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Holiday Cottages in Dorset

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Dorset holiday cottages, vetted by experts.

Seeking the finest holiday cottages in Dorset? You're in the right place.

At Plum Guide, we only feature the very best holiday cottages in Devon. Our team of local experts vet every holiday cottage available to rent, ensuring your next Dorset stay is exceptional.

The best areas to stay in Dorset.

Deciding on the best area to stay in Dorset can feel overwhelming. Each area provides a unique experience from the rugged Jurassic Coast to the quaint villages in North Dorset. That's where we step in, with a guide to our experts recommended areas for a country cottage stay in Dorset.

The best things to do in Dorset.

There are so many graet things to do in Dorset, and here at Plum Guide, we've put our expert heads together and curated this guide to outline the best of them just for you. So read this list and make the decision on how to spend your time that little bit easier.

Take a trip to Tyneham Ghost Village For a bit of spooky history, Tyneham Ghost Village is worth seeing. Until 1943, this eas a normal village, bustling with life. Then it was taken over by the military for what was supposed to be a 28 day training period, on the orders of Wiston Churchilll, in the preparation for D-Day. But the villagers were never allowed to return, and even today Tyneham is under military control in the middle of an area which is used for training with live ammunication. The village is only open at certain times of the year and some of it has been destroyed. The school and church, however are well-preserved, and offer a chance to see life exactly as it as in 1943.

View of the sea in Dorset with flowers on a blue sky day.

Coastal cottages in Dorset.

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Collecting Curios

Charmouth, Dorset

Collecting Curios

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

The Coastal Beauty

Lyme Regis, Dorset

The Coastal Beauty

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Seaside Reflections

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Seaside Reflections

3 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Beautiful Skies

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Beautiful Skies

8 guests• 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

Along the Shore

Weymouth, Dorset

Along the Shore

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Steering for the Open Blue

Poole, Dorset

Steering for the Open Blue

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Briggs & Company

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Briggs & Company

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Sunlight Cottage

Burton Bradstock, Dorset

Sunlight Cottage

7 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Sapphire Waves

Poole, Dorset

Sapphire Waves

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Happy Cove

Weymouth, Dorset

Happy Cove

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

The Woodman's Cottage

Stoke Abbott, Dorset

The Woodman's Cottage

3 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Nautilidae

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Nautilidae

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Breakfast By The Beach

Poole, Dorset

Breakfast By The Beach

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Dorset Paradise

Westbourne, Bournemouth

Dorset Paradise

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

The Way by the Sea

Lyme Regis, Dorset

The Way by the Sea

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

The Quay

Poole, Dorset

The Quay

5 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Weymouth Wonder

Weymouth, Dorset

Weymouth Wonder

9 guests• 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Bournemouth Blue

Bournemouth, England

Bournemouth Blue

9 guests• 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Jurassic Elegance

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Jurassic Elegance

5 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Tree Tones

Poole, Dorset

Tree Tones

10 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Jolly Good

Swanage, Dorset

Jolly Good

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Golden Sand

Weymouth, Dorset

Golden Sand

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Coastal Romantic

Weymouth, Dorset

Coastal Romantic

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Starfish & Driftwood

Town Centre, Bournemouth

Starfish & Driftwood

20 guests• 7 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

The Dorset Seashell

Swanage, Dorset

The Dorset Seashell

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Spiral Shells

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Spiral Shells

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Ammonite

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Ammonite

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Pet friendly holiday cottages in Dorset.

