Dorset is one of the UK’s prettiest summer spots, whether you’re looking to camp near the beach or stay at a lush countryside hotel overlooking the stunning Jurassic Coast. For a last-minute summer staycation over the August bank holiday weekend, Dorset is a great shout for a family-friendly stay, a fun getaway with a group or an intimate weekend away with your partner. To make the best of the summer, these are the best Dorset hotels to stay at:

Clifftops

Clifftops is a stunning property from which you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the English Channel. Overlooking the charming Church Ope Cove, with views stretching along the Jurassic Coastline, it’s a glorious spot for a weekend away. With five lodges to choose from, the architecture here is absolutely stunning – hewn out of the Portland stone cliffs, these are beautifully designed living spaces that offer all the luxuries you could dream of. Plus, there are plenty of activities on Dorset’s Isle of Portland to keep you occupied, including sailing, diving, fishing, windsurfing and kayaking, making it the perfect spot for families to visit.

website: www.thepennestate.co.uk

Louma

With incredible farm-to-table dining, luxurious but cosy rooms, a roster of all-year activities, a swanky wellness barn and warm, friendly service that immediately makes you feel welcome, Louma is something special. The newest luxury retreat in Dorset, every meal is an adventure here, with ingredients sourced locally from the fields, gardens and woods. The Wellness Barn & Spa is a stunning space that inconspicuously blends in with the rest of the farm on the outside, but step inside, and you find yourself in a space that instantly feels calming. There’s an indoor pool, sauna and a very impressive gym, plus lots of outdoorsy activities.

website: www.loumafarmandretreat.co.uk

I had the most beautiful stay at Louma with my mum – we went horse riding in the countryside, ate beautifully presented meals and got seriously pampered at the stunning spa.

Andrea, Contributing Food, Culture & Lifestyle Editor

The Priory

Set on the banks of the River Frome in Wareham, The Priory is a Grade II listed building that makes a lovely, historic spot to visit in Dorset. Each room is designed with a curated selection of antique furnishings alongside elegant 20th-century pieces, so you can expect a combination of modern comfort with historic elements. Located near the beach, you can also look forward to delicious food at The Garden Room, with chefs crafting dishes including the freshest catches from the Dorset coast. Also on our radar is an evening spent chatting over cocktails at Cloisters Bar.

website: www.priorywareham.co.uk

The Pig on the Beach

This seaside retreat on the Jurassic Coast is located above Studland Bay and offers sweeping views of Dorset’s coastline. The cosy rural setting includes a sea view conservatory restaurant, a herd of Dorset Horn sheep, a lovely kitchen garden, and direct access to the beach. The 25-mile menu here is rooted in the Dorset landscape, with ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers across Studland and the surrounding coast and countryside. The rooms are full of character with some offering charming sea views, and others vistas of Dorset’s countryside.

website: www.thepighotel.com

The Seaside Boarding House

Overlooking Dorset’s beautiful Lyme Bay, The Seaside Boarding House is an ideal getaway from London. Each of the nine bedrooms offers sea views, and beds and mattresses are handmade in Devon by Naturalmat using 100% natural and organic materials. There are no TVs in the rooms, though the team can put one in your room upon request. You are encouraged to listen to the radio or read books in the library. This is another hot spot for fresh seafood and countryside produce, and the restaurant will be happy to cater for bespoke arrangements, whether you have a particular breakfast requirement or you’d like a six-course banquet.

website: www.theseasideboardinghouse.com

Overlooking Dorset’s beautiful Lyme Bay, The Seaside Boarding House is an ideal summer getaway from London.

Summer Lodge Hotel

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Summer Lodge Hotel has a gorgeous spa, an indoor pool, landscaped gardens and delicious menus. In the summer, you can dine in the conservatory or the al fresco terrace. There’s a lovely afternoon tea served every day, and the cheese trolley is another highlight, with an award-winning selection of the very best local cheeses. Or unwind at the Whisky Bar, which serves a carefully curated wine list and whisky selection.

website: www.summerlodgehotel.co.uk

Eastbury Hotel & Spa

This luxury bed and breakfast is a Georgian Townhouse hotel located in historic Sherborne, surrounded by lush Dorset countryside. There are 27 unique accommodations available, including the Victorian Garden Potting Shed suites and the three-bedroom Eastbury Cottage that’s self-catered (ideal for families with kids). With dog-friendly rooms available, this is an excellent spot for a family holiday, where you can enjoy cliff and beach walks to landmarks like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.

website: www.theeastburyhotel.co.uk

Hot Hotels, Travel, UK, Weekend Breaks

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