Entire home

The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches.

Photo gallery for The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches.

A stone house with a red-tiled roof, a chimney, and a front door with glass panels.
A staircase with a wooden handrail, a framed picture on the wall, and a window casting light on the stairs.
A stone building with a red-tiled roof, a chimney, and a sign that reads "The Lookout."
A living room with a fireplace, a television, and a comfortable seating area.
A desk with a lamp, a fan, and a window with a view of the landscape.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Bring your furry friends
    Top-rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.
  • Barbecue
    A rare find - perfect for a relaxed, outdoor grilling experience.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Dorset National Landscape
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Dog-friendly
  • Toys
  • Barbecue
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet

Explore the area

View map
Kingston, ENG
  • Place, Dorset National Landscape
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Corfe Castle
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Swanage Beach
    ‪12 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

2 bedrooms (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches.

'The Lookout', as the name suggests, is a small, two bedroomed stone-built cottage commanding spectacular views in all directions. It is attached to the main house but has its own entrance and is totally private. Downstairs is a sitting-room with open-feature fireplace with a raised galley kitchen. Upstairs, it sleeps 2/3 with a shared bathroom. Outside is a secure, dog-friendly, enclosed walled garden with terrace.
This property is not suitable for those with disability issues as there are steps down to reach the property and a couple of steps up to the galley kitchen. There is also a winding staircase up to the bedrooms with a single bannister on one side.
It is vital to have a car as most key places to visit and shops require a car journey of some sort.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No dogs allowed upstairs please. No dogs allowed on the sofa - or use your own dog blankets. Leave the property as you found it.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 6543092
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 and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Swanage

Located in Swanage, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Corfe Castle is a notable landmark, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Dorset and East Devon Coast and Bournemouth Beach. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Vitality Stadium or Poole Stadium. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with rock climbing and horse riding.
View more Cottages in SwanageOpens in a new window
Map
Kingston, ENG

What's nearby

  • Dorset National Landscape - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Corfe Castle - 9 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Swanage Beach - 12 min drive - 9.8 km
  • Studland Beach and Nature Reserve - 15 min drive - 17.2 km
  • Poole Harbour - 45 min drive - 34.8 km

Getting around

  • Wareham Harman's Cross Station - 2 min drive
  • Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 54 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Purbeck House Hotel and Louisa Lodge - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Crows Nest Inn - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Ocean Bay Beach Bar & Restaurant - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Corfe Castle Tea Rooms - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪The Cabin - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much is parking at The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Lookout - panoramic views; log fire; ONE-dog-friendly, local beaches. located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is within 2 miles (3 km) of South West Coast Path Section 52 Trailhead, Isle of Purbeck and Dorset and East Devon Coast. Chapman's Pool Beach and Corfe Castle are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 137 out of 165 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 26 out of 165 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 165 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 165 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 165 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a lovely place to stay, both location and the property itself. The layout made fantastic use of space and views. I really liked being able to walk from "my" front door, munching on a biscuit provided to welcome me!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 September 2026
An appreciative, tidy guest who is always welcome back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at the Lookout. The property is beautifully furnished with everything you need. We took a small dog who really enjoyed the walled garden. The situation is very peaceful with rolling hills and amazing views. There are lots of wonderful pubs and restaurants in Corfe which is a few miles away. The hosts were very welcoming and helpful. We would definitely recommend this property to anyone!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 September 2026
Delightful, appreciative guests who seemed to enjoy their privacy and the scenery. Always welcome back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Michael was charming and the cottage lovely and cosy. The location perfect for touring the area. The driveway is 'surprising' but no holiday is complete without a few surprises!!! Thank you Michael julia and felix
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 September 2026
Utterly charming guests all the way from Australia - welcome back any time they are passing!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A good location for the surrounding area. Good for our dog good walks around the cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May 2026
Ideal guests - friendly, clean and tidy. Always welcome.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place to stay. Immaculate and well equipped, milk, biscuits tea and coffee all provided. Cute little patio and garden area. Easy access to walk and stunning scenery. Hosts were very welcoming and very helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 June 2026
The perfect guests to have to stay - friendly, clean and very tidy. Always welcome back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding postion with views to Corfe Castle and the Coast with many footpaths in the surrounding area. Hosts were very helpful without being intrusive. Perfect for two people seeking seclusion!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 June 2026
Delightful returning guests, friendly and scrupulously clean: always welcome back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy cottage in a stunning location. Michael was a very welcoming host. I would highly recommend the lookout for anyone visiting the Swanage area.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely place to stay with a pet. Great secure garden. Property had a well equipped kitchen, comfy beds and plenty of hot water. Great value for money.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 April 2026
Perfect guests - friendly, clean and tidy. Welcome back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely property and location, great Host
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 September 2025
Perfect guests in every way. Always welcome back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about the property was perfect, very clean and well provisioned. lovely enclosed garden for my dog. Everything needed was there.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 April 2026
Perfect guests, friendly, clean and tidy. Always welcome back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
We very much enjoyed our stay in this beautiful property, so we'll appointed and many thoughtful touches. We loved the footpaths literally on the doorstep and enjoyed a variety of walks, cliff top, heathland, fields and woodland. There were spectacular views in every direction and even the sea mist has some appeal. We ventured to the Etches Collection at Kimmeridge which is a fascinating fossil collection. There are many things to do and we hope to return to do some more.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spotlessly clean with all the utensils required
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Well appointed cottage in an ideal location for exploring the Purbeck coast. First time visitor to Dorset and will definitely return!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing views from the Look Out.........
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Clean and comfortable bijou property, very helpful owners.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent holiday

