Elmwood

Dorchester's historic centre and the Jurassic Coast's beaches and fossil cliffs lie within easy reach of Elmwood, a contemporary house set on the edge of a private nature reserve in Dorset. The property occupies three floors and sleeps up to 12, making it suitable for large families or groups sharing a coastal getaway. An enclosed deck provides outdoor dining space, and the grounds give access to leisure facilities including a swimming pool, spa, gym and tennis courts, plus nature trails across the estate.

The main living area spans the first floor with an open-plan kitchen, dining and sitting space. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors frame views across the freshwater lake onto a balcony; a log-burning stove anchors the room for winter visits, and a separate snug adds flexibility. Bedrooms spread across ground and upper floors accommodate various group configurations. Throughout, you have electricity, bed linen and towels provided. The kitchen is equipped for preparing anything from breakfast to dinner for a crowd.

The surrounding countryside is genuinely quiet—open fields and water—yet the Jurassic Coast's walking routes and the market town are close by. Smoking is not permitted in the property.