Author: Swanage.co.uk

Categories
Sports & Activities Things to do Watersports

Divers Down

Dive school signage on Swanage Pier
Divers Down Dive School

Swanage’s dive school is based on the town’s striking restored Victorian pier and offers some great dives both within Swanage Bay and in deeper waters outside the bay.

Divers Down is Britain’s oldest dive school and it’s been attracting new and seasoned divers since 1958, with its sheltered dive sites, nearby wreck dives and safe Diver Training Zone.

There’s a wealth of sea life to discover directly beneath the pier, attracted by its wooden framework and, lying just outside the bay, there’s a range of both deep and shallow dives, which include various WWI and WWII wrecks.

Divers Down has two charter boats with fully qualified skippers, to take you to and from wreck sites throughout the summer. The boats have rear diver lifts and hot drinks are provided on your return journey.

The dive season typically starts in March/April until October.

Dives can be booked in advance online or by contacting Divers Down.

Safe Diving Zone

An area of five-metre deep water has been buoyed off adjacent to Swanage Pier as a designated Diver Training Zone.

This shallower section of the bay is suitable for both new and qualified divers.

Dive shop

(picture credit: Ulleo, via Pixabay)

The on-site dive shop stocks all the gear and equipment you’ll need, from masks, fins and snorkels to boots, gloves, neck & wrist seals and glues.

You can get your air and Nitrox fills here – charges per litre/cylinder are listed on Diver’s Down’s website.

And if you need to supplement your kit for your dive you can hire individual items for the day, or hire the full kit by the day or for two days.

The shop also sells a range of refreshments, ice creams and drinks.

Shop opening hours

  • Saturday & Sundays – 8am – 5pm
  • Monday – Friday – Open most weekdays, weather-permitting

Dive & wreck sites

Explore the sea life under Swanage Pier, try out a shallow dive, or discover the shipwrecks that lie in deeper water outside the bay, including wrecks from WWI & WWII .

Some of the most popular wreck sites include Kyarra (one of the most-dived sites in the UK), Smyrna and Aeolian Sky, whose story intriguingly involves a million pounds of Seychelles rupees and thousands of jars of Marmite.

You can find an interactive wreck site map on Divers Down’s website, which lists interesting information and a brief history on some of the most popular wrecks: www.diversdownswanage.co.uk/default.aspx?p=Wsites

(images credit: Divers Down)

Pier creatures

The wooden framework of Swanage Pier provides an enticing home for a wealth of underwater wildlife.

Some of the sea life you’re likely to encounter include lobster, edible & spider crabs, cuttlefish, sand eels and bream. 

Follow Divers Down’s Facebook page for latest updates and to view underwater photography posted by divers: www.facebook.com/pages/Divers-Down-Swanage-Pier/111606238925270 

Dive courses

Dive courses at Divers Down are all affiliated to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and cater to the complete beginner to Dive Master.

In addition you can complete your Emergency First Response diving certificate here, or take the Rescue Course.

Divers Down also offers specialty courses such as night diver, wreck diver and photography diving.

Some courses have minimum age requirements.

Find the full list of courses and price list on Divers Down’s website.

Summer sightseeing & school trips

These popular sightseeing trips run during the summer months and are ideally suited to a group of 12 students plus one teacher.

The bay tour takes you around Old Harry Rocks, past Durlston Bay and across to the Anvil Point Lighthouse.

It’s a fun and informative way to explore this special part of the Jurassic Coast, with talks from your guide on local landmarks and geological features, such as erosion.

Isle of Purbeck Sub-Aqua Club

Swanage Pier is also home to the Isle of Purbeck Sub-Aqua Club (IPSAC).

It’s a small and friendly BSAC club, with weekly dives around Swanage and Kimmeridge Bay throughout the dive season.

Decorator crab captured by the Isle of Purbeck Sub-Aqua Club (credit: IPSAC Facebook page)

The club meets regularly on weekends and Wednesday evenings in the summer, and holds various social events throughout the year.

It’s been going since 1988 and currently has about 50 members, of varying interests and abilities.

Membership includes the use of RIBs, training by qualified instructors and regular skills refreshers. Visiting divers can also join the group for the days that they’re in Swanage.

Find out more on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/IsleofPurbeckSAC

Parking on the pier

Parking on the pier is suitable for cars and vans…

Contact details

Dive school signage on Swanage Pier
Divers Down Dive School

For full information on wreck sites, safety information and booking visit the Divers Down website:

ℹ️ www.diversdownswanage.co.uk/default.aspx

Get in touch by phone or email to book a dive:

📥 Email: medina@madasafish.com
📞 Call or text: 07977 142661

Categories
Services

Vets

Cat visiting the vet
Kitten vet visit

Swanage has one vet clinic, conveniently located on the outskirts of town, which is linked with its partner vet in nearby Wareham (Lynwood Veterinary Group), where the veterinary group’s main surgery is based.

There is also a second veterinary centre in Wareham (Pet Health Partnership), and a Medivet in nearby Wool.

Lynwood Veterinary Group Swanage

The Swanage branch of Lynwood Vets is closely linked to the larger practice in Wareham, and vets work across both sites, providing great continuity of care for your pets.

Compassionate vet care for Dorset’s pets

Lynwood vet clinic in Swanage
Lynwood Swanage

Lynwood offers all the usual veterinary care and services such as neutering, flea, tick & worming treatments, booster vaccinations, microchipping, surgery and dental care.

Black lab wearing red collar
Black Labrador

Additional services include:

  • Pet health plan available for dogs, cats and rabbits
  • Dental x-ray
  • Diagnostic ultrasound & endoscopy
  • Nurse clinics
  • Ophthalmology
  • In-house lab
  • End of life care
  • Foreign travel preparation

On-site parking is available at both sites.

You’ll find a small selection of food, toys and pet essentials available to purchase in the waiting area, and there’s a green space outside for your dog to stretch its legs while you wait.

The Lynwood Group has been caring for Dorset’s pets since 1849 and has expanded from its first practice in Wimborne to benches in Swanage, Wareham, Verwood and Bournemouth.

Bournemouth is the only veterinary-led rehabilitation service in the county, where pets can benefit from PetFit Hydrotherapy, physio, acupuncture treatments and more.

Explore Lynwood’s facilities and full range of services on their website: www.lynwoodvets.co.uk

Lynwood vets on Ulwell Road in Swanage
Lynwood Veterinary Group on Ulwell Road

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 8am – 6.30pm
  • Saturday – Appointments at Wareham only
  • Sunday – Closed

Contact

For all general enquiries and appointments:

  • 📞 01929 422213
  • 📥 purbeck@lynwoodvets.co.uk

Location

📍87 Ulwell Rd, Swanage BH19 1QU

Lynwood Vets is located in the Ulwell area of Swanage, close to countryside paths, dog-friendly parks and the beach, so you can reward your dog  with a good walk after their routine vet visit.

From the direction of town, simply follow Ulwell Road till you reach the clinic, or from the Studland direction, Lynwood will be on your right just after the lay-by with its Welcome to Swanage sign.

Lynwood Vet location in Swanage (image credit: Google Maps)

Emergency contact

In case of an urgent injury or illness, telephone your normal Lynwood branch to speak to a member of the team.

If it’s out of hours, you’ll be transferred to the team at Lynwood’s Wimborne branch, where there is a VetNow team on-hand to cover urgent pet care at evenings and weekends.

