Where to Stay in Dorset: A Complete Guide
Dorset is one of England's most popular holiday destinations, offering everything from dramatic coastline and traditional seaside resorts to quiet villages and busy coastal towns. Whether you're looking for quaint harbourside cottages, hotels, holiday apartments, caravan parks or camping, choosing where to stay in Dorset can shape your entire trip-whether it's beaches, walking, or a relaxing countryside escape.
The Best Places to Stay in Dorset Depend on Your Trip
Here's a quick summary of the best towns to stay in Dorset, based on the type of trip you're planning - from family-friendly seaside resorts and lively coastal towns to scenic walking bases and quieter countryside escapes.
- Families: Weymouth
- Nightlife: Bournemouth
- Walking & scenery: Lulworth, West Bay
- Quiet seaside: Swanage
- No car: Weymouth, Dorchester
- Rural escape: Abbotsbury
Best Seaside Towns in Dorset
Weymouth - Best for Families
One of the most popular places to stay in Dorset, Weymouth offers a sandy beach, calm waters, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, making it ideal for a classic seaside holiday.
- Safe, sandy beach with shallow water
- Easy to explore on foot
- Wide range of accommodation options
Bournemouth & Poole - Best for Lively Breaks
Among the best seaside towns in Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole offer long sandy beaches, a lively atmosphere, and plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
- Vibrant nightlife and dining scene
- Miles of sandy beaches
- Great for couples and groups
Swanage - Traditional Seaside
Swanage is a charming seaside town with a more traditional feel, known for its sandy beach, historic steam railway, and easy access to the South West Coast Path.
- Family-friendly beach and relaxed atmosphere
- Home to the Swanage Railway (heritage steam trains)
- Close to Old Harry Rocks and scenic coastal walks
West Bay - Coastal Scenery
West Bay is famous for its dramatic cliffs and Jurassic Coast scenery, making it a top choice for walkers and nature lovers.
- Iconic golden cliffs and coastal views
- Excellent walking routes along the Jurassic Coast
- Quieter and less commercial than major resorts (can get extremely busy in the summer)
Iconic Coastal Locations
Lulworth - Walking & Landmarks
Lulworth is one of Dorset's most famous coastal areas, ideal for exploring natural landmarks and enjoying scenic walks.
- Close to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door
- Excellent coastal walking routes
- Peaceful, scenic surroundings
Central & Historic Bases
Dorchester - Best for Exploring
Dorchester is a central base in Dorset, making it ideal for exploring both the coast and countryside, especially if you want good transport connections.
- Central location for day trips
- Good train and bus links
- Historic town with museums and heritage
Wareham - Quiet & Well Located
Wareham is a peaceful riverside town and a great base for exploring the Isle of Purbeck and nearby coastal highlights.
- Close to Corfe Castle and Lulworth
- Quieter than coastal resorts
- Good access to countryside and coast
Countryside & Rural Villages
Abbotsbury
Abbotsbury is a picturesque Dorset village, perfect for a peaceful countryside escape close to the coast.
- Traditional village setting
- Great for walking and nature
- Close to Chesil Beach and coastal views
Types of Accommodation in Dorset
Dorset offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every type of trip, from short breaks to longer holidays. Choosing the right type of stay depends on how you plan to spend your time - whether you want convenience, flexibility, or a more immersive experience.
- Hotels & B&Bs: Ideal for convenience and shorter stays, often located in seaside towns with easy access to beaches and attractions. A great option for a relaxing, fully looked-after holiday, with a wide range of choices to suit all budgets-from simple room-only stays to full-service hotels with meals, sea views, and spa facilities.
- Holiday cottages: Perfect for families or groups, offering more space, privacy, and flexibility. Ideal for longer stays, self-catering breaks, and those wanting a home-from-home experience at their own pace. Wide range of choices from 1/2 bed cottages to large country houses.
- Apartments: Popular in coastal towns like Weymouth and Bournemouth, apartments provide a balance between comfort and independence, often in central or seafront locations-great for couples or small groups wanting flexibility with modern amenities.
- Caravan parks & campsites: A popular and often budget-friendly option, especially along the Dorset coast. Ideal for families and outdoor holidays, with many sites offering on-site facilities such as swimming pools, entertainment, restaurants, and kids' clubs-making them a destination in themselves.
- Country inns & farm stays: Ideal for a quieter, rural escape, often set in scenic countryside locations. Many offer a traditional Dorset experience, with historic buildings, local food, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the busier coastal resorts.
When deciding where to stay in Dorset, think about your priorities - proximity to the beach, access to walking routes, transport links, or simply peace and quiet - as this will help you choose the right location and type of accommodation for your trip.
Where to Stay in Dorset Without a Car
If you're not driving, choose Weymouth, Bournemouth, or Dorchester. These towns have the best train and bus connections, making it easier to explore Dorset.
Organised Coach Tours
Coach tours are a convenient way to see Dorset, offering the opportunity for a fully arranged, stress-free holiday without needing to plan where to go or how to get there. Many tours include accommodation, meals, and daily excursions to key landmarks such as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, making them ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a structured itinerary. Others offer a more flexible approach, providing transport and accommodation while leaving you free to explore at your own pace and choose how you spend your time.
Practical Decisions
Short Break (2-3 Days)
Stay in Weymouth or Dorchester for easy access to multiple highlights.
First Visit to Dorset
Choose Weymouth or Bournemouth for a mix of beach, scenery, and facilities.
No Car
Stick to towns with transport links like Weymouth, Bournemouth, or Dorchester.
Quiet Escape
Opt for Abbotsbury or countryside villages.
FAQ: Where to Stay in Dorset
Best place to stay in Dorset for families?
Weymouth is the top choice thanks to its beach and family-friendly layout.
Best seaside towns in Dorset?
Weymouth, Bournemouth, Swanage, and West Bay all offer different coastal experiences.
Where to stay without a car?
Weymouth, Bournemouth, and Dorchester are the easiest places to base yourself.
Is Dorset good for a short break?
Yes, it's ideal for a 2-3 day trip with plenty to see within short distances.
What accommodation should I choose?
Hotels for convenience, cottages for space, and campsites for budget-friendly stays.
Dorset offers something for every type of traveller - whether you're after beaches, countryside, or coastal scenery.