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Somerset Soul

Bratton Seymour, Somerset

Somerset Soul

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

The River Cottage

Maiden Newton, Dorset

The River Cottage

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Speakeasy Manor

Yeovil, Somerset

Speakeasy Manor

36 guests• 15 bedrooms • 9 bathrooms

The Rambler's Retreat

Corscombe, Dorchester

The Rambler's Retreat

4 guests• 3 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Beautiful Skies

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Beautiful Skies

8 guests• 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

The Riding House

Wimborne Saint Giles, Wimborne

The Riding House

18 guests• 8 bedrooms • 8 bathrooms

The Village Barn

Dewlish, Dorset

The Village Barn

8 guests• 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Briggs & Company

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Briggs & Company

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Sunlight Cottage

Burton Bradstock, Dorset

Sunlight Cottage

7 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Two Turtle Doves

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Two Turtle Doves

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

The Woodman's Cottage

Stoke Abbott, Dorset

The Woodman's Cottage

3 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Sheepwell

Salisbury, Wiltshire

Sheepwell

12 guests• 5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms

Dorset Soul

Iwerne Courtney, Dorset

Dorset Soul

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Nautilidae

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Nautilidae

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Breakfast By The Beach

Poole, Dorset

Breakfast By The Beach

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Downwood

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Downwood

16 guests• 8 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms

Tree Tones

Poole, Dorset

Tree Tones

10 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Jolly Good

Swanage, Dorset

Jolly Good

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Meet Me in the Woods

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Meet Me in the Woods

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Coastal Romantic

Weymouth, Dorset

Coastal Romantic

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Starfish & Driftwood

Town Centre, Bournemouth

Starfish & Driftwood

20 guests• 7 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

Spiral Shells

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Spiral Shells

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Ammonite

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Ammonite

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

High Fives

North Cheriton, Templecombe

High Fives

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

Little Butterflies

Dorchester, Dorset

Little Butterflies

7 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

The Magic of Living

Wincanton, Somerset

The Magic of Living

16 guests• 8 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

The Cobbler

Lyme Regis, Dorset

The Cobbler

8 guests• 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Wisteria Waves

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Wisteria Waves

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom

The River to the House

Dorchester, Dorset

The River to the House

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

The Piazza

Dorchester, Dorset

The Piazza

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Cross Hill

Poole, Dorset

Cross Hill

4 guests• 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Dorset Dreaming

Poole, Dorset

Dorset Dreaming

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Coastal Charms

Weymouth, Dorset

Coastal Charms

6 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

Holiday homes with hot tubs in Dorset.

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Speakeasy Manor

Yeovil, Somerset

Speakeasy Manor

36 guests• 15 bedrooms • 9 bathrooms

Meadow View

Axminster, Devon

Meadow View

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Rowan & Thorn

Chard, Somerset

Rowan & Thorn

22 guests• 8 bedrooms • 9 bathrooms

Two Turtle Doves

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Two Turtle Doves

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Sheepwell

Salisbury, Wiltshire

Sheepwell

12 guests• 5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms

Downwood

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Downwood

16 guests• 8 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms

Tree Tones

Poole, Dorset

Tree Tones

10 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Meet Me in the Woods

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Meet Me in the Woods

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Hop Little Bunny

Blandford Forum, Dorset

Hop Little Bunny

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Oak Lodge

Yarlington, Wincanton

Oak Lodge

16 guests• 8 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

The Grand Manor

Bournemouth, England

The Grand Manor

24 guests• 12 bedrooms • 12 bathrooms

Shell Sanctuary

Town Centre, Bournemouth

Shell Sanctuary

12 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Lavender Sea

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Lavender Sea

2 guests• 1 bedroom • 1 bathroom

Lavender Lake

Crossways, Dorchester

Lavender Lake

12 guests• 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

The Wildwood Retreat

Furzebrook, Wareham

The Wildwood Retreat

10 guests• 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

English Rose

Wimborne, Dorset

English Rose

16 guests• 7 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Lakehouse Magic

Dorchester, Dorset

Lakehouse Magic

7 guests• 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

The Orchard Barn

Trent, Dorset

The Orchard Barn

8 guests• 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

Lady Elizabethan

Chard, Somerset

Lady Elizabethan

21 guests• 8 bedrooms • 10 bathrooms

Birthday Wishes

Poole, Dorset

Birthday Wishes

16 guests• 7 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

What's Your Pleasure?

Broadstone, England

What's Your Pleasure?

