Arguably the highlight of the Swanage Railway enthusiasts’ calendar is the visits by one of the world’s most famous locomotives, the Flying Scotsman.
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The Flying Scotsman
Attractions
Discover the attractions of one of the Jurassic Coast’s most-loved seaside towns
Both residents and visitors are drawn to Swanage because of its natural beauty and its outstanding sandy bay but there’s plenty to do in addition to enjoying a day at the beach.
One of the main attractions and a great way to arrive in the town is by rail. The Swanage Railway is a heritage steam and diesel line that currently runs between Norden and Swanage.
There’s also Swanage Pier and if you stroll to the end, you get a fantastic view of the town and of Old Harry Rocks.
A good way to learn more about the history of Swanage and its Victorian heritage is to visit the Swanage Museum in the Square. It’s quite small but packed with information and there’s always someone to answer your questions.
For entertainment, there’s The Mowlem Theatre, located right on the seafront in Shore Road. It puts on lots of professional and amateur plays and musicals as well as the must-see Swanage pantomime. There’s also films to see, at prices cheaper than most cinema multiplexes.
If you want to go for a walk (although you can drive) head towards Durlston Country Park. Go south out of Swanage and follow the South West Coastal Path. It’s about a 30 minute walk, partly uphill, with lovely views out to sea and across to the Isle of Wight. Once you’re there, there’s Durlston Castle, which has a restaurant, shop and a busy programme of art exhibitions and events.
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Putlake Adventure Farm
Meet the animals, have a tractor ride, race around the pedal go-kart track and let off steam in the soft play zone at Putlake Adventure Farm.
Located just outside Swanage in Langton Matravers, Putlake is a traditional, family-run working farm with friendly animals – some of whom love nothing more than to be petted, groomed and hand-fed.
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Swanage Lifeboat Station
Swanage Lifeboat Station has been a central part of the seaside town and community of Swanage since its inception in 1875.
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The Mowlem
The Mowlem is one of Swanage’s most prominent features – a beachfront cinema, theatre and function rooms right in the heart of town.
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Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre
Located centrally in Swanage’s Square and right by the sea, is Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre – a pocket-sized vault of Purbeck history.
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Wareham Forest
Walk, run, cycle or ride through miles of woodland and heathland tracks in the 3,700 acre Wareham Forest, on the Isle of Purbeck’s doorstep.
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Durdle Door
One of the most-loved natural landmarks of Dorset and a highlight of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, Durdle Door attracts thousands of visitors every year.
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Lulworth Castle & Park
The romantic 17th Century Lulworth Castle set in the grounds of Lulworth Park and Estate makes for a fascinating family day out.
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Lulworth Range walks
An intriguing way to explore the Purbeck countryside and Jurassic coastline is via the Lulworth Range walks.
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Lulworth Cove
Nestled at the foot of the picturesque village of West Lulworth, Lulworth Cove is one of the most photographed beauty spots in Britain and an important geological area of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
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Dorset Adventure Park
Purbeck’s only waterpark is located just outside Corfe Castle.
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Corfe Castle (attraction)
Standing watch over the village of the same name, Corfe Castle is an iconic and striking ruin, synonymous with the Isle of Purbeck.
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Swanage Railway
Take a trip through time on the Isle of Purbeck’s heritage railway.
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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.
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Swyre Head
Standing proudly as the highest point of Purbeck, you can walk to Swyre Head from various locations.
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Man O’ War Bay
The smaller of Durdle Door’s two beaches, Man O’ War Bay, is an enclosed cove, perfect for picnicking and wiling away the hours in a stunning setting.
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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 and famous landform-dotted sea on another, and with views reaching across Poole Harbour at yet another.
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Agglestone Rock
The Agglestone is one of Purbeck’s curious and quirky landmarks that have been delighting – and puzzling – people for generations.
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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.
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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.
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Durlston Head
Durlston Castle and Country Park sit on the promontory of land that is Durlston Head.
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Anvil Point
Home to the Anvil Point Lighthouse, built in the 1800s, the headland of Anvil Point is just one location for stunning seascapes and excellent walking within Durlston Country Park.
Whether or not you’re taking a trip on a Swanage Railway steam train, Corfe Castle Railway Station itself is well worth a visit, for its vintage charm and picture-postcard photo opportunities.
If you love Studland’s beaches but would prefer a more local vibe head to South Beach.
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Tilly Whim caves
These caves are what is left over after the area was used to quarry Purbeck stone in the 1800s.
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The Mill Pond
Exploring the backstreets of Swanage reveals a surprise at every turn, with many architectural and historical features to discover.
