The Ultimate Dorset Itinerary: 3 Days on the Jurassic Coast (With a Dog)
This January, I decided to create my own 3-day Dorset itinerary, focusing on the most iconic sights along the Jurassic Coast.
Dorset was my very first UK holiday destination as a child, and after years away I returned, this time travelling with my dog Baxter, to explore the coastline properly.
Why Dorset? I saw a period of sun on my weather app and decided it was time for a UK road trip. I could have gone anywhere as the whole country was basking under the (albeit cold) sun, but Dorset was my final choice.
Dorset is beautifully wild, stunningly rugged, and during winter, very quiet. This was exactly the kind of trip that reminds you why the British coastlines deserve far more attention than it gets. It's criminal really, how so much of our local beaches and countryside are skipped over for holidays further afield.
This 3-day Dorset itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want to see the best of the Jurassic Coast without packing too much in.
Why Dorset is Worth Visiting
If you’ve ever wondered “is Dorset worth visiting?”, the answer is an easy yes. Dorset offers quintessential English villages (just like you see on an episode of Escape to the Country), dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich beaches and some of the best coastal walking in England.
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason, it stretches from East Devon to Studland and offers some of the most striking geology in the UK (a dream for a Geography geek like me).
Dorset is also one of the most dog friendly places in England, with miles and miles of coastal paths, beaches and pubs that genuinely welcome four-legged travellers rather than merely tolerate them.
Located on the south coast of England, Dorset is a great place on its own, but if you have time for a longer holiday, it makes a great combo with Devon if you want scenery, beaches, and gorgeous countryside.
Getting to Dorset (and Why Driving is Worth It)
I drove from my home in Cambridgeshire, but the time is similar as it takes to get from London to Dorset, which is just under four hours with a coffee stop.
If you’re visiting from the US or somewhere else overseas and feeling nervous about driving in the UK, Dorset is actually a very gentle introduction.
If you visit outside of peak season, the roads are much more quiet, and the scenery is you get down south is amazing. Just remember, we drive on the left and some country roads are narrow.
Read my full guide and tips on driving in the UK here.
While trains do run to places like Wareham and Weymouth, a car gives you complete freedom, especially when travelling with a dog.
🚗 Plan Your UK Road Trip
If you’re planning more UK travel or building a longer road trip, these guides will help you explore more of Britain’s most beautiful coastlines and countryside:
🌊 The Ultimate 7-Day Cornwall Itinerary – Welcome to the surf capital of the UK and the home of Britain's best beaches.
🏞️ The Causeway Coast Road Trip – One of the most scenic drives in the UK along Northern Ireland's north coast.
🌿 The Cotswolds Road Trip Itinerary – Rolling countryside, historic villages and cosy pubs.
💡 Tip: None of these itineraries require a large or special vehicle, choose a small or midsize car for ease of travel through narrow lanes.
My 3-Day Jurassic Coast Itinerary:
Honestly, 3 days doesn't really give much justice to this corner of the world, but we don't have the ability to slow down time unfortunately. Despite this, the Jurassic coast is an excellent choice for a long weekend break in the UK and below is my exact itinerary.
Day 1: Purbeck & the Jurassic Coast
London → Corfe Castle
I wanted to make the most of my weekend so I left home early, around 8am (Baxter was not best pleased by the early rise).
I drove straight to Corfe Castle, stopping off for a tea at Winchester Services on the way.
Honestly, it’s hard to imagine a better introduction to Dorset than Corfe Castle. The ruined stone castle rises dramatically from the village, visible long before you arrive, and feels wonderfully atmospheric even before you step inside.
You can explore the castle grounds via the National Trust entrance (well signposted), and I highly recommend allowing time to wander the village itself.
There’s also the option to take the historic steam train to Swanage, which is a lovely, nostalgic experience and great for families
I stopped for cake at the National Trust tearoom, a simple pelasure and yet one of my favourite past times The tea room is dog friendly and muddy boots are welcomed. I had a sausage roll, slice of Victoria Sponge, and a steaming hot pot of tea.
Sunset at Old Harry Rocks
From Corfe Castle, it’s a short (and stunning) drive to Old Harry Rocks (15-20 minutes).
This area of coastline is one of the best views on the Jurassic Coast. Parking is available at the National Trust's South Beach Car Park in Studland (parking is free only for National Trust members, otherwise you will ned to pay a small fee). From there it’s an easy, well-maintained walk to the viewpoint, it took me around 15-20 minutes and that includes a couple of photo stops and a dog that wanted to sniff every tree.
