the Dorset coast – Weymouth and Lyme Regis are within easy driving distance. Back at home, there’s a peaceful garden, an outdoor pizza oven, cosy rooms, wood burning stoves and plenty of traditional character. 


A Timeless Place

Pool / Snooker Table

Projector

Sound System

Bathrobes

Heated Towel Rail

Espresso Machine

Ice Machine

Mini Bar

Wine Cooler

Vacuum Cleaner

Private Parking

Step-Free Access

Wheelchair Access

Courtyard

Garden Games

Umbrellas

Come for the countryside, stay for the drama. Set in the sprawling Wiltshire estate that once belonged to the twelfth Earl of Shaftesbury, this former riding house exudes the spirit of the original stables thanks to a meticulous restoration – modern comforts meet ancient artefacts and authenticity. It's one of those homes that takes your breath away from the second you open the front door. The owners have made no effort to cover up the fact it's from a bygone era – and that's why we love it, true to the past with period artwork, original features, beamed ceilings, even a banqueting hall for grand feasts (which feels very extravagant when you're having your cereal). The velvet furnishings and exposed brick only add to the step back in time. An honesty bar is housed in a secret cupboard by the billiard table, and there are floor-to-ceiling bookshelves where you can select a novel to lose yourself in. Each bedroom comes with a luxurious roll-top bath, and the wooden dividers that once separated horses have been cleverly repurposed to create privacy screens. Outside, vast acres of the manor's parkland are yours to explore, so remember to bring your welly boots. This home is a fine example of outstanding restoration – countryside lovers may never want to leave.

The Riding House

Home Cinema Setup

Games Room

Ping Pong Table

Pod Coffee Machine

Swimming Pool

Private Pool

Sauna

Desk / Workplace

Herb Garden

Outdoor Audio

Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor Shower

Breakfast Included

Within the sprawling grounds of this Georgian manor home, the only neighbours you’re likely to come across are a couple of llamas, ponies and a waddle of ducks. Classic walled gardens, orchards, vast lawns and pastures make up the ten acres of grounds. Exploring, you’ll find a private swimming pool surrounded by rattan furniture for a drink or two and an outdoor bar and cooking area with a wood-fired pizza oven. There’s also a barn that can be dappled with fairy lights for a special celebration and a former coach house that’s been turned into a dedicated cinema and games room. 

Accommodation is spread across the main house, which dates back to the 18th century, and a separate cottage with its own farmhouse-style kitchen and cosy living room. In the main house, the ground floor is everything you expect from an updated Georgian manor – a library-like sitting room, a grand lounge with gilded mirrors and chandeliers, oil paintings adorning the hallway walls, and a big, bright dining and sitting room looking out over the gardens. The kitchen is a vision of farmhouse charm, with a purring Aga at its centre. 

But, we have to say, the real surprise is the subterranean ‘club’ area. Descend the stairs to find a private, fully-stocked bar and VIP-style velvet booths. It’s the perfect place to host a special event without disturbing the neighbours (or lack thereof).

Speakeasy Manor

Sonos

Parking On Premises

This beautiful Grade II listed cottage is located in the heart of Lyme Regis, just a short walk from the beach and the town's many shops and restaurants. Perfectly placed for a family coastal getaway, we love the pops of colour here, the sunny vibes blending beautifully with the home’s historic roots. With a wood burner for winter and a sunny garden for summer, this is a home for all seasons. Locally, you’ll find museums, a theatre, and a selection of beaches – take your pick between Church Cliff beach, Lyme Regis and Fossil beach. 

The Coastal Beauty

Free Parking

Where do we start with this home – both the apartment and the location are excellent. Firstly, it’s just a 50-metre stroll across West Cliff Green to the beach steps making this the perfect base for a family-friendly holiday by the sea. There are an array of restaurants and bars within walking distance whilst Bournemouth Pier and the town centre are also accessible by foot. We love the sea views from this place’s private garden and who wouldn’t want to dine or relax in the light-filled conservatory? If you’re a group of eight, then two guests will be sleeping on a sofa bed in the living space, but it’s a spacious room. What a great find this is.

Dorset Paradise

DVD Player

Overlooking the Marine Parade, this apartment is a great option if you’re looking to experience the vibrant heart of Lyme Regis. It’s worth noting it’s possible to hear street noise from the neighbouring bar, but you will have incredible sea views from the cosy living room. A car parking permit can be supplied on request. Plus, you’ll find everything you could need within easy reach. Stroll to the beach or adventure further along the Jurassic Coast towards Sidmouth and Axminster. 

