Are you considering moving to one of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset?

This is the perfect article for anyone searching for their new home on the coast!

Throughout this page, we will guide you through 13 of the best locations to consider when relocating to the Dorset coast.

We explore some of the county’s largest and smallest settlements, all offering their own unique characteristics appealing to a range of potential buyers.

Moving to a new area, whether it be a town, city or village, is never an easy task.

Relocating is often made more difficult when you don’t know much about the region you are moving to!

This article is designed to help you get a better understanding of some of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset.

These 13 incredible places are certainly worth considering when relocating to Dorset and we hope this article will assist you in finding your new dream home!

LYME REGIS

Lyme Regis, located on the Jurassic Coast, is a popular destination for fossil enthusiasts and people seeking the natural beauty Dorset has to offer.

With its magnificent Georgian architecture and lively harbour, this charming town emanates a timeless charm.

The iconic Cobb wall provides stunning views of the sea and will transport you back in time to the days of Jane Austen.

Lyme Regis is more than simply its history; it also has a variety of great restaurants selling fresh seafood harvested daily from the English Channel.

Stroll along the sandy beaches, indulge in boutique shopping, and soak up the serene atmosphere of this coastal treasure of Dorset!

The town has good schools and a vibrant culture, making it an ideal location for families to relocate to.

Lyme Regis, with its quaint boutiques, art galleries, and lively events, is also a cultural hotspot.

There are clearly some great reasons to move to the area and it is worthy of its place on our list of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset!

Swanage

Swanage, located on the picturesque Jurassic Coast, is a coastal town that will leave you breathless!

Swanage’s golden sandy beaches, pristine waters, and spectacular cliffs provide the ideal combination of natural beauty and coastal charm.

Take a leisurely stroll along the South West Coast Path, where breathtaking views of the coastline and the iconic Old Harry Rocks await you.

For a bit of nostalgia, enjoy a ride on the Swanage Railway, a heritage steam train that takes you through the beautiful Dorset countryside.

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes in the town’s many eateries, and don’t forget to visit the Swanage Pier, a classic Victorian pier with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding environment.

Swanage’s schools offer outstanding education, making it a popular choice for families.

There is also a wide range of properties available in the town sure to suit all tastes.

BRIDPORT

Bridport, located near the magnificent West Bay, is a charming market town recognised for its vibrant arts scene, picturesque streets, and friendly community.

The town’s weekly market, which dates back to the 13th century, is a treasure trove of locally grown fruit, crafts, and antiques.

Explore the modest stores and art galleries that highlight the work of local artists.

The town’s vibrant arts and culture scene, combined with its regular markets and boutique shops, creates a very delightful and stimulating coastal setting.

Bridport’s schools meet different educational needs, making it a popular choice for families seeking a vibrant and creative neighbourhood.

Bridport offers buyers a variety of housing options and has an average property value of £444,230.

This represents excellent value considering everything this wonderful location has to offer.

Weymouth

Weymouth is a Dorset beach town that is often regarded as one of the best retirement destinations in the United Kingdom!

The pleasant coastal air and annual seafood festivals are enough to entice even the most hesitant candidate to visit Weymouth.

If that isn’t enough, Weymouth has some of the best beach walks in the UK thanks to its placement along the Jurassic Coast.

The town’s community is pleasant and hospitable, which adds to a sense of belonging and comfort you get when moving here.

There is a strong sense of community spirit, with several independent stores, cafes, and restaurants that provide a personalised touch that is frequently lacking in other larger towns!

Furthermore, Weymouth’s strong transit links, including its train station and adjacent access to major roads, make it easily accessible while remaining delightfully tucked away from the hectic bustle of city life.

This blend of accessibility and tranquillity is a key part of this coastal town’s appeal.

In conclusion, Weymouth is a pleasant place to live, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical charm, active community spirit, and a tranquil lifestyle, making it a sought-after destination for people seeking the finest of coastal living.

