Swanage.co.uk | Swanage Tourist Information and Local Guide

What makes Swanage really special?

Swanage’s stunning coastal location is what makes it really special. Swanage Bay sweeps from the Old Harry Rocks to the north, round to Peveril Point in the south. It faces east and is protected by Peveril Point from major southwesterly storms, while the Isle of Wight provides a degree of shelter from easterly storms. As such, the bay is ideal for swimming, sailing, fishing, diving and other watersports.

The weather in Swanage is favourably mild, with few frosts and little snow in the winter. During the summer months, there’s usually a pleasant breeze to cool the hottest of days. If you can’t visit but wish to see, then there are a number of Swanage webcams including the one on the RNLI’s boathouse that gives a great view across the sea to the Old Harry Rocks.

Where is Swanage?

Swanage is located on the south coast of England in Dorset. It lies to the west of Poole Harbour and Bournemouth and to the east of Weymouth. From Dorchester, it’s a 25-mile drive in a southeast direction. It’s on the Isle of Purbeck and famous for being part of the Jurassic Coast.

Arrive by car

The most flexible way to arrive is by car but in the summer months, the roads are very busy and so it’s best to avoid traveling at peak times. There are two directions to get to Swanage by car, either via Wareham or take the Sandbanks Ferry from Poole to Studland.

Buses, taxis and Wareham Railway Station

Buses run from Poole, Bournemouth and Weymouth and you can also get a bus or taxi from Wareham Railway station – Swanage’s nearest mainline station. There is also the Swanage Railway, but as a heritage line, it only currently runs from Norden to Swanage.

The local area surrounding Swanage

While a week spending time in Swanage can easily keep a family entertained, there’s so many more activities and places to see across the Isle of Purbeck. Lots of local residents say they still have plenty of things left to do on their wish list.

Worth Matravers

The drive up to Worth Matravers, from either direction (Swanage or Kingston), has some of the most far-reaching and impressive views of the Purbeck Hills and across to Corfe Castle to be found in Purbeck. Despite being a small village there is plenty to see and do, including a family-friendly walk down to the disused quarry caves of Winspit and a miniature museum within the Square and Compass pub, with its Narnia-style stone tables and seating in the garden. The pub hosts folk bands and open mic nights throughout the year, as well as seasonal events such as the Pumpkin Festival in October and Beer and Beard in December (beards are not compulsory, but may be rewarded if it’s an exceptionally good one).

Jurassic Coast

England’s only natural World Heritage Site The Jurassic Coast needs no introduction: renowned worldwide for its breathtaking scenery and geological importance, this 95 mile stretch of coastline dominates Dorset’s landscape, history and character. With its countless unspoilt beaches, magnificent panoramic views and endless opportunities for exploration, the Jurassic Coast will take you on a literal walk through time, leaving you planning your next trip before this one’s ended. But where to start? Purbeck’s Jurassic Coast Easily explored from Swanage and its surrounding areas, the Purbeck stretch of the Jurassic Coastline boasts some of Britain’s most well-loved landmarks and offers a multitude of memories in the making. The iconic and famous Durdle Door – this natural limestone arch rising from the sea is one of the most photographed landforms in Britain Lulworth Cove – a magnificent sweeping cove that draws thousands of visitors a year can be found at the foot of the picturesque village of West Lulworth Old Harry Rocks – the unique chalk rock formation, known world-wide for its stark white, looming presence, stands boldly off the coast between Studland Bay and Swanage Bay The intriguing and fascinating Kimmeridge Bay – the best place for rock-pooling and fossil hunting in […]

Wareham

A historic market town with a beautiful river frontage, located at the gateway to Purbeck If you spotted the signs for Wareham on your way to Swanage, you’ll probably have added this Saxon walled town steeped in history to your must-visit list. Being almost equidistant between Swanage and Poole, Wareham is perfectly placed for exploring what the Isle of Purbeck and wider Dorset county has to offer. You’ll find unique gift shops and an array of cafés, pubs and restaurants, and throughout the year you can pick and choose from a wide range of events including live music and food, art and literary festivals in and around Wareham. With its fascinating mix of heritage and natural beauty, this charming market town, nestled between the River Frome and the River Piddle, is an inviting gateway into the heart of the Jurassic Coast where visitors can explore its rich historic architecture alongside a wide variety of dining options and easy access to nature with views across to the Purbeck Hills.

