There are two main ways to get from Bournemouth to Swanage – via the Sandbanks Ferry, or inland via the A351.
Both routes are popular with families, commuters and visitors to the Isle of Purbeck.
You can also get to Swanage from Bournemouth via taxi for a fuss-free and direct journey, or a combination of bus and train.
By car
Via Sandbanks Ferry
Journey time: Approximately one hour
Follow Parkstone Road until it meets Sandbanks Road. You will see signs for ‘Swanage via Chain Ferry’.
Crossing time is four minutes.
Once on the other side, you need to follow Ferry Road down into Studland, then take the B3351 towards Swanage and this will take you onto Ulwell Road and into the centre of Swanage.
Be aware that in peak seasons there may be a short queue to board the ferry.
Via A351
Journey time: Approximately 50 minutes
Take the A35 toward Dorchester. At the Bakers Arms roundabout take the first exit onto the A351, which will take you through Sandford and toward Wareham.
Continue on the A351 through the villages of Corfe Castle and Harman’s Cross until you reach Swanage.
By Bus
Journey time: 1 hour 15 min
The No. 50 Purbeck Breezer goes direct from Bournemouth Square to Swanage bus station.
In the summer months, (weather-dependent), this route comprises an open-top bus, giving you a unique journey and way of experiencing Purbeck as you travel onward to Swanage.
Train and bus combination
There is currently no direct train route from Bournemouth to Swanage.
However, the South Western Railway London Waterloo – Weymouth service stops at Wareham, where you can pick up the number 40 bus the rest of the way into Swanage.
Journey time from Bournemouth to Wareham via train: Around 30 minutes
Journey time from Wareham to Swanage via bus: Around 40 minutes
By taxi
There is a busy taxi rank right outside Bournemouth Train Station, where you can pick up a cab to take you directly to Swanage. Expect to pay around £60 for the journey.
Taxi firms may offer advance booking. Check with the below Bournemouth-based taxi companies to find out more:
- United Taxis – 📞 01202 556677 556677.com
- PRC Streamline – 📞 01202 373737 www.prcstreamline.co.uk
- Poole Friendly Cabs – 📞 01202 558867
- Star Radio Cars – 📞 01202 391919
- Mobile Radio Cars – 📞 01202 518000 www.mobileradiocars.co.uk
Swanage taxi firms may also come out to Bournemouth to get you:
- Swanage & Purbeck Taxi – 📞 07969 927424
- Swanage Taxis – 📞 01929 421122
- Bill’s Taxis – 📞 07549 776 736
- Harrisons’ Taxis – 📞 07594 282525