Lynwood Wareham details

  • 📍Leanne Business Centre, 9 Sandford Lane, Wareham BH20 4DY
  • 📞01929 552692
  • ℹ️ Open as per Swanage hours, with the addition of Saturday appointments between 8am – 12.30pm

The Pet Health Partnership – Wareham

The Pet Health Partnership offers veterinary care to pets in and around Wareham and Purbeck.

Services include a full range of procedures, routine and exploratory health checks, booster vaccinations, orthopaedic surgery and treatment plans for chronic illness.

Wareham Vets, The Pet Health Partnership
Pet Health Partnership

Pet health plans are available, and a home visit/pet ambulance service is available where appropriate.

The PHP also has a practice in Upton in Poole.

Opening hours

  • Mon, Tues, Weds & Fri – 9am – 6pm
  • Thursday – 9am – 7pm
  • Saturday – Closed (Upton surgery open 9am – 12pm Saturdays)
  • Sunday– Closed (Emergencies only, Upton)

Contact

  • 📍17 East Street, Wareham, BH20 4NN
  • 📞 01929 552599
  • 📞 Emergencies/out-of-hours number – 01202 382843

Medivet – Wool

Whilst just outside the Purbeck boundary, many pet patients from Swanage and surrounds are also served by the Wool branch of nationwide Medivet.

Offering all the usual veterinary services, pet care and health plans, Medivet is located just outside Wareham toward Dorchester.

Cat visiting the vet
Kitten vet visit

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 8.30am – 7pm
  • Saturday – 9am – 11.30am

Contact

  • 📍Dorchester Road, Winfrith Newburgh, Dorchester, DT2 8DD
  • 📞 01929 462535
  • 📞 Emergencies – 24-hour emergency vet practice at Dorchester, DT1 1DU. Phone number: 01305 262913
  • www.medivet.co.uk
Categories
Markets Shopping

Swanage Market

Person buying flowers at Swanage Market
Shopping at the Swanage Friday Market

Wile away an hour or two at the Friday Market in Swanage – pick up seasonal fruit, veg & cooking ingredients, grab some homeware bargains, and connect with your local community.

With great value items, a lovely community buzz and a good range of regular, visiting and occasional traders, the market is a cost-effective and sociable way to stock up on your weekly grocery & household essentials.

There’s a bustling, yet distinctly relaxed atmosphere and friendly vibe, with ‘market’ style music in the background as shoppers browse the stalls and catch up with neighbours.

Shopping at the Friday market is also a great way to support local and emerging businesses from both Swanage itself and the wider Dorset area, as stallholders come from across the county to sell their products.

After you’ve finished shopping, grab some tasty hot food or relax with a coffee at the pop-up café seating area, or stroll down Victoria Avenue to the beach or into town to continue your shopping.

Whilst most stalls accept card payments, note that some may be cash only.

What’s at the market

As well as a large fruit & veg section, you’ll find various stands selling a great range of products for the home, as well as clothing & accessories, and even some ideas for a last-minute budget gift.

There’s often charity stalls and craft stalls depending on the time of year and what other events are going on around town, and the market welcomes local artisans on the first Friday of the month (Apr – Oct), where you can find locally-made arts & craft items.

Fresh Food & Ingredients

Fruit & Veg

Browse the excellent array of seasonal fruit and find some unusual vegetable varieties to complement your Sunday roast.

Simply choose your fruit & veg and take them to be weighed to pay.

Cooking Ingredients

Buy locally-produced cheeses, chutneys, meats and fish, or find your new favourite spice or olive flavour to add a twist to your cooking.

Convenience Food

You’ll find a range of Dorset-made food for snacking & picnicking, or to take home for an easy meal at the market, such as handmade pasties, freshly-baked pastries and artisanal breads.

Grab a sausage roll to go, or pair a homity pie with some cheese and olives for an easy meal without having to go to the supermarket.

For a sweet treat, you can pick up handmade donuts, Turkish Delight and a range of other confectionery to take home for afternoon tea.

Homeware & Garden

Buy your weekly fresh cut seasonal flowers & plants for your home and garden at the market, along with a range of home essentials, from natural cleaning supplies to car maintenance products.

And you might find a hidden treasure at the second-hand stalls or monthly maker’s market.

Order ahead with The Flower Factory to ensure your home or local business has beautiful, seasonal blooms ready to pick up from the Friday market: 01202 900670

Clothing & Accessories

Refresh your wardrobe with Swanage Market’s ranges of value clothing brands that change through the seasons.

There may be a chance to grab some pre-loved items, too, as well as a selection of affordable and bright children’s clothing and accessories.

Services

Regular services visiting the Friday Market include Purbeck Auto Locksmith and the local branch of Citizens Advice, with its mobile Advice Bus.

Purbeck Auto Locksmith is your local one-stop-shop for all your locksmith needs – Get replacement batteries for watches and car key fobs fitted while you wait.

Swanage-based Purbeck Auto Locksmith can also come to your home or car whenever you need a spare key.

Pop along to Citizens Advice for some free, confidential and impartial advice – no appointment necessary.

Help and support is available across a range of areas, including housing, welfare, money and health.

A full list of services and points of help and contact can be found online:

Catering Stands

Enjoy hot & cold food and drinks at Swanage Market while you shop.

Visiting catering vans include Thai cuisine, burgers & hot dogs, and sweet & savoury crêpes.

Artisans at the Market

Check out the latest handmade offerings by the Swanage Artisans – a group of local makers.

You’ll find their displays at the market on the first Friday of every month, typically between April – October inclusive.

Find unique handcrafted items of home decor, jewellery, artwork and more.

Opening times

Swanage Market is open every Friday throughout the year, unless significant adverse weather is forecast.

  • Timings – Weekly between 8am – 1pm

Location

📍Main Beach Car Park, Victoria Avenue, postcode BH19 1AP

Find the Swanage Friday Market every week at Main Beach Car Park.

Swanage Market & Main Beach Car Park location (image credit: Google Maps)

 

Contact details

For general enquiries and if you’re interested in having a one-off or regular spot at the market here in Swanage, call or email:

Categories
Accommodation Caravan sites

North View Campsite

Purbeck Ridgeway views (picture credit: North View Campsite)

This small site dedicated to caravans and motorhomes is set beneath the Purbeck Ridgeway and on the edge of Harman’s Cross village.

With just five pitches you’re guaranteed a nature-filled break away from the madding crowd, and you can easily get out into the countryside with walking paths direct from the campsite.

Purbeck Ridgeway views (picture credit: North View Campsite)

The Caravan & Motorhome Club site is the sister site of Quarr Camping across the road.

Handily located just off the Valley Road, you’re easily connected to Swanage and Corfe Castle, whilst being surrounded by rolling countryside.

(picture credit: North View Campsite)

There are two convenience stores (a Spar and a Londis within petrol stations) nearby, where you can find various food, drink and camping essentials. Corfe has four pubs, a village shop and bakery, and Swanage has two supermarkets and a range of shops, eateries and beach-side activities.

Facilities at the site include drinking water and Elsan Points, however there are no toilets or showers.

North View Campsite is dog-friendly and open year-round (unless very heavy rain), and there’s various dog-friendly beaches in the vicinity.

