As autumn settles over Dorset, the countryside comes alive with a stunning palette of gold, amber, and crimson, and the gentle rustle of fallen leaves beneath your feet and the crisp air mark the arrival of the October half term. This is the perfect time to explore Dorset’s rugged coast and countryside, with fewer crowds and a peaceful scene that makes for a truly memorable getaway. Whether you’re seeking October half term breaks in the UK for the whole family or a quiet retreat, our selection of holiday cottages for October half term offers something for everyone.

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Honeysuckle Cottage
Kingston, Nr Corfe Castle
4.8/5
This two-bedroom + annex Purbeck stone cottage is tucked away in the very quiet village of Kingston, near Corfe Castle. Escape the everyday, with luxury interiors and enhancing views! Pet-friendly.
6
3
2
2
17th - 24th October 2025  £1,178.80
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Capstone House
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
19th - 22nd October 2025  £876.25
18th - 22nd October 2025  £1,000.00
18th - 23rd October 2025  £1,195.00
+25 more stays
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West Lodge
Church Knowle, Nr Corfe Castle
4.9/5
Tastefully presented and finished to a high standard, this fabulous holiday home in Church Knowle, will appeal to those of you visiting with extended family and friends. Located just a mile outside Corfe Castle, as the crow flies between Kimmeridge Bay and the golden sands of Studland, you will be truly spoilt for things to see and do.
10
5
3
0
17th - 24th October 2025  £1,681.75
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Markham House
Weymouth
0/5
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
17th - 24th October 2025  £1,114.75
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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
18th - 21st October 2025  £800.80
19th - 23rd October 2025  £913.19
21st - 23rd October 2025  £800.80
+12 more stays
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Leap House
Wareham
5/5
Leap House is a well-presented three-bedroom semi-detached holiday retreat, sitting peacefully within a short walk of Wareham Quay. This well-presented holiday accommodation, is an excellent base to explore one of England’s Saxon Walled towns and nearby beaches of the Jurassic coast. Entering the house via the patio area, you will be greeted by a fully-equipped kitchen, featuring integrated appliances and all the amenities for your culinary creations, which you can enjoy in the next-door lounge/dining area. The inviting living area features two leather sofas, an armchair, and a wood-burning stove – ideal for those wanting to unwind with a book or a favourite movie.
4
3
1
0
17th - 24th October 2025  £881.65
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Coastguard Cottage
Worth Matravers
4.6/5
A lovely semi-detached cottage in the much sought after village of Worth Matravers, within walking distance of the Jurassic Coast.
8
4
3
0
17th - 24th October 2025  £1,016.05
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Hill View
Weymouth
5/5
Set in the peaceful Weymouth suburb of Preston, Hill View offers a delightful retreat for couples or small families.
4
2
1
1
17th - 24th October 2025  £988.75
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Westport Cottage
Wareham
4.9/5
3 bedrooms. A distinctive period holiday cottage to rent in Wareham, in a unique location with tastefully presented interior. This is one of only three cottages built on top of the old Saxon walls in Wareham.
5
3
2
0
17th - 24th October 2025  £881.65
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Stone Quay Cottage
Swanage
4.9/5
Stone Quay Cottage is right in the heart of the beautiful old fishing town of Swanage, just a stones throw away from the historic Stone Quay, the lovely sandy beaches, the Victorian Pier and all the amenities. This two bedroom cottage dates back to the 1850’s but has been completely renovated to provide a beautiful modern home.
3
2
1
2
20th - 23rd October 2025  £673.75
17th - 22nd October 2025  £925.00
19th - 24th October 2025  £925.00
+18 more stays
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Bronte Cottage
Wareham
4.8/5
3 Bedrooms. Bronte Cottage is a charming holiday cottage in Wareham, hidden away in a fabulous location a few strides from Wareham Quay and the river Frome.
4
3
2
1
17th - 24th October 2025  £842.80
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October Half-Term Family Holidays

Dorset is an ideal destination for a family holiday during October half term, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Picture the kids collecting conkers in the woodlands or running through piles of leaves in the park. Visit one of the many local attractions, from historic Corfe Castle to interactive fossil museums, where the whole family can learn and have fun together. Our October half term cottages in Dorset provide the perfect base for your adventures, with many located close to family-friendly spots.

In the evenings, retreat to one of our holiday cottages with woodburners, where you can unwind by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate. Our self-catering cottages for October half term are fully equipped to make your stay as comfortable as possible, and our large cottages have plenty of space for the whole family to relax after a day of exploring.

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Dog-Friendly Cottages for October Half-Term

No family holiday is complete without your four-legged friend, and Dorset is a paradise for dogs in autumn. With our Dorset dog-friendly cottages, your pets can enjoy a holiday as much as you. Imagine long walks along the coast path, where your dog can roam freely and enjoy the fresh sea air. Many of our October half term cottages are also close to the beach, which are all open for dogs from the end of September, and expansive countryside trails, offering endless opportunities for adventures in nature.

After a day of exploration, return to your welcoming self-catering cottage, where both you and your dog can relax in comfort. These dog-friendly holiday cottages often feature enclosed gardens, for your peace of mind while you’re away.

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Escape to the Countryside

For those who prefer the tranquillity of rural settings, our cottages to rent for October half term are nestled in some of Dorset’s most picturesque landscapes. Here, you can enjoy the slower pace of life, with scenic walks through the countryside, visits to quaint villages, and afternoons spent in cosy tearooms sampling local delicacies. Whether you’re planning a serene escape in a romantic cottage or a family trip, our October half term holiday cottages offer a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly accommodation or a quiet Dorset country cottage, we have the perfect self-catering holiday for October half term. And if you’re seeking inspiration for family activities during the half-term holiday, explore our local expert guide on the best things to do in Dorset in October.