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Weekend Breaks in Dorset
Why have a Dorset weekend break?
It's hopelessly handsome
Home to the world-famous Jurassic Coast (England’s only natural World Heritage Site), Dorset is an ancient south-west county bordering Somerset, Devon, Wiltshire and Hampshire. And still relatively under-the-radar as a weekend break destination.
The dinosaurs knew what they were doing when they chose Dorset 185 million years ago. The Jurassic Coast is a sight to behold; its muscular cliffs, stunning rock formations, beautiful beaches, fabulous coves (yes, we’re talking about you, Lulworth Cove) and natural ports, harbours, and towns will get under your skin and salt your soul.
Even inland, away from the coast, Dorset’s wonders bite and don’t let go: from the subtropical gardens of Abbotsbury and the famous cobbled street of Gold Hill in Shaftsbury, to the ruins of Corfe Castle on the Isle of Purbeck and the Dorchester streets that author Thomas Hardy called home.
There’s so much to do and see in Dorset on a weekend break that you’ll need more than just one. Trust us.
Where is Dorset?
INSPIRED PLACES TO STAY
Our favourites for a Dorset weekend away
Whatever sort of place you’d like to stay on a Dorset short break, this is the county that won’t disappoint. From unique pet-friendly accommodation, cosy B&Bs, to pubs with rooms, boutique hotels and self-catering holiday cottages, Dorset has the lot. Here are some of our favourite places to stay in Dorset to inspire your midweeker or weekend trip.
Crabbers' Wharf, Castletown: Where friends meet and freedom was won
A wonderful waterfront staycation on an historic spot, Crabbers' Wharf Castletown also serves an enduring reminder of friendship. From £150pn
- Castletown, Portland
- https://crabberswharf.co.uk/
Classy Sherborne Hotel in the Heart of Hardy's Dorset
A beautiful Georgian townhouse hotel with fabulous rooms and suites, a walled garden and unique garden spa.
- Sherborne, Dorset
- https://theeastburyhotel.co.uk/
Baker's Loft: Historical Lyme Regis Apartment in the Heart of Town
Oh hello Baker's Loft! A gorgeous self-catering Lyme Regis apartment. Sleeps 4. On Broad Street in central Lyme Regis. 5 mins' from the sea! From £120pn.
- Broad Street, Lyme Regis
- https://www.jurassicproperties.com/bakers-loft-lyme-regis/
Gorgeous dog-friendly accommodation in Lyme Regis with incredible sea views
Modern apartment with stunning views over the Jurassic Coast. Dog-friendly accommodation in Lyme Regis. Near beaches. Sleeps 4. From £115pn
- Lyme Regis, UK
- https://www.jurassicproperties.com/
Stunning Seafront Holiday Cottage in Lyme Regis: Sundial House
Loved by locals and admired by visitors, Sundial House holiday cottage in Lyme Regis is a unique and stunning place to call home for a weekend, or longer. Sleeps 9 in 5 double rooms.
- Lyme Regis, UK
- https://www.lyme-regis-accommodation.co.uk/sundial
Cool, coastal dog-friendly cottage in the beating heart of Lyme Regis
Whether it’s for relaxation, romance or a rollicking family adventure, Coombe Street dog-friendly cottage in Lyme Regis never fails to deliver.
- Lyme Regis, England
- https://www.jurassicproperties.com/coombe-street-lyme-regis/
Outbuildings, Bridport. A Luxury Farm'otel in West Dorset
9 beautiful rooms that come with a concierge service and unforgettable bolt-on experiences. Outbuildings Bridport really is an extraordinary place to stay.
- Bridport, Dorset
- https://www.holidayoutbuildings.com/
The Coop: Luxury Dog-Friendly Accommodation in Bridport
Gorgeous rustic-luxe cabin for two near popular Jurassic coast beaches. Comes with concierge service and wonderful bolt-on experiences.
- Bridport, Dorset
- https://www.holidayoutbuildings.com/
EPIC PLACES TO EAT & DRINK IN DORSET
Fun and fabulous
Dorset’s doesn’t disappoint, whatever time of year it is. Gorgeous places to feast and drink abound, so there’s always something delicious to try for us weekenders! Here are just some of the fabulous Dorset places to eat & drink that we think will sweeten your Dorset weekend break.
Culinary Sex on Rails! Hop Aboard The Station Kitchen West Bay
Sexy interiors, class-act cocktails and food that's off the rails. Yup, the Station Kitchen West Bay is one taste journey you won't forget!
- West Bay, Dorset
- https://www.thestationkitchen.co.uk/
The Potting Shed: Fabulous al fresco cocktail bar in Dorset from Dark Bear
We’re digging The Potting Shed - the latest outdoor pop-up from the award-winning Dark Bear, Bridport, that specialises in rum-based cocktails.
- Bridport, Dorset
- https://www.darkbear.shop/
EAT & DRINK
10 Lyme Regis restaurants that leave you hungry for seconds
From fresh seafood to innovative veggie wholesomeness, Lyme Regis's restaurants and cafes are dynamic and delicious.
EAT & DRINK
Tuck in! 5 of the very best restaurants in West Bay
When you’re looking for a decent bite to eat in West Bay, there are places a-plenty. Here are our top 5 restaurants.
Tried & Tested
Bridport Food Festival serves up a summer treat
THE foodie event of Bridport's summer calendar - and it's even more delicious than we expected!
TOP PLACES TO VISIT
Dorset Weekend Guides & Itineraries
Where to go, what to do in Dorset on a weekend break – here are our top guides and itineraries for you to use, all tried and tested by us. If your chosen Dorset village or town guide isn’t featured yet, don’t fret. We’re updating content all the time, so be sure to sign up for our newsletters to get updates on new content added to the site.
EASY PEASY WEEKENDS
Go local: Unmissable Lyme Regis
A bucketload of things to do to in Lyme Regis. Including top tips only locals will know.
EASY PEASY WEEKENDS
24 hours in West Bay, Dorset
Majestic golden sandstone cliffs, West Bay in Dorset is the Golden Gateway to the Jurassic Coast.