Swanage Railway’s heritage line has a stop in Harman’s Cross and the seasonal No. 30 bus runs through the village, stopping just outside the campsite.

Contact details

For further information and booking contact North View direct:

    • 📞 07540 845705
    • 📥 northviewcamping@gmail.com

Location

📍Harman’s Cross, Swanage BH19 3DY

Conveniently located off the A351, you’ll find North View Campsite on your left as you leave Harman’s Cross toward Swanage, just before St Michael’s Garage.

North View Campsite location (image credit: Google Maps)
Categories
Accommodation Campsites

Purbeck Valley Farm Camping

(picture credit: Purbeck Valley Farm)

This family-run campsite has everything you need for a traditional rural camping experience in the Purbeck countryside.

Situated between the picturesque village of Corfe Castle and the bustling seaside town of Swanage, Purbeck Valley Farm Campsite is ideally located for exploring everything the Isle of Purbeck has to offer.

Views toward Corfe Castle (picture credit: Purbeck Valley Farm)

The campsite welcomes tents and campervans and can accommodate extra requests – simply send a note with your enquiry form.

There’s play equipment for children and a visiting pizza van, and often farm-produced burgers and sausages available.

You’ll find various footpaths and cycleways into the countryside direct from the campsite, and just a short drive away are the sandy beaches of Swanage and Studland Bay.

Nearby in Harman’s Cross is a Spar shop & petrol station, and Corfe has a village shop and various eateries.

Right outside Purbeck Valley Farm Campsite is a bus stop, where you can pick up the seasonal No.30 Jurassic Breezer bus. This will take you into Swanage as well as Corfe Castle, Wareham and further afield to beauty spots such as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Find the timetable online: www.morebus.co.uk/services/WDBC/30

Horses are welcome by arrangement – the site has direct access to the Purbeck Bridleway network, hills and forest.

Note that general camping is unavailable during the Purbeck Valley Folk Festival.

(pictures all: Purbeck Valley Farm)

Facilities

  • Selection of spacious fields – pick your own pitch
  • Hot showers
  • Flushing toilets
  • Hot water washing up area
  • Hand sanitiser & soap
  • Farm shop – Purbeck Valley is a working beef farm, offering meat box delivery and grass-fed beef & venison burgers

Campsite rules

  • Be considerate of other campers by keeping noise to a minimum
  • Campfires allowed – fire pit & log hire available
  • No music please
  • No dogs allowed

Camping enquiries form: www.purbeckvalleyfarm.com/camping-1

Self-catering at Purbeck Valley Farmhouse

For an easy holiday without having to pitch a tent, why not stay at the farmhouse?

‘The Big Room’ can accommodate four people, is en suite and has a dining area with kitchenette.

The farmhouse (picture credit: Purbeck Valley Farm)

There are also two smaller rooms – one double and one with a sofa bed.

In both rooms the doubles can be separated into twin beds.

All rooms are en suite and have WiFi, TV & DVD player.

(Images all Purbeck Valley Farm)

Find out more about the farmhouse accommodation, including pricing and booking, online: purbeckvalleyfarmhouse.co.uk/accomodation

Weddings

Say ‘I do’ with a view

Purbeck Valley Farm is the perfect place for a rustic, rural wedding, with its striking countryside views toward Corfe Castle and flanked by the dramatic Purbeck Hills.

The farm is licensed to carry out ceremonies and has a range of barns, marquees and a spacious field for you to choose from in which to hold your reception.

(picture credit: Purbeck Valley Farm)

Your special day can be tailored to your needs and the team are only too happy to help add a bit of magic with the addition of decoration, hay bales and tractor-trailers.

Members of your wedding party can also make use of the on-site accommodation, which includes the farm’s self-catering rooms and shepherd huts.

If your dream wedding day is all about being in nature surrounded by your friends and family, get in touch with Purbeck Valley Farm to discuss your requirements.

Location & directions

📍 Valley Road, Corfe Castle BH20 5HU

If you’re coming from Wareham/Corfe Castle way, Purbeck Valley Farm will be on your left just before you reach Harman’s Cross.

And if you’re arriving from the Studland direction via the chain ferry, the campsite will be on your right as you leave Harman’s Cross village.

Purbeck Valley Farm location (image credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

For all camping, self-catering and weddings & events enquiries, call or email Purbeck Valley Farm or visit their website for further information:

Categories
Dentists Health

Dentists

(picture credit: Stock Snap, via Pixabay)

Smile Dental Care

Smile Dental Care (formerly Sca Trafalgar) offers both NHS and private dental services.

Conveniently located on King’s Road West, the dental surgery offers general dental care as well as cosmetic treatments.

Smile Dentalcare in Swanage
Smile Dentalcare

Book an appointment by phoning or visit their website for more information on services, fees and latest updates: www.smile-dentalcare.co.uk/dentist-swanage/ 

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 9am – 5pm
  • Saturday & Sunday – Closed

Location

📍118 Kings Road West, BH19 1HS

There are often parking spaces outside Smile DentalCare, or along the nearby residential streets.

Alternatively, you can park at Co-Op, which is around 10-minute walk along King’s Road West.

Contact details

  • 📞 01929 427356
  • 📥 swanage@smiledentalcare.co.uk

Regency Dental Practice

Regency Dental is a private dental practice in Swanage, accepting both private payments per treatment and Denplan schemes.

Private dentist Regency Dental, Swanage
Regency Dental Practice

It has four accessible dental suites and waiting areas with coffee and water machines, as well as a garden area for warmer days.

Explore Regency Dental’s website for full information and its services, which include preventative dentistry, implants, orthodontic treatment and cosmetic dentistry: ℹ️www.regencydentalpractice.co.uk

Facial Aesthetic treatments are also available here.

You can book an appointment online or by phone.

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 7.45am – 5.30pm
  • Saturday – By arrangement

Location

📍71 Kings Road West, BH19 1HH

Regency Dental is located on the corner of Kings Road West and Court Road.

The nearest short-stay car park is at Co-Op, but you may find parking along King’s Road West itself or on nearby residential roads.

Contact details

You can fill out a booking form on Regency Dentals website or get in touch by phone or email:

  • 📞 01929 422515
  • 📥 contact@regencydentalpractice.co.uk

Dentist in the wider Purbeck area

Wareham Dental Surgery

My Dentist

MouthPeace Dental Practice

  • 📍 1 Chalk Pit Lane, Wool, BH20 6DW
  • 🕒 Open – 9.00am – 6pm (weekend appointments available)
  • 📞 01929 462269
  • ℹ️ www.mouthpeace.com

Emergency dental care

Information on urgent dental care via an NHS dentist in an emergency or out of hours can be found on the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/how-can-i-access-an-nhs-dentist-in-an-emergency-or-out-of-hours/

(picture credit: Stock Snap, via Pixabay)

They advise you to:

  • Call a dentist for a possible short-notice emergency appointment, or
  • If you do not have a dentist, find one using by contacting NHS 111

For serious circumstances, such as severe pain, heavy bleeding or injuries to the face, mouth or teeth, contact 111, go to A&E or find out whether you should contact 999 here: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-call-999/

Categories
Hairdressers Services

Hairdressers

Bridal hair by Innovation

Swanage has a range of hairdressers and barbershops for your regular trim, new style or special occasion up-do.