Poole

Poole has witnessed enormous development in recent decades, from quayside renovations to housing constructions, it is a truly top spot to move to!

The region is primarily known for possessing the world’s second-largest natural harbour and attracts many visitors who spend hours exploring the nearby beaches, the lighthouse art area, and the old town.

Poole offers locals a variety of activities, making it one of the greatest places to live in Dorset.

The town also has a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs for those of you who enjoy an evening out and about.

Poole also has great transport links to the remainder of Dorset, particularly Bournemouth and Christchurch, both of which (like Poole) have a variety of job opportunities and are well-known for their nightlife and picturesque setting.

Located near beaches, markets, an indoor shopping mall, and year-round water sports possibilities, Poole is an excellent choice for anyone thinking of moving to Dorset.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is famous for its seven miles of golden sandy beaches, which are among the most beautiful in the UK.

These beaches make an ideal location for a variety of activities, from relaxing sunbathing to thrilling water sports and are always a popular location when the British summer rolls around.

Bournemouth’s climate is another major attraction.

It has some of the warmest weather in the United Kingdom, making it a perfect destination for those of you who prefer a milder environment and outdoor lifestyle.

The town is also noted for its lovely gardens, such as the Lower Gardens, which are meticulously kept and offer a peaceful respite from the metropolitan atmosphere.

Dorset’s top attractions are all within a stone’s throw of Bournemouth: the Jurassic Coast; kayaking in Studland Bay; The Pavillion Theatre; and Bournemouth Pier which is close to home.

With so much to do, Bournemouth is by far one of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset!

Boscombe

Boscombe is technically a suburb of Bournemouth, however, it has so much to offer that we felt it worthy of its own spot on our list of best seaside towns to live in Dorset!

The area offers a truly unique lifestyle to its locals, filled with seaside charm and a strong community spirit.

One of Boscombe’s most notable features is its beach, which is a quieter alternative to Bournemouth’s main beaches.

These provide a serene getaway with breathtaking views and numerous opportunities for water sports and leisure activities.

Boscombe is also renowned for its artistic scene, as seen by its numerous independent stores, cafes, and the Boscombe Market, where local artisans and entrepreneurs display their wares.

The O2 Academy is a popular venue in the area which hosts a range of live music and entertainment events, really adding to the area’s creative vibe!

Property prices are cheaper than its larger neighbour Bournemouth and if you are searching for a home in the area there are plenty of options.

Buyers will find everything from the elaborate Victorian-era properties to more modern 1950s homes.

Average house prices in the area are currently £266,936, making it one of the cheaper coastal locations in Dorset.

Seatown

Living in Seatown provides locals with a calm and picturesque lifestyle suited for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle and a close connection with nature.

Seatown, located on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by some of the UK’s most breathtaking natural settings, including spectacular cliffs, rolling hills, and unspoiled beaches.

The hamlet’s beach, largely shingle, is a calm getaway from the tourists found in many other beaches in the county, ideal for meditative walks, fossil digging, and admiring the panoramic sea views.

The Golden Cap, the highest cliff on England’s south coast, serves as an excellent backdrop for trekking and outdoor adventure, with stunning views from its summit.

Seatown’s appeal is heightened by its small, close-knit community, which fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support among its members.

The pace of life here is slow and relaxing, allowing residents to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

While offering plenty of privacy, Seatown is also close to larger towns such as Bridport and Lyme Regis, which provide easy access to more extensive facilities.

Fortuneswell

Life in Fortuneswell provides a one-of-a-kind and wonderful living experience that combines nautical heritage with breathtaking natural surroundings.

Fortuneswell’s steep alleyways and lovely stone cottages are famous.

The town sits on Portland’s slopes, with several spots offering superb sea views!

One of the most alluring characteristics of Fortuneswell is its proximity to Chesil Beach, a famous pebble beach that stretches 18 miles along the Jurassic Coast.