The Way by the Sea

Set on the popular Marine Parade in Lyme Regis, this home is an ideal base for a small family or group of friends. You’ll need to take care with the steps and uneven ground here, and because of the desirable location, you may hear a little noise during your stay. But, we think you’ll be too busy soaking up the fresh sea air to notice. The key thing that caught our eye here is the secret passageway to the beach – so stroll down to the sea, after which, a plethora of beachfront eateries await ready to serve up an authentic coastal dinner. 

Fossil Finder

Piano

Children's Dinnerware

Private Washing Machine

Baby Monitor

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Stair Gates

This picturesque, Grade II-listed cottage set within the grounds of a 19th-century mansion is full of surprises. Designed by eminent architect Benjamin Ferrey, it features characterfully towering chimney stacks and a charming redbrick facade. So far, so traditional. But step inside and we think you'll do a double-take. The interior is a contemporary design haven, with bold colour choices (we love the lavender dresser in the living room and the playful candy-coloured chairs in the kitchen) and stunning modern artwork (say hello to Michael Caine as you sashay through the kitchen). Large windows let light flood right in, and make every colour pop in a joyful way. There are thoughtful, almost-kitsch touches everywhere you look - the neon disco ball cocktail glasses on the gilded drinks trolly, the flamingo leg table lamp in the kitchen, the silver graffiti slogan on the royal-blue dresser in the master bedroom and the cute zebra-print cushions in the twin room. And it's not often we say the downstairs loo is a real highlight in a home, but check out this one with the retro cassette wallpaper and you'll see what we mean. The home's private terrace is the perfect place to give those disco glasses a whirl (might we suggest a Mai-Tai?), and the enormous, immaculate shared gardens are waiting to be explored. Set in the heart of the Dorset countryside, the dramatic Jurassic Coast is about 30 minutes away, and the magnificent cathedral city of Dorchester about a 20-minute drive.

Chimney Stack

Tucked in the charming village of Shroton, this converted barn is ideal for a relaxing Dorset getaway. It’s suitable for a couple or a small family with up to two children over the age of six, as the second bedroom is on a mezzanine level accessed via spiral stairs. Still, with everything needed for a comfortable stay and the village offering fresh local produce, this is a home where you can truly switch off. With countryside walks on your doorstep, yet just a forty-five-minute drive to the Jurassic Coast, you’ll never be lost for things to do. 

Dorset Soul

Safe

An elegant apartment by the sea, this home in Swanage is just a few minutes' walk from the seafront. Set in an attractive Victorian building, it's a perfect retreat for a couple or a solo traveller, and with its period features and Boho styling, it's bound to appeal to the romantic in you. 

Tall ceilings, sash windows, oak floorboards and chandeliers are the order of the day here, along with all-white decor and pops of colourful modern art. There's a squashy sofa in the cosy living room, and a well-kitted-out, modern kitchen if you'll be cooking at home. But it's the bedroom we really love here, with its vintage rattan headboard and French vintage furniture.

The Swan's Feather

Lift Access

This attractive apartment is located directly on Poole Quay, with stunning views of the harbour. The apartment is modern and sleek, with everything you might need for a laid-back harbourside stay. We love the private terrace, which overlooks the Sea Music sculpture and is a wonderful spot for watching the boats coming and going from the harbour. The sandy beaches of Sandbanks and Branksome are a fifteen-minute drive, and Sandbanks can also be reached by boat. 

Quay Views

Part of a nineteenth-century groom’s cottage on the grounds of St Giles House in Dorset, this maisonette in a former stable block looks like a scene straight out of Bridgerton. A stylish mishmash of antique brickwork, vintage pieces and modern design touches, every inch has been cleverly renovated by Lord and Lady Shaftesbury to enhance the history and character in an uber-cool way. Think bold paint colours, jazzy wallpapers, traditional flagstone floors, hand-crafted bespoke showers and a drool-worthy copper roll-top tub. While the Egyptian cotton bedding and plush dressing gowns are modern luxuries worthy of a boutique hotel, the estate's rolling green fields, the stable views and the cosy living area – complete with a wood-burning fire – feel authentically rural. You'll love strolling among the manor's private garden, or, when you crave a bit of adventure, enjoy day trips to the beaches of the Jurassic coast, the New Forest and cities like Salisbury or Portsmouth. Larger groups can even rent the neighbouring cottages and lodges, all beautifully designed by Lady Shaftesbury. If you're looking for a glamourous stay in the stunning English countryside, this is it.