10 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Violet Place

Corfe Mullen, Dorset

Violet Place

13 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Colour Pop

Poole, Dorset

Colour Pop

12 guests• 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms

Sand in My Shoes

Poole, Dorset

Sand in My Shoes

14 guests• 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms

Sherborne Idyll

Trent, Dorset

Sherborne Idyll

8 guests• 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms

★★★★★

First choice for luxury stays

"I have used Plum Guide multiple times for European stays and it is my first port of call for quality accommodation. The properties are expertly curated and the website descriptions are clear so you know exactly what to expect and can make the best choice for your circumstances. We have always been greeted warmly and given the key information for a great stay."

Kerryn Tredwell, March 2024

★★★★★

It was a fabulous experience with Plum…

"It was a fabulous experience with Plum Guide. Found a 'hidden' gem in London,central and yet quiet. Lovely furnished with nice hosts. Would absolutely recommend and book again in a heartbeat."

Kunde, March 2024

★★★★★

Amazing first experience with Plum Guide!

"The perfect accommodation for a weekend away with friends. The host was super responsive to any questions we had during our stay. The whole process was smooth from beginning to end. First time using Plum Guide and it definitely won't be the last - I would recommend to everyone!"

Molly M, February 2024

Explore the best things to do in Dorset.

Sal e Pepe Cafe Bistro

Sal e Pepe Cafe Bistro

A lovely, family-run restaurant offering delicious food, friendly service, and a great dining experience. Sit and chat in the lovely atmosphere while enjoying tasty, well-presented dishes from their nicely priced menu.

The Newt in Somerset

The Newt in Somerset

With acres of gardens and woodland to explore, the impressive grounds of the Newt estate also include restaurants, a farm shop and exhibitions.

Offbeet New Forest

Offbeet New Forest

Indulge in an offbeat culinary experience at Offbeet New Forest, a unique restaurant and bar that serves delicious food in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

Milton Abbas

Milton Abbas

Originally built to house local villagers, Milton Abbas is now a boarding school. Stroll around the picturesque gardens and check out the nearby artificial lake.

Hambro Arms

Hambro Arms

Serving up traditional pub fare and a range of coffees during the day, the Hambro Arms is a classic local haunt.

Jurassic Coast

Jurassic Coast

Stretching out for ninety-five miles, the Jurassic Coast was England’s first World Heritage Site. The rugged landscape offers ample opportunity for walks.

National Trust - Max Gate

National Trust - Max Gate

The former home of writer Thomas Hardy, who lived there until his death in 1928, the grounds and interior of Max Gate are now open to visitors.

Sienna Restaurant

Sienna Restaurant

With a focus on local and seasonal produce, Sienna offers up modern British food with a twist.

Maiden Castle Car Park

Maiden Castle Car Park

Maiden Castle is an Iron Age hill fort, built around the 1st century BC. You're free to wander around the maze of its ramparts.

Perry's Cider Mills

Perry's Cider Mills

Immerse yourself in the English countryside at Perry's Cider Mills. Discover the cider pit, local farmer's store, and indulge in boutique ciders and craft gins. Don't miss their delicious pork and apple sausage rolls!

National Trust - Barrington Court

National Trust - Barrington Court

Restored, unfurnished Tudor mansion with colourful gardens, walled orchard, pleasant tea room, and a variety of artisan shops including a tempting goldsmith.

Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury

With sweeping views of the Blackmore Vale, a weekly farmers' market and boutique shops Shaftesbury has a lot to offer. The town's highlight is the iconic cobbled Gold Hil.

The Queens Arms

The Queens Arms

A quintessentially Georgian pub, in a rural setting with gently rolling hills. The menu reflects the agricultural landscape but ads a level of sophistication.

Cranborne Chase AONB

Cranborne Chase AONB

An area of outstanding natural beauty, Cranborne Chase covers everything from rolling chalk grassland and ancient woodland to downland hillsides and chalk river valleys.

Kingston Lacy

Kingston Lacy

For many years, Kingston Lacy was the seat of the Bankes family. Today, it's a Grade I listed building that's open to the public. The Grade II listed gardens are particularly stunning.

Rawston Farm Butchery & Farm Shop

Rawston Farm Butchery & Farm Shop

At Rawston Farm Butchery & Farm Shop, you can find a range of locally reared meats from Rawston Farm, along with lots of high-quality, locally sourced products.