All conveniently located in town, Swanage’s hairdressers cater for ladies’, mens’ and children’s haircuts.

Whether you want to treat yourself to a wash, cut & blow-dry, have a restyle consultation for fresh, new look, or book in to retouch your roots, have a beauty treatment, or find a walk-in barbers, one of Swanage’s hairdressers have got you covered.

The Salon at 53

The team at The Salon at 53 cover all aspects of hairdressing – from basic trim-ups and haircuts, to restyling, colouring and clip-in hair extensions.

The Salon also offers bridal packages for your party’s wedding hair, which you can explore on their website: salonat53.co.uk

Salon at 53 hairdressers on Swanage high street
Salon at 53

Ladies’ prices start at £25, with colour from £38, and mens’ cuts are from £18.50.

Kids’ cuts are £7 for under age 2, or £9 for children under 12.

The Salon at 53 also has a stand-up sun booth, with loyalty programme.

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 8.30am – 5.30pm
  • Saturday – 8.30am – 1.30pm
  • Sunday – Closed

Contact details

    • 📍53 High Street, BH19 2LT
    • 📞 01929 423113

Innovation

Innovation offers ladies’, men’s and children’s hair cutting and colouring, as well as occasion and bridal services.

The salon also offers a range of beauty treatments, such as eyelash & eyebrow tinting, lash lifts and facial waxing.

Outside Innovation Hairdresser in Swanage
Innovation, Swanage

Innovation also offers ear, nose and helix piercing.

Prices start from £24 (ladies) or £14 (men) or (9.50 (children).

Visit Innovation’s website for full details on hair cutting, treatments and bridal packages: www.innovationswanage.com

(pictures credit: Innovation)

Opening hours

  • Monday – Thursday – 8.30am – 5.30pm
  • Friday – 5.30pm – 7pm
  • Saturday – 8am – 2pm
  • Sundays – Closed

Contact details

  • 📍63 Kings Road West, BH19 1HQ
  • 📞 01929 423294
  • 📥 nicky.innovation@btinternet.com

Fusion

You’ll find Fusion on High Street right opposite Swanage Methodist Church.

There’s on-street parking right outside – pop in or phone to make an appointment, or find out more on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/@Fusion-Hairdressing

Fusion Hairdressing

Opening hours

  • Tuesday & Wednesday – 9am – 6pm
  • Thursday – 9am – 8pm
  • Friday – 9am – 1pm
  • Saturday – Monday – Closed

Contact details

  • 📍86A High Street, BH19 2NY
  • 📞 01929 422700

Sandie’s Barbershop

Sandie’s is a friendly, traditional barbershop at the top end of Swanage High Street.

It offers walk-in appointments – check for the latest news and updates, including seasonal opening hours on Sandie’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SandiesBS

Sandie’s Barbershop

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 9am – 5pm
  • Saturday – 9am – 3pm
  • Sunday – Closed

Contact details

  • 📍191 High Street, BH19 2NE
  • 📞 Mobile – 07816 970374 & 07398 637117

Barber Shack

Pop into Barber Shack on High Street for gents’ hair cutting and beard trims, as well as kids’ and ladies’ trims.

Prices are £10 for a gent’s cut, and £13 for ladies, with discounts for single-grade clipper cuts and pensioners.

Kids’ cuts for children aged 5 – 15 are £9.

Opening hours

The Barber Shack is open every day as follows:

  • Monday, Wednesday & Thursday – 9am – 1pm
  • Tuesday & Friday – 9am – 5pm
  • Saturday 10am – 2pm
  • Sunday – 10am -1pm

Contact details

Mr H Traditional Barber

Mr H offers a walk-in service at its prominent location on Institute Road.

You’ll find this barbershop between The Cornish Bakery and Wimpy in the centre of town.

Mr H barbers in Swanage
Mr H Traditional Barber Shop

Opening hours

Mr H is open seven days a week as follows:

  • Monday to Saturday – 9am – 6pm
  • Sunday – 10am – 4pm

Contact

JC Barbering

JC Barbering is in the heart of Swanage in Tilly Mead, just opposite Java Independent Coffee House.

It offers walk-in men’s and ladies’ cuts – check out a gallery of haircuts on JC’s Instagram page: www.instagram.com/jcbarbering_swanage/

Outside JC Barbering in Tilly Whim arcade, Swanage
JC Barbering

Opening hours

  • Tuesday – Wednesday – 9 am–5 pm
  • Thursday – Friday – 10 am–6 pm
  • Saturday – 9 am–3 pm
  • Sunday & Monday – Closed

Contact

  • 📍 Unit 3, Tilly Mead, Commercial Rd, Swanage BH19 1DF
  • 📞 07957 326381

Mobile Hairdressers

Kellie Westoll

Have your hair done in the comfort of your own home by Swanage-based Kellie.

Kellie is experienced in hair-cutting and colouring and can also style your hair for your wedding day, prom or other occasion.

Visit Kellie’s Facebook page for more info and to see her work: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100030703372334

(pictures credit: Kellie’s Mobile Hairdresser Swanage)

Contact details

  • 📞 07980 738832
  • 📥 kelliewestoll@hotmail.com
Categories
Services

Swanage Information Centre

Front view outside the information centre in Swanage
Swanage Information Centre

Swanage Information Centre is a handy hub for locals and tourists alike, with information on town services and facilities, as well as what’s on and activities.

The friendly team is always on hand to assist with any enquiries and, if you’re here on holiday, can point you in the right direction of the best local attractions, walks and things to do in the area.

There’s a small shop inside the information centre where you can buy souvenirs, gifts and postcards as well as local-interest books and walking maps.

Make enquiries about booking out one of Swanage’s beach huts or find out about National Express bookings here for adventures further afield.

Located on Shore Road, right opposite the beach, Swanage Information Centre also has a borrow-a-bucket-&-spade system for visitors to enjoy building sandcastles on the bay’s beautiful sandy beach, so you don’t need to pack or buy your own.

Opening Hours

  • Monday – Friday – 10am – 4.30pm
  • Saturday – 9am – 4.30pm
  • Sunday 9am – 4pm (may close for lunch between 1pm & 2pm)

Location

📍 The White House, Shore Road, BH19 1LB

You’ll find Swanage Information Centre between K’s Funworld amusement centre and the main public toilet facilities block on Shore Road.

There’s seasonal parking on Shore Road itself (partially pedestrianised during the summer) and a short-stay car park on the hill above at Mermond Place car park.

The nearest long-stay car park is Main Beach Car Park on Victoria Avenue.

Swanage Information Centre location on Shore Road (credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

Explore a wealth of information about Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck on the on the information centre’s website, along with online visitor guides and accessibility information: www.swanage.gov.uk/Swanage_Information.aspx

Alternatively, get in touch by phone, email or social media:

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants Takeaways

Pizza

(credit: Igor Ovsyannykov, via pixabay)

Dine-in & takeaway

Find your new favourite pizza place in Swanage – from sit-down authentic Italian cuisine to indulgent Friday-night takeaway.

These pizza restaurants and takeaways in town offer a delicious taste of Italy by the English seaside.

La Trattoria

This family-run restaurant in the heart of Swanage also offers pizza and pasta takeaway.

Italian restaurant la Trattoria on Swanage's High Street
La Trattoria

La Trattoria’s 11-inch pizzas are made to a family recipe, with a handmade Italian tomato and fresh herb base sauce.

