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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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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
31st October - 2nd November  £464.97 £386.13
18th - 22nd October  £649.05 £534.81
24th - 28th October  £649.05 £534.81
+101 more stays
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Daisy’s
Swanage
4.7/5
Stylishly decorated 3 bedroom holiday home in Swanage. Daisy's offers everything you need for a relaxing break, from comfortable bedrooms with ensuite for each room to a private bubbling hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring the coast!
6
3
3
0
19th - 26th October  £904.75
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Malvern Apartment
Swanage
4.5/5
This appealing large, ground floor apartment is part of a modern conversion of a former Edwardian hotel, right in the heart of the seaside town of Swanage in a quiet residential, tree lined street, less than 5 mins walk to restaurants, pubs, shops and the beach. You can enjoy a lovely glimpse view across Swanage bay from the lounge bay window.
2
1
1
0
26th October - 2nd November  £500.50
19th - 26th October  £500.50
19th October - 2nd November  £951.00
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Forest Edge
Sandford
4.8/5
Forest Edge is a two bedroom semi-detached chalet bungalow offering luxury accommodation near Wareham. Mainly laid out on the ground floor, this delightful holiday home has been completely refurbished to a very high standard.
4
2
2
2
23rd - 26th October  £403.76
19th October - 2nd November  £1,234.50
21st - 26th October  £547.75
+26 more stays
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Church Cottage
Corfe Castle
4.7/5
Set in an idyllic location, this welcoming 18th century, Grade II listed character cottage stands in the heart of the picturesque village of Corfe Castle. Church Cottage boasts a beautiful garden and welcomes two dogs, making it an ideal base for a family get together.
6
3
2
2
27th - 30th October  £813.84
20th - 27th October  £1,109.50
21st - 23rd October  £813.84
+42 more stays
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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
19th - 26th October  £894.25
26th October - 2nd November  £894.25
19th October - 2nd November  £1,738.50
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Little Westport
Wareham
4.8/5
Little Westport is a charming 1960s four-bedroom Colt House, in a peaceful setting with a large garden overlooking the Purbeck Hills. A perfect location for a break to enjoy walking, cycling or exploring the area.
8
4
2
0
18th - 25th October  £1,109.50
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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
18th - 25th October  £1,345.75
18th October - 1st November  £2,641.50
25th October - 1st November  £1,345.75
+1 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
25th October - 1st November  £857.50
25th October - 2nd November  £951.75
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Pembroke Cottage
Langton Matravers
4.7/5
Beautiful 19th century stone cottage offering a peaceful retreat to families and friends. Well situated in the village of Langton Matravers, this holiday home offers endless attractions and picturesque views of the countryside.
4
3
1
2
25th October - 1st November  £883.75
18th October - 1st November  £1,717.50
18th - 25th October  £883.75
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Valley View
Swanage
5/5
A stylish, detached Edwardian home beautifully appointed with hot tub, large garden, parking and spacious reception rooms.
8
4
3
2
18th - 21st October  £909.32
18th - 23rd October  £1,219.75
20th - 21st October  £909.32
+40 more stays
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Ridgeview Cottage
Corfe Castle
4.7/5
Located in the sought-after National Trust-owned village of Corfe Castle, Ridgeview Cottage is a modern, detached, family home found moments away from many of Dorset’s prolific attractions.
6
3
2
0
19th - 26th October  £1,114.75
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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.