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

What makes Swanage special?

Swanage’s stunning coastal location and proximity to many Jurassic Coast gems is what makes it really special.

Swanage Bay, which sweeps from Ballard Down to the north across to Peveril Point in the south, is protected 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, diving and other watersports.

The weather in Swanage is favourably mild, with few frosts and little snow in the winter. During the summer months, the area draws many thousands of visitors for its traditional British seaside feel, and there are numerous festivals, events and things to do throughout the year, making Swanage a year-round destination for families, couples and individual travellers. If you’re a foodie, music fan, or arts and crafts enthusiast, then Swanage is an excellent base to explore the Isle of Purbeck’s culinary and artisan scene from.

Whether you’re just visiting, already live here, or are thinking of relocating to Swanage, there’s a wealth of things to do all year round, so make the most of exploring Purbeck’s many pretty villages, weekend farmers’ markets, delicious restaurants and excellent pubs, as well as the array of annual events they host. There’s also loads going on for kids – from after-school clubs and summer holiday workshops to organised outdoor adventure activities and simply just popping down to the beach for tea after school or a day out exploring.

If you can’t visit but wish to see, then there are a number of webcams including the one on the RNLI’s boathouse that gives a great view across the sea to the iconic Jurassic Coast landform Old Harry Rocks.

Welcome to Swanage sign with Purbeck Hills behind

Where is Swanage?

Swanage is located in Dorset, on the south-west coast of England. It lies to the west of Poole Harbour and Bournemouth and to the east of Weymouth. It is the only town on the Isle of Purbeck and is famous for being part of the world-renowned Jurassic Coast.

Getting to Swanage

Arrive by car

There are two main routes into Swanage by car – via Wareham or via 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.

Swanage is also served by the heritage line Swanage Railway, which runs from Norden to Swanage.

From abroad – nearest airports

Bournemouth airport is convenient for Swanage if you are planning to hire a car for your holiday. Southampton Airport has a train that goes straight from the airport (Southampton Airport Parkway) to Swanage’s nearest mainline station, Wareham.

Things to do in and around Swanage

People have been drawn to Swanage for generations because of its location in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (Dorset AONB) – and especially its beautiful, sandy bay.

Swanage’s Blue Flag beach is one of the town’s main attractions, however there are plenty of other things for visitors of all ages to do both in and around Swanage.

South Beach car park

With its safe, shallow water and slightly more rugged feel, South Beach is a natural haven away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Quieter than nearby Knoll Beach (the main and most popular of Studland Bay‘s four beaches), South Beach is also a great base for exploring Studland village and a good place to set off from if you’re doing the Old Harry Rocks cliff walk. Directions and parking tariffs How to get to South Beach car park Postcode for your SatNav: BH19 3AU Situated on Manor Road, just off the main road in Studland, South Beach is easily accessible from Swanage, Wareham, Poole and Bournemouth. South Beach itself is a short, signposted walk down a gentle track near the car park. From Swanage, Corfe and Wareham Leave the B3351 at the turning for Studland Stores, down School Lane and then onto Watery Lane, where the road curves around to the left onto Manor Road. South Beach car park will be on your left, just past The Bankes Arms pub. From Poole and Bournemouth via chain ferry After a four-minute crossing on the Sandbanks Ferry, follow Ferry Road until you reach the village of Studland. Turn left just after the riding […]

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 (famously a Doctor Who filming location). There is also a miniature museum within the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) award-winning Square and Compass pub, with its Narnia-style stone tables and seating in the garden. The Square is loved by locals and visitors alike for its relaxed, yet lively atmosphere; its pies and pasties served through a hatch in the wall, an extensive on-site pressed cider collection, and regular live folk bands and open mic nights. People tend to spill out into the garden, which overlooks the sea on a dry day and can be a great sun-trap, and in winter the roaring fires inside make for a fantastically cosy experience. Due to its elevated position, the weather in Worth can be a bit windy and exposed at times, so bring a jumper if you plan to sit out. Sheltered spots for […]

