Why holiday in Dorset?
It’s no surprise to us that Dorset is one of the most popular counties in the UK. The spectacular beaches, postcard-perfect villages, great seaside towns and rolling countryside are a huge draw for holidaymakers. Indeed, almost half of the county is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
If that’s not enough reason to holiday here, then how about the vibrant cultural and literary scene, award-winning food and drink, historic castles, hundreds of miles of walking and cycling trails and an abundance of wildlife. As a holiday destination, Dorset has so much to offer and keeps people coming back for more.
Read moreThings to do in Dorset
Whether you’re visiting Dorset as a couple, a family or on a solo trip, you’ll never be bored. It truly is a holiday destination that has something to suit all interests and tastes.
For foodies, you can enjoy award-winning food and drink in every corner of the county. Perhaps, dine out at a Michelin-starred restaurant or enjoy oysters at a beach shack, taste locally-pressed cider or wine, or indulge yourself with scrumptious apple cake?
For beach-lovers, the Jurassic coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country – from the sweeping golden sand of Chesil Beach to the shingle seashore by iconic limestone arch, Durdle Door, and everything in between.
Then there’s the wildlife, with a fantastic array of nature reserves and country parks which are exciting to explore at any age. Each is packed with a wide variety of flora and fauna, from beavers and buzzards to bee orchids and bell heather. Plus, we have an enviable selection of wildlife parks and zoos for animal spotting and seeing conservation in action.
Dorset is also steeped in fascinating history, from pre-historic to modern day. Lyme Regis and Charmouth are meccas for fossil hunters in search of the ancient remains of marine creatures from 185 million years ago. There are also Iron Age hill forts, the Chalk Giant at Cerne Abbas and castles galore such as 1,000-year-old Corfe Castle which can be seen for miles around.
However, the stunning scenery has to be one of the biggest reasons for visiting the county, with hundreds of miles of trails for walking or cycling, either along the rugged South West Coast Path made famous by Raynor Winn or through the rolling hills of Hardy country. You can start your adventures at Symondsbury Estate where we have some brilliant trails you can navigate by bike or on foot – not least, the walk up famous Colmers Hill to catch one of the best views in Dorset. Just pop into the Visitor Centre to pick up a free map of the Estate.
What makes Symondsbury Estate holiday cottages the perfect base for a Dorset holiday?
At Symondsbury Estate we have a carefully curated selection of luxury holiday cottages set in the stunning countryside of West Dorset. Each one is unique and together they add up to the perfect Dorset holiday destination from which to explore the stunning countryside. We really do have something for everyone:
A rural idyll: For anyone wanting to get away from it all, we have cottages that are completely tucked away, such as Axen Lodge, Eagles Nest and Bilshay Farm. Not only do these offer peace and quiet and stunning views, but you can also head into the hills on foot or by bike, directly from your holiday hideaway.
Village life: A number of our cottages are located in the heart of idyllic village, Symondsbury, so you can experience village life in this picturesque parish for yourself. The added bonus is that, from our charming village cottages, such as Duck Street and Old Post Office, you can simply stroll into Symondsbury Estate to enjoy a delicious lunch at Symondsbury Kitchen or pick up provisions at our Home & Garden store.
Hit the town: If you prefer being in the middle of the action, Allington Court is a grand Georgian townhouse located in Bridport, providing the perfect location to enjoy a stay in a bustling market town. Bridport frequently features in the Sunday Times’ Best Place to Live list. With its creative arts scene, independent shops, street and vintage markets, outstanding eateries, cinemas and theatres – all a short distance from the Jurassic Coast – it’s a great place to enjoy a holiday. If that’s not enough to keep you amused, though, Allington Court also has its own cinema and games room!
Life’s a beach: For beach-lovers, we have the perfect place for a seaside holiday; Seaspray is a delightful luxury cabin just a stone’s throw away from Eype beach which is one of the prettiest beaches in West Dorset. It’s dog friendly too (like all our cottages), with the South West Coastal Path steps away from your front door.
Wedded bliss: For anyone looking for a perfect wedding venue, with accommodation for all their guests, look no further than Symondsbury Estate. There are many options, but increasingly popular is our Grade 2 listed Crepe Farmhouse which sleeps 17. With an indoor pool, cinema, games room, sauna and hot tub this luxury house isn’t just a fantastic place to stay – you can also get married at the house itself. What a perfect way to tie the knot and spend precious quality time with family and friends all in one place.
