What are the top attractions in Dorset, United Kingdom?

Dorset boasts a stunning coastline! Top attractions include the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with iconic landmarks like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Corfe Castle, a ruined medieval castle, is incredibly atmospheric, and you shouldn't miss the charming town of Lyme Regis, known for its cobbled streets and fossil hunting. For something different, consider a visit to the Tank Museum in Bovington.

What are the best resorts with a swimming pool in Dorset?

Deluxe Caravan & Decking Littlesea Haven Resort , The Woodlark Lodge At Rockley Park and Osmington Holiday Park are among the best resorts with a swimming pool in Dorset.

Which festivals is Dorset, United Kingdom known for?

Dorset hosts many local events throughout the year, but some notable recurring events include the Bournemouth Air Festival, a large airshow with displays over Bournemouth beach, and various smaller agricultural shows and food festivals across the county celebrating local produce.

What are the best resorts with jacuzzi in Dorset?

Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat , Romantic Rural Retreats and Peckmoor Farm Lodges are the best resorts with a jacuzzi in Dorset.

What is the ideal number of days to experience the highlights of Dorset, United Kingdom?

To comfortably see the highlights of Dorset, a long weekend (four days) is a good starting point. However, a week allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore some of the more remote areas. A longer stay would be ideal to fully appreciate the diversity of the region.

What are the best family friendly resorts in Dorset?

The best family friendly resorts in Dorset are Deluxe Caravan & Decking Littlesea Haven Resort , Holiday Home In Durdle Door With Stunning Sea View and The Woodlark Lodge At Rockley Park .

What types of natural scenery can visitors see in Dorset, United Kingdom?

Dorset's scenery is incredibly diverse. You'll find dramatic cliffs and hidden coves along the Jurassic Coast, rolling hills in the Dorset Downs, and heathland areas like Studland Heath. The rivers and estuaries provide beautiful wetland habitats, while inland you'll find picturesque villages nestled in valleys.

What are the best pet friendly resorts in Dorset?

The best pet friendly resorts in Dorset are The Woodlark Lodge At Rockley Park , Bayview Holiday Home and 3 Bedroom Holiday Home In Rockley Holiday Park .

Are there particular times of year when Dorset’s landscapes or wildlife undergo striking seasonal changes?

Absolutely! Spring sees wildflowers blooming across the heathland and in the meadows. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the leaves of the trees, particularly noticeable in the woodlands around the Dorset Downs. Bird migration is also significant, with different species appearing at different times of the year.

What are the best ways to get to know the people and culture of Dorset, United Kingdom?

Visiting local pubs and markets is a great way to interact with people and sample local culture. Attending local events and festivals provides opportunities to engage with the community. Exploring the smaller villages and talking to shopkeepers and residents can provide a deeper understanding of Dorset life.

What are the lesser-known but fascinating attractions in Dorset, United Kingdom?

The Dorset Museum in Dorchester offers insight into the county's history and archaeology. Brownsea Island, in Poole Harbour, is a nature reserve with red squirrels and diverse birdlife. For something different, the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens offer a unique experience.

Where are the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Dorset, United Kingdom?

Bournemouth has the most vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of pubs, bars, and clubs. Weymouth also offers a good selection of pubs and bars, catering to different tastes. Smaller towns and villages will have a more relaxed pub scene, ideal for a quieter evening.

Where are the best markets with local food in Dorset, United Kingdom?

Farmers' markets are held regularly in many towns and villages across Dorset. Check local listings for specific dates and locations. Shaftesbury and Dorchester often have particularly good markets.

What are the best sports events or competitions happening in Dorset, United Kingdom?

Dorset hosts various local sporting events throughout the year, including sailing regattas in Weymouth and Portland, and various running and cycling events across the county. Specific events vary from year to year, so checking local event listings would be advisable.

What are the most romantic attractions in Dorset, United Kingdom?

A sunset stroll along the beach at Durdle Door or Lulworth Cove is incredibly romantic. A picnic amidst the rolling hills of the Dorset Downs, or a quiet evening in a charming village pub, also provide idyllic romantic settings.

Dorset Resorts at the Best Price

Dorset

31/08 – 04/09

253 €/nighttotal: 1012 € (4 )

Shepherd's Hut At Hilltop Farm

2 2

resort , Romsey

Shepherd's Hut At Hilltop Farm is a pet-friendly chalet in Romsey, Hampshire, offering convenient on-site parking and proximity to local amenities, though specific distances to landmarks are not provided.
This 75 square metre self-catering dwelling features two bedrooms, one bathroom with a bath, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private garden with outdoor furniture, comfortably accommodating up to four guests.