The Langton Arms

The Langton Arms

Owned and run by Barbara and James (who also own Rawston Farm just down the road), The Langton Arms is worth a visit if you're looking for award-winning food in charming surroundings.

Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum

Blandford Forum is definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. Set on the banks of the River Stour, it's full of independent shops and cute restaurants.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth

Bournemouth Bay enjoys its own micro-climate, some of the warmest sea temperatures in all of the UK. Explore one of the four blue flag beaches, all nestled beneath a magnificent cliff line.

The Three Lions

The Three Lions

Owned and run by a former Michelin starred chef, The Three Lions is worth a visit. A hidden retreat in the New Forest National Park, it's also known for its cosy bar and open log fire.

Fordingbridge

Fordingbridge

Fordingbridge is known as the northern gateway to The New Forest. A small riverside tow (built on the banks of the River Avon), Fordingbridge was recorded in the Domesday Book under the name ‘Forde’.

Ringwood Brewery

Ringwood Brewery

Ringwood Brewery, a small brewery on the edge of the New Forest, has been creating quality craft beers since 1978 in beautiful surroundings.

West Country Water Buffalo

West Country Water Buffalo

A small farm shop offering a range of delicious buffalo meats, ice cream, milk, and cheeses. Friendly service and a great stop on your way to Sherborne.

Somerset Cider Brandy Co

Somerset Cider Brandy Co

Visit this working Somerset apple farm and free cider brandy distillery. Wander through the orchard, taste their range of spirits, and learn about cider making. A great day out for the whole family.

Brown & Forrest Smokery

Brown & Forrest Smokery

Enjoy fantastic food, a superb cheese ploughman’s and mixed fish salad in a lovely, relaxing, quiet location. The staff are amazing and attentive, making it the perfect place for a bite to eat.

The Devonshire Arms

The Devonshire Arms

Polished rooms in a stylish country pub offering free breakfast & modern British dining. Enjoy the beautiful garden and outside areas on a sunny summer evening.

Combe Hill Woods

Combe Hill Woods

A beautiful forest with lovely views and dog-friendly paths. Enjoy a walk through ancient hardwoods and commercial conifers, ending with incredible vistas. Free parking and picnic-friendly. Toilets and shops are not nearby.

Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove

This natural feature boasts a picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters, scenic walks, clean facilities, and delightful ice cream options. Don't miss the breathtaking walk to Durdle Door!

Durdle Door

Durdle Door

This iconic limestone arch on Dorset's Jurassic Coast offers mesmerizing views of the scenic coastline. Enjoy a mini hike to the beautiful pebble beach and bask in the immaculate beaches. A sustainable and picturesque destination for nature lovers.

Bournemouth Beach Lodges

Bournemouth Beach Lodges

Compact, clean, and well-designed lodges with amazing views and a nice outdoor seating area. Excellent customer service and thoughtful touches like biscuits and tea/coffee. Highly recommended for a beach getaway.

Bournemouth Pier

Bournemouth Pier

Explore the Victorian pier with its amusement arcade, variety theatre, and cafe. Enjoy breathtaking views and take a boat trip along the coast. A perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of nature.

Golden Cap

Golden Cap

A challenging climb with stunning views of the coast, rolling hills, and a chance to find fossils along the way. Perfect for nature lovers and hikers.

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Corfe Castle, located in a charming locality. This captivating landmark offers a glimpse into the political struggles and battles of the past.

Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre

Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre

Get up close with rescued primates at this natural and well-designed animal park. Watch orangutans play with towels and see chimps use their hands to reach broccoli. A lovely place for a day out with the family.

Hardys Cottage

Hardys Cottage

Step into the birthplace of English author Thomas Hardy and immerse yourself in the quaint charm of this historic premise. Wander through the garden and visit the visitor centre for a delightful literary experience.

Abbotsbury

Abbotsbury

Immerse yourself in the rich history and political significance of Abbotsbury. Discover its quaint streets, traditional architecture, and local charm that will leave you captivated.

