There’s nothing quite like a British summer holiday beside the sea. Brutal winds whip up sandstorms that throw half the beach into your cucumber sandwiches; icy waters leave brave swimmers looking painfully pink from the neck down, and someone’s guaranteed to have forgotten the flasks of hot tea. However, those wonderful days when the sun conquers the clouds are truly memorable. The sky is bright blue, and the sound of out-of-tune ice-cream trucks trundles down coastal roads. Moreover, Dorset is not only home to some of the UK’s best beaches but also brimming with beautiful locations, from towering abbeys to crumbling ruins. Here, we’ve rounded up the best Airbnbs to experience it all from – the most inviting seaside properties and cozy rural cottages that serve as perfect retreats after a day of exploring the county’s prettiest treasures.
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A cosy stone cottage
Set on an old dairy farm, this is a peaceful escape in the middle of the Dorset hills. Surrounded by hay meadows, grazing deer, and Jacob sheep, guests can spend hours exploring the countryside – at dusk, keep your eyes peeled for the resident barn owl known to swoop across the fields. Inside, the design reflects the soothing outdoor environment with gentle greys, creams, and whites, echoing the straw-colored expanses and cloud-filled skies. This tranquil aesthetic is complemented by exposed bricks and rough wooden elements, while a coal fireplace warms the light and airy living room.
Price: £214 per night (seven nights minimum)
Sleeps: four
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A peaceful country house
Cocooned in twisted, leafy vines, this rustic cottage is full of charm. Inside, oak-panelled doors open to reveal cozy bedrooms with wrought-iron bedsteads, wooden dressing tables, and lovely patterned wallpaper. Additionally, there’s a modern kitchen equipped with a Smeg fridge and retro cooker, alongside a snug living room adorned with leather and textured armchairs. Beyond the mint-colored back door, explore the gardens to find a hidden tire swing and wooden playhouse, perfect for a delightful picnic on a sunny day.
Price: £185 per night (two nights minimum)
Sleeps: four
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A reimagined thatched cottage
This 10-bedroom property is ideal for larger groups and has been newly renovated. Originally a quaint thatched-roof cottage, it now boasts a luxurious upgrade, blending old-world charm with modern design. Underneath the adorable thatched roof, sleek and minimalist features abound, allowing the property’s architecture to shine. Moreover, it is located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing opportunities for hiking around coastal paths or enjoying a swim in the brand-new indoor pool.
Price: £2,085 per night (three nights minimum)
Sleeps: 16
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A beachfront house
Set in a sleepy coastal village, this beachfront property is perfectly situated for a serene escape. Visitors can relax on the sofa, enjoying stunning views of Ringstead Bay and across the water to Weymouth and Portland. The open-plan living room and kitchen feature pale-grey wood floors and rattan furniture, creating a refreshing ambiance. Upstairs, bedrooms are adorned with soothing hues, providing a tranquil retreat after a day spent exploring the beauty of Dorset.
Price: £341 per night (five nights minimum)
Sleeps: six
