Sparrow Cottage

Sparrow Cottage was built in the 1800s for stonemasons working the local quarries and is now Grade II-listed. It sleeps four in Swanage. The pub is less than 400 metres away, the shop less than 500 metres and the beach 0.5 miles.

You reach the house by the original stone steps or by a flatter path at the rear. The living room has a brick fireplace with an electric flame-effect fire, comfortable sofas and a Smart TV, and looks towards Ballard Down. The kitchen has exposed brickwork and an electric hob and fan oven, a fridge with an ice box, a microwave, a dishwasher and a washing machine. It also has a dining table, and it leads to a boot room, the bathroom and a stable door to the courtyard. Upstairs are a double bedroom and a twin with 3ft beds.

The cottage-style staircase is very narrow and may not suit every guest. There is a small gated front garden with a lawn and built-in wooden seating, and a rear courtyard with seating, and access to both is shared. Up to two dogs can stay, and extra charges may apply. Cars park on the street. Please pack your own beach towels. Check-in is from 4pm onwards; check-out is before 10am.

It suits a couple or two friends with a dog or two who like an old stone house and can manage a narrow staircase.