Best Locations to Buy a Holiday Let in Dorset

If you have decided that you want to purchase an investment property, then the experts here at Dream Cottages can advise you on the best locations to buy a holiday let in Dorset.

Dorset is a beautiful county full of wonderful delights. Stunning sea views of the Jurassic Coast and exquisite scenic countryside, entice visitors to Dorset all year round. If you are purchasing a property purely for investment purposes then we can help you identify the most profitable areas to maximise your return.

Best locations to buy a Holiday Let in Dorset

When looking into the ideal location to buy your property in, it’s important to strip everything back. Deciding what the reasoning is behind your decision to holiday let is the first step in choosing a property location.

If you live away and simply love the area and intend on occupying the property yourself regularly then you need to think of what factors are important to you. Do you want to be close to the beach in a bustling town? Or do you want to be a little further away in a quaint, rural village?

Use the quick links to choose a particular location or continue reading below for our full guide on the best locations to buy a holiday let in Dorset.

1. Weymouth
2. Abbotsbury
3. Swanage
4. Portland
5. Sutton Poyntz
6. West Bay
7. Beaminster
8. Sherborne
9. Lyme Regis
10. Lulworth
11. Shaftesbury

1. Weymouth

Weymouth is your traditional seaside town. It offers all the pleasures of a beach holiday with golden sand, shallow waters and bucket and spade fun. Families will love the abundance of attractions such as Punch and Judy Shows, donkey rides and amusements.

The Georgian seafront is lined with places to eat, drink and soak up the lively seaside atmosphere. There are many properties with prime positions along the esplanade and throughout the town centre and harbour. These properties will do extremely well as a holiday let.

Weymouth also has many surrounding areas such as Wyke and Rodwell. These locations are ideal for guests who may not want to be among the hustle and bustle of the town centre but still be close enough to enjoy the wide range of attractions that it has to offer.

Guests will be able to park the car and not have to worry about it for the duration of their stay as amenities and attractions will be within walking distance. Visitors can pick up the Rodwell Trail and other coastal paths and explore historic sites such as the Nothe Fort and Sandsfoot Castle.

2. Abbotsbury

Abbotsbury is a charming postcard village surrounded by delightful scenery and pretty thatched cottages. Attractions such as the sub-tropical gardens, the swannery and the animal park and farm are all located within the village and will attract families with children.

The scenic setting of Abbotsbury makes it a hotspot for walkers with St Catherine’s Chapel and Hardy Monument boasting English charm and fantastic views.

Weymouth is within 10 miles away by car. Purchasing a holiday let here will give guests a quieter holiday whilst still being near to the seaside scene.

3. Swanage

Swanage is a small, attractive seaside town with a wide choice of things to do. The sandy beach is backed with a bustling promenade lined with shops, cafes and amusements making it a popular family destination.

The town is home to the Swanage Railway, one of Britain’s most popular heritage railways. The 12 mile return trip takes you through the beautiful Purbeck countryside with stunning views of the iconic Corfe Castle.

Swanage is around a 30-minute drive to Lulworth Cove, where guests can enjoy the beautiful white pebble beach. In the summer months, there are boat trips from here to the Durdle Door and Mupe Bay. Low tides reveal wonderful rock pools with clear waters, easily accessible by a chalk pathway with views over the cove.

4. Portland

The Isle of Portland draws visitors for its rugged yet beautiful coastal scenery. With its castle, museum and the iconic red and white striped Lighthouse, there is lots to explore.

Properties on the island will do well as a holiday let, offering guests a wide range of activities to get involved in. Rock-climbing, abseiling and many water sports are just a few outdoor pursuits that adventure seekers can enjoy. For those wanting a more relaxing holiday, experience exceptional views of the Jurassic Coast from Portland Bill and Pulpit Rock.

There are shops, pubs and eateries all within close proximity meaning guests don’t need to venture off the island. However, Weymouth is under 7 miles away giving the option of visiting Weymouth for a livelier atmosphere.

5. Sutton Poyntz

Sutton Poyntz is a delightful village with beautiful willow trees surrounding a duck pond at its centre. Situated just outside of Weymouth near Preston, this gorgeous little village has a real country feel whilst still being just a short drive from the seafront.

Sutton Poyntz is a sought after area. Lots of properties are tucked away up quiet lanes. This gives guests a more secluded break whilst still having pubs and shops within easy walking distance.

The coastal path is easily picked up from within the village. Walkers can journey up past the white chalk horse and Osmington Mills, experiencing fabulous views along the way.

6. West Bay

West Bay shot to fame in 2013 after the popular series Broadchurch was set in the resort. More and more people are choosing to invest in property along this particular coast line, where Chesil Beach ends.

West Bay is host to a beautiful harbour bordered by little catering beach huts along with some gorgeous restaurants and cafes. Just a 5 minute walk into Bridport town centre, you’ll have the best of both worlds with The Electric Palace, Waitrose, Waterstones and independent bakeries.

This area of Dorset is known for its art and eccentric locals with the Bridport Hat Festival happening yearly.

7. Beaminster

Beaminster is approximately a 10 minute drive from Bridport but incredibly different. The town itself is ascetically different and you’ll notice buildings and cottages changing from limestone to sandstone.

The immediate centre is small and compact but people visit from all over Dorset for the boutiques and cafes. On the outside of Beaminster is the hamlet of Mapperton which is home to Mapperton House and Gardens and the Earl and Countess of Sandwich.

With classical concerts, greengrocers, beautiful church and garden centre, Beaminster is a gorgeous town to invest in property, which has more of an older demographic to other places in Dorset.

8. Sherborne

Sherborne, not too far away from Beaminster is a similar vibe on a bigger scale. On the high street you will find boutiques, cafes and the occasional brand. Not far from the town centre is Sherbone Castle and Gardens.

Lots of property across Sherbone boasts incredible views of the castle which is a unique selling, and staying point!

9. Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is often referred to as the “Pearl” of Dorset. It’s picturesque seafront hosts brightly coloured cottages and beach huts. Its beach is full of fossil and the town is home to some amazing independent eateries.

Mark Hix’s Oyster and Fish House is situated above the seafront and overlooks the historic Cobb. The town has its own theatre, small aquarium and incredible museums offering something for both families and retired couples.

Property in Lyme is expensive and hard to come by but the return in investment is golden. Our sister brand Lyme Bay Holidays are experts in buying property in Lyme Regis.

10. Lulworth

Lulworth is another location which does incredibly well for holiday letting. With the geological wonder Durdle Door around the corner of the cove, thousands of people flock here every year. Camp Bestival sets up every August at Lulworth Castle so accommodation is always in high demand over the summer.

11. Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is situated on the Dorset and Wiltshire border. The town itself was made famous by the Hovis bread advert in the 1970s. If you can buy a property on Gold Hill, it would be an incredible investment. Thousands of people visit this street every year for photos, on route to Stonehenge.

Talk to Dream Cottages

Here at Dream Cottages, our New Property Team will be more than happy to share with you their wealth of knowledge of Dorset.

If you’ve seen a property but aren’t sure if it will work as a holiday let, talk to us today. We have over 30 years’ experience as the local experts. We can offer you guidance and support on choosing the best locations to buy your holiday let in Dorset.