9.7 108 reviews

Dorset

07/08 – 17/08

213 €/nighttotal: 2130 € (10 )

Everglade Holiday Home - By Sea And By Forest!

1 4

resort , Dorset

This modern bungalow is located on Hoburne Park in Christchurch, Dorset, just 10km from the beach and close to the New Forest. It has excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings.
The property is a 2-bedroom home with private decking and a lockable storage unit outside. Guests have access to a range of facilities at the 5-star Hoburne Park resort, including an indoor pool, outdoor pool, sauna, steam room, gym, mini golf, tennis court, and more.

8.2 185 reviews

Dorset

13/07 – 17/07

185 €/nighttotal: 740 € (4 )

Violet 28 Oakdene Forest Park

2 2

resort , Ferndown

Violet 28 Oakdene Forest Park is a holiday village located in Ferndown, just 10 miles from Bournemouth International Centre and 13 miles from Sandbanks, offering a peaceful retreat in a tranquil forest setting. The property has received very good user ratings and excellent location ratings, with cleanliness also rated very good.
The two-bedroom village house offers 50 square metres of space and can comfortably accommodate up to six guests. Amenities include a private balcony, a fireplace, a bar, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, free parking, and free Wi-Fi, providing everything needed for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

8.1 222 reviews

Dorset

20/06 – 27/06

169 €/nighttotal: 1183 € (7 )

Forest Beach Bashley Park

2 3

resort , Sway

Forest Beach Bashley Park is a resort village situated in Sway, just 12 miles from Bournemouth International Center and 18 miles from Sandbanks, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. It has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The resort features a private village layout with individual entrances for each of its spacious self-catering units, each measuring 60 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, sauna, restaurant, bar, and a garden perfect for relaxing or letting children play.

Dorset

20/07 – 25/07

1731 €/nighttotal: 8655 € (5 )

Tormarton Court

8 5

resort , Tormarton

Tormarton Court, a large cottage in the village of Tormarton, Gloucestershire, offers easy access to local amenities and attractions.
This 500 square metre property sleeps 16 guests in 8 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, boasting a heated swimming pool (seasonal, May 1st - October 1st), extensive parking, a fully equipped kitchen, and free WiFi.

10 2 reviews

Dorset

22/06 – 26/06

175 €/nighttotal: 700 € (4 )

Firtree Farm Lodges

1 4

resort , Yeovil

Firtree Farm Lodges in Yeovil, Somerset offers self-catering lodges conveniently located for exploring Longleat Safari Park (42km) and Longleat House (43km), as well as Bath's historical sites (47km) including the Roman Baths and Bath Spa station.
Each lodge sleeps up to 7 guests, boasting one bedroom, two bathrooms, a kitchen, free WiFi, a TV, and a jacuzzi, providing comfortable accommodation near Oldfield Park Train Station (47km) and Bristol Airport (50km).

9.8 8 reviews

Dorset

13/07 – 17/07

162 €/nighttotal: 648 € (4 )

The Cozy Cabin With Bay Views

1 2

resort , Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

The Cozy Cabin With Bay Views is a Platinum graded holiday home located in the Bay Hollow section of Rockley Park, Dorset, offering sea views and situated just 100 metres from the sandy beach, cafes, and water sports facilities.
This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom lodge accommodates up to 4 guests and features a well-equipped open-plan living area with a smart TV and fireplace, a wrap-around deck, and private driveway parking for one car, with optional access to Rockley Park's amenities.

Dorset

07/09 – 11/09

316 €/nighttotal: 1264 € (4 )

The Old Granary

2 2

resort , Andover

The Old Granary cottage is situated near Barton Stacey, a short drive from Andover, conveniently located 2.4km from a supermarket and 2km from a café, with a railway station 14km away.
This pet-friendly 135 square metre, two-bedroom house sleeps four, boasting a private garden, terrace, fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, ample parking (5 cars), and BBQ facilities.

9.8 44 reviews

Dorset

05/07 – 08/07

232 €/nighttotal: 696 € (3 )

The Dorset Resort

1 2

resort , Wareham

The Dorset Resort is conveniently located in Wareham, just a short drive from attractions like Monkey World Ape Rescue Center and Clouds Hill, offering easy access to the area's highlights. The resort has received excellent user ratings, indicating a positive experience for previous guests.
Each apartment is fully equipped with a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a comfortable living space, providing everything you need for a self-catering stay. The resort offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, sauna, and a golf course, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all.

