Places to Stay on the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast stretches for 95 miles between Studland Bay in Dorset and Exmouth in East Devon.

Recognised by UNESCO for its outstanding geology, Dorset’s coastline is part of England’s only natural World Heritage Site. It proudly sits on a map of other World Heritage Sites including Yellowstone National Park, the Galapagos Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.

It’s a fantastic place to explore the dramatic rock formations of this stunning coast and visitors from all over the world come here to see iconic landmarks such as Durdle Door, hunt for fossils and follow in the footsteps of the dinosaurs who used to live here.

There are also many coastal towns and quaint villages to visit, each with their own uniqueness and charm. From Lyme Regis in the west (home of famous fossil hunter Mary Anning) to Studland in the east (at the mouth of Poole Harbour), you’ll find a great selection of places to stay.

Self-catering and holiday parks

Choosing a self-contained cottage, lodge or apartment allows you the freedom to come and go as you please, as well as the best of both worlds for dining in and eating out.

Some of the larger holiday parks will have facilities such as swimming pools, children’s play areas, shops, cafes and entertainment hubs. And if you’re seeking some luxury while exploring the coast, you’ll find several choices with hot tubs and spa facilities – great for relaxing after a long walk on the South West Coast Path.

Osmington Mill Lodge Park is a 5 star holiday park located in a beautiful wooded valley, just 15 minutes away from the bustling town of Weymouth. It has an on-site restaurant and bar along with a gym and outdoor swimming pool, plus access to the spa facilities at nearby Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park.

Located in a quaint hamlet just 10 minutes from the coast, Upton Grange Holiday Cottages offer self-catering accommodation for 2 to 6 guests. Featuring vintage pieces, antiques and luxury items, some of the cottages have four poster beds and log fires. 

Hotels and B&Bs

From large, landmarks hotels to homely B&Bs, there are some great options to be found on or close to the Jurassic Coast.

With the benefit of having breakfast cooked for you every day, as well as lunch, afternoon tea and dinner sometimes available too, you won’t have to worry about who’s doing the washing up!

Some of our larger hotels have fabulous views of Jurassic Coast landmarks such as Chesil Beach, Old Harry Rocks and Lulworth Cove.

Caravan, camping and glamping

Offering a great value holiday choice, you can get back to nature at one of our coastal campsites.

Many have views of the sea or are just a short walk down to a beach, so their locations are perfect for lovers of sea swimming and coastal hikes.

Opting for a rustic campsite is also a great low-impact holiday if you’re looking to lower your carbon footprint as well as saving some cash. And for anyone talking a walking break along the South West Coast Path, they provide a welcome pit stop after a day of adventure.

Group friendly

Whether you’re a group of friends, celebrating a family reunion or are visiting on a field studies trip, there are many options on offer.

Choose from large self-catering houses, hostels with dorm rooms or hotels and B&Bs with family rooms.

Sometimes you’ll be able to hire the whole property for your own group or you might be sharing with other like-minded visitors where you can exchange travelling tips and stories.