Dorset is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations. From coast to country, and every breathtaking attraction between, we’re not surprised to see millions of visitors flock to the Jurassic Coast every year. Much of our tourist footfall lends its thanks to our travel connections that mean getting to the county is pretty easy. Whether you’re driving, taking a train or hopping on a plane, our slice of the South West coast is a convenient place to get to, which means a last-minute holiday in Dorset is always a good idea. Whether a spontaneous rural escape is on the cards, or you want to fill your half-term with some seaside family fun, take a closer look at our Dorset holiday cottages with last minute availability.

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Seacombe
Langton Matravers
4.9/5
Nestled in the sleepy village of Langton Matravers proudly stands Seacombe, an exquisite 4 bedroom family home. This stunning link detached home could easily be the set to a photoshoot for Country Living magazine. Furnished with high quality new furniture, sumptuous duck down quilts, crisp white linen and beds so comfortable you will struggle to leave them, Seacombe is the holiday home you've been searching for. ?
8
4
3
2
28th - 31st January  £662.83
29th - 31st January  £662.83
28th - 30th January  £662.83
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Save 20% on stays before 25th February
The Wedge
Swanage
4.9/5
A spacious 3 bedroom bungalow, set on the cliff top in a private part of Swanage overlooking picturesque Purbeck Hills. Situated just outside of the town centre on a quiet road but with all amenities nearby, this holiday home is within a short walk of the beach. It is ideal for those wishing to explore most spectacular walks and enjoy the scenery of a pretty coastline.
6
3
2
1
28th - 31st January  £535.90
30th - 31st January  £535.90
29th - 31st January  £535.90
+3 more stays
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Capstone
Swanage
5/5
A beautiful Edwardian home, which is an ideal base for friends and extended family to share adventures on the South coast. Two minute flat walk from beach and town.
8
4
2
0
29th - 31st January  £527.50
29th - 30th January  £527.50
30th - 31st January  £527.50
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Markham House
Weymouth
5/5
A spacious family home with off road parking and large, enclosed garden. The house is ideal for family and friends who want to stroll through the town to the Harbour and beach.
5
3
2
1
28th - 31st January  £437.50 £422.50
29th - 31st January  £437.50 £422.50
29th - 30th January  £437.50 £422.50
+3 more stays
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Heathlands
Studland
4.6/5
3 bedrooms. Heathlands is a modern cottage, the ideal base for family holidays in Studland. This light and airy holiday home is a short walk from Studlands long sandy beach.
6
3
1
0
29th - 31st January  £527.50
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Save 15% on stays before 25th February
Save 10% on stays before 11th March
St Marks Cottage
Swanage
5/5
Come and stay in this beautifully appointed cottage, ideal for families and cottage in a quiet spot in the town - walk to beach and coastal path.
4
2
2
0
29th - 31st January  £416.35 £375.00
29th - 30th January  £416.35 £375.00
30th - 31st January  £416.35 £375.00
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Save 20% on stays before 4th February
Save 15% on stays before 25th February
Seashell View
Swanage
4.9/5
A stunning 3 bed apartment with sea views – perfect for a family beach holiday in the coastal town of Swanage, Dorset.
6
3
1
0
29th - 31st January  £527.50
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Save 10% on stays before 25th February
The Aspens
Swanage
4.8/5
Delightful light-filled family holiday home, situated just a stone’s throw from beautiful Swanage Pier.
5
2
2
0
29th - 31st January  £374.20
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Cherry Lodge
Wareham
4.7/5
Comfort and space to be enjoyed by friends and family in this large, modern home complete with bubbling hot tub. Its pet friendly and has plenty of parking. The quality of this home and the size of the garden are what attracts guests to Cherry Lodge.
9
4
2
2
29th - 31st January  £610.71
29th - 30th January  £610.71
30th - 31st January  £610.71
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Save 20% on stays before 4th February
Save 15% on stays before 25th February
Below Decks
Swanage
4.8/5
Below Decks is a gorgeous, seafront holiday home that sleeps 6 guests. Situated on the Parade in the heart of Swanage with the main beach, restaurants and shops directly on your doorstep, it is perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway.
6
3
2
2
29th - 31st January  £475.00
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Newton House
Swanage
4.6/5
3 bedrooms. The owners of this spacious seaside home, which is very close to Swanage beach have stylishly furnished with a contemporary and comfortable interior.
6
3
2
0
29th - 31st January  £448.75
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Castle View House
Corfe Castle
5/5
Escape the ordinary at Castle View House, a haven in the countryside that accommodates up to nine guests. With its enchanting views of Corfe Castle, stylish open-plan interiors, and dog-friendly atmosphere, this residence promises a unique and memorable retreat. Nestled in the heart of Corfe Castle village, it provides an ideal setting for switching off from the demands of everyday life and savoring every moment with friends and family. Whether you're captivated by the historic charm of the surroundings or indulging in the comfort of the stylish interiors, Castle View House invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.
9
5
4
1
29th - 31st January  £1,472.50
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Why is Dorset a