Customise a traditional margherita pizza or choose from popular toppings such as fungi, piccante, rucola and la reine.

The dine-in menu also has a range of pasta and pasta al forno dishes, along with various sides, breads, olives and desserts.

🐾 Sorry, no dogs (except outside where there may be a couple of street-side tables available)

  • ℹ️ View the menu on La Trattoria’s website: www.latrattoria.co.uk
  • 📞 Pop in or phone to make a table booking or arrange a pizza collection: 01929 423784
  • 📍 12 High Street, postcode: BH19 2NT

Gee Whites

For a simple, tasty pizza with fantastic bay views, visit Gee Whites on Swanage’s stone quay.

Pizza & fish & chips at Gee Whites

Choose from a half-size pizza (6 inch) or whole (12in) and enjoy al fresco dining at this busy spot.

There’s a broad range of menu options here, including seafood and fish & chips, making it a great option for families with different tastes.

Pizza options include traditional margherita, vegetarian and pepperoni, and specialties such as ‘hot carnivore’ and ‘mighty meaty’, and are served on wooden board with various side options as extra.

Tables are offered on a first come, first served basis.

Gee Whites is popular with visitors arriving by boat – you can get a water taxi from your mooring to right outside Gee Whites. (Water taxi number: 07802 480139)

🐾 Well-behaved dogs welcome

  • 📍1 High St, Swanage BH19 2LN
  • ℹ️ Find out more and check out the menu: geewhites.co.uk
  • 📞 01929 425720

Takeaway only

Grab a pizza take-out for a picnic in the park, beach-side bite or to bring back to your home, holiday let or campsite.

A popular place to sit and enjoy a pizza or fish & chips takeaway in Swanage is on the sloping lawn of Prince Albert Gardens and amphitheatre at the southern end of town. It’s close to many of Swanage’s restaurants and bars and has great views over Swanage Bay.

Coastal Crust Pizza

Coastal Crust Pizza offers weekly takeaway nights around Purbeck, as well as event catering, with more frequent pizza nights in spring and summer.

Their Neapolitan style wood-fired pizzas are made with locally-sourced ingredients and handmade dough & sauces from their Swanage-based mobile catering trailer, which is open seasonally at the following times and locations:

  • Thursdays – At The Globe Inn pub’s car park on Bell Street, (postcode BH19 2RY) between 5pm – 8pm
  • Fridays – Pizza takeaway from the Coastal Crust Swanage HQ between 5pm – 8pm (call or message to pre-order for collection)

Regulars on the menu include classics like margherita, marinara and pepperoni pizza, alongside more intricate flavours such as the ‘nduja honey hot one’ and a BBQ chorizo pizza.

The mobile pizza van also runs various pop-up dates throughout the year – check the latest menus and find out more about catering for your wedding, private party or corporate event on Coastal Crust’s website: www.coastalcrustpizza.co.uk/

Pick up a loyalty card to start earning points towards free dips, garlic bread, pizzas and desserts.

The best way to see where Coastal Crust Pizza will be next is to follow them on social media:

Old Brick

The Old Brick opens seasonally for takeaway-only.

Pizzeria The Old Brick on Swanage High Street
The Old Brick

It offers pizzas and sides in conjunction with The Ship Inn, next door.

Keep an eye on updates on its Facebook page: www.facebook.com/OldBrickPizzaCompany

Dino’s

Dino’s fast food restaurant is set in the centre of Swanage, close to the beach, arcades, main pubs and shops and right next door to Swanage Museum.

Takeaway fast food Dino's in Swanage
Dino’s Takeaway

In addition to pizza, Dino’s sells a range of other fast food items for takeaway including hot dogs, burgers, doughnuts and churros.

There’s a small amount of bench seating in the square outside Dino’s and the adjacent fish & chip shops.

Rainbow Kebab

Swanage’s only kebab shop also sells pizza for that late-night nourishment.

Outside the Swanage kebab shop, Rainbows on High Street
Rainbow Kebab

Toppings include vegetable, seafood, Hawaiian, meat feast and BBQ flavours, with sides including garlic bread and cheesy chips.

Order in the shop, on the phone or online for collection or local delivery.

Find Rainbow Kebab on High Street next to Masala Indian restaurant.

Pizza outlets in Purbeck

If you’re visiting a nearby area of Purbeck try these pubs, restaurants and social clubs that serve either eat-in or takeaway pizza:

Old Harry bar pizza menu (picture credit: Old Harry Bar Instagram)

Old Harry Bar, Studland

This volunteer-run social club in Studland serves stone-baked pizzas and drinks, and holds regular, popular events.

Located opposite Studland Stores, it’s open every day during summer between 5pm – 11.30pm (closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays in winter).

There’s a pool table and darts board here, and it’s a short walk to Middle Beach and South Beach.

ℹ️ oldharrybar.co.uk

Seasonal flatbread (picture credit: The Pig Hotels Instagram)

The Pig – On the Beach, Studland

Enjoy The Pig’s drop-in ‘outdoor eats’ with their wood oven flatbreads and sourdough pizzas.

Flatbreads are topped with seasonal ingredients sourced locally and from their own kitchen garden, with extra nibbles, sides, sweet treats and drinks available.

View The Pig’s Wood Oven menu here: www.thepighotel.com/media/56536/wood-oven-2905221.pdf

Stone-baked pizza (picture credit: The Greyhound Inn, via Instagram)

The Greyhound Inn, Corfe Castle

The Greyhound pub in Corfe offers a seasonal takeaway menu, which starts around Easter time throughout summer.

Stone-baked pizzas can be customised to your taste and include Italian classics alongside unique flavour combinations such as shredded BBQ brisket, red onion & jalapeño and mozzarella BBQ pulled pork & shredded rotisserie chicken.

Order takeaway pizza and other items from the menu, which you’ll find on the pub’s website: greyhoundcorfe.co.uk

The Italian Kitchen & Street Pizza

Street Pizza (picture credit: Italian Kitchen Instagram)

Dine-in at The Italian Kitchen on Wareham Quay or order to pick up a takeaway from The Italian Bakery on North Street.

Pizza can also be delivered within a three-mile radius.

Check out the takeaway menu, which includes street burgers & fries and various weekday deals at  www.theitaliankitchendorset.com/street-pizza

Find out more about the restaurant at www.theitaliankitchendorset.com or call 01929 550066.

 

Wareham Pizza and Kebab

Wareham Pizza and Kebab serves a range of pizza, garlic bread, burgers and doner kebab & wraps.

You can now order online for collection from the takeaway located on South Street, across the road from The Horse & Groom pub: warehampizzaandkebab.com

Categories
Home & Hardware Shopping Shops

Nixons

People looking in the window and items for sale outside Nixons Home Hardware shop, Swanage
Nixons Home Hardware

This friendly, family-run hardware store in Swanage town centre caters for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

Whether you’re looking for a few screws or a hand tool to finish a job, need to pick up a new lightbulb, small appliance, or fancy some new cookware, Nixons should have everything you need.

Nixons sells a wide range of goods from decorating, electrical & plumbing supplies to gardening tools, kitchenware, general ironmongery and other house essentials such as pest control.

You’ll also find a selection of giftware and seasonal items, such as Christmas lights and decorations in winter, and beach chairs, windbreaks, beach toys, & buckets & spades in spring and summer.