Swanage Bandstand

Stop by Swanage Bandstand for a quick bit of truly local history – or plan your visit for when an event is taking place to experience some good, old-fashioned entertainment. The Swanage Town Band often performs at the 1920s bandstand, and local residents and campaigners have worked hard over the years to restore it to its former glory and keep this special piece of Swanage history alive. You can find the charming green and white structure in Recreation Ground, by Horsecliffe Lane and Mermond Place car park, where it overlooks Swanage Bay. There is a children’s play park alongside it, as well as the Sante Fe fun park, which features a Jurassic-themed crazy golf course, small rides for young children and a seasonal bouncy castle. History Swanage Bandstand has a rich history, and has hosted many local events for the town over the years. After storm damage and falling into disrepair, it was recently fully restored, meaning that Swanage residents and visitors can look forward to a varied itinerary of events at this historic community hub for years to come. Construction and installation The Swanage bandstand was first installed in 1923 by Scottish cast iron manufacturers Walter Macfarlane & Co. […]

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 – in 1892. The obelisk stands upon a prehistoric barrow (a mound of earth typically situated over an important grave) on North Hill on the Ballard Down headland and was installed to commemorate the provision of a new water supply to Swanage in 1883. The walk up to the obelisk will reward you with stunning views across Swanage Bay, as well as over Studland Bay, Poole Harbour and toward the Isle of Wight. Ballard Down is part of the Purbeck Hills chalk ridgeway, which is popular with walkers and cyclists and runs through Purbeck past Corfe Castle and nearly all the way to Lulworth. History One of George Burt’s many legacies in Swanage, the granite obelisk was originally in situ in central London, outside the St Mary of the Nativity (also known as St Mary Woolnoth) Church. The church is on the corner of King William Street and Lombard Street, near Bank. In 1892 Burt erected the obelisk on its present site to commemorate the town’s water supply that was installed in 1883. In 1941, […]

Tom’s Field Campsite

This rural, back-to-nature campsite harks back to camping as it used to be, and is ideally located for Swanage, Corfe Castle and all the attractions and pretty villages in between. Situated in the village of Langton Matravers, Tom’s Field is perfect for coastal walks down to spots such as Dancing Ledge, and handy for the beach – you can leave your car behind and simply hop on the bus that stops in Langton, which is Swanage’s closest village. From the campsite, you’ll be treated to views of the Purbeck Hills and Swanage Bay. The site itself is an attractive and natural setting, with a choice of fields, all surrounded by the signature local dry-stone walls. Also popular with locals who fancy a camping experience close to home, Tom’s Field has been welcoming guests for over 60 years. There are some pitches with electric hook-up, and you can request a spot in the more secluded glades which are suitable for just a couple of tents. Tom’s Field is a keen supporter of local wildlife and environmental issues and has been awarded Gold in the David Bellamy Conservation Award for several years running. Active examples, which campers can contribute to, are a […]

South Beach, Studland

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 offers, but it’s a little more secluded and rugged. South Beach is popular with kayakers and paddle boarders due to its relatively calm, shallow water, and it has increasingly become a popular mooring spot for boats. It also has a designated safe swimming area, café and beach toy hire. South Beach also offers stunning views across to Old Harry Rocks. There is a path that leads up to the iconic chalk stalks directly from the beach – the walk is fairly easy and takes around half an hour. There are also various options nearby for exploring Old Harry Rocks via kayak and horseback. There are also echos of the past – both man-made and natural – here, with a World War II pillbox on the beach itself and easy access to observation bunker Fort Henry, next to the unique red and yellow-coloured sandstone of the cliffs. This family-friendly beach has attracted both visitors and locals alike for many years – in fact, it used to be home to an annual August regatta where […]

The local area surrounding Swanage

While a week spending time in Swanage can easily keep a family entertained, there are many more activities and places to discover.

