Fossils’ End

Weymouth's Georgian seafront and the UNESCO Jurassic Coast are within easy reach of Chickerell, a village deep in the Dorset countryside where Fossils' End occupies a converted barn on the edge of farmland. The property takes its name from local fossils—a sea anemone and petrified wood—worked into the building itself. Ground-floor living means no stairs: a single step to the entrance leads into an open-plan space with television, DVD player and an electric fire, with French doors opening to a three-quarter-acre garden and sitting area. The kitchen is equipped for proper cooking, with electric oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher and washing machine. One bedroom has a super-kingsize bed; the other is a zip-and-link super-kingsize, which can be split into two singles on request. The bathroom has a bath and separate shower cubicle.

One dog stays free of charge. Parking on site covers two cars. Essentials including electricity, heating, Wi-Fi, bed linen and towels are covered, and a welcome pack arrives with you. The rear of the property overlooks open countryside with access to walking routes. Chesil Beach and the dramatic cliffs near West Bay lie a short drive away, as do Abbotsbury, Bridport, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Weymouth harbour and beach are roughly 3 miles north. No smoking indoors; three steps lead from the rear door to the garden's far edge.