Accessibility-wise, the path is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, though the final approach does have exposed cliff edges, keep dogs on leads here.
I arrived just before sunset, and the golden light over the chalk stacks was one of the most incredible sights I have ever seen, especially on a crisp, winter evening.
Day 2: Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door & West Dorset
Sunrise at Corfe Castle → West Lulworth
I started early and watched the sunrise at Corfe Castle. I really recommend doing this, the car parks are empty and the village so quiet. I walked up West Hill, bear in mind this was ona January morning and the temperature was -3 degrees, quite rare for this part of England.
The climb is worth it but definitely takes your breath a little. It isn't a long walk, just a steep one. Park at West Street car park and take the footpath which is on your left immediately as you walk out the car park towards the village centre.
Cross the fields and enjoy castle views before making the climb. I ended up staying on the hill for an hour. I arrived before the sun peaked over the hills and I watched as the sky grew more and more warm.
This was such a peaceful moment (other than Baxter telling me his toes were cold), and the far reaching views over the countryside were 100% worth the realisation I am not very fit anymore.
I walked back towards the village and drove straight to West Lulworth. If you have more time than I did (I am constantly stopping for photos) then I would walk into the village itself and enjoy the peace and quiet before the day trippers arrive.
The drive to West Lulworth takes 15-20 minutes, I had to go slow because the roads were icy. The whole countryside had turned into a winter wonderland,and if I wasn't driving, I would have filmed it!
By this point, my car thermometre hit -6 degrees, this is almost unheard of for Dorset, but the price to pay for such beautiful scenes.
On arrival into West Lulworth I headed straight for the Castle Inn, an old thatched pub dating back to 1660. The pub also offers rooms, I stayed here around 5 years ago and found it very pleasant. The breakfast/brunch is brilliant, and available to outside guests (very appreciated when I needed somewhere warm and cosy). This Castle Inn is one of the most dog friendly pubs on the Jurassic Coast, and Baxter was offered VIP treatment with his own treats.
West Lulworth village itself is small but very pretty, and it’s worth strolling through before heading down to the coast.
Walking or Kayaking at Lulworth Cove
From the village, it’s a short walk down to Lulworth Cove, one of the most recognisable spots on this Jurassic Coast itinerary. There is also a public car park at the entry to the cove itself which is the best place to park if you haven't used the facilities of the pub.
The circular bay is striking, but what I loved most were the coastal paths leading away from the main viewpoint, you suddenly feel so tiny!
You can kayak here on calm days, even in winter, and explore quieter coves along the coast.
Durdle Door
On a warm day, I’d recommend parking at Lulworth Cove public car park and walking the coastal path to Durdle Door, it’s one of the best coastal walks in Dorset. Parking at Lulworth costs around £5–£15 depending on season and length of stay.
Because I was visiting in January (and it was freeezing cold), I drove directly to Durdle Door instead, it was only a 10-minute drive. The car park is quite expensive, I paid £9 for around 2 hours (worth it for the views).
The walk down to the beach involves steep steps, and there have been accidents here, so take care, especially in wet or windy weather.
The beach itself is dog friendly year-round with no seasonal restrictions, which makes it one of the best dog friendly beaches in Dorset.
I spent the afternoon walking along the beach and the clifftop paths. You must keep a sensible distance from the cliff edges (there are regular cliff falls here, and signs are there for a reason), you also should keep away from the cliff walls when down on the beach.
Overnight at Outbuildings Dorset
That evening, I drove west towards Bridport and checked into Outbuildings Dorset, a beautifully quiet base for exploring the Jurassic Coast.
Set on a working farm, it’s luxurious but not fussy. The rooms are really spacious, with cosy interiors, and a friendly atmosphere.
Dogs are very much welcome here (including in the restaurant), and there’s even a small cinema on site. I had dinner at the hotel that night, and after a long day, it couldn’t have been more perfect.
I stayed in The Pressing Room where prices start at £260 per night. I paid £325 which included a dog charge and also included my breakfast, they often run last minute discounts on rooms.
Day 3: West Dorset & Lyme Regis
Morning Walk at West Cliff Bay
I started the day with a sunrise walk along West Cliff Bay. The perks of travelling England in winter is that you never have to get up too early to catch the sunrise.
The beach suffered a major rockfall a few weeks ago so it's partially cut off when the tide is in so I then took a walk around the harbour to the western side and up the grassy cliff for amazing views along the coast.