If you’re staying in one of the local campsites you’ll also find a useful range of camping gear in store.

The cheerful staff here are always happy to help you find what you’re looking for or offer advice. They can also mix that perfect paint colour for you or cut a key while you wait.

Opening hours

  • Monday – Saturday – 9am – 5pm
  • Sundays – closed

Location

Customers going into the hardware shop, Nixons, in Swanage
Nixons sells beach & camping gear as well as household, garden & DIY supplies

Situated about half way down Station Road, you’ll find Nixon’s in between Budgens supermarket and Albury & Hall estate agent.

There’s some parking spaces immediately opposite where you can park for a short time, which is handy if you’re popping in to pick something up, or nearby Mermond Place and Co-Op car parks are under a five-minute walk away.

Swanage’s bus terminus is also a short walk away, along with a taxi rank.

Contact details

Categories
Gifts & Homeware Shopping Shops

Candleworld

Candles, gifts & light shop Candleworld in Swanage
Candleworld gift shop

Candleworld is a charming, contemporary gift and accessories shop in the heart of Swanage, which stocks both local and designer items for the home.

What’s in store changes through the seasons, so you can find something new to refresh your living space or that elusive unusual gift, throughout the year.

Candleworld has a range of accessories including jewellery and scarfs as well as decorative ornaments from well known brands such as Gisella Graham.

Naturally, Candleworld sells an extensive range of decorative and scented candles, including locally-made Purbeck Candles, as well as beautifully-scented reed diffusers and handmade wax melts.

There’s also a good range of indoor string lighting, perfect for bringing a burst of colour to a child’s bedroom or adding a cosy glow to your home.

If you’re looking for that elusive not-on-the-high-street, artisan gift, this beautifully-styled shop is sure to have something unique. Its stunning window displays showcase the latest in-store items, whether that’s cute Easter bunnies and decorative spring birds, cosy autumn-themed displays, or all decked out for the festive season in the run-up to Christmas.

At the rear of the shop there’s a year-round Christmas section with an eclectic mix of traditional and novelty Christmas baubles, lights and tree decorations.

Location in town

📍14 High Street, BH19 2NT

Find Candleworld on High Street in the heart of Swanage town.

It’s right next door to Italian restaurant La Trattoria and close to both Swanage Beach and various other gift shops, pubs and eateries.

Park at any of the town’s main car parks to visit Candleworld – Broad Road is the closest long-stay car park, and Mermond Place is the nearest short-stay. You can park on High Street itself for free for up to an hour.

Candleworld location on High Street (credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

Categories
Uncategorised

Middle Beach

Couple walking along Middle Beach in Studland
Middle Beach

Middle Beach is one of the sandy beaches of Studland Bay, situated between Knoll Beach and South Beach.

Whether you want to go for a gentle stroll or get out and active on the water with some watersports, Middle Beach is a great spot to wile away a few hours.

Continue reading “Middle Beach”
Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants Takeaways

Indian Restaurants

Butter chicken curry (picture credit: Golden Bengal)

Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine from three different Indian restaurants in Swanage.

All offer takeaway and delivery within a certain radius and are conveniently located in town close to shops, bars and other amenities.

Masala

Restaurant & takeaway in Swanage town centre with rich Indian/Bangladeshi flavours

Outside Swanage's Indian restaurant Masala
Masala

Masala is the most central of Swanage’s Indian restaurants, located on High Street next to the White Horse pub.

It’s also just a short stroll from the beach if you want to combine your meal with an evening stroll, and close to several of the town’s other bars and restaurants.

Masala offers a 10% discount if you collect, or free home delivery over £15 to Swanage & Langton. For deliveries further afield, call to discuss.

Menu

Pick up a takeaway menu from inside the restaurant, or from the menu holder on the wall outside if it’s closed.

Opening hours

  • Sunday – Thursday – 5pm – 10pm
  • Fridays & Saturdays – 5pm – 11pm

Contact details

Golden Bengal

Indian restaurant on the edge of town

Offering dine-in, takeaway and delivery, the Golden Bengal is situated on the edge of Swanage – you’ll spot it as you drive in to town. It’s on the right just past Harlees fish & chip shop.

The Golden Bengal is also right opposite the Globe Inn, so you can stop for a drink while you wait for your takeaway to be ready.

Outside Swanage's Golden Bengal Indian Restaurant
Golden Bengal

Menu

The menu in the window showcases the range of Indian cuisine on offer at the Golden Bengal.

Alongside a selection of chicken, meat and prawn curry dishes there are vegetarian options, a selection of starters & sides, and smaller portions of both Indian and English dishes on its children’s menu.

The Golden Bengal also offers a set menu of a choice of starter, main and sides for either two or four people.

Indian Restaurant menu in window of Swanage's Golden Bengal
Golden Bengal menu

Opening hours

  • Daily – 5.30 pm 1- 11.30pm

Contact details

  • 📍 343 High Street, BH19 2NW
  • 📞 01929 427012

Nihal Spice

Takeaway & restaurant on High Street

Nihal Spice Indian takeaway on Swanage's High Street
Nihal Spice

Alongside familiar favourites including biriyani, balti and karai dishes, Nihal Spice offers chef’s specials, all ranging from mild, medium to hot in flavour.

There’s also various English dishes such as chicken & chips and omelette.

Nihal Spice is located next door to restaurant Castaways, opposite restaurant & wine bar Tawny’s, and just up the road from the Red Lion pub.

(credit: Nihal Spice)

Opening hours

  • Daily – 5.30 pm 1- 11.30pm

Contact details

  • 📍69 High St, Swanage BH19 2LY
  • 📞 01929 422229 / 01929 423388

More Indian restaurants & takeaways in Purbeck

Slightly further afield in Wareham you’ll also find the following restaurants at which to sample some Indian cuisine:

(picture credit: The 29029)

29029

Nepalese & Indian restaurant & takeaway in Sandford

DaruChini

Dine-in & takeaway in Wareham town centre

Monsoon

Restaurant & takeaway next to Wareham Station

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants Takeaways

Chinese Restaurants

Swanage Chinese restaurant and takeaway the Dragon Inn
The Dragon Inn

There are two Chinese restaurants in Swanage, both situated on High Street.

The Dragon Inn offers both takeaway and dine-in service and is located in the centre of town, close to many of Swanage’s other restaurants and bars, and is a short stroll to the hills and the beach.

Wok Chef is a takeaway-only service situated slightly further up High Street, close to The Black Swan pub.

Find out more about Swanage’s Chinese restaurants on their respective pages:

  • The Dragon Inn – Dine-in or take away from The Dragon Inn
  • Wok Chef – Takeaway Cantonese & Malaysian food

More Chinese restaurants & takeaways in Purbeck

You’ll find further Chinese food options nearby in Wareham:

  • Pandada – 📍33 North Street, BH20 4AD 📞 01929 550214
  • Lotus – 📍19 East Street BH20 4NN 📞 01929 556469
  • KW – 📍16B South Sreet, BH20 4LT 📞01929 556396
Categories
Builders' merchants Shopping Shops

Travis Perkins

Yard of Travis Perkins in Swanage
Travis Perkins Swanage

The Swanage branch of national builders’ merchant Travis Perkins is based on the Victoria Avenue Industrial Estate.

