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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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
2
26th - 28th June  £1,807.00 £1,544.20
26th June - 3rd July  £2,612.86 £1,977.14
29th June - 3rd July  £2,239.00 £1,911.40
+18 more stays
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Orchid House
Langton Matravers
4.9/5
A delightful four-bedroom holiday accommodation, set right on the doorstep of Dorset’s most breath-taking coastal walks, in the village of Langton Matravers.
8
4
3
2
26th - 28th June  £1,116.60
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Save 15% on stays before 24th July
Denbur Cottage
Gaunts Common
4.8/5
2 Bedrooms. Denbur is a lovely semi-detached cottage, with lawned garden and conservatory enjoying a superb location in a village that takes its name from John O’Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster.
4
2
2
0
26th - 28th June  £644.79 £559.93
29th June - 1st July  £682.85 £592.51
27th - 30th June  £670.16 £581.65
+18 more stays
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Save 25% on stays between 22nd Jun - 25th Jul
Save 20% on stays before 24th July
Magnolia Cottage
Weymouth
4.9/5
Magnolia Cottage is a beautiful and welcoming three bedroom semi detached cottage built from a mix of local Portland stone and brick. It gets its name from the magnificent Magnolia tree in the cottage style garden that it is truly beautiful when in bloom.
6
3
2
0
26th - 29th June  £821.50 £629.87
1st - 3rd July  £876.25 £712.00
26th - 30th June  £952.75 £728.31
+18 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
30th June - 3rd July  £817.67
29th June - 3rd July  £932.59
29th June - 1st July  £817.67
+3 more stays
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Purbeck Cottage (Kings)
Swanage
5/5
3 bedroom family home with two parking spaces and large covered patio to enjoy outside dining whatever the weather.
6
3
1
0
27th - 29th June  £684.09 £623.89
27th - 30th June  £722.76 £658.86
27th - 28th June  £684.09 £623.89
+3 more stays
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Save 25% on stays before 24th July
Save 25% on stays between 15th Jun - 19th Jul
Woodland Lodge
Poole
0/5
One of a small selection of superior lodges that overlook Poole Bay on Rockley Park. This detached holiday lodge offers a tranquil retreat in an exclusive gated area. The idyllic enclave is just a leisurely stroll away from Lytchett Bay, a charming small sandy beach, and in close proximity to the renowned Poole Harbour. For those seeking entertainment within the holiday park, tickets can be conveniently procured, with detailed pricing available on the Rockley Park website.
4
2
2
2
30th June - 3rd July  £720.57 £551.76
29th June - 2nd July  £720.57 £551.76
29th June - 3rd July  £826.14 £631.89
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Castle Heights
Corfe Castle
0/5
Escape the ordinary at Castle Heights, 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 Heights invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.
6
3
3
2
26th - 28th June  £1,292.90
29th June - 1st July  £1,392.54
27th June - 2nd July  £1,874.95
+18 more stays
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Save 20% on stays between 18th Jun - 26th Jul
Save 10% on stays before 24th July
The Lawns
Charlton Marshall
4.8/5
2 bedroom holiday cottage near to Blandford in the pretty village of Charlton Marshall, lovely country views and walks. Property all on one level with stunning garden.
4
2
1
2
26th - 29th June  £677.54 £557.82
26th - 28th June  £677.54 £557.82
27th - 29th June  £677.54 £557.82
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Mimosa House
Sandford, Wareham
5/5
Mimosa House is a delightful, newly refurbished two-bedroom bungalow, set in a quiet cul-de-sac in Sandford, Wareham. This self-catering accommodation offers plenty of space for a family of 4 and is an ideal spot for a coastal break in Dorset.
4
2
1
0
26th - 28th June  £703.42 £641.37
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Ballard House
Swanage
4/5
Nestled in the picturesque seaside town of Swanage, just a stone's throw away from the beach and town, lies a modern holiday retreat designed for families or groups seeking a tranquil escape.
6
3
2
1
1st - 3rd July  £708.35 £610.35
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Save 10% on stays before 24th July
Cheesemans Cottage
Muckleford, Dorchester
4.6/5
2 bedrooms. Cheeseman’s Cottage embodies all the distinct qualities of a quintessential English country retreat in Dorset. This ‘chocolate box’ thatched cottage, located on a quiet country lane is surrounded by a beautiful garden (mainly laid to grass) and enjoying rolling country views. This cottage lies in the quiet village of Muckleford, which is within easy reach of the coast and a wealth of attractions.
5
2
1
3
27th - 29th June  £656.70
1st - 3rd July  £687.36
28th - 30th June  £687.36
+12 more stays
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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. 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.