Get More From Your Melplash Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Melplash puts you right in the heart of West Dorset's stunning countryside. This peaceful village sits between Bridport and Beaminster and gives you the perfect base for exploring the Jurassic Coast and rolling hills. The area is famous for its agricultural heritage and hosts one of the region's best country shows each summer.
We think Melplash is ideal for romantic breaks and family getaways because you get proper countryside peace without being too remote. The village offers easy access to coastal walks, market towns and some of Dorset's best food producers. Whether you're after a luxury cottage with a private hot tub or a large holiday house for groups, this area delivers.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Melplash
Melplash itself is a working village that hasn't been turned into a tourist trap. You'll find traditional stone cottages and working farms alongside the showground that hosts the annual agricultural show. The surrounding landscape is classic West Dorset with its patchwork fields and ancient hedgerows.
The village sits just three miles from Bridport, a thriving market town known for its rope-making history and independent shops. Beaminster is equally close in the other direction. Both towns offer proper local markets, cafes and pubs. The Jurassic Coast at West Bay is only 15 minutes by car.
Sightseeing in Melplash
This part of Dorset has transformed from purely agricultural land into a destination for food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape remains unspoilt with designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty surrounding the village. You'll spot red deer in the hills and buzzards overhead. Historic manor houses dot the countryside and many date back centuries.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Melplash
The area around Melplash offers everything from dramatic coastal scenery to historic houses and local food experiences. Here are the must-visit spots within easy reach of your cottage with hot tub.
West Bay and the Jurassic Coast
This dramatic harbour sits just four miles south and features towering sandstone cliffs that glow golden in evening light. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles with rock pools to explore at low tide. You can walk the South West Coast Path in either direction for spectacular views.
Bridport Market and Town Centre
Bridport's Wednesday and Saturday markets have run for over 800 years. The town centre is packed with independent shops, delis and cafes. You'll find everything from antiques to local cheese and the famous Bridport rope is still made here using traditional methods.
Mapperton House and Gardens
This Jacobean manor house near Beaminster features some of England's finest terraced gardens. The valley gardens include fountains, topiary and an Italianate upper terrace. The house itself appears in several films and TV shows. Opening times vary so check before you visit.
Parnham House
This Tudor mansion sits in 14 acres of grounds just outside Beaminster. The house showcases fine furniture and craftsmanship. The gardens include formal areas and woodland walks. It's a peaceful spot that many visitors miss despite being one of Dorset's architectural gems.
Symondsbury Estate
This working estate offers farm shops, woodland walks and a kitchen garden cafe. You can buy meat from their own livestock and vegetables grown on site. The estate also has fishing lakes and hosts events throughout the year. It's perfect for stocking up your self catering cottage.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| West Bay and Jurassic Coast | Dramatic cliffs, fossil hunting and coastal walks along a World Heritage Site | Everyone |
| Bridport Market | Historic market town with independent shops, local food and traditional rope-making heritage | Couples |
| Mapperton House | Stunning Jacobean manor with award-winning terraced gardens in a hidden valley | Everyone |
| Parnham House | Tudor architecture, fine furniture collections and peaceful woodland grounds | Couples |
| Symondsbury Estate | Working farm with shops, woodland trails and fresh local produce | Families |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Melplash?
The nearest train station is Crewkerne (8 miles) with connections to London Waterloo. Dorchester South station is 15 miles away. By car, take the A35 from Dorchester or Axminster. Most holiday cottages and lodges offer private parking.
What family activities are available near Melplash?
West Bay beach is brilliant for rock pooling and the Jurassic Coast offers fossil hunting. Symondsbury Estate has woodland walks suitable for children. Bridport has a leisure centre with a swimming pool. Many big cottages and large family holiday houses come with gardens.
Where are the best romantic spots?
The coastal path at sunset offers stunning views. Book a table at one of Bridport's boutique restaurants. Mapperton Gardens provides a peaceful setting. Your cottage breaks become extra special with a private hot tub under the stars.
What shopping options exist?
Bridport has independent shops, delis and antique stores. The Wednesday and Saturday markets sell local produce. Beaminster offers more boutique shops and galleries. Symondsbury Estate farm shop stocks local meat and vegetables for your self catering needs.
Are hot tub cottages suitable year-round?
Absolutely. Hot tub stays work brilliantly in winter when you can soak outdoors after country walks. Last minute deals often appear for 1 night breaks. New year is popular for secluded getaways. Summer brings longer days for exploring before evening hot tub sessions.
Cottages with hot tubs in Melplash give you the best of both worlds. You get countryside peace with easy access to the coast and market towns. Whether you're booking dog friendly retreats, luxury cottages for 2 or large group accommodation, this area delivers proper Dorset character.
We love how Melplash stays authentic while offering everything you need for cottage breaks. The combination of a bubbling jacuzzi, stunning countryside and coastal access makes it hard to beat. Book your holiday lets here and you'll understand why visitors return year after year.