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.
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.
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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. Poole Harbour and Sandbanks Beach are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Dorset and East Devon Coast and Bournemouth Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Swanage Railway, or check out an event or a game at Poole Stadium. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cave exploring and hiking nearby.
Dorset and East Devon Coast - 2 min drive - 1.4 km
Getting around
Swanage Station - 7 min walk
Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 59 min drive
Restaurants
The Purbeck House Hotel and Louisa Lodge - 6 min walk
Coastal Crust Pizzeria - 17 min walk
White Horse Inn - 10 min walk
Pier Head - 12 min walk
Burnt Toast - 8 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome?
As of 12 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome on 17 May, 2026 start from S$234, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Beautiful seaside period cottage in the middle of Swanage, dogs welcome located?
This family-friendly Swanage cottage is located by the sea, within 1 mi (2 km) of Swanage Railway and Dorset and East Devon Coast. Durlston Country Park and Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre are also within 10 minutes. Swanage Station is 7 minutes by foot and Swanage Herston Halt Station is 17 minutes.
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A cute, comfortable and cosy cottage with lots of space, a large outside space and very convenient for town. A short walk to a nearby nature reserve where there are amazing views of the coast.
The cottage is lovely, having been sympathetically modernised and decorated. Location is excellent, with walking distance of the town centre and beach. The best pub for food and drinks , imo, the Black Swan 5 mins walk. Will book again
Really enjoyed our stay. A true cottage in the real sense. It was like home from home with the family memorabilia adding to the cosy, warm ambiance. The garden is a real gem and I can imagine in the summer it being a haven away from the hustle and bustle of a busy town. Thank you.
Really nice thick walls so cool when hot outside and incredibly quiet spot
Paul T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Jul, 2025
Thank you for your review. I agree the walls keep the cool in during summer and warmth in during winter. looking at the thermostat however temperature was still 22 degrees last week!
Beautiful propertyGreat location. The beds were really comfortable and we had everything we needed for a wonderful stay. Nice big spacious garden. The only thing that is a bit of a pain was the parking. Can’t fault anything else.
Lovely dog walks from the property, nice enclosed garden, good local pub, excellent location for high street too.
The cottage was very well equipped, comfy bed, but did feel a bit damp & musty, however it is an old cottage so this is to be expected.
Great location and communication with owner. The cottage was good for 3 adults and the garden was a real bonus. Sadly the cottage did not appear to have been cleaned thoroughly since the last guests which was such a shame. There was a plug socket box which had come loose off the wall in the bunk room
Was a lovely property with plenty of room for the six of us and a dog. The garden is big and secluded at the end with a great PM sun trap. Location is idea for town, beach, harbour and at the right end to easily get out of Swanage to explore wider Dorset.
Lovely stay, good location, plus free parking.
Well equipped cottage with comfy beds.
Would highly recommend it and The Black Swan too.
We were walking the SWCP, so this was ideal.
A good location, the owners are nice, the house was fine, the only issue is the parking at the front unfortunately however not the owners fault. Would stay again
Comfortable cottage, mind your head if you are over 6ft. Everything you need except what you are advised to bring such as bed linen and towels. Lovely little garden.
The cottage was ideally placed for our needs. It is not too far to walk into the town and the seafront. There is a lovely nature reserve a few minutes walk from the cottage, which was perfect for dog walks. We were happy to take our own bedding, but for convenience and less packing, it would be better if it was provided.The cottage was cosy and had a nice feel. Swanage is a great resort, and had everything we needed. We will definitely return to explore the area more.
Great cottage. Very clean and in a good quiet location. Everything we needed. Thank you.
Amanda G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
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.