Serving Up Style

This apartment in the heart of Weymouth is a wonderful option for families. The bright living area makes relaxing together easy – there's a comfortable sofa, a well-appointed kitchen, and a table where you can tuck into delicious dinners. Need a little time to yourself? The main bedroom has its own snug, perfect for morning coffees. There isn't any outdoor space here, but the beach is just a short walk away. Weymouth Harbour is also nearby, while Dorchester is within easy driving distance if you fancy a change of scenery.

Happy Cove

Accessible Parking

Want to recreate a passionate escape à la Bridgerton - just on a much smaller scale? Then we think you'll fall in love with this home in a 400-year-old former gatehouse lodge. Part of the glorious 5,500-acre St Giles House estate, it's been personally and immaculately renovated by the estate's owner (real-life nobility Lady Shaftesbury) to stunning effect. The natural and historical character - original lead windows, log burner and dove grey stone slabs - pack a punch, but it's her Ladyship's keen eye for style that has elevated this home into a truly romantic stay. We're talking about bold splashes of colour (a vibrant coral in the living room and soothing forest green in the bedroom) plus beautiful illustrated artwork and the highest quality Egyptian cotton sheets. This rural location is the perfect place to hide away from the rest of the world, but if you tire of each other's company, the beaches of the Jurassic Coast, the New Forest and the classic British seaside resorts of Poole and Bournemouth are all within a short drive away.

Tangerine Lodge

Trash Compactor

Heated Pool

Indoor Pool

Exercise Equipment

Jacuzzi

Sauna / Steam Room

Steam Room

Fenced Garden

Pool House

Sun Umbrellas

Live a life of luxury on the Dorset coast in this prestigious home. Not only is the main house spacious and impeccably decorated, but there's also a separate building at the foot of the garden that houses a swimming pool, sauna and hot tub. Sounds like the kind of place that's difficult to leave.

We love the slick style aesthetic that's adopted throughout the home, from the plush Chesterfield sofas to the mirrored furniture in the double suites. Opting for a palette of charcoal grey with brick and marble accents, your hosts have made a strong case for monochrome interiors. When you're not lounging in the open-plan living area, glide across the manicured lawn and have a leisurely dip in your private pool. Come evening, the wood-burning stove creates a cosy and relaxing atmosphere.

If you can pull yourself away, wander down to Weymouth harbour and watch the fishing boats come and go. Past picturesque streets lined with quirky cafés, you'll reach a stretch of white-sand beach. On bright days, this idyllic expanse feels like it could be anywhere in the world.

Marble & Charcoal

With a private courtyard overlooking the River Frome, this cottage has a wonderful setting. Inside, there are traditional features and a log-burning stove adding to the cosy charm. This is a great retreat for a family (one of the bedrooms has a single with a pull-out bed, so this room is best suited for the kids). If you’re into fly fishing, then this place is ideal as there are steps from the patio to the river. Or you can explore the village centre with its shops and pub. For a day at the beach, hop in the car and head to Burton Bradstock or Weymouth.

The River Cottage

Ceiling Fans

Dating back to the Elizabethan era, this grand manor in the Somerset countryside is said to have inspired one of Jane Austen’s fictional stately homes. Across five acres of gardens and woodland, you’ll find vast lawns, furnished patios, an old tennis court and riverside walks with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. It’s palatial inside with four reception rooms – grand wood-panelled lounges, lavish sitting rooms and a dedicated office for those working remotely. The kitchen is fit for banquet-sized meals, and there’s room for 16 in the formal dining room. Bedrooms feel fit for nobility with sleigh beds and four-posters, but quite a few guests will be sharing in threes and fours at full capacity.   

Rowan & Thorn

Air Conditioning

EV Charger

Tucked away on a dairy farm in the Somerset countryside, this home is the ideal place to switch off from everyday life. With modern interiors, it’s quite the contrast to the home’s rustic surroundings – although those natural wood touches are blended seamlessly into the home, too. Keen to explore? You’re perfectly placed – you’ll find The Newt and Stourhead within easy reach, and if a beach day is calling your name, it’s just an hour’s drive to the picturesque Jurassic Coast. 

