Best family hotels in Dorset, as recommended by Mumsnet users

Tested by Mumsnet Editor, Poppy O'Neill: read our full review

Just across the Fleet from Chesil Beach and a short drive from Portland and Weymouth, Moonfleet Manor is a grand family-friendly retreat.

Rooms and suites sleep couples and families of up to six and there are loads of fun on-site activities. We loved the swimming pool, spa and the gigantic games room, as well as windswept walks along the coast.

Like other hotels in the Luxury Family Hotels chain, parents can take advantage of the OFSTED-registered Four Bears Den, which offers two hours of complimentary childcare for each night you stay.

Dogs are also welcome at Moonfleet, with biscuits, water bowls and dog washing stations dotted around the hotel, and treat-packed goody bags and comfy dog beds to greet them in your room.

For a relaxing getaway or a base to explore the Jurassic Coast, Moonfleet Manor offers a warm welcome to families. While it may have been wet and windy during our stay, there was so much to do at the hotel that it didn't dampen our enjoyment at all.

For a clean, comfortable room wherever you happen to be, Mumsnetters often turn to Premier Inn. This one can be found right in the heart of the pretty, historic town of Dorchester - just a stone’s throw from the train station and a good choice of restaurants. Family rooms include a double or kingsize bed plus a sofa bed and pull-out bed. There’s lots for families to get up to in the area, with Monkey World nearby and sandy beaches around a 20-minute drive away in Weymouth. If you’re visiting at the end of August, the Great Dorset Steam Fair is a must-see for tractor and train fanatics.

Nearest train station: Dorchester (0.1 mile)

Lyme Regis is a charming coastal town famous for its fossils and as the hometown of pioneering palaeontologist, Mary Anning. The Royal Lion Hotel is a cosy pub and restaurant with rooms, just off the promenade. Opt for a family room opening onto the communal suntrap courtyard for a bit of outdoor space during your stay. There’s a pool and a jacuzzi, and dogs are welcome. A great choice for dinosaur fans, be sure to check out the town’s museum, numerous fossil shops and hunt for your own on the beaches around Lyme.

Nearest train station: Axminster (6 miles)

This 17th-century thatched inn is an ideal base for exploring the picturesque Lulworth area. The stunning Lulworth Cove is a short walk away, as are Stair Hole and Fossil Forest. Rooms are snug but can fit a family of up to four, and dogs are allowed in some of the rooms. There’s a pretty garden for kids to run around in, and you’ll be well-placed for the Tank Museum, Monkey World and Dorset Adventure Park.

Nearest train station: Wool (4 miles)

Located right on the doorstep of Studland Nature Reserve, Knoll House has views across the water to Sandbanks and Brownsea Island. There are outdoor and indoor pools, plus a playground, and dogs are welcome. Family suites are available with two or three bedrooms, and pets are allowed. There’s a great range of activities available to be booked via the hotel, including foraging and sea kayaking. Be sure to catch a ferry over to the beautiful protected nature reserve Brownsea Island and try to catch a glimpse of a red squirrel.

Nearest train station: Swanage Station (3 miles)

This two-bedroom, ground-floor apartment comes highly recommended by Mumsnetters. Right on the seafront at West Bay near Bridport, there’s a well-equipped kitchen including a washing machine, plus private parking. Bridport harbour is on the doorstep, with a pier, boats for hire and fossil hunting at West Bay beach. Further afield you’ll find great days out including Dinosaur Land Fossil Museum and UK Llamas.

Nearest train station: Maiden Newton (13 miles)

A Parkdean Resort, Warmwell is a holiday park near Weymouth, boasting woodland walks, a dry ski slope and fishing lakes. Relax in your own luxury lodge - all have a well-equipped kitchen and some come with a hot tub on the deck. Older kids can let off steam in the pool or at the on-site kids’ club, while younger kids will love the activities in the Arts & Crafts Den and four-legged family members even have their own dedicated play park.

Nearest train station: Moreton (2 miles)

In the middle of the scenic market town of Bridport, The Bull Hotel is a 16th-century coach house turned quirky boutique hotel. Two miles from sandy West Bay and 20 minutes' drive from Lyme Regis, The Bull is well placed for some of Dorset’s most stunning walks and views. Opt for a spacious, two-bedroom suite with adjoining sitting room; or choose the snug family room with bunk beds and an en suite bathroom.

Nearest train station: Maiden Newton (13 miles)

Perched within an acre of private gardens, The Alexandra Hotel is an oasis of luxury just two minutes from the centre of Lyme Regis. The hotel has direct, road-free access to the beach, and views over Lyme Bay. Relax on the spacious lawn or venture into Lyme to explore its quirky shops and local history. The hotel has two self-catering apartments with courtyards, sleeping 4-6 in two and three bedrooms, or go for a Stackpoole family room in the main hotel. Parking’s very limited in central Lyme - you can reserve a space in the hotel’s car park for £10 per night.

Nearest train station: Axminster (6 miles)