10 1 review

Dorset

07/08 – 10/08

275 €/nighttotal: 825 € (3 )

1. Swanage Supreme 3 Bedroom Caravan

3 5

resort , Dorset

The Swanage Supreme 3 Bedroom Caravan is situated at Swanage Coastal Park within the Purbeck district of Dorset, offering close proximity to the Jurassic Coast and the seaside town of Swanage.
This spacious accommodation sleeps up to six guests in three bedrooms and includes a well-equipped kitchen, a family shower room, an additional toilet, outdoor furniture, and included leisure passes.

Dorset

19/06 – 21/06

211 €/nighttotal: 422 € (2 )

Luna-rockley Park Poole

1 2

resort , Poole

Vacation resort. Your accommodation will be located in Poole.
Facilities and services: a fridge, a kitchen and free parking. This resort is very convenient for families.

9.7 47 reviews

Dorset

10/07 – 12/07

241 €/nighttotal: 482 € (2 )

Windmill Retreat

1 2

resort , Glastonbury

Windmill Retreat is located in the village of Middlezoy, Somerset, just 50 kilometres from Bristol Airport and surrounded by the picturesque Somerset countryside. The resort has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The retreat offers a range of self-catering units, each equipped with a TV and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a peaceful rural setting, explore the nearby River Parrett, and visit attractions like Glastonbury and the Mendip Hills, all within a short drive.

Best Dorset resorts with a jacuzzi

Among the 54 accommodations in Dorset, here are the 4 best resorts with a jacuzzi

9.6 13 reviews

Dorset

17/08 – 21/08

225 €/nighttotal: 900 € (4 )

Henfields Country Retreat

1 4

resort , Cannington

Henfields Country Retreat is a self-catering property situated in Otterhampton, a village 47 kilometres from Bristol Airport, offering a peaceful escape in the Somerset countryside.
This one-bedroom retreat provides guests with a fully equipped kitchen, a Jacuzzi, free parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi access, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

9.8 12 reviews

Dorset

24/08 – 28/08

278 €/nighttotal: 1112 € (4 )

Midsomer Lodges

1 2

resort , Pilton

Midsomer Lodges is located in Pilton, just 32 kilometres from Longleat Safari Park and The Roman Baths, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The resort has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall guest experience.
The lodges are equipped with kitchens, including dishwashers, ovens, and microwaves, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, private parking, and easy access to a range of attractions, including Chew Valley Lake, Farleigh Hungerford Castle, and Bristol Airport.

9.1 31 reviews

Dorset

31/07 – 04/08

993 €/nighttotal: 3972 € (4 )

Amazing 4br Chic Maisonette W/ Spa Option,up To 12

1 12

resort , Bournemouth

This exceptional maisonette is located in a prime Bournemouth neighbourhood, a 5-minute walk from Winton's shops and a 5-minute drive to the town centre and East Cliff beach, retaining original 1909 Arts & Crafts features including Pre-Raphaelite stained glass windows.
The "Amazing 4br Chic Maisonette W/ Spa Option,up To 12" offers exclusive use of a top-floor apartment with two kitchens and two living areas, accommodating up to 12 guests with access to a half-acre garden, a Yamaha piano, and proximity to the West Hants leisure club and Meyrick Park Golf Club.

10 1 review

Dorset

17/07 – 20/07

216 €/nighttotal: 648 € (3 )

Hawkchurch Resort And Spa

1 2

resort , Blackpool Corner

Hawkchurch Resort And Spa is situated in Blackpool Corner, 8.2 kilometres from Golden Cap and 8.2 kilometres from the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum.
This resort offers a spa and wellness centre, an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi, with units featuring a full kitchen and a television.

Best Dorset resorts with a pool

Among the 54 accommodations in Dorset, here are the 4 best resorts with a pool

Dorset

22/08 – 23/08

806 €/nightfor 1 night

Littlesea Holiday Park - Holiday Accommodation 19270

1 2

resort

Littlesea Holiday Park offers holiday accommodation near the Dorset and East Devon Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located within 1.6 km of Bennetts Water Gardens and within 4.8 km of the South West Coast Path Section 49 Trailhead and Weymouth Bay. This resort provides complimentary WiFi in public areas, free self-parking, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a garden, and cottages equipped with kitchens, allowing pets and offering an ideal base for exploring coastal attractions.

9.9 62 reviews

Dorset

29/08 – 05/09

141 €/nighttotal: 987 € (7 )

Coastal Holidays Swanage Blue Light Discount

1 2

resort , Dorset

This campervan is situated on Swanage Coastal Park, just a short distance from the town centre and offering stunning views of the Dorset coastline. It has received excellent ratings for cleanliness, location and user experience.
The accommodation features two bedrooms, a king-size bed with an ensuite, and a separate shower room, comfortably sleeping up to four guests. It boasts a fully equipped kitchen, a swimming pool, a garden, a fitness centre, internet access, and allows pets, making it perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.

