Hotels in Dorset

Top reasons to visit Dorset

• Stunning Coastline: Dorset boasts breathtaking beaches and the famous Jurassic Coast, perfect for leisurely walks and fossil hunting.
• Historic Sites: Explore enchanting castles and ancient monuments, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking trails and active ports, catering to both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Visit attractions like Abbotsbury Children’s Farm, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Charming Accommodation: From cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, Dorset provides a variety of lodging options for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Dorset

Dorset offers a delightful array of accommodation options, perfect for families and those seeking a pet-friendly getaway. From charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious family hotels in Weymouth, such as the Aaran Guesthouse and Abbey House, you'll find a variety of choices. Whether you prefer a beach vacation experience or an accessible cottage, Dorset's hospitality ensures a memorable stay for every traveller.

• Best Western Weymouth Hotel Rembrandt: Nestled in the heart of Dorset, the Best Western Weymouth Hotel Rembrandt is a delightful 3-star accommodation perfect for families and business travellers alike. Its spa-themed atmosphere allows guests to unwind with a full range of amenities, including a rejuvenating sauna, an inviting indoor pool, and a soothing steam room. The property is particularly family-friendly, offering various services and amenities tailored for children, ensuring a relaxing stay for all ages. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or a base for exploring the stunning Dorset coastline, this hotel provides a comprehensive experience for relaxation and leisure.
• The Knoll House: The Knoll House stands as a charming 3.5-star hotel, beautifully situated with direct access to the beach. It is an ideal sanctuary for beach lovers and pet owners, welcoming furry friends with a pet-friendly policy. The hotel offers a relaxed, seaside atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the shore. With amenities that include provisions for dogs and a service animal fee waiver, it caters to the needs of pet owners. Experience the perfect blend of coastal beauty and comfort at this delightful retreat, where relaxation and recreation go hand in hand.
• Fairhaven Hotel: The Fairhaven Hotel offers a welcoming and comfortable stay in Dorset, featuring a range of dining options to start your day right. With a continental breakfast available and an inviting bar and lounge, guests can enjoy a delightful culinary experience without venturing far. The hotel also provides modern entertainment options, including flat-screen and digital TVs, ensuring your evenings are as enjoyable as your days. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, the Fairhaven Hotel is equipped with the necessary amenities to make your stay both pleasant and memorable.

Where to stay in Dorset

Dorset offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and rich history, perfect for a family-friendly vacation. Explore the picturesque A35 route between Dorchester and Abbotsbury, where you can visit charming attractions like Abbotsbury Children’s Farm and enjoy breathtaking views from Abbotsbury Hill. The county is dotted with abundant monuments and friendly locals, providing a relaxing atmosphere steeped in culture. Don't miss the chance to experience the warm hospitality and scenic beauty that Dorset has to offer.

• Weymouth: Nestled on the stunning Jurassic Coast, Weymouth is renowned for its sandy beaches and beautiful harbour. This vibrant seaside town offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and scenic views, making it a favourite destination for families and water sports enthusiasts. During the summer months, Weymouth buzzes with life, attracting visitors keen to enjoy the beach, explore the local theatre, or unwind in its charming parks. The iconic Weymouth Beach and its family-friendly atmosphere are perfect for sunbathing and beach games, while the nearby rocks provide opportunities for exploration and adventure.
• Swanage: Positioned at the eastern end of the Isle of Purbeck, Swanage is a picturesque coastal town known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. The area is a haven for nature lovers, offering access to the stunning Purbeck Hills and the famous Durlston Country Park. Visitors flock to Swanage during the warmer months to enjoy its inviting beaches, mini golf, and family-friendly playgrounds. With its charming seafront and local attractions, including the historic Swanage Railway, this town combines relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation.
• Poole: Poole boasts one of the largest natural harbours in the world, providing a stunning backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities. The town is a vibrant hub for beachgoers and boating enthusiasts alike, with its sandy beaches and bustling marina offering plenty of options for fun and relaxation. While Poole attracts visitors year-round, it sees a particular surge in the warmer months, inviting guests to partake in water sports, mini golf, and delightful seaside strolls. With its scenic views and lively atmosphere, Poole promises an enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Things to do in Dorset

Dorset is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a range of adventurous activities. Visitors can explore its recreational areas, enjoy hiking trails, and access active ports. Numerous activity centres and programmes are available, ensuring a wealth of engaging experiences awaits. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or an exhilarating adventure, Dorset has something for everyone.

Shopping

The Broadwindsor Craft and Design Centre offers a unique shopping experience where you can discover handcrafted gifts and local artwork. It's an excellent spot to find distinctive souvenirs that reflect the charm of Dorset, ensuring you take home a piece of the region's creativity.

Recreation

The Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club offers a tranquil golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and sport. For a peaceful retreat, Lodmoor Country Park invites you to unwind with its picturesque scenery and leisure activities. Greenhill Beach provides a soothing coastal escape, ideal for rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of skiing at Warmwell Holiday Park Ski Slope, where you can enjoy the exhilarating sports atmosphere. For an adrenaline rush, visit Go Ape at Moors Valley Ringwood, featuring an exciting zipline ropes course nestled in the great outdoors. Don’t miss the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy for thrilling water sports adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Dorset by visiting Weymouth Pavilion for a romantic theatre performance, then head to Skirmish Dorset for thrilling arcade adventures. For a family-friendly cinema outing, catch a film at Cineworld Weymouth, where entertainment and culture blend seamlessly.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dorset

For a budget-friendly trip to Dorset, consider visiting in January or October to November when prices are lower, avoiding the peak summer months. Book your accommodation for a Tuesday to save on lodging costs, as Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and explore package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Don't miss free local attractions and natural scenery to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Dorset are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Dorset is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Dorset is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make savings by combining your hotel reservations in Dorset with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Dorset

Dorset offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, ideal for those seeking a memorable getaway. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, historic castles, and fascinating museums, catering to varied interests in culture and nature. Whether you're after a relaxing day by the sea or an enriching experience steeped in history, Dorset's attractions promise to delight every traveller.

• Durdle Door: This iconic limestone arch, carved by the sea, offers breathtaking coastal views and scenic walks along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding cliffs and beach create a serene atmosphere perfect for photography and relaxation.
• Weymouth Beach: Renowned for its golden sands and vibrant promenade, Weymouth Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seaside activities. The beach's family-friendly vibe, combined with local cafés and amusements, makes it a delightful spot for all ages.
• Wimborne Minster: This historic town is home to the stunning Wimborne Minster, an architectural gem with intricate carvings and a rich history. Explore quaint streets lined with charming shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks that reflect the town's heritage.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Dorset

When planning a trip to Dorset, you can fly into several major airports. Bristol Airport (BRS) is situated 77.2km away and offers nearby accommodation options like the 5-star Bear and Swan, located 6.4km from the airport, and the Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel, a 4-star establishment 9.7km away. SOUthampton Airport (SOU), located 80.5km away, features the luxurious Harbour Hotel Southampton, 6.4km from the airport. Lastly, Cardiff Airport (CWL) is 98.2km distant, with top choices like voco St David's Cardiff, 14.5km away. Each of these hotels provides convenient access to their respective airports for a smooth journey to Dorset.