Maiden Castle

Maiden Castle

An expansive iron age hillfort with multiple ramparts, offering fantastic views and paths for a tranquil walk. Free parking available.

Thomas Hardy Statue

Thomas Hardy Statue

A beautiful monument to an amazing woman, the Thomas Hardy Statue is a must-see point of interest in the city. Take a moment to appreciate this well-maintained statue during your visit.

Athelhampton House & Gardens

Athelhampton House & Gardens

Step back in time at this Tudor mansion from 1485, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a charming cafe. Discover the fascinating history of each room and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Yalbury Cottage

Yalbury Cottage

Indulge in soul-pleasing food served in a cosy, 17th-century cottage. Enjoy top-quality meals and excellent service in a beautiful setting. A treat not to be missed.

National Trust - Cerne Giant

National Trust - Cerne Giant

Explore the mysterious, age-old naked figure carved into the chalk hillside. Take a walk through scenic trails and support the local village.

The Keep Military Museum

The Keep Military Museum

Step into this castle-style armory turned museum to discover the history of the Dorchester regiment and their heroic service. Climb to the top for stunning countryside views.

Poundbury

Poundbury

Take in the charm of Poundbury, an unconventional urban development influenced by Prince Charles. Wander through its streets to see the blend of traditional and contemporary architecture.

Weymouth Beach

Weymouth Beach

Curving, sheltered beach with clean sand, family-friendly facilities, and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy boat trips, explore the town's shops, and dine at local restaurants.

Nothe Fort

Nothe Fort

Step into history at Nothe Fort, a lovingly restored Victorian coastal fort turned open museum. Discover labyrinthine tunnels, film displays, and dioramas while enjoying stunning views of Weymouth and Portland. With knowledgeable volunteers and a decent cafe on-site, it's an educational experience worth your time.

Bowleaze Cove

Bowleaze Cove

Enjoy a picturesque cove with a pebbly beach, stunning views, and a small stream. Relax on the beach or grab lunch at a local cafe. Perfect for families and nature lovers.

Restaurant Les Enfants Terribles

Restaurant Les Enfants Terribles

Unpretentious, cosy bistro specialising in an array of fresh seafood plates with a French influence. Superb food, friendly staff, and exceptional seafood. A must-visit establishment.

South Coast Coffee

South Coast Coffee

Escape to this friendly cafe for locally sourced coffee, tempting food options, and a cosy atmosphere. Catering to various dietary preferences, it's a great spot to relax and indulge.

Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens

Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens

A peaceful oasis in the heart of Bournemouth, the Lower Gardens offer lush greenery, a tranquil canal, and a giant bird cage with a variety of birds. Perfect for a restful break or leisurely stroll.

Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Immerse yourself in the eccentric Art Nouveau-style setting and vast private Victorian art collection. Take your time to view each piece and don't miss the preserved rooms with their historical furniture. A cool experience with breathtaking sea views.

Why choose Plum Guide as an alternative to Airbnb in Dorset?

At Plum Guide, we don’t just list homes. We scrutinise them. Our team of local experts vet every home available in Dorset, only accepting the top 3% and rejecting those that don’t meet our stringent standards. Why? To save you from a disappointing stay in Dorset.

We have an in-house care team - efficient and empowered home experts, whose sole task is to make your stay in Dorset exceptional.

White cliffs meeting the sea in Dorset.

A guide to weather in Dorset.

First time visiting Dorset? We've got you covered with a handy list of temperature to help you decide the best time to visit and, more importantly, what to pack for your cottage stay.

JANUARY High 9°C/48°F Low 2°C/36°F

FEBRUARY High 9°C/48°F Low 2°C/36°F

MARCH High 11°C/52°F Low 3°C/37°F

APRIL High 13°C/55°F Low 5°C/41°F

MAY High 16°C/61°F Low 8°C/46°F

JUNE High 19°C/66°F Low 11°C/52°F

Rated "EXCELLENT" for a reason.

We don’t just list homes—we scrutinise them, rejecting thousands that don’t meet our standards. When you book with Plum Guide, you’re guaranteed the best.

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