If you're a fan of Broadchurch you might recognise this area as its filming location. And if you haven't seen it, it's available on Netflix and a pretty good watch!
Check prices and availability here.
Village Stops: Burton Bradstock & Abbotsbury
Burton Bradstock is a lovely village to wander through, with traditional stone cottages and easy access to coastal paths.
A little further along, Abbotsbury is particularly popular with visitors (and one of the prettiest villages in Dorset) thanks to its pubs, cafés, amenities and surrounding countryside walks.
Afternoon in Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis is around a 30-minute drive and sits right on the Devon border. It’s small but it's lively, with a pebble beach, excellent cafés, pubs, independent shops and a lovely town centre.
Lyme Regis is one of the most well known towns in Dorset and a popular base for visitors to the area. Walk along the beach and enjoy beautiful views across to West Bay Cliffs.
It’s also very dog friendly and makes a great base if you want to extend your stay. I spent a relaxed afternoon here with lunch by the sea before heading home.
Where to Stay on the Jurassic Coast
There are a number of bases on the Jurassic Coast I would recommend staying in. I have done this trip twice now and stayed in different places each time. Here are my recommendations on places and accommodation options:
Corfe Castle: Best for atmosphere & history
If you want to wake up somewhere that feels unmistakably English, Corfe Castle is hard to beat.
Staying in or near the village means early mornings and late evenings without the day-trippers, sunrise and sunset here are one of the most beautiful views in Dorset. It’s also a great base for Old Harry Rocks, Studland and the Purbeck section of the Jurassic Coast.
Best hotels in Corfe Castle
The Purbeck Cottage
Stay in this dog-friendly cottage in Corfe Castle, just moments from the castle itself, as well as the village's popular pubs, cafes and shops.
Dating back to the 17th century, a stay at the Purbeck Cottage (2 bedrooms) offers guests a chance to indulge in the history both inside, and outside of their holiday let.
Prices start at £350 per night. Check prices or book here. (Dog friendly)
Morton's Manor
A beautiful Grade II listed Elizabethan Manor House, sitting at the base of Corfe Castle. The property is steeped in history that dates back to to 1590.
Rooms start at £165 per night. Check prices or book here. (Dog friendly).
Swanage: A great seaside base
Swanage is a proper traditional seaside town, but a little calmer than what's typical in England.
It has a long sandy beach, coastal walks straight from town, and good rail connections via the steam railway to Corfe Castle. If you’re visiting without a car or want a classic seaside feel with amenities close by, this is a solid choice.
Best hotels in Swanage
Grand Hotel Swanage
A classic Victorian seaside hotel right on the beach, The Grand Hotel is a no-fuss, typical costal hotel with a great fry up in the morning and very friendly staff.
Prices start at £150 per night. Check prices or book here.
Swanage Holiday Apartment
A brilliant holiday let in Swanage, this apartment offers off road parking, two guest bedrooms, two bathrooms, and it has been recently refurbished to a high standard.
Beds can be set up as king beds o split into twins, making it a brilliant base in Swanage for both families and/or couples.
Prices start at £250 per night Check prices or book here.
Cove Cottage, Lulworth Cove
It doesn't get much better this... imagine staying in an English cottage that looks more like a doll's house, and just a 2 minute walk to Lulworth Cove.
Well you've got it! Cove Cottage is the perfect cottage in Lulworth Cove, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it makes a great family base or for groups of friends.
Prices start at £200 per night. Check prices or book here.
Lulworth: Best for the iconic Jurassic Coast sights
Staying near Lulworth puts you right by two of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous landmarks: Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
It’s quieter in the evenings once the car parks empty, and ideal if you want early starts for coastal walks or kayaking before crowds arrive.
West Lulworth is my favourite village along this coastline and luckily there are a number of places you cant stay!
Cove Cottage, Lulworth Cove
Cove Cottage is the most beautiful holiday cottage in Lulwoth Cove and just a two minute walk to the sea. Guests often feel like they are staying in a real life doll's house with its picture perfect facade and pretty interiors.
With 3 guestrooms and 2 bathrooms, as well as its own garden, Cove Cottage is an excellent choice for a family get away or one for groups of friends.
Prices start at £200 per night, Check prices or book here.
Castle Inn. Lulworth
I stayed here a few years ago with my sister and loved it, and I recently visited for breakfast where Baxter and I received the warmest of welcomes.
The Castle Inn is a traditional Dorset pub and hotel close to Lulworth Cove, with a history dating back to 1660
Prices start at £85 per night. Check prices or book here. (Dog friendly).
