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.

Corfe Castle railway station

Whether or not you’re taking a trip on a Swanage Railway steam train, Corfe Castle station is still well worth a visit, for its vintage charm and picture-postcard photo opportunities. You’ll find it down a small road between Corfe Castle Village Stores and the Bankes Arms pub. Once almost demolished, the station has now been restored to its former glory and is a timeless feature of both Corfe Castle village and the railway. It has been carefully renovated to include a 1950s lounge area, ladies’ waiting room and has period paraphernalia throughout.

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.

Tyneham

The poignant story behind the ‘ghost village’ of Tyneham, abandoned during World War II, will stay with you long after you have walked around its crumbling homes and forgotten farmland. Evacuated in 1943 so that the British Army could use the area for training purposes, the village soon fell into ruin. However the church and school room are still mostly intact and you can walk around them, discovering their history, the last pages of schoolwork and children’s names on pegs carefully preserved in this village that simply stopped in time. Information is displayed throughout the village about the families that once lived in Tyneham, and what life was like for them in this seemingly idyllic, yet remote spot. Nestled deep within the Purbeck Hills the story of these villagers who never returned and their now deserted homes is an interesting insight into this area’s past. A short walk from the village will lead you to the Tyneham farm area, which has displays of WWII memorabilia set into the walls. From there you can walk down to Warbarrow Bay – a sweeping, unspoilt beach, which is typically quieter than others on the Isle of Purbeck, even in the summer months. It’s a […]

Isle of Purbeck

Not strictly an isle, but a peninsula, the Isle of Purbeck is home to a diverse array of wildlife, intriguing historical sites and areas of global geological importance. It has inspired famous writers, attracted historians and drawn holidaymakers for generations. But what is it that makes this corner of Dorset so special? With its stunning sandy beaches, huge variety of walks and fantastic places to eat, shop and explore, anywhere in Purbeck is a unique experience waiting to be discovered.

Corfe Castle village

With one of the most unique and beautiful settings in the UK the historic Corfe Castle village is a truly special spot on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, nestled beneath the ruin of Corfe Castle itself. Steeped in history, with the castle still keeping watch over its streets, the village of Corfe Castle offers plenty to explore – from the museum housed in England’s smallest town hall to the ancient pathways and burial mounds across Corfe Common. Why not have a pint of locally-brewed ale in The Fox, reputedly the oldest pub in Corfe Castle, (circa 1568) or have a stroll around the village’s storybook streets, gift shops and period railway station. 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 early bird, Corfe Castle Model Village does an excellent full English/vegetarian breakfast, with courtyard seating outside to the front and terrace seating over looking the pretty English country garden and model village out the back. The castle holds regular Viking and Saxon re-enactments that bring history to life with traditional crafts and military displays in the castle grounds. And there […]

Lulworth

The picture-postcard villages of East and West Lulworth are just as worthy of a visit as the famous Lulworth Cove. Both villages have pretty streets to walk around, with thatched cottages window boxes galore. The village of East Lulworth is considerably smaller than West Lulworth, but is also home to Lulworth Castle and Park, which makes for a fantastic family day out. It also has a pub, tea room and gift shop. West Lulworth has a distinct holiday buzz about it as it tends to be brimming with beach-related activity all year around. There are plenty of ice cream shops and places to grab lunch or dinner, as well as the chance to try out various water sports at Lulworth Outdoors. Make your visit memorable As with many places in Purbeck one day just isn’t enough, but you can fit in lots of Lulworth’s best bits in one go if you plan ahead a little. If you’re driving, stop off in East Lulworth for a quick mooch around the village with its charming thatched cottages and colourful window boxes. Down a little road named Cockles is a small gift shop and tea room set in the old village school which […]

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.

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

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.

Corfe Castle railway station

RSPB Arne nature reserve

The RSPB nature reserve at Arne is perfect for either a short stroll through the woodland or a full day out walking and exploring. You can discover stunning expanses of rugged heathland and even small bays of Poole Harbour with views across to the Purbeck Hills and Brownsea Island. The resident herd of sika deer can be seen grazing in the field as you walk by, or may even roam onto the path as they are used to humans here. There is also a plethora of other wildlife on the reserve and if you’re not a seasoned ornithologist or would like to know more about hedgehogs, mushrooms or sand lizards, the RSPB team hold regular interactive events and guided walks. A visitor centre and cafe for coffees, cakes and light lunches can be found a short walk from the car park. Parking: The on-site car park is free for RPSB members or £5 for the day. There is a secondary overflow car park to cater for the busier days.

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.

Swanage Railway

Take a trip through time on Purbeck’s only heritage railway The historic Swanage Railway has been much-loved by many for generations since its first locomotive took to the tracks in 1885. It draws some 200,000 visitors every year from all over the country and makes a lasting impression on young and old alike. Let a lovingly restored steam train take you on an unforgettable journey beneath the foot of the Purbeck Hills and through the picturesque countryside surrounding Swanage. There is nothing quite like riding on an original steam-powered train to evoke the sentiment of simpler times of bygone days. Stepping into the 1940s-style ticket office and waiting room to be greeted by a soot-stained fire man or waving to the driver in his traditional attire will transport you into the Purbeck of the past in a truly nostalgic experience. There’s plenty to see on your journey too, from grazing ponies in the fields as you pass leisurely by to the stunning and varied views of Corfe Castle as you approach in vintage style – and, if travelling as a family and like Harry and Ron on the Hogwarts Express, you can’t resist a snack as you go there are […]

Man O’ War Bay

The smaller of Durdle Door’s two beaches, Man O’ War Bay, is an enclosed cove, perfect for picnicking. As with Durdle Door, this beach can get very busy in peak seasons. There is also a fair walk from the car park, along with steps down to the beach, so may not be suitable for the littlest legs.

Knoll Beach

Knoll Beach is the largest and most well-known beach at Studland Bay. Popular with families and for water sports, with its National Trust cafe, discovery centre and sand dune walking trails, Knoll Beach has everything for an entire day out. Dogs are welcome all year round, but must be kept on a lead from May to September. They are also welcome in the outdoor seating area of the cafe. Parking starts from £4 for two hours in summer months and is free for National Trust members.

Naturist beach

Around 1km of Studland Bay has been set aside for naturism. It’s one of the UK’s most well-known official naturist spots and users must adhere to the British Naturism code. It’s quite separate to the more family-oriented Knoll Beach and Shell Bay, situated between the two in its own dedicated and clearly-marked area.

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 Beach

Despite being one, long curved stretch of golden sand, the beach in Swanage has a different feel to it depending on where you are along it, meaning you can have a different day out each time you visit. The busy hubbub near the amusement arcade and coffee shops has that typical British seaside feel that gets you queuing up for a 99 and digging out the buckets and spades of your childhood, wanting to show your children what a real English holiday is all about. Slightly further along however there’s a more active scene with various water sports facilities on offer – hire a pedalo for some shallow water fun, or a sea kayak to get out on the waves. Perhaps you fancy a more sophisticated seaside experience? Sit on the deck with a drink at The Waterfront or sample some seafood at Gee Whites and watch the world go by. Further north along Swanage beach you’ll find secluded spots dotted with ice cream huts and even a surprise cafe on the beach – The Cabin is the perfect spot for an impromptu breakfast on the beach. Good to know… Dogs are banned on the main stretch of the beach […]

The 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.