Somerset Soul

DVD Library

Laundry Supplies

Bike Shed

Right in the heart of  Martinstown village, itself a part of Dorset’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this converted barn is the perfect getaway for couples wanting a quiet retreat. Blending modern decor with many of its original Elizabethan features, this home is a celebration of comfort and style. The thick stone and flint wall running the length of this home lets you see the age of the building, alongside a timber-gabled ceiling and flagstone floor. It’s in the style of a super spacious studio, with sliding barn doors separating the bedroom from the living area. Keeping the whole space open means you can enjoy the warmth of the wood-burner in the bedroom on chilly evenings too. If it’s sunny, there’s a private patio with a barbecue to make the most of the evening light. Plenty of bridleways, cycle routes, and public footpaths are all on the home’s doorstep and the Jurassic coastline is just five miles further south. A traditional pub and a village shop are both within walking distance. And, being only a twenty-minute drive from Weymouth's iconic harbour and beach, you’re never too far from an excellent restaurant or coastal walk. 


The Cowshed

Nintendo Wii

Games Console

Hello, harbour views. This contemporary flat perched right on Poole's bustling quayside is the epitome of coastal living. The private balcony is a dream come true, and we bet you'll spend every spare moment admiring the scenery. Rise with the sun and enjoy a cup of coffee alfresco, watching as the ships bob in the water. For lunch, nibble on the local treats left in the welcome basket before toasting your arrival with a glass of white wine as the sun goes down.

When you're not lolling about on the balcony, the light-filled interior is just the ticket after long day exploring Dorset. Make yourself comfortable on the sumptuous cream sofas – perfect for snuggling up for at-home movie nights – or rustle up dinner using fresh-caught seafood in the shiny kitchen. Stylish elements like rattan dining chairs and seaside curios add to the beachy-keen atmosphere, so if living by the sea is what you crave, you can't go wrong. 

Poole Quay is literally on your doorstep, so maritime activities like boat journeys, fishing excursions and trips to the National Trust's Brownsea Island are all within easy reach. Stroll along the waterfront path or pedestrianised high street in search of shops, restaurants and pubs before making the thirteen-minute drive to Sandbanks Beach and spending the afternoon sprawled out in the sand and swimming in the ocean.

Steering for the Open Blue

Calling all history buffs. This Grade II-listed apartment was the former headquarters of Captain Briggs, the leader of the D-Day landings at Omaha Beach. It's on the first floor – and the building itself is perched on a steep hill – so though you'll need to climb a few stairs, you'll be treated to postcard-worthy sea views. We love the cosy feel of the living space, especially the characterful window seats. And the location? It’s ideal for exploring. Lyme Regis Front Beach is a fifteen-minute stroll away, and the town's shops and eateries are nearby, too.

Briggs & Company

This little hideaway is nestled in the residential area of Bowleaze Coveway – just a mile from the heart of Weymouth. You can stroll towards the seafront or adventure further afield to West Bay and the Jurassic Coast. It’s worth noting you may hear some street noise during your stay, but you will have private parking as well as access to a garden. Inside, the rooms are simple, cosy and well suited to couples and solo travellers in search of an easygoing coastal getaway. 


Breezy Cottage

Record Player

Step through this cottage's pink front door and you'll find breezy living spaces bathed in light and more than enough room for the whole family to spread out. The pared-back design has some subtle coastal influence – no surprise, given the proximity to Weymouth Harbour – and features like traditional ornamental fireplaces and vintage furniture add just a touch of character.

Days at this beachy retreat begin and end in the lovely garden – start the morning off with a cup of coffee in the early sunlight, then finish the night with a barbecue and a couple of glasses of wine on the cosy outdoor sofa. Not much of a grillmaster? The chic kitchen has everything you'll need to rustle up Sunday roasts and tasty baked goods. During chillier weather, throw a log on the wood-burner and hole up in the lounge with a good book, play a board game around the table or settle down for a Netflix movie night. There's also a record player to set the mood.

Location-wise, you're just a six-minute stroll from Weymouth Harbour and fourteen from Weymouth's award-winning beach. When you're not enjoying fish and chips by the water or lounging in the sand, spend your afternoons discovering the town's trendy art galleries, boutique shops and array of pubs and eateries. Walks along the Jurassic Coast are easily reached by car, but with so much on your doorstep, who'd want to leave?

Sweet Like Taffy

Book a stay in one of the best homes in Dorset

We selected the 222 homes worth renting in this location

Who's coming along?

Home spotlights in Dorset

We selected the top 3% holiday homes in Dorset

Most popular homes in Dorset

Check upcoming rates & availability for Dorset

Frequently asked questions