Make Swanage your base to explore the hidden gems of the Isle of Purbeck.

Tyneham Beach

Sometimes referred to as Tyneham Beach, this stretch of sand and pebble is most commonly known as Worbarrow Bay. A short walk from the abandoned ghost village of Tyneham, Worbarrow Bay is an untouched stretch of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The beach only tends to be open at weekends and school holidays as it is located within the British Army’s Lulworth Range training area. Nearby beaches To the east of Worbarrow Bay, on the other side of Worbarrow Tout is a small, enclosed cove called Pondfield Cove. Further east still lies Kimmeridge Bay, interesting for its geological significance, and Chapman’s Pool – a quiet, off-the-beaten-track cove. To the west is the secluded Mupe Bay, and the famous beaches of the Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Lulworth and Durdle Door are known for their picturesque nature and geology.

Dorset Adventure Park

Purbeck’s only waterpark is located just outside Corfe Castle. Set within 18 acres of woodland, the park boasts a 200m outdoor inflatable course across two lakes, and a 2km-long mud trail assault course. Take a look at the park in action: Waterpark Challenge your friends to complete the Total Wipeout-style course. Complete with trampoline, balance beams and slides, the course is suitable for everyone over the age of six. (Children under 12 need to be accompanied by a responsible adult.) Sessions are one hour long. What to wear at the waterpark Wetsuit (available for hire for £5) Old trainers or sturdy wet shoes (available for hire for £2) No jewellery No glasses Important safety information You must be able to swim 10 metres, or 50 metres with a buoyancy aid, to take part Buoyancy aids (provided) must be worn at all times Lifeguards are on duty and are trained to help you get the most out of your experience Mud Trail The Mud Trail obstacle course is suitable for everyone over the age of four, (children under 12 must be supervised). The course is 2km long and includes over 50 obstacles to pull, climb, jump, crawl and swing your way across. […]

Studland Bay

Comprised of four miles of sandy beaches and with acres of heathland and sand dunes to explore, Studland Bay and Nature Reserve has something for everyone. A short drive from Swanage, Studland Bay lies just over the headland of Ballard Down at the northern end of Swanage Beach, and is home to a thriving watersports scene as well as important heathland and wetlands habitats, which support an array of wildlife – including all six British reptiles. Studland Bay’s four beaches offer something different for everyone – from family-friendly sections with café and toilet facilities to rugged and unspoilt areas perfect for escaping it all. A unique part of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, with easy access to Old Harry Rocks and the start of the South West Coast Path (England’s longest national walking trail), Studland Bay can be easily reached from Swanage and Wareham, as well as from Poole and Bournemouth via the Sandbanks Ferry. There’s something different to discover each time you visit Studland Bay: explore the ancient woodland, scamper among the dunes, sit quietly at the edge of the freshwater lake Little Sea and look out for wildlife, or spend a lazy day at the beach. Being on the South West coast […]

RSPB Arne Nature Reserve

The RSPB nature reserve at Arne is perfect for both a short stroll through the woodland or a full day out walking and exploring. Part of the Isle of Purbeck and the Dorset AONB, the 565 hectare reserve comprises an array of habitats, which are havens for wildlife, including all six of the UK’s native reptiles. As you explore Arne, you’ll discover ancient woodland, stunning expanses of rugged heathland and even small bays of Poole Harbour with views across to the Purbeck Hills and Brownsea Island. There are various viewing points and bird bides dotted around the reserve. You can also hire binoculars or book onto a guided tour at the welcome area but the car park. A shop and café for coffees, cakes and light lunches can be found a short walk from the car park. Nature trails There are seven trails of varying lengths along which to explore Arne. You can pick up a map at the welcome area, or simply follow the colour-coordinated signposts. Shipstal Trails – Follow the red signs from the car park through the woodland to the salt marsh. The full trail is around two miles long and will take just under two hours […]

