Dorchester Cottages with Hot Tubs

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Dorchester Guide

Dorchester's hot tub cottages offer a perfect base for exploring Thomas Hardy country. These self-catering properties range from cosy one-bedroom retreats to large group accommodations sleeping 12+, many with enclosed gardens ideal for families.

The county town of Dorset sits on the River Frome with Roman roots dating to 70 AD. Nearby attractions include Maiden Castle (4.5/5 TripAdvisor), the Dinosaur Museum (4/5) and Athelhampton House (4.5/5).

Kate Winslet once stayed in a cottage near Dorchester while filming "Ammonite" in 2019. The area's dark history includes the infamous Judge Jeffreys' "Bloody Assizes" of 1685, where 74 locals were sentenced to death.

Cottage stays provide more space and freedom than hotels, with fully equipped kitchens and private outdoor areas. Many properties offer luxury touches like wood burners alongside hot tubs, while glamping options with hot tubs are available at sites like Higher Bockhampton.

Get More From Your Dorchester Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Dorchester packs plenty of sights into a compact area. The town's Roman heritage is on display at the Roman Town House (DT1 1XJ, open daily, free entry), the UK's only fully exposed Roman town house. It scores 4/5 on TripAdvisor.

The Dorset County Museum (DT1 1XA, open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) houses an impressive Thomas Hardy collection and recently underwent a £16.4 million renovation. Visitors rate it 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

Maiden Castle (DT2 9EY, open daily) is Britain's largest Iron Age hillfort, spanning the area of 50 football pitches. The views from the top are fantastic - I recommend going early morning when the light is best for photos.

For families, the Dinosaur Museum (DT1 1EE, open daily 10am-5pm April-October) and the Teddy Bear Museum (DT1 1EE, same hours) offer hands-on exhibits that kids love. The Tutankhamun Exhibition (DT1 1EE) completes this trio of small but engaging museums.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love the walks around Dorchester. The Borough Gardens (DT1 1RG) allows dogs on leads, while the water meadows along the River Frome offer miles of flat, accessible paths perfect for older pets.

Nothe Gardens in nearby Weymouth (DT4 8UB) has stunning sea views and is completely dog-friendly. We've found the coastal path sections between Dorchester and Weymouth particularly good for energetic dogs.

Many pubs welcome dogs, including the Blue Raddle (DT1 1LF) which offers water bowls and treats. The Duchess of Cornwall (DT1 1BN) has a dedicated dog-friendly section in their beer garden.

If you're staying in a hot tub cottage with your dog, remember to bring their bed and favourite toys. Most cottages with enclosed gardens will mention this in their listing - it's worth checking the height of gates if you have an escape artist!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Dorchester

Hardy's Cottage (DT2 8QJ, open Wed-Sun 11am-4pm) is where Thomas Hardy was born in 1840 and wrote his early works. The small cob and thatch cottage sits in a woodland setting that's changed little since Hardy's time. The garden is particularly lovely in spring. One visitor wrote: "Standing in his bedroom where he wrote 'Under the Greenwood Tree' gave me goosebumps."

Max Gate (DT1 2FN, open Wed-Sun 11am-4pm) is the red-brick Victorian house Hardy designed himself and lived in until his death. The study contains his writing desk and personal items. The garden was where he wrote much of his later poetry. TripAdvisor reviews (4.5/5) often mention the knowledgeable volunteers who bring Hardy's life story to life.

Athelhampton House (DT2 7LG, open Sun-Thurs 10am-5pm) is a stunning 15th-century manor house with magnificent gardens featuring topiary pyramids. The Great Hall dates from 1485 and has a hammer-beam roof. The gardens include the Corona, a circular pond with fountains. Recent visitor feedback: "The hot tub at our cottage was great, but Athelhampton's gardens were the highlight of our trip."

Is Dorchester good for families?

Yes! Beyond the museums, try Farmer Palmer's Farm Park (BH16 6EU) just 20 minutes away. The Dinosaur Museum is small but fascinating for kids and the water meadows offer safe cycling. Many hot tub cottages cater specifically to families with games and play equipment.

How far is Dorchester from the beach?

The nearest beach is at Weymouth, 8 miles south (about 15 minutes by car). Chesil Beach is similar distance. Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are about 15 miles east (30 minutes drive).

What's the best time to visit Dorchester?

May to September offers the best weather for enjoying your hot tub. The Dorset County Show happens the first weekend of September. Christmas in Dorchester features excellent markets and festive events.

Are there good restaurants in Dorchester?

Yes! Sienna (DT1 1UZ) has held a Michelin star. The Duchess of Cornwall serves excellent pub food. For something different, try Myra's Kaiseki (DT1 1EE) for Japanese cuisine that uses local Dorset ingredients.

Can I get around Dorchester without a car?

The town centre is compact and walkable. Buses connect to Weymouth and other towns. Dorchester has two train stations with connections to London, Bristol and Exeter. Taxis are readily available for trips to your hot tub cottage.

What local products should I try?

Dorset Blue Vinny cheese, local cider from mills like Purbeck Cider Company and Dorset Naga chillies (once the world's hottest) make great souvenirs. The Dorchester market (Wednesdays) has excellent local produce to cook in your cottage.