Dorset

06/07 – 09/07

306 €/nighttotal: 918 € (3 )

Ocean View

2 4

resort , Cowes

The Ocean View chalet, a wooden Maison en bois, is situated in Great Thorness, near Cowes, conveniently located 0.5km from a supermarket.
This 64 square metre self-catering holiday home sleeps four, boasting two bedrooms, one bathroom, a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and a well-equipped kitchen including oven, microwave and freezer; seasonal access to a shared swimming pool (June 15th - September 15th) is also included.

Dorset

31/08 – 04/09

249 €/nighttotal: 996 € (4 )

Beachlands

3 2

resort , Cowes

Beachlands, at Great Thorness resort near Cowes, Isle of Wight, offers a self-catering mobile home 3.7km from Cowes' sandy beaches.
This 95 square metre holiday home sleeps six adults, boasting three bedrooms, a bathroom, a well-equipped kitchen, a living area with fireplace and TV, a private terrace, and access to a seasonal swimming pool and free Wi-Fi.

Frequently asked questions about resorts in Dorset

What are the top attractions in Dorset, United Kingdom?
Dorset boasts a stunning coastline! Top attractions include the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with iconic landmarks like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Corfe Castle, a ruined medieval castle, is incredibly atmospheric, and you shouldn't miss the charming town of Lyme Regis, known for its cobbled streets and fossil hunting. For something different, consider a visit to the Tank Museum in Bovington.
What are the best resorts with a swimming pool in Dorset?
Deluxe Caravan & Decking Littlesea Haven Resort, The Woodlark Lodge At Rockley Park and Osmington Holiday Park are among the best resorts with a swimming pool in Dorset.
Which festivals is Dorset, United Kingdom known for?
Dorset hosts many local events throughout the year, but some notable recurring events include the Bournemouth Air Festival, a large airshow with displays over Bournemouth beach, and various smaller agricultural shows and food festivals across the county celebrating local produce.
What are the best resorts with jacuzzi in Dorset?
Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat, Romantic Rural Retreats and Peckmoor Farm Lodges are the best resorts with a jacuzzi in Dorset.
What is the ideal number of days to experience the highlights of Dorset, United Kingdom?
To comfortably see the highlights of Dorset, a long weekend (four days) is a good starting point. However, a week allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore some of the more remote areas. A longer stay would be ideal to fully appreciate the diversity of the region.
What are the best family friendly resorts in Dorset?
The best family friendly resorts in Dorset are Deluxe Caravan & Decking Littlesea Haven Resort, Holiday Home In Durdle Door With Stunning Sea View and The Woodlark Lodge At Rockley Park.
What types of natural scenery can visitors see in Dorset, United Kingdom?
Dorset's scenery is incredibly diverse. You'll find dramatic cliffs and hidden coves along the Jurassic Coast, rolling hills in the Dorset Downs, and heathland areas like Studland Heath. The rivers and estuaries provide beautiful wetland habitats, while inland you'll find picturesque villages nestled in valleys.
What are the best pet friendly resorts in Dorset?
The best pet friendly resorts in Dorset are The Woodlark Lodge At Rockley Park, Bayview Holiday Home and 3 Bedroom Holiday Home In Rockley Holiday Park.
Are there particular times of year when Dorset’s landscapes or wildlife undergo striking seasonal changes?
Absolutely! Spring sees wildflowers blooming across the heathland and in the meadows. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the leaves of the trees, particularly noticeable in the woodlands around the Dorset Downs. Bird migration is also significant, with different species appearing at different times of the year.
What are the best ways to get to know the people and culture of Dorset, United Kingdom?
Visiting local pubs and markets is a great way to interact with people and sample local culture. Attending local events and festivals provides opportunities to engage with the community. Exploring the smaller villages and talking to shopkeepers and residents can provide a deeper understanding of Dorset life.
What are the lesser-known but fascinating attractions in Dorset, United Kingdom?
The Dorset Museum in Dorchester offers insight into the county's history and archaeology. Brownsea Island, in Poole Harbour, is a nature reserve with red squirrels and diverse birdlife. For something different, the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens offer a unique experience.
Where are the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Dorset, United Kingdom?
Bournemouth has the most vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of pubs, bars, and clubs. Weymouth also offers a good selection of pubs and bars, catering to different tastes. Smaller towns and villages will have a more relaxed pub scene, ideal for a quieter evening.
Where are the best markets with local food in Dorset, United Kingdom?
Farmers' markets are held regularly in many towns and villages across Dorset. Check local listings for specific dates and locations. Shaftesbury and Dorchester often have particularly good markets.
What are the best sports events or competitions happening in Dorset, United Kingdom?
Dorset hosts various local sporting events throughout the year, including sailing regattas in Weymouth and Portland, and various running and cycling events across the county. Specific events vary from year to year, so checking local event listings would be advisable.
What are the most romantic attractions in Dorset, United Kingdom?
A sunset stroll along the beach at Durdle Door or Lulworth Cove is incredibly romantic. A picnic amidst the rolling hills of the Dorset Downs, or a quiet evening in a charming village pub, also provide idyllic romantic settings.

