Dorset glamping breaks
If you’re torn between the idea of an outdoor break (where you can soak up gorgeous Dorset countryside views) and a hotel stay (where you can be sure of a comfortable place to stay), then we have the answer right here: a Dorset glamping break. Going glamping really does have the best of it all, mixing up all the sunset-watching and stargazing with the chance to snuggle up in a cosy bed as soon as you’re ready.
Whether you’re planning a proper family staycation or a last-minute escape with your other half, we have lots of lovely options where you can make the most of your time in the countryside or by the coast.
From sea-view bell tents to family-sized farm stays, read on for our advice on finding the Dorset glamping site for you.
Where you should stay in Dorset
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For lots of people, a Dorset holiday is all about the coast – and with good reason. It’s home to part of the Jurassic Coast, and the beaches around here are gorgeous, whether you go for the buzzy style of Bournemouth, the family fun of Weymouth or something wilder around Studland.
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If you’re on a family break you could head straight to the seaside but it’s also worth thinking about mixing up those beach days with astay on a farm where you can surround yourselves with cute animals. Searching for family-friendly Dorset glamping is a surefire way to get something suitable, or you could just look out for somewhere that’s got handy facilities like a play area. The area around Wareham is a good base for a family holiday, as you’ll also have easy access to the likes of The Tank Museum and Monkey World.
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Glamping stays are great for those travelling with a dog – it’s really very handy to have a whole lot of outdoor space right there for having a bit of a run around. You’ll need to be aware of a few rules, though – always check that you’re booking a dog-friendly glampsite, and keep an eye on any restrictions if you’re heading to the beach (Ringstead, Kimmeridge and West Bexington are good bets as they’re open to dogs all year round, or you could try the designated dog area at Sandbanks).
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At the other end of the spectrum are more grown-up luxury glamping options that make a great choice for a romantic break with your other half (especially if you pick somewhere with a hot tub). West Dorset makes a particularly fine choice for this sort of break, as there are some lovely places to eat in and around Lyme Regis and Bridport.
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Fancy hiking by day, then putting your feet up somewhere comfortable by night? Glamping is an excellent way to reward your walking efforts – and Dorset has lots of trails to pick from, including the South West Coast Path (which starts in Poole). The area to the west and north of Dorchester is another good spot to aim for, as it’s part of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What to do in Dorset
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The area known as the Jurassic Coast, running west from Studland, is one of the country’s most stunning stretches of coastline. The spectacular sights of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are always popular, but there are quieter spots to seek out too, including Chapman’s Pool and Worbarrow Bay (and don’t forget the fossil museum in Kimmeridge).
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Dorset is packed with things to do on a family holiday: pick Poole for day trips to spot red squirrels on Brownsea Island and meet the animals at Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, or base yourselves near Weymouth for classic beach days and outings to the Sea Life Centre (a handy backup plan for damp days).
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There’s a lot for literature, history and art fans to do around Dorset too: you may like to follow the Thomas Hardy Trail to explore the landscapes that inspired the author’s novels, see where Lawrence of Arabia lived at Clouds Hill and take a walk through the outdoor art displays at Sculpture by the Lakes.
Here’s how
Pitchup is designed to make it easy to find and book your glamping break. All of our sites have different features and styles, so you can personalise your search by using the filters on this page to find the place that’s just right for you – perhaps selecting somewhere that you'll be allowed to build a crackling campfire, or that’s open to adults only? Select as few or as many filters as you like and you’ll see all the options that match.
If you’re a first-time glamper, have a read of our guide to glamping for all the information you need to know: what the different options are, what to bring and how to make the most of your stay.
Looking to expand your search beyond Dorset? Try neighbouring Devon and Somerset, or browse all the glamping options in South West England.