Corfe Castle

Standing watch over the village of the same name, Corfe Castle is an iconic and striking ruin, synonymous with the Isle of Purbeck. Careful restoration and maintenance means the public is able to explore the history hidden in the walls of this famous castle that is over a thousand years old and has survived sieges, treachery and conspiracy. Built on top of a natural mound, Corfe Castle would have been ideally situated to defend from all angles. Its name is also believed to have been derived from the ‘gap’ between the two Purbeck hills where it is situated (which are also fantastic walking routes). Today, you can soak up the stories of betrayal, battles and bargaining as you walk around the impressive Purbeck stone defences and gatehouses. And the village itself is steeped in history: check out the museum housed in England’s smallest town hall; have a pint of locally-brewed ale in The Fox (reputedly the oldest pub in Corfe Castle, circa 1568); and walk ancient pathways across Corfe Common. Make your visit memorable Both locals and visitors like to make a day of it by arriving to Corfe Castle in style on the Swanage Railway steam train. If you’re an […]

The Agglestone

Some people hike out especially to see it; others happen upon it on their walk, bike or horse ride across Godlinsgton Heath. But whether you’re expecting it or not, the story of this imposing rock that looks like it fell out of the sky is as mysterious as it is big – around 400 tonnes in fact. The legend: Legend has it that the Agglestone was thrown over from The Needles on the Isle of Wight by the devil himself (the ‘Agglestone’ means ‘Devil’s Anvil’ and it once was anvil-shaped but has eroded over many years.) Some say the devil was trying to hit Corfe Castle (luckily he missed!) Do you dare to touch it? One thing is for sure, if you keep walking, once you’ve seen it you can feel it at your back as you go. Luckily the stunning scenery in this area will make you forget even the spookiest story.

Arne village

Just outside the market town of Wareham, the small village of Arne came from humble beginnings, and is known more for its proximity to the RSPB Nature Reserve. However, Arne has an intriguing World War II story attached to it that not many people know about. A Royal Navy explosives factory had been built at nearby Holton Heath during WWI, but fast forward to 1942 and this Cordite factory had become a target. Decoys were set up throughout and around Arne village, complete with guards and fake factory emissions, causing German bombers to mistake the area for the factory. Arne was badly bombed and the area devastated by the subsequent fire that burned for weeks. It is believed there are some 200 bomb craters around Arne village, which had essentially been sacrificed in order to leave the factory in Holton Heath unscathed. The plan was a success, but residents were forced to leave Arne, much like with the more well-known local ghost village of Tyneham. Arne was then left untouched for several years. However, there is now a small, but thriving community enjoying the now peaceful countryside that is teeming with wildlife. It’s definitely a special place to visit if […]

Things to do in and around Swanage

Both residents and visitors are drawn to Swanage because of its natural beauty and its outstanding sandy bay. Swanage Beach is one of its main attractions and the council-owned central beach has been awarded a Blue Flag, meaning that it meets high standards for its water quality, beach cleanliness, safety and services. However there’s plenty for everyone of all ages to do, in addition to enjoying a day on the beach.

The Downs

The undulating green folds of land of The Downs are popular with local dog walkers and bird-watchers. You’ll rarely bump into other people and there are plenty of places to roam and take in the exceptional views over Swanage and across the bay. If you’re feeling particularly energetic you can walk from The Downs over the hills to Durlston. You’ll walk through farmland, encounter butterfly-filled meadows till the lighthouse at Anvil Point comes into view. Circle back the way you came or continue on through Durlston Country Park and down into Swanage town.

Winspit

This abandoned quarry is a fantastic little place to explore with its strangely-shaped rock crags and echoing cave tunnels – you won’t be surprised that Dr. Who episodes were once filmed here. A pleasant walk down from the village of Worth Matravers, it’s a good family day out but take water (the walk back up the hill may be more challenging for little legs) and there are sheer cliff edges, so dogs on leads is a must.

Anvil Point

Home to the Anvil Point Lighthouse, built in the 1800s, this is just one location for stunning seascapes and excellent walking within Durlston Country Park. For a more unusual Swanage stay, complete with breathtaking breakfast views and nature on your doorstep, you can rent one of the cottages here.