Nearby regions

Best Dorset resorts with air conditioning

9.1 31 reviews

Dorset

31/07 – 04/08

993 €/nighttotal: 3972 € (4 )

Amazing 4br Chic Maisonette W/ Spa Option,up To 12

1 12

resort , Bournemouth

Best Dorset resorts with a gym

10 15 reviews

Dorset

18/07 – 23/07

214 €/nighttotal: 1070 € (5 )

Ruby Lodge - Shorefield Park, Milford-on-sea

1 3

resort , Downton

Ruby Lodge, situated in a peaceful Downton cul-de-sac near Milford on Sea, offers easy access (3-4 minute drive or a 2.4km walk) to stunning clifftop views overlooking the Isle of Wight and the New Forest National Park.
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom lodge sleeps six, boasting a kitchen with dishwasher, swimming pool access, sauna, fitness centre, and self check-in; 2024 Guest Passes for on-site clubhouse facilities are available for pre-purchase.

8.0 64 reviews

Dorset

13/07 – 20/07

485 €/nighttotal: 3395 € (7 )

Forest Haven

2 2

resort , Sway

Forest Haven is a resort village located in Sway, just 30 kilometres from Sandbanks and 32 kilometres from Poole Harbour, offering a peaceful countryside retreat. It has received very good user ratings, and excellent ratings for location and cleanliness.
The two-bedroom self-catering accommodation is 50 square metres in size and can comfortably sleep four guests. Forest Haven offers a range of facilities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, garden, bar, and terrace, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway.

Dorset

01/08 – 08/08

206 €/nighttotal: 1442 € (7 )

Luxury 2024 Caravan 2 Bedrooms

1 3

resort , Barton on Sea

This 2024 model caravan, located in Naish Holiday Park, Barton-on-Sea, is a short distance from the beach and local amenities.
The two-bedroom holiday home sleeps four, boasting a fully equipped kitchen with fridge-freezer, microwave, and dishwasher, plus a private garden, swimming pool access, and on-site fitness centre.

9.6 119 reviews

Dorset

17/08 – 21/08

198 €/nighttotal: 792 € (4 )

Το Lodge By The Lake, το Shorefield Holiday Park

2 4

resort , Milford on Sea

The Lodge By The Lake At Shorefield Holiday Park is situated just three miles from Milford on Sea Beach and five miles from Barton-on-Sea Golf Club, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the New Forest. This family-friendly resort has received excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking a relaxing getaway.
This charming lodge comfortably accommodates up to four guests in its two bedrooms. Enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis court, fitness centre and spa, as well as a garden and terrace for outdoor relaxation.

Search all holiday resorts in Dorset

54 Best resorts in Dorset

Shepherd's Hut At Hilltop Farm

Everglade Holiday Home - By Sea And By Forest!

Violet 28 Oakdene Forest Park

Forest Beach Bashley Park

Tormarton Court

Firtree Farm Lodges

The Cozy Cabin With Bay Views

The Old Granary

The Dorset Resort

1. Swanage Supreme 3 Bedroom Caravan

Luna-rockley Park Poole

Windmill Retreat

Best Dorset resorts with a jacuzzi

Henfields Country Retreat

Midsomer Lodges

Amazing 4br Chic Maisonette W/ Spa Option,up To 12

Hawkchurch Resort And Spa

Best Dorset resorts with a pool

Littlesea Holiday Park - Holiday Accommodation 19270

Coastal Holidays Swanage Blue Light Discount

Ocean View

Beachlands

Frequently asked questions about resorts in Dorset

Nearby regions

Best Dorset resorts with air conditioning

Amazing 4br Chic Maisonette W/ Spa Option,up To 12

Best Dorset resorts with a gym

Ruby Lodge - Shorefield Park, Milford-on-sea

Forest Haven

Luxury 2024 Caravan 2 Bedrooms

Το Lodge By The Lake, το Shorefield Holiday Park