Bring the family, dogs included, to this contemporary three-storey lodge near Crossways (0.5 miles), set on a Dorset lake park. Four bedrooms sleep eight, and the reverse-level layout lifts the open-plan living space to the first floor, where banks of glass look out across the grounds. With the Jurassic Coast 6.5 miles away and miles of coast path within reach, it makes a base for families and groups holidaying with a four-legged companion.
The open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner occupies the first floor, with luxurious balconies at each side. A Scandinavian-style wood burner sits in the seating area, along with a Smart TV. Stairs lead down to ground-floor level, where three bedrooms sit: two twins and a king-size with an en-suite bathroom, plus a family bathroom. The rear bedrooms open through large sliding doors onto the patio, giving dogs direct ground-floor access to the grass. On the second floor, a mezzanine landing with a glass balustrade overlooks the living area and holds two desk areas, leading to the second king-size bedroom, which has an en-suite shower room. Both balconies have seating, one with a gas BBQ, and a sofa stands on the patio. The lawn is not enclosed, so be sure to keep an eye on your escape-prone pups. Parking for one car sits beside the lodge, with additional cars in the main car park.
Dorchester lies 6 miles away for shops and everyday supplies. The National Trust's Ringstead Bay is a short drive from the site, its beach edged with rock pools and clear water. The limestone arch at Durdle Door stands 7.5 miles away, and Lulworth Cove is 8.5 miles away for snorkelling. Linking them is the South West Coast Path, which gives dogs open clifftop ground to cover, while the beauty spots of the Isle of Purbeck (15.5 miles) are within easy reach.