Swanage Golf Games

Challenge your friends and family to a round of pitch and putt at Swanage Golf Games. Located close to the centre of Swanage at Kirkwood Park, and right by King George’s playground and skate park, Swanage Golf Games is a handy and fun way to spend an hour or two. Set across a 1,000+ metre plot, Swanage Golf Games offers traditional pitch and putt as well as more unusual ways to play. Golf games: Pitch & putt – Choose from either a nine or 18-hole game for a fun yet challenging round of golf for both children and adults Footgolf – For something a bit different, take up to six friends around the course with a football each and try to get them in the oversized holes Frisbee Golf – See if you can reach the target in the lowest number of throws There is also the option to play a ‘nine and nine combo’ of two different types of golf games. Facilities A variety of basic refreshments is available for purchase from the reception area. Visitors are also invited to bring in their own snacks and drinks to enjoy at the picnic benches and grassed areas. Toilet facilities are available […]

Sports & activities

Whether you’re coming to Swanage for its watersports, coasteering and biking opportunities, or just want to keep up your normal exercise routine, Swanage and the surrounding landscape and coastline of the Isle of Purbeck are guaranteed to keep you active and out in the fresh air whatever the weather. Head out into the Purbeck Hills or explore the highlights of the Jurassic Coast, or book on to an organised activity with one of the local outdoor adventure companies. Watersports and outdoor adventure There are as many ways to explore the Isle of Purbeck as there are beautiful locations. Various local companies allow you to discover land and sea from unique perspectives – from boat and kayak hire to rock-climbing and coasteering. Swanage Bay and Studland Bay are home to excellent watersports and outdoor adventure facilities. You can book a diving session off Swanage Pier, join an organised coasteering group at Dancing Ledge, or hire a kayak at Swanage Beach or one of Studland’s beaches such as Knoll Beach or Middle Beach. Take a boat trip from Swanage to explore the beautiful bay and coastline from a different perspective. If you have your own boat there are various options for storing and […]

The Downs, Swanage

The open, clifftop grasslands of The Downs are just a stone’s throw from Swanage town and give some of the best views across Swanage Bay. The Downs is popular with local dog walkers for its open space and exceptional views over Swanage and across the bay toward Ballard Down and Old Harry Rocks, as well as across Durlston Bay toward Durlston Head. Located at the southern end of Swanage, just behind Prince Albert Gardens, with its amphitheatre and handy proximity to Swanage’s restored Victorian pier, the grassy hills of The Downs and its dramatic cliffs give you a sense of the wild and tranquility, just moments from the bustling town. Both locals and visitors use The Downs as a spot to watch the sun setting over the bay with some fish and chips, and as a fantastic spot to view the annual fireworks of Swanage Carnival, held annually in the summer. You can also walk from The Downs over the hills to Durlston Country Park in under half an hour by following the South West Coast Path. The Downs are also another way to reach Peveril Point – the most southerly point of Swanage Bay. The Downs and its nearby cliff […]

Stair Hole

This intriguing landform and small cove can be easily missed on your trip to Lulworth Cove, but making your way up the short path to see Stair Hole is well worth it. The view from Stair Hole gives a new perspective to this stunning part of the Jurassic Coast with its impressive, commanding vistas of the coastline and down over Lulworth Cove itself. If you have budding geologists with you, or if you want to bring those Geography lessons to life, this is the place to go to really see first-hand the effects of erosion on our coastline. It’s also a brilliant spot to see the limestone strata and folds of the ‘Lulworth Crumple’, just to the left of Stair Hole. Safety and walking information Visitors must keep to the path so as not to contribute to the erosion of the area and, as with all areas of the coastline, it is advised to keep away from cliff edges at all times. Adders may also be present in the grassy cliff at certain times of the year – typically spring and summer. There is a dedicated viewing point at the top of the path from which the features of Stair Hole […]