Countryside Stay: The Pig on the Beach
If you’d rather stay surrounded by countryside than in a town or village, The Pig on the Beach is a brilliant hotel near Studland.
Set just above the coast, it offers that classic Pig combination of relaxed luxury, excellent food and a strong sense of place. It’s close enough to the sea for coastal walks, but far enough away to feel properly rural. This is one of the best luxury hotels in Dorset.
Prices start at £150 per night. Check prices or book here. (Dog friendly)
Lyme Regis: Best all-round base
If you want everything on your doorstep, like cafés, pubs, shops, coastal walks and a lively feel, Lyme Regis is an excellent choice. It’s very dog friendly, sits right on the Devon border, and makes a good base for exploring both Dorset and East Devon sections of the Jurassic Coast.
Rock Point Inn
Nestled right beside Lyme Regis Harbour, the Rock Point Inn is one of the best located hotels in Lyme Regis, and the highest rated.
Prices start at £156 per night Check prices or book here. (Dog friendly)
Coastal Stay, Lyme Regis
This cosy coastal apartment in Lyme Regis offers incredible sea views in a beautiful, historic environment.
Despite being beautifully renovated, the apartment retains its 1800s character, and offers a beautiful guest room with exposed beam, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Prices start at £170 per night. Check prices or book here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Dorset & the Jurassic Coast
1. How many days do you need to visit the Jurassic Coast?
Three days is the ideal amount of time to visit the Jurassic Coast, allowing you to see the main highlights such as Corfe Castle, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Lyme Regis without rushing. This timeframe gives you enough flexibility for coastal walks, village stops and quieter moments away from the busiest viewpoints.
However, if you have longer, a 5 or 7 day itinerary means you can really stop and relax in each place.
2. Which part of the Jurassic Coast is the best?
The Purbeck section of the Jurassic Coast is often considered the best for first-time visitors, thanks to its dramatic scenery and famous landmarks.
This area includes Corfe Castle, Old Harry Rocks, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, all within a relatively compact area and easy to combine in a short itinerary.
3. Is the Jurassic Coast worth visiting?
Yes, the Jurassic Coast is absolutely worth visiting, particularly if you enjoy coastal scenery, walking trails and historic villages.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers some of the most striking limestone cliffs and beaches in England, alongside a slower pace of travel that feels refreshingly unspoilt.
4. What is the prettiest seaside town in Dorset?
Lyme Regis is widely considered the prettiest seaside town in Dorset, known for its historic harbour, colourful seafront, independent shops and excellent food scene.
It’s also one of the most dog-friendly towns on the Jurassic Coast and makes a great base for coastal walks and day trips.
5. Where does the Jurassic Coast start and finish?
The Jurassic Coast stretches for around 95 miles, starting in Exmouth in East Devon and finishing in Studland Bay in Dorset.
This coastline is recognised for its geological significance, with visible layers of rock that span over 185 million years of history.
7. How long does it take to walk the Jurassic Coast?
Walking the entire Jurassic Coast takes around two to three weeks, depending on pace and route.
Most visitors choose to walk shorter sections instead, focusing on highlights such as Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door or the coastal paths around Lyme Regis and West Dorset.
8. Is Dorset a good holiday destination?
Yes, Dorset is an excellent holiday destination, particularly for travellers who enjoy coastal landscapes and countryside villages. It works well for both short breaks and longer stays, offering a mix of beaches, walking routes, historic sites and traditional pubs.
9. Is Dorset good for travelling with a dog?
Dorset is one of the most dog-friendly holiday destinations in England, with year-round dog-friendly beaches, coastal paths and welcoming pubs and hotels.
Many highlights along the Jurassic Coast, including Durdle Door and coastal walking trails, are ideal for visiting with a dog.
10. Where should I stay on the Jurassic Coast?
The best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast depends on the style of trip you want.
Corfe Castle and Lulworth work well for the iconic sights, Lyme Regis is ideal for amenities and atmosphere, while West Dorset villages such as Abbotsbury or countryside hotels near Studland offer a quieter base.
11. Why is Durdle Door famous?
Durdle Door is famous for its natural limestone arch and dramatic coastal setting, making it one of the most photographed landmarks on the Jurassic Coast. The arch was formed over thousands of years by coastal erosion and sits above a pebble beach that is popular year-round.
This sounds like such a perfect slow, scenic escape, Dorset really shines in winter. Loved the mix of coastal walks, quiet villages, and dog-friendly stops (Baxter sounds like the best travel buddy!).