Dorset Short Breaks & Weekends Away

When it comes to taking a short break, Dorset is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked. Nestled in the heart of the South West of England, this picturesque county is the perfect place to relax and recharge. One of the main reasons to spend a short break in Dorset is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the breathtaking coastline, there is no shortage of scenic views to feast your eyes on. Whether you're a nature lover looking for a peaceful retreat or simply want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Dorset has something for everyone.

Dorset is also home to a wealth of charming villages and historic sites. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Lyme Regis or explore the ancient ruins of Corfe Castle – there is no shortage of things to see and do in this captivating county. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Dorset offers a wide range of options to get your adrenaline pumping. From hiking along the Jurassic Coast to paddle boarding in the sparkling waters of Studland Bay, there is no shortage of ways to get active and explore the great outdoors. So pack your bags, book a cosy cottage and get ready to experience all that this enchanting county has to offer.

If you're looking for more inspiration on short breaks in the UK then check out our helpful guide.

Durdle Door at the beach on the Jurassic Coast of Dorset at sunset

Short Breaks in Poole

Open plan living space | Reflections, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Reflections

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 2
  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£866
View
Open plan living space | Magnolia House, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Magnolia House

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,154
View
Delightful single storey holiday home | Jasper, Broadstone, near Bournemouth

Broadstone, near Bournemouth, Dorset

Jasper

Wifi
Car parking on site
Enclosed Garden / Patio
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£765
View
Living area | Baywatch, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Baywatch

Coastal
Car parking on site
Coast within 1 mile
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,064
View
Living room | Peregrine, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Peregrine

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 2
  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£769
View
Living area | Panorama, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Panorama

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 3 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,635
View
Outdoor area | Lobster Cottage, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Lobster Cottage

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,493
View
Exterior | Heath Reach, Poole

Poole, Dorset

Heath Reach

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 4 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 1 pet allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,154
View

Short Breaks in Weymouth

Lovely single-storey barn conversion | Fossils’ End, Chickerell, near Weymouth

Chickerell, near Weymouth, Dorset

Fossils’ End

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£445
View
Cosy cottage with gravelled area to the front | Magnolia - St Anne’s Cottages, Chickerell, near Weymouth

Chickerell, near Weymouth, Dorset

St Anne’s Cottages - Magnolia

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 1 pet allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£539
View
Hot tub with fantastic sea views | Lloyds Cottage, Portland, near Weymouth

Portland, near Weymouth, Dorset

Lloyds Cottage

Coastal
Hot Tub
Wifi
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 3 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£719
View
Welcoming living area | Rodwell Trail Cottage, Weymouth

Weymouth, Dorset

Rodwell Trail Cottage

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£635
View
Living room | Freshwater Bay View, Portland

Portland, Dorset

Freshwater Bay View

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 2
  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£569
View
Charming 200 year old cottage  | Pebbles, Portland

Portland, Dorset

Pebbles

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 6
  • 3 bedrooms
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 1 pet allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£379
View
Open plan living space | Painters Cottage, Sutton Poyntz

Sutton Poyntz, Dorset

Painters Cottage

Wifi
Car parking on site
Pub within 1 mile
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

4.9

out of 5

7 nights

From

£535
View

Short Breaks in Dorchester

Living room/dining room | Melstock - Greenwood Grange Cottages, Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester

Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester, Dorset

Melstock

Wifi
Car parking on site
Garden / Patio
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,238
View
Exterior | Armswell House, Plush, nr. Piddletrenthide

Plush, near Piddletrenthide, Dorset

Armswell House

Hot Tub
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 18
  • 7 bedrooms
  • 6 bathrooms
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,435
View
Dining Area | Henning Lodge - Brewery Farm Lodges, Ansty, near Dorchester

Ansty, near Dorchester, Dorset

Henning Lodge

Hot Tub
Luxury
Wifi
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 1 pet allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,159
View
Exterior | Abbotsea - Greenwood Grange Cottages, Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester

Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester, Dorset

Abbotsea

Wifi
Car parking on site
Garden / Patio
  • Sleeps up to 2
  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£1,128
View
Exterior | Primrose Cottage, Rose Cottage - Westfield Farm Cottages, Winterbourne, Steepleton

Winterbourne, Steepleton, Dorset

Rose Cottage

Wifi
Car parking on site
Pub within 1 mile
  • Sleeps up to 3
  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£325
View
Exterior | Roselands, Dorchester

Dorchester, Dorset

Roselands

Coastal
Luxury
Wifi
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£605
View
Living room | Linden Lea, Frampton

Frampton, Dorset

Linden Lea

Wifi
Car parking on site
Enclosed Garden / Patio
  • Sleeps up to 4
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 2 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£490
View
Exterior | Woodlander, Dorchester

Dorchester, Dorset

Woodlander

Coastal
Wifi
Car parking on site
  • Sleeps up to 3
  • 2 bedrooms
  • 1 bathroom
  • Up to 0 pets allowed

5

out of 5

7 nights

From

£259
View

Discover more on your weekend away in Dorset

One of the top reasons to spend a short break in Dorset is the beautiful scenery. With its rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches, the landscape in Dorset is truly breathtaking. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll through the countryside or enjoying a picnic by the sea, you'll be surrounded by natural beauty wherever you go. With plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports, you can enjoy an active break in this picturesque setting. You could take a hike along the South West Coast Path, go kayaking in the beautiful Lulworth Cove, or even try your hand at rock climbing on the cliffs of Portland.

Another reason to choose Dorset for your short break is the abundance of things to see and do. From exploring historic castles and charming villages to visiting museums and art galleries, there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. You could even take a boat trip along the coast or go fossil hunting on the famous Jurassic Coast. From ancient monuments like Stonehenge and Maiden Castle to the charming market towns of Dorchester and Sherborne, there's plenty to explore for history buffs. You could visit the ruins of Corfe Castle, explore the fascinating museums in Bournemouth, or attend a traditional Dorset village fete for a taste of local culture.


More Short Breaks Around the UK

Kent Short Breaks

Cornwall Short Breaks

Wales Short Breaks

Devon Short Breaks

Kimmeridge and the Dorset Coastline from Swyre Head

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