The Blue Pool

Set in 25 acres of woodland between Wareham and Corfe Castle, the Blue Pool derives its name from the striking turquoise colour the water this disused clay pit can appear. A former clay pit, The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms has become one of Dorset’s most intriguing attractions, with its ever-changing kaleidoscope of colours in the water delighting visitors since it first opened to the public in 1935. The 30-foot deep pool was hand-dug in the 1800s and sits within 150 acres of land as part of the Furzebrook Estate and is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Despite being called the ‘Blue’ Pool, the name can be something of a misnomer – whilst the water can be a bright turquoise blue at times, the lake also appears as green, grey and even reddish-brown – making return visits a must in order to capture its dynamic beauty. These changes are due to light diffraction from the clay particles within the pool. The pool may also appear a darker, more inky blue, depending on the time of day and the weather, and how the sky is reflected on its still surface. You’ll find trails of varying lengths leading […]

Swanage Railway

Take a trip through time on the Isle of Purbeck’s heritage railway. Let a lovingly-restored steam train take you on an unforgettable journey along the foot of the Purbeck Hills and through the picturesque countryside surrounding Swanage. The historic Swanage Railway has been much-loved by many for generations since its first locomotive took to the tracks in 1885. Despite being forced to close in 1972, the railway is now a thriving tourist attraction in Swanage, thanks to a group of dedicated volunteers who campaigned to save, rebuild and reinstate the line. Swanage Railway now draws some 200,000 visitors every year from all over the country, providing a vital economy to the town, and leaving a lasting impression on young and old alike. Experience the Purbeck of the past on a vintage locomotive There is nothing quite like riding on an original steam-powered or heritage diesel train to evoke the 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 Isle of Purbeck‘s past in a truly nostalgic experience. There’s plenty to see on your journey […]

King George’s playing fields and skate park

The town’s largest public park is popular with local children and teens with its skate park, graffiti wall and playground equipment. The play equipment caters for very small children to older kids and there are also picnic benches within the playground. There is also a small wetland area with a wooden walkway that has been created to diversify habitats for wildlife. The nearby wildflower meadow has encouraged wild orchids to grow. The pathway behind the stream by the car park leads to a cemetery, after which there is a bridge, which is a popular place for spotting the steam train as it comes in – be aware, however, that this is a road. The nearby pitch n’ putt Swanage Golf Games is within walking distance of the park. King George’s park was first opened to the public in 1951, and is named after King George V. Dogs King George’s playing field is also a great way to let your dog burn off energy while the children play as it’s in view of the whole playground. It’s a popular spot with local dog-walkers, meaning your pooch will generally tend to come across a playmate of their own here. Note that by the […]

Knoll Beach

Knoll Beach is the largest and most well-known beach at Studland Bay. Popular with families and watersports enthusiasts, Knoll Beach is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, with its sand dune, wetland and woodland habitats backing the stunning sandy beach. With its National Trust café, Discovery Centre, walking trails and beach-side activities, Knoll Beach has everything for an entire day out. Note that, during the summer there is a dedicated swimmers’ area at Knoll Beach, however lifeguards are not on duty at any of Studland Bay‘s beaches. Watersports Knoll Beach offers a range of water-based activities throughout the year round (weather and sea state dependent). Studland Watersports activities Primarily operating in the summer months through to September, and across Easter school holidays, activities at Studland Watersports offers something for the whole family across a range of ages including: Kayaking and paddle boarding Sailing and windsurfing Paddle board yoga sessions Banana Boat rides Studland Watersports also hires out deckchairs and sun loungers in the summer. To find out more check out Studland Watersports’ Facebook page: en-gb.facebook.com/pages/category/Outdoor-Recreation/Studland-Watersports Contact Studland Watersports: 📞 07980 559143 Summer fun activities If you prefer your beach-side fun to be land-based, there are plenty of other ways to […]