The centre stocks a range of trade supplies and products including timber, doors & joinery, drainage, ceilings & partitions and insulation.

Yard of Travis Perkins in Swanage
Travis Perkins Swanage

You’ll find everything you need for either a one-off job or a larger build project either on-site or on the Travis Perkins website, with delivery options available.

There are also various services on offer here, including a paint-mixing service in the decorating centre, along with Velux fitting and an ironmongery specialist.

Travis Perkins Swanage also offers an estimating service for extensions and new builds (excluding timber frame).

Opening times

  • Monday – Friday – 7.30am – 5pm
  • Saturday 8am – 12pm
  • (Closed Sundays)

Location in town

📍 3 Victoria Avenue (Industrial Estate), postcode: BH19 1BJ

Travis Perkins is just off Victoria Avenue on the edge of Swanage town.

If you’re coming into town from the A351 take the first turning on your left just after the bridge once you pass Moonfleet Cars and you’ll find the yard on your left, with parking available on-site.

Travis Perkins’ location on Victoria Avenue Industrial Estate (image credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

Speak to the team in-store or by phone or email for general enquiries, including delivery service:

  • 📞 01929 425411
  • 📥 swanage@travisperkins.co.uk

Explore Travis Perkins’ full tools and materials inventory on its main website:

Categories
Gifts & Homeware Shopping Shops

Curiosity

Dorset pirate teddy, Swanage Curiosity
Souvenirs & homeware

Curiosity is an Aladdin’s cave of gifts, homewares and accessories in the heart of Swanage town.

With over 10,000 items in store you’re sure to find that perfect gift or a treasure for yourself that you didn’t know you needed.

The family-run shop is a popular place for children to spend their pocket money, with its range of novelty items, small toys and trinkets, and there’s a surprising wealth of home décor items, such as vases, candles and bathroom & kitchen furnishings, including light pulls, hooks, coasters, bottle-openers and crockery.

Curiosity also stocks a range of seasonal items, including Christmas decorations, as well as gift wrapping, so you can buy everything you need in here for a last-minute present.

If you’re in Swanage on holiday Curiosity is a great treasure trove of affordable souvenirs and mementos of your stay. You’ll find seaside-themed novelty items and Swanage & Dorset-specific soft toys and knickknacks.

Find out more or buy online: www.curiosityswanage.com

Location in town

📍 35 High Street, BH19 2LT

You’ll find Curiosity in the centre of town next to The White Swan pub, opposite the RNLI shop and just a short stroll from the beach.

It’s close to several other gift shops in town, including Raspberry Rose, Candleworld and Corfe Bears, as well as many of the main cafés, restaurants and pubs making it a great little spot to explore and make an afternoon of it.

There may be some parking nearby on High Street, limited to an hour, but there are both long and short stay car parks a short walk away.

Curiosity’s location in town (credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

Get in touch with Curiosity by phone or email or visit their online store:

  • 📞 01929 422356 (shop)
  • 📞 01929 425013 (office)
  • 📥 mail@curiosityenterprises.co.uk
  • ℹ️ www.curiosityswanage.com
Categories
Builders' merchants Shopping Shops

Jewson

Outside Jewson's Swanage
Jewson Swanage

Jewson in Swanage provides a full building supplies inventory at its warehouse and yard on High Street.

Consult the in-store brick and timber specialists for the best materials for your project or get your paint perfectly mixed and colour-matched.

Parking area out the front of Swanage's Jewson
Jewson Swanage, just of High Street

Ask the in-branch team for general advice or to discuss trade or self-build accounts.

Swanage Jewson offers in-store shopping as well as pick-up and delivery services.

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 7.30 am –5 pm
  • Saturday  -8 am –12 pm
  • Sunday – Closed

Location

📍 164 High St, Swanage BH19 2PD

You’ll find Jewson on the way into town on High Street.

Branch right onto High Street at the ‘Welcome to Swanage’ sign on KML Accountants’ building and follow the road till you reach Jewson.

Location of Swanage’s Jewson bar (credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

  • 📞 01929 424951
  • 📥 branch0438@jewson.co.uk
Categories
Libraries Services

Swanage Library

Dorset Council signage for Swanage Library
Swanage Library

Swanage Library is set in the heart of town and is open four days a week, and holds regular weekly, monthly and one-off special events.

First opened in 1965, Swanage Library continues to be an important social and community hub for the town.

The quirky, dodecahedron-shaped building has a great selection of the latest fiction and non-fiction, along with a range of audiobooks, and lots of other items to borrow such as DVDs, CDs and maps. And if there’s a book you’re keen to read that isn’t available, you can easily reserve or order a copy.

The friendly staff at Swanage Library are always on-hand to offer advice and support, and run a programme of events for all ages – from Rhyme Time for preschoolers to regular coffee mornings and craft activities. The team also run seasonal events, such as at Christmastime and during school holidays, as well as author talks and presentations.

Reserve, borrow and return books at the library and check the noticeboard on your way in for the latest community news for something to get involved in.

The Swanage Library building itself is a bright and welcoming space, with the upstairs being flooded with light through its 360° windows, making it a pleasant place to browse the library’s books or spend time with like-minded people at its drop-in ‘cuppa & company’ sessions.

Weekly events

There are regular events at the library throughout the year, providing a fantastic source of information, new skills and social interaction for young and old alike:

Mondays

Cuppa & Chat and Ctizens Advice drop-ins at Swanage Library
Community drop-in events at the library

  • Cuppa & Company – Enjoy a free hot drink and biscuits, and enjoy the library’s warm and welcoming space, 10.30am – 12.30pm
  • Digital Campion – Online advice session, 2.30pm – 4.30pm (please book in advance)
  • Colour Me Happy – Adult colouring session, 4 – 6pm

Wednesdays

  • Citizens Advice Bureau – Drop-in sessions every Wednesday, except the first Wednesday of the month, 10am – 12pm
  • Books & More – Adult’s book group & discussion. Third Wednesday of the month, 10.30 – 11.30 am (book in advance)

Fridays

Children's area of Swanage Library
Children’s toys and books

  • Volunteer bureau – 10.30am – 12.30pm
  • Rhyme Time – Songs & stories for under 5s, 11am – 11.30am

Saturdays

  • Lego Club – Fun Lego drop-in session from 10am – 12pm
  • Crochet Creations – Learn a new craft or improve your crochet skills. Suitable for all abilities. First Saturday of the month, 2 – 3.30pm (booking essential)

Opening times

  • Monday – 10am – 6.30pm
  • Tuesday – Closed
  • Wednesday – 9.30am – 5pm
  • Thursday – Closed
  • Friday – 9.30am to 5pm
  • Saturday – 9.30 – 4pm
  • Sunday – Closed

Outside Swanage Library
Swanage Library

Library membership & how to join

It’s easy to join Swanage Library – simply pop in during opening hours with your proof of address.

Membership

Membership allows you to borrow books, audio books and DVDs, as well as giving you access to various online resources such as e-readers and digital magazines, comics and reference.

Archway through to Swanage Library and The Anchor Inn
Swanage Library on High Street

You can also easily sign up for digital membership online at home, but you’ll need to have full membership to borrow physical items from the library.

Your library card is valid in all 31 Dorset libraries as well as any LibrariesWest library, which includes Poole, Bath & Somerset and Bristol & South Gloucestershire. Your resources can be reserved, borrowed and returned from any of these libraries and you are free to use all library computers.