property exactly as described - comfortable and well equipped. Would recommend highly.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May 2025
The perfect guests - clean and tidy throughout. Welcome back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderfully cottage. Peaceful, relaxing 5 days. Heartbreaking to leave.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 August 2025
Super guests. Always welcome.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Happy Days

All in all a very pleasant stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent pre-arrival communications and welcome. Charming cottage, spotlessly clean, with a dog-friendly garden. Situated right next to a bridleway with great walks and views in both directions
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 October 2025
Perfect guests, always welcome.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cottage

The lookout is a beautiful place to stay, it has everything you need for a relaxing break, the views are stunning and Michael & Sally are perfect hosts.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always I’ve the cottage and feel at home

Lovely location for visiting all the places we love
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A unique little place

The Lookout makes a lovely base for a holiday in Purbeck. The fantastic views make up for the lack of space in the bedrooms and kitchen area. All we needed for a comfortable stay for two.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is lovely, tastefully furnished and cosy accommodation. The hosts were very welcoming, the location is ideal for exploring Purbeck and country walks are accessible from the garden at The Lookout. Everything you need for a comfortable holiday is here and we're looking forward to another visit soon. Highly recommended.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 September 2025
Perfect guests; welcome back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely property and an ideal base for exploration. House was clean and tidy and the garden area well kept. Walks on the doorstep. Would def recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Lookout

Excellent little property, ideal for solo traveller/couple or small family. Beautiful location with stunning views in all directions, especially down the valley to Corfe.Everything I needed was there and communication was very good throughout.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 April 2025
Charming and understanding - welcome back anytime.

About the host

Hosted by Michael Feben Smith

Host profile image
I am retired teacher, married to a community nurse and we have lived in the area for over twenty years. We are passionate about its unique opportunities for appreciating nature and, being musical, have become fully involved in several artistic societies and groups. Our golden retriever also seems to enjoy a life of endless, varied walks.

Why they chose this property

Having grown up first, in London then in Herefordshire, I was totally drawn to a life in the countryside out of choise. When an opportunity to teach in the Purbeck Hills presented itself, I abandoned London and fell in love with Dorset and its beautiful surroundings. Apart from a brief spell of teaching in Sussex, we have stayed here ever since. My wife also fell in love with the area when she began her hospital training in Weymouth so we have now managed to combine all our preferences.

What makes this property unique

Sally and I fell in love with this property on a sparkling day in May when the skylarks were singing, the surrounding fields had just been harvested and the sky was pure blue. We then realised you could view key sites from each point of the compass: Corfe Castle to the north; the Isle of Wight to the east; Kingston to the west and Chapman's Pool to the south. We felt that its location was quite unique and we did not want to miss the opportunity. We have never regretted our decision.

Languages:

English

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