Great Destination for Last Minute Holidays?

Dorset is a great destination for a last-minute holiday for many reasons. You will find a whole host of fantastic things to do once you reach the region even if you haven’t spent much time planning your trip in advance. From Weymouth and West Dorset to Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck, a quick Google search will generate a sizeable list of fun, entertaining and informative things to do when you’re in Dorset.

The county is well known for its better-than-average weather, putting many UK coastal resorts in the shade. It’s also able to boast a rich history, being the home of the UK’s first-ever fossil shop, many notable literary figures and lots of interesting war-time history. We may be biased, but we think you’ll have a great time here, and if you have a free weekend or a few days in the summer to fill with some fun, take a look at our last minute holidays in Dorset – you won’t regret it.

Find a Dog-Friendly

Last Minute Break in Dorset

There’s no need to miss out on getting a great deal on a last minute holiday in Dorset just because you don’t want to leave your beloved four-legged friend at home. There’s more dog-friendly accommodation than you might think in Dorset, and many of our Dorset cottages are perfectly located near to walking trails and offer sizeable, enclosed gardens for your peace of mind. If you bring your dog with you to our lovely coastal country, you don’t need to pay someone to care for them whilst you are away, which means you’ll have more to spend when you’re enjoying your last-minute Dorset break. Your furry friend will love running around one of our dog-friendly beaches, and what’s also great about holidaying in Dorset with your dog is that many of the local pubs and restaurants are pet-friendly too.

Travelling to Dorset

For a Last Minute Break

Dorset is an easy-to-reach county from various parts of the UK and abroad. There’s a direct train line taking you from Waterloo Station in London to Weymouth, with the train stopping at Bournemouth, Poole, Wareham and Dorchester South. Alternatively, if you’re travelling from Bristol or Devon, there are frequent services to Dorchester West, and Bournemouth train station services the North of England. If you’re coming from a little further afield, travellers can get the ferry to Poole and Weymouth, and both Bournemouth and Southampton airports are well-connected to the area by public transport.

Planning Your

Last Minute break to Dorset

Your last-minute break in Dorset is more likely to be a success if you think about the things that you want to do before you arrive. Even if you’re booking just a day or two before you leave home, you’ll still have time to make a list of all the things you want to see and do whilst you’re in Dorset. It’s also a wise move to purchase a quality local map so you can find your bearings quickly once you’re in the area. If paper maps aren’t your thing, then Google Maps will work just fine too. Create a bucket list of the most important places to visit and things to do during your last-minute break in Dorset. Even if you don’t have time to fit everything in, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to enjoy a varied, fun-packed Dorset break booked just days in advance. For a little inspiration, why not take a look at our Dorset area guides.

Find a Cottage for a

Last Minute Holiday in Dorset

Whether you’re on a tight budget or have a little more to spend, you should be able to find a suitable last minute holiday in Dorset at Dorset Cottages Holidays. Our team of expert holiday planners know the region inside out and are always on hand to advise you if you need help with finding the perfect cottage for your specific needs. Each cottage in the database has been specially chosen for its excellent facilities, comfort and luxury. The team can also provide in-depth advice on making the most of your stay in the area, recommending the best attractions, events, pubs, bars and restaurants.

If you’re seeking accommodation with facilities like open fires, four-poster beds and panoramic sea views, Dorset Holiday Cottages is the holiday letting agent for you. Our site offers accommodation for groups, families, couples and solo travellers; whether you’re dreaming of a summer break or a winter getaway, you shouldn’t struggle to find a last minute holiday in Dorset that ticks all of your boxes.