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Winspit
The area around the disused quarry at Winspit is a fantastic place to explore, with its craggy rocks and wide, expansive sea views.
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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.
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Durlston Castle
In the grounds of Durlston Country Park sits a beautiful, restored Victorian faux castle that stands looking out over the sea, set in acres of unique parkland.
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Clavell Tower
This circular, Grade II, Tuscan-style tower overlooking Kimmeridge Bay is one of the most dramatic locations to be found on the Jurassic Coast.
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The Downs
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.
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Swanage Pier
The fully-restored Grade II-listed Victorian pier in Swanage is a must-visit attraction for a sense of the town’s history, as well as giving you a unique perspective of Swanage Bay.
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Chapman’s Pool
If your idea of a dream day at the beach involves a wild and secluded bay where you can wile away the hours watching the odd passing boat and reading a good book, Chapman’s Pool is hard to beat.
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Swanage Bay
Swanage is probably most well-known for its superb, sweeping sandy bay, which has been drawing visitors for generations.
Splashdown in Poole’s Tower Park leisure complex is a short drive from Swanage and Purbeck for an alternative activity for a rainy day or some familiar family entertainment.
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Worbarrow Bay
You might discover this expanse of shingle and sand beach by chance on a visit to the abandoned village of Tyneham.
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Dancing Ledge
One of Purbeck’s most famous landmarks sits just under the cliffs near the villages of Langton Matravers and Worth Matravers.
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Purbeck Mineral & Mining Museum
A hidden historical gem in the heart of Purbeck, this is a truly local museum. Telling the story of the area’s ball clay industry, it’s a fascinating way to tunnel into the Isle of Purbeck’s past and learn how industrious clay miners were here, right back to the 17th Century.
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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.
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Durlston Country Park
Meander through hay meadows, explore quiet woodland trails and be wowed by stunning sea views at Durlston – just a stone’s throw from Swanage town.
Challenge your friends and family to a round of pitch and putt at Swanage Golf Games.
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Swanage Beach
The jewel in Swanage’s crown is its beautiful beach that sweeps around the curve of its sheltered bay.
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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.
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Beach huts
Handy for storing all your seaside essentials and giving you that extra bit of privacy, beach huts in Swanage are available to hire all year round for daily, weekly and seasonal hire periods.
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Tyneham village
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.
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Kimmeridge Bay
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Introduction
Geological and Jurassic history abound in this striking Purbeck bay.
Kimmeridge Bay is the perfect spot to explore rock pools and discover the rugged, fossil-rich shores of the Isle of Purbeck. If the Jurassic Coast’s globally significant geology drew you to Dorset, then Kimmeridge Bay is a must-visit. Its dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations and abundance of fossils reveal the rich natural history of this special area of coast. The bay lies within the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, is part of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and falls inside the Purbeck Coast Marine Conservation Zone – designations that reflect its exceptional geology and marine life.
With calm, sheltered waters, Kimmeridge Bay is also popular for snorkelling, diving, kayaking and windsurfing. It offers generally safe swimming conditions thanks to the lack of strong currents, and the absence of sand means the water is often remarkably clear. Surfers flock here when conditions are right – the Broadbench reef just offshore produces Dorset’s premier reef break with waves up to 15 ft (infrequently, under ideal swell). In summer, the shallow warm waters are enjoyed by families and beginner snorkelers alike, while more adventurous visitors explore the bay’s outer reaches on paddleboards or even scuba dives.
Geology & Fossils
The history revealed in the cliffs at Kimmeridge is apparent as soon as you step onto the beach. The striking layers of Kimmeridge Clay reach around the bay.
Kimmeridge Bay features some of the most important geology anywhere on the Jurassic Coast. The cliffs here are composed of the Kimmeridge Clay formation – a dark, highly organic shale from the Late Jurassic period. This rock is so significant that it gives its name to the Kimmeridgian stage of geology, and its oil-rich layers form a major source rock for petroleum in the UK.
These paleontologically-important cliffs are rich in fossils – ammonites, bivalves, belemnites, and even occasional marine reptiles or dinosaur bones. Notably, the world’s first identified fossilised ammonite eggs were discovered at Kimmeridge Bay.
Note, however, that fossil-hunting and the use of hammers is not permitted at Kimmeridge Bay. Fortunately, many fossils can be spotted loose among the shale on the beach. The flat ledges of rock extending into the bay are actually wave-cut platforms of Kimmeridge Clay, formed by erosion. They create a unique shoreline landscape at low tide – ideal for examining ancient Jurassic deposits up close.
