Portland House

Lounging elegantly at the top of a slope overlooking the harbour at Portland, this extraordinary house, surrounded by a huge garden and terraces invokes the sophistication and luxury of old-school Hollywood, with its palm-fringed drive, pacific-blue Crittal windows and the house itself dazzlingly white against the blue of the sea beyond.

Looking like an Agatha Christie film set, the luxurious interiors of Portland House have been lovingly put together, retaining many of the original 1930’s features such as the kitchen, bathrooms and light fittings. Filled with period furniture, it’s easy to imagine that you’ve stepped back in time when you holiday here. Sleeping twelve, with seven spacious bedrooms, the seductive glamour of the house and its brilliant views make a truly unforgettable spot. Large French windows open out from most rooms onto two broad terraces outside (one above the other), and the house is designed to make the most of the south coast sun.

A hidden gem on the Dorset coastline, Portland House looks over the glittering water and basks in the tropical climate of the South Coast, which rivals the Mediterranean on a sunny day. Sitting just out of Weymouth itself, on a quiet residential road, you’ll find everything you need in terms of nearby shops and restaurants in the bustling centre of Weymouth a gentle stroll away. You can also explore the town’s sandy beaches and harbour with its stories of past sailing escapades.

If you ever tire of living the high life, then head further afield to explore the surrounding area, including the West Dorset Heritage coast on your doorstep. A short drive to the east will take you to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where dinosaurs once roamed. Go fossil hunting along the beaches or take in the view of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door from the headlands. When you stay with us, or visit National Trust places nearby like Hardy’s Cottage or Corfe Castle, you’re helping us to look after them for the future.

Layout

Lower ground floor: Large formal drawing room with fireplace of Portland Stone and French doors onto lower terrace. Dining room with French doors onto lower terrace. Double bedroom with 6’ bed, which can be a twin if requested, with French doors to terrace. Double bedroom with 5’ bed, with French doors to covered loggia. Single bedroom. Bathroom with shower over bath.

Upper ground floor: Double bedroom with 6' bed, which can be a twin if requested, with French doors to terrace and en-suite shower room. Double bedroom with 5' bed, with French doors to terrace. Twin bedroom with French doors onto terrace. Single bedroom with wash hand basin and French doors to terrace. Bathroom with shower over original bath. Breakfast room, silver store, pantry, scullery and kitchen with original feature cupboards and dumbwaiter to the lower floor. Bathroom with shower over original bath (bath not in use). Stairs down to dining room.

Outside space

Large terraces with outdoor furniture on both levels. A smaller, covered terrace on the lower level, at the side of the house. Terraced gardens linked with pathways and steps. The entrance level garden has lawns and a colonnade of palm trees.

View the floor plan

What's provided in a National Trust holiday cottage?

Heritage Open Days: For three days Portland House will be open to the public so they can see inside this incredible 1930s party house. On 13th, 14th and 15th Setember, 10.30am - 3pm, the doors will be open for people to come and view the gardens and interiors and learn the history of this special place.  This is being run as part of the Heritage Open Week so everyone is welcome, with no pre-booking required and entry is free. There will be a small unit serving refreshments on the day, special National Trust pin badges will be available, as well as the National Trust passport stamp. Please note the site is cash only.

WiFi: We’re pleased to provide free WiFi access at this accommodation, which is supported by BT. Please note intermittent connection problems can sometimes occur and therefore should not be relied upon.

Heating: The house is heated by a ground source heat pump combined with a gas boiler. 

Parking: Parking for up to six cars in a gravelled area.

Offers: Guests will benefit from a late Sunday checkout of 4pm at this cottage.

Open days: Everyone is welcome to visit one of our free public open days to explore the house and see a little more of what we do.

Please note: There is a small unfenced pond in the garden. Extra care should be taken in the rockery area where steps are uneven. 

Please Note: There is no stairgate at this property. 

Having a celebration? Due to its age and heritage status, this cottage is suitable for no more that 12 overnight and two additional day guests.