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Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome
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Reviews
9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Swanage, ENG
- Place, Durlston Country Park9 min walk
- Place, Swanage Beach10 min walk
- Place, Dorset and East Devon Coast2 min drive
- Airport, Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.)38 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Front (child)
2 Single Beds
Front main
1 Double Bed
Rear second
1 Double Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Spaces
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome
- Traditional three bedroom cottage
- Dog friendly
- Close to beach, countryside and Swanage town centre
- Ideal stay for families, couples and dog owners
- Lovely gastro pubs, resturants and village shops within walking distance.
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Self catering 18th century 3 bedroom cottage close to town centre, beautiful walks and the beach.
Lilac Cottage was built over 200 years ago as a quarryman's cottage and is grade 2 listed. It retains its charm and many of its original features, whilst offering modern comforts.
The cottage is 7 or so minutes walk within the town and seafront and even closer to the countryside and walks to the Townsend Nature Reserve, Downs, Durlston Point and Priests Way. Great walks and fantastic views are never far away.
It sits at the top of a short steep unadopted cul-de-sac which is quiet and peaceful. Parking is usually available outside of the cottage although during busy times this cannot be certain. There are local roads behind the cottage which have easy parking and there is a short footpath that takes you to Lilac Cottage.
From the flag-stoned porch, the front door leads into a small hall with the sitting room directly off. This cosy room has a bay window and a working fireplace. There is a sofa, armchairs, TV, video/DVD, hi-fi with CD player. The room is stocked with books, and games. Fast WiFi is included with your booking.
The kitchen/dining room leads off from the hall. This is a large room, full of character and includes an old fireplace. There is a built-in electric oven and hob, a washing machine, dishwasher, fridge freezer and microwave. The cupboards are extremely well stocked with everything you are likely to need from a tea cosy to a cooler box and flask! The large pine dining table is situated by the original window seat overlooking the garden.
The modern bathroom is on the ground floor off of the hall. The white suite includes a bath with shower over (not for very tall people as the ceilings are quite low!), and heated ladder towel radiator.
Beyond the kitchen is a small second sitting room (the garden room), where you will find some comfortable wicker furniture.
The cottage stairs (with child gates both top and bottom) rise from the kitchen. There are three bedrooms, two doubles and a single with pull out second single bed. All beds have mattress protectors, duvets and plenty of pillows, all of which are a mix of feather and synthetic.
However, you will need to bring your own bed linen and towels.
There is a hairdryer.
For babies, there is a travel cot, highchair and fireguard. There is plenty of room in any of the bedrooms for the cot.
The large garden is secure and walled, mainly paved in Purbeck stone, with flower borders -and the Lilac tree! There are views of the downs over the rooftops. There is a sun terrace with dining table, and a barbecue.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Lilac Cottage is welcoming at any time of the year and is particularly warm and cosy during the winter months. Both gas central heating and electricity are included in the rental.
Being non smokers ourselves, and for the comfort of other holiday makers, we request that you do not smoke inside the cottage.
We like to pride ourselves on the general upkeep and cleanliness of the cottage. We strive to provide good customer care.
The cottage is an ideal base from which to explore the Isle of Purbeck with its stunning (National Trust) Studland Bay and adjacent heathlands and islands. Many towns, villages and coastal resorts are within a 25 minute drive.
- Dog friendly
- Close to beach, countryside and Swanage town centre
- Ideal stay for families, couples and dog owners
- Lovely gastro pubs, resturants and village shops within walking distance.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Self catering 18th century 3 bedroom cottage close to town centre, beautiful walks and the beach.
Lilac Cottage was built over 200 years ago as a quarryman's cottage and is grade 2 listed. It retains its charm and many of its original features, whilst offering modern comforts.
The cottage is 7 or so minutes walk within the town and seafront and even closer to the countryside and walks to the Townsend Nature Reserve, Downs, Durlston Point and Priests Way. Great walks and fantastic views are never far away.
It sits at the top of a short steep unadopted cul-de-sac which is quiet and peaceful. Parking is usually available outside of the cottage although during busy times this cannot be certain. There are local roads behind the cottage which have easy parking and there is a short footpath that takes you to Lilac Cottage.
From the flag-stoned porch, the front door leads into a small hall with the sitting room directly off. This cosy room has a bay window and a working fireplace. There is a sofa, armchairs, TV, video/DVD, hi-fi with CD player. The room is stocked with books, and games. Fast WiFi is included with your booking.