From these sequential layers of shale, geologists and palaeontologists have pieced together a detailed record of a 157-million-year-old seabed. Kimmeridge’s legacy even extends to industry: during the 19th century, oil shale from these cliffs was mined and distilled for products like paraffin and paint. And since 1959, an onshore oil well known as the “nodding donkey” has been quietly pumping oil from strata beneath the bay – it’s the UK’s oldest working oil pump. (You can glimpse this small oil pump on the cliff to the west of Kimmeridge village, and an information board near the beach provides details for curious visitors.)
The Etches Collection Museum
Combine your trip with a visit to the village’s museum and education centre – The Etches Collection.
Learn all about the geology and fossils found in the area, and just how important Kimmeridge Bay is to the story of the Jurassic Coast.
The Etches Collection: Museum of Jurassic Marine Life is the first port of call for any fossil enthusiast. Curated by resident expert fossil-hunter Dr Steve Etches, the small but perfectly formed museum features interactive exhibits, video guides and the chance to look around Dr Etches’ lab.
The magic of this museum is that every fossil, ammonite and dinosaur tooth in the display was found in and around Kimmeridge Bay itself, making it a truly local ‘Deep Time’ adventure. Visit the museum shop for some dinosaur and fossil-themed merchandise.
Museum Opening Times
The museum is open daily, 10am – 5pm. Last entrance is at 4.15pm.
ℹ️ www.theetchescollection.org
📞 01929 270000
Marine Centre
The Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre is a great way to discover everything Kimmeridge Bay has to offer.
From interactive displays and events, to underwater snorkel trails, there are plenty of ways to learn about Kimmeridge’s sea creatures and habitats.
The centre has a small shop and picnic area, as well as toilet and disabled facilities. It’s run by the Dorset Wildlife Trust and includes live marine tanks, underwater cameras, and frequent events such as guided rockpool rambles and seashore scavenger hunts. Entry is free but accessed via the toll road.
Opening Hours
April – October: Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm (closed 1–1:30pm)
November – December: Thursday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm (closed 1–1:30pm)
(Closed January – March)
ℹ️ www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/wild-seas-centre
📞 01929 481044
Boat on the Bay
Open from 6 May 2023
As well as the fantastic restaurant & café in the village, Clavell’s, Kimmeridge has a seasonal pop-up eatery – Boat on the Bay.
It boasts fresh, locally-caught lobster and crab for a delicious meal at the bay, and serves tasty brunches, afternoon teas and main courses, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
There’s options for kids, delicious desserts and a selection of hot drinks, Purbeck Ice Cream and both alcoholic and soft drinks.
Points of Interest at Kimmeridge Bay
WW2 Pill Box
As you arrive at the beach, one of the first things you’ll notice is the WWII pill box, leaning into the sea.
There is a second one at the base of the hill up to Clavell Tower.
Clavell Tower
The walk up to Clavell Tower is fairly challenging, with steep steps which can be slippery when wet, but it’s worth the climb for the spectacular panoramic views.
Lulworth Ranges
Parts of Kimmeridge lie within the Lulworth Ranges – a live firing training area used by the British Army.
General Safety Advice at Kimmeridge Bay
As with all areas of the UK coastline, it is important to keep a sensible distance from the foot of the cliff as rock falls can occur. The ledges can also be slippery, so take care when exploring. Fossil hunting and the use of hammers is prohibited.
Dogs and Safety at Kimmeridge
Dogs are welcome at the bay all year round. Keep them on a lead near cliffs and livestock. Clean up waste – bins are provided.
How to Get to Kimmeridge Bay
For your SatNav: BH20 5PF
The best way to get to Kimmeridge Bay is by driving. You can drive down the toll road to the car park, or walk from the village.
Nearby Points of Interest
- Steeple – The church in this tiny hamlet and walking routes through the Purbeck countryside make for a lovely, quiet explore
- Church Knowle – A pretty village with a pub, children’s play area and the Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centre
- Tyneham – A short drive from Kimmeridge is the ‘ghost village’ of Tyneham, which was abandoned in WW2
- East Creech – The picture-postcard hamlet of East Creech is a wonderful way to wile away an hour with its pretty duck pond and tea room that serves freshly-baked scones. There are also good walking routes into the Purbeck Hills from here
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Old Harry Rocks
One of the most iconic landforms on the South Coast – Old Harry Rocks – is just a stone’s throw from Swanage and an important feature of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast history.
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Sandbanks Ferry
Your holiday starts here if you arrive via the Sandbanks Ferry, with that holiday feeling kicking in once your car rolls onto the chain ferry and you step out to admire the stunning views as you cross Poole Harbour.
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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.