Swanage Bay

The pride and joy of Swanage is its beautiful, lively bay. The bay is sheltered, with calm waters and a busy boating and tourism scene and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Swanage Beach is consistency awarded the Blue Flag for water quality and cleanliness, making Swanage Bay a holiday hotspot for families as well as water sports enthusiasts. The bay is also flanked by a variety of eateries, gifts shops and amusements. During the busier summer months, there are designated safe swimming areas with lifeguards on duty. Swanage Bay watercraft information Boat and watercraft users are required to follow local regulations. This means observing the 5-knot buoy area from 15 March to 30 September. Watercraft can be launched safely at the boat park located at Peveril Point. This launch area is located just off Broad Road, next to the car park. Dinghies and other small craft that are not power-driven can be launched at the Parish slipway, as well as at Monkey Beach. Do note, however, that the Monkey Beach launch area receives a high volume of traffic during the summer months. The launching of any motor-powered watercraft is not permitted at either of these locations. All tow […]

Dog-friendly beaches

Dorset is a dog-loving county and welcomes four-legged visitors to most beaches, cafes, pubs and restaurants. However, while a few beaches in and around Swanage and Purbeck allow dogs all year round it’s good to know that most beaches have a restriction on certain beaches, or sections of beach, between 1 May and 30 September. We’ve compiled a handy reference guide for your pooch to help you pick the best beach for a day of frolicking in the water: All year round Monkey Beach, Swanage North Beach, Swanage Durdle Door Man O’ War Bay Warbarrow Bay Kimmeridge Bay Lulworth Cove May – September on a lead Knoll Beach, Studland South Beach, Studland Middle Beach, Studland Shell Bay, Studland May – September ban Central Beach, Swanage

South Beach

If you love Studland’s beaches but would prefer a more ‘local’ vibe head to South Beach. It still benefits from the safe, shallow waters that Knoll Beach offer, but it’s a little more secluded and rugged.

Swyre Head

Standing proudly as the highest in Purbeck, you can walk to Swyre Head from various locations. For the best family-friendly route, drive through the charming village of Kingston and you will find a small car park at the end of West Street. You’ll be treated to commanding views across to Portland and down over the valley which is home to the historic Encombe Estate. If you’re looking to make a day of it, we recommend booking a table for lunch at the Scott Arms, which you will pass on the way, as it can get very busy. There is a generous amount of outdoor seating with stunning views of Corfe Castle, indoor nooks and crannies with log fires, and in the summer the Jerk Shack – a Caribbean-inspired outdoor menu. Top tip: sheep tend to be grazed in the fields around Swyre Head so it’s best to keep your dog on a lead.

The Agglestone

Old Harry Rocks

One of the most iconic landforms in Britain – Old Harry Rocks – is just a stone’s throw from Swanage. There are various walking routes from both Swanage and Studland, and each offer breathtaking views of this unique rock formation. The white chalk ‘stacks’ that rise from the sea between Swanage Bay and Studland Bay were once connected to The Needles on the Isle of Wight, which you can see on a clear day.

The Obelisk

This towering hexagonal monument was brought to Swanage from London by George Burt – a local businessman and founding father of much of the town’s heritage – in 1892. It stands upon a prehistoric barrow (a mound of earth situated over a typically important grave) on North Hill and commemorates the provision of a new water supply to Swanage. You can walk to it from Victoria Avenue car park for stunning views across Swanage Bay from this unique standpoint.

Purbeck hills

The Isle of Purbeck is arguably best viewed from atop its rolling hills as they fall away into picturesque villages and farmland on one side, into the stunning landform-dotted sea on another, and with views reaching across Poole Harbour at yet another. Once you’re up there, the scenery is different from every angle and with each step you take. Steeped in history and geology it’s no wonder this part of England has been drawing visitors and people relocating to live, as well as inspiring countless creatives, for generations. “If one wanted to show a foreigner England, perhaps the wisest course would be to take him to the final section of the Purbeck Hills, and stand him on their summit, a few miles to the east of Corfe.” E.M. Forster

Swanage mill pond

If you’re staying in Swanage for a week or more it’ll be on your list to explore the ins and outs of the town’s back streets as there’s a surprise in store at every turn. One of these is the picture-perfect mill pond hugged by a curving row of cottages with brightly-coloured doors – a little oasis in this busy town. You can find it behind St Mary’s church (where, by the way, there are fantastic concerts held throughout the year). Keep on walking up the hill and you’ll reach the Downs – a haven for wildlife and fantastic private walking trails.