Top last-minute summer availability cottages in Dorset

The school summer holidays are nearly here, but don’t panic! We still have a superb selection of cottages with summer availability. From traditional fishermen’s cottages, contemporary beach houses to converted barns in the Dorset countryside, you’ll find something perfect for your summer escape. 

Whether you choose the Dorset coast or countryside, you are sure to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the country and you’ll need somewhere to return to after long days out on the beach, seeing the sights or spending the day at one of Dorset’s attractions.

There’s also a huge selection of festivals taking place throughout Dorset for visitors to enjoy this summer, whether you fancy sampling some of the delicious local food and drink at one of the food festivals, watching a local band at a music festival or spending a fun filled day at the Dorset County Show. 

Take a look through some of our very best Dorset cottages still available this summer, or hit the button below to see all of our last-minute holidays for summer.

Woodbury Meadow Stables, near Dorchester

Set in a peaceful and rural location, Woodbury Meadow Stables is a stylish and detached property with stunning countryside views near Dorchester. With fantastic, sociable spaces both inside and out, this home sleeps six guests across three bedrooms.

This detached stable conversion has been thoughtfully designed and no attention to detail has been forgotten, making this a truly unforgettable retreat. 

August weeks available from £2,023 per week.

The Cow Shed, near Sherborne

The Cow Shed is a luxury converted barn sleeping four people, in an idyllic rural location near Sherborne, surrounded by rolling countryside. Part of a small, gated complex of similar properties, The Cow Shed has been presented with the utmost care and attention to detail with a striking and contemporary open-plan living space with a vaulted ceiling.

August weeks available from £1,718 per week.

Gallinae, Melbury Abbas

Amidst the splendid Dorset countryside lies the rural village of Melbury Abbas, where Gallinae, a beautifully restored barn conversion which sleeps up to eight people and two dogs awaits. 

Step inside this stunning property and you will find yourself in the well-appointed open-plan living area with far-reaching countryside views. The sofas overlooking the garden are perfect for relaxation, and on warm sunny days, you can open the large glass doors to the patio, making the living space even larger.

August weeks available from £2,658 per week.

Manor Cottage, Beaminster

Situated in the heart of pretty Beaminster, Manor Cottage is an historic Grade II-listed property sleeping up to six people and two dogs, with original features that blend seamlessly with contemporary comforts and style. 

Every room has been decorated with care and attention to create a haven for relaxation. The master bedroom enjoys a roll-top bath, there’s a wonderful wood burner in the sitting room, and the country-style kitchen comes complete with an AGA. 

August weeks available from £2,260 per week.

Seasons, near Shaftesbury

Set high upon a hill, with breathtaking views across Blackmore Vale, Seasons is a spacious and contemporary property which sleeps four people and two dogs. 

The sociable lounge/kitchen/diner is equipped with a modern kitchen set in one corner, a dining area just opposite and comfortable seating beside a wood burner. Outside is a fully enclosed garden, with a BBQ, patio and furniture, with lovely views of the surrounding countryside.

August weeks available from £841 per week.

Hardy's View Lodge, Dorchester

Set high up in the Dorset downs, a mile from the nearest main road, with far reaching rural views, Hardy’s View Lodge sleeps up to eight people. A quirky layout gives for a unique stay with large open areas, snooker room, tower, open fireplaces all with magnificent views.

With far-reaching views over the majestic Hardy’s monument towards the glittering sea, this holiday home exudes country house charm and plenty of character.

August weeks available from £3,470 per week.

Mallards Barn, Seatown

Tucked away in a peaceful rural setting near Seatown, Mallards Barn is a spacious and stylish detached cottage. Lovingly converted with close attention to detail, this idyllic farm building is perfect for family getaways or special celebrations with friends.

Its proximity to two local pubs (80 metres and 320 metres), shop (160 metres) and the coast under a mile means you’re in an enviable location for a relaxing holiday.

August weeks available from £1,682 per week.

St Edmunds House, Corfe Castle

St Edmunds House is a beautiful and stylish Grade II-listed stone cottage, which sleeps up to eight people in the heart of the historic village of Corfe Castle. This impressive Dorset property offers a combination of original character and exceptional comfort. 

Well-placed for country walks, it is also a superb base for reaching beautiful beaches and pretty coves. There’s so much to see and do in Corfe Castle; click here to read our guide on things to do in the village. 

August weeks available from £2,232 per week.

Stay with us this summer

If you’re tempted to visit Dorset this summer, you can view our full collection of holiday cottages with summer availability throughout Dorset here.