The kitchen/dining room leads off from the hall. This is a large room, full of character and includes an old fireplace. There is a built-in electric oven and hob, a washing machine, dishwasher, fridge freezer and microwave. The cupboards are extremely well stocked with everything you are likely to need from a tea cosy to a cooler box and flask! The large pine dining table is situated by the original window seat overlooking the garden.
The modern bathroom is on the ground floor off of the hall. The white suite includes a bath with shower over (not for very tall people as the ceilings are quite low!), and heated ladder towel radiator.
Beyond the kitchen is a small second sitting room (the garden room), where you will find some comfortable wicker furniture.
The cottage stairs (with child gates both top and bottom) rise from the kitchen. There are three bedrooms, two doubles and a single with pull out second single bed. All beds have mattress protectors, duvets and plenty of pillows, all of which are a mix of feather and synthetic.
However, you will need to bring your own bed linen and towels.
There is a hairdryer.
For babies, there is a travel cot, highchair and fireguard. There is plenty of room in any of the bedrooms for the cot.
The large garden is secure and walled, mainly paved in Purbeck stone, with flower borders -and the Lilac tree! There are views of the downs over the rooftops. There is a sun terrace with dining table, and a barbecue.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Lilac Cottage is welcoming at any time of the year and is particularly warm and cosy during the winter months. Both gas central heating and electricity are included in the rental.
Being non smokers ourselves, and for the comfort of other holiday makers, we request that you do not smoke inside the cottage.
We like to pride ourselves on the general upkeep and cleanliness of the cottage. We strive to provide good customer care.
The cottage is an ideal base from which to explore the Isle of Purbeck with its stunning (National Trust) Studland Bay and adjacent heathlands and islands. Many towns, villages and coastal resorts are within a 25 minute drive.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
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9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (37 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Swanage
Located in Swanage, this cottage is by the sea. Corfe Castle is a notable landmark, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Bournemouth Beach and Lulworth Cove. Travelling with kids? Consider Swanage Railway, or check out an event or a game at Vitality Stadium. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Swanage, ENG
What's nearby
- Durlston Country Park - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
- Swanage Beach - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
- Pier Beach - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
- Swanage Pier - 17 min walk - 1.4 km
- Dorset and East Devon Coast - 2 min drive - 1.4 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Coastal Crust Pizzeria - 17 min walk
- The Cellar Bar - 11 min walk
- The Cornish Bakery - 11 min walk
- G Whites - 11 min walk
- Burnt Toast - 8 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window9.0/10
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Check-in
9.8/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
9.4/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
Verified
27 Dec, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Helen F.
21 Aug, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Helen F.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Sophie P.
29 Nov, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sophie P.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Paul T.
16 Jul, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paul T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Stephen O.
11 Oct, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stephen O.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lyndsey N.
13 Aug, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lyndsey N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Mel M.
2 Apr, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely short break in Swanage
Mel M.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Bethany G.
4 Jun, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cottage
Bethany G.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Tim B.
4 Mar, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
a lovely cottage
Tim B.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Heidi B.
29 Jun, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely stay
Heidi B.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Julia M.
11 Sept, 2025
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
Julia M.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Tom W.
8 Jul, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Swanage cottage
Tom W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Amanda S.
16 Sept, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Swanage High St
Amanda S.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified
8/10 Good
Anne H.
13 Aug, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint cottage in excellent location
Anne H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Sue R.
15 Oct, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location
Sue R.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lorna P.
7 Apr, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cosy cottage
Lorna P.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Greta M.
24 Jun, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely period cottage in ideal location.
Greta M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Susan W.
28 Sept, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Homely
Susan W.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Andrew John O.
17 Aug, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spacious in great location
Andrew John O.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified
8/10 Good
Leonard R.
16 Jun, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Leonard R.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Simon F.
7 Apr, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lilac Cottage
Simon F.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Rebecca R.
4 Aug, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A pleasant little house
Rebecca R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Kay Sard
14 May, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just what we needed.
Kay Sard
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
Jackie W.
4 Oct, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Comfortable stay, great location
Jackie W.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Joerg R.
29 Jul, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
a very typical British family home
Joerg R.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
About the host
Hosted by John and Helen Hutton-Attenborough
Helen and John have fulfilled a dream in owning a holiday cottage which they very much want to be characterised as a home for our family and guests. Having holidayed in Swanage for many years our hope is that you will come to love the Isle of Purbeck and surrounding area as much as we do.
Why they chose this property
You are never far from having something to do whether enjoying the beaches in Swanage and Studland, the history of Corfe Castle, the Swanage steam railway or the endless walks and stunning scenery which cater for all ages.
Languages:
English
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