This gives people direct access to one of the UK’s most beautiful natural features, perfect for walks, bird watching, and fishing.

Fortuneswell offers a peaceful lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of larger towns, yet it remains well-connected. The amenities in the village, including local shops, pubs, and cafes, cater to daily needs, while the nearby town of Weymouth provides additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Average house prices in the area for the last year sit at £196,875, astoundingly low for such a gorgeous location.

Mudeford

Mudeford offers residents a perfect blend of coastal charm and convenience.

Renowned for its beautiful harbour, sandy beaches, and the serene Mudeford Quay, which is the ideal spot for a leisurely walk.

Mudeford has great transit links, making it easily accessible to the rest of Dorset while remaining conveniently isolated when you need it!

Local buses serve the area well, while the neighbouring Christchurch railway station provides connections to Bournemouth, Southampton, and London directly.

This connectivity makes it an attractive destination for both local commuters and those looking for a beach getaway with easy access to major cities.

The village also has a strong community, with shops, pubs, and restaurants serving everything you could need.

The annual Mudeford Arts Festival is a highlight, promoting local talent and community involvement.

Mudeford’s housing market is broad, with possibilities ranging from old fisherman’s huts to modern apartments and family houses, many of which have stunning sea or harbour views.

The market here is competitive, reflecting the area’s appeal, with properties frequently commanding higher prices due to the area’s beauty and tranquillity.

Charmouth

Located a few miles from Lyme Regis, Charmouth is a pristine coastal village that is certainly worthy of addition to our list of best seaside towns to live in Dorset.

Charmouth, a smaller and quieter alternative to its more popular neighbour, is ideal for those seeking a relaxing lifestyle. 

The village is located at the mouth of the River Char, which runs across the shingle beach to reach the sea.

Charmouth’s transport links are very convenient, with easy access to the A35, which provides direct routes to larger towns like Dorchester and Exeter.

The nearby town of Axminster has a train station with regular services to London and Exeter, allowing for easy commuting and travel for Charmouth’s residents.

Charmouth itself has plenty of good amenities, including local shops and cafes.

There is also a very friendly community vibe that is sure to make moving to the area a pleasure.

Charmouth’s proximity to larger towns such as Lyme Regis increases its appeal by providing additional dining, shopping, and cultural opportunities.

Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove is a very popular location and is undoubtedly one of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset.

The village is known for its picturesque scenery and iconic horseshoe-shaped cove.

Living in the area is perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty, a peaceful environment, and a sense of exclusivity, all within a welcoming community.

Lulworth Cove’s property market is unique, with some wonderful homes on offer ranging from classic cottages to modern homes and even historic buildings!

Because of its gorgeous setting and the limited number of properties, the real estate market here can attract high prices, with the average price sitting at £465,760.

Lulworth Cove properties are in high demand, both for their gorgeous locations and as holiday rental investments, given the area’s popularity with tourists.

While Lulworth Cove has a remote feel to it, it is nevertheless very accessible.

The nearest train stations are located in Wool and Wareham, which provide access to larger cities both in Dorset and the rest of the UK.

The A352 road also connects locals with Dorchester and Wareham, making commuting feasible.

Moving to One of these Seaside Towns in Dorset?

We hope that this guide to 13 of the best seaside towns to live in Dorset has been helpful!

If you have decided to move to one of these top locations, R.H Pardy Moving and Storage Limited are here to help.

As a professional moving company with years of experience, we know that house moves require lots of planning.

Securing the assistance of a trustworthy and knowledgeable removals company when moving home is essential.

R.H Pardy Moving & Storage Limited can assist you with every aspect of your move to Dorset!

Our team of highly trained professionals will guide you through every step of your move.

For extra confidence, you will have the knowledge that your move is being managed by a member of the British Association of Removers.

For more information about our removals to Wimborne services, be sure to give us a call today at 01202499390, or fill out our quick and easy contact form here.

A member of the team will be happy to assist you and get your move to Dorset started in no time!