For a list of Dorset libraries visit: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/find-your-local-library/dorset-libraries

Libraries West services can be found here: https://www.librarieswest.org.uk/client/en_GB/default

Joining

Bring your proof of address to the library to join. Accepted documents include your driving licence, a utility bill (dated within the last three months), a bank statement or wage slip.

For a full list of proof-of-address documents accepted, and for visitor information, visit the library website.

Swanage Library books
Bookshelves on the upper floor

Accessibility

Swanage Library has a wheelchair and buggy-accessible entrance and internal access. There’s also an accessible lift to the first floor.

The library also has a disabled toilet and baby-changing facilities.

Swanage Library offers services for visually-impaired customers, as well as a home-library service for the housebound, people living in residential or nursing homes or sheltered housing (see below).

If you or a family member is on the autistic spectrum you’ll find various resources such as a picture journey or visual tour of Swanage Library, as well as a good variety of books, chosen and recommended by professionals, that may offer support – these include topic such as child, teen, women and adult support, as well as diet, sensory aspects and informative autistic spectrum guides. Ask at the library or explore titles here: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/find-your-local-library/how-libraries-support-people-with-autism

Home library service

Your local library to your doorstep (image credit Royal Voluntary Service/Dorset Council)

If you’re unable to visit the library due to health or mobility issues or caring responsibilities, Dorset Council’s Home Library Service can help.

This free service can be a lifeline to keep you reading books or enjoying talking books.

You can get in touch with the service by calling 01305 236666 or emailing dorsethomelibraryservice@royalvoluntaryservice.co.uk.

Alternatively, contact Dorset Library Service: 01305 225000 or email dorsetlibraries@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

Location in town

📍 30-32 High Street BH19 2NU

Find Swanage Library on High Street in the centre of town and just a short stroll from the beach.

It’s adjacent to The Anchor Inn pub, opposite Purbeck New Wave Gallery and close by to various eateries such as Love Cake, Java Coffee House and Chococo, so you can combine your trip to the library with a treat!

There’s some short-stay on-street parking further along High Street. Alternatively Co-Op’s car park and Mermond Place are both just a five-minute walk away.

Swanage Library location in town (credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

For full information on Swanage Library and to keep up-to-date with library talks and events visit the library website or follow the Friends of Swanage Library on Facebook

ℹ️ Library website: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/find-your-local-library/dorset-libraries

  • 📞 Telephone number: 01929 423485
  • 📥 Email address: swanagelibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Friends of Swanage Library

The Friends of Swanage Library is a group of local people who support the library, in partnership with the Purbeck Development Trust.

The library is always keen to welcome new Friends, and volunteers are actively encouraged to come along and get involved.

ℹ️ Find out more on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SwanageLibrary/ or email: friendsofswanagelibrary@gmail.com.

More libraries in Purbeck

There’s another council-run library in Wareham and a smaller, community-run library in Corfe Castle.

Signage and hanging basket outside Wareham library
Wareham Library & Information Centre

Wareham Library is located on South Street and is open every day except Wednesday and Sunday as follows:

  • Monday – 10am – 5pm
  • Tuesday – 2pm – 6.30pm
  • Thursday & Friday – 9.30am – 5pm
  • Saturday – 9am – 12.30pm

 

Flowers, bench and defibrilator outside Corfe Castle library
Corfe Castle Library

Corfe Castle Community Library is right next to the village hall and is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the following times:

  • Monday – 3pm – 5pm
  • Wednesday – 10am – 12pm & 3pm – 5pm
  • Saturday – 10am – 12pm
Categories
Services Shopping Shops

Swanage Post Office

Outside the post office in Swanage
Swanage Post Office is on Institute Road

Swanage Post Office is centrally located on Institute Road in the town centre.

In addition to the usual post office services and products, Swanage Post Office also has a small gift and stationery shop inside.

Outside the post office in Swanage
Swanage Post Office is on Institute Road

You can both withdraw and deposit cash here, and the post office can undertake personal and business banking on behalf of high street banks.

The post office is right by all of Swanage’s key shops and café’s, and just a couple of minutes’ walk to the beach, so you can combine running your errands with a beach stroll or meeting friends for a coffee.

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm
  • Saturday 9am – 1pm
  • (Closed on Sundays)

Location in town

📍25 Institute Road, BH19 1BT

You’ll find Swanage Post Office in the heart of town, just opposite Rainbow’s End and Raspberry Rose shops.

There is some on-street parking nearby on Station Road and High Street, but not directly outside. However, due to the post office’s central location, most of Swanage’s car parks are a short walk away (Broad Road long-stay parking and Co-Op or Mermond Place for short-stay are the closest).

Note that both Station Road and Institute Road are on a one-way system.

It’s also just a five-minute walk from Swanage’s bus station and railway station – simply walk down Station Road, which then becomes Institute Road, and the post office will be on your left, just past Baboo Gelato and Amber Bay.

Swanage Post Office location in town (credit: Google Maps)

More nearby post offices

There is a further main post office on North Street in Wareham (open 9am – 5.30pm Monday – Saturday, closing early on a Saturday at 1pm) as well as smaller, sub-post office facilities in the following locations in Purbeck:

Exterior of Corfe Castle village store with church behind
Corfe Castle Village Stores

  • Corfe Castle – At the village shop. Open every day (Mon – Fri 8am – 6pm and Sunday 9am – 6pm)
  • Valley Road – Counter service in St Michael’s petrol station forecourt shop. Open every day, Mon – Fri 7am – 8pm and weekend days 8am – 8.45pm
  • Harman’s Cross – At the village hall. Thursdays between 9.30 – 11.30am
  • Langton Matravers – At Putlake Adventure Farm Tuesdays between 9am – 12pm
  • Stoborough – At the village hall, between 12pm and 2pm

Note that sub-post offices may not always provide all the services that a main post office does, and some services may not operate outside of normal post office hours.

Categories
Cafés Food & Drink

The Cabin

Sign for beach café and bar The Cabin in Swanage
The Cabin café on the beach

The Cabin is a friendly, family-run beach café & bar situated on Swanage Beach, popular with holidaymakers and locals alike.

With views across the bay’s water and golden sands, it’s the perfect spot to have a hearty breakfast, light lunch or just wile away some time with a drink in your hand.

There’s seating on the prom, right by the strand, as well as tables set slightly further back in The Cabin’s tiered seating area, giving panoramic bay views. Sit out and enjoy the sun or take a break in the shade in The Cabin’s booth seating or under a sun umbrella.

Some of The Cabin’s most popular items on the menu include their seafood basket and fresh crab salad.

This busy little café is also fully licensed and stocks a range of wine, gin, beers and ciders. You can also order a refreshing jug of Pimms to share with friends on a warm day.

Note that due to its location The Cabin’s card machine can have a patchy connection, so take some cash just in case.

The Cabin has a hand-sanitising station, so you can wash-up before eating after exploring the beach.

Menus

The Cabin opens at 9am for breakfast each day, where you can choose to go for a Full English or simple egg or bacon bap, or fuel your onward beach walk with a cup of coffee and slice of Dorset apple cake.

Breakfast finishes at 11am, with the main menu starting at 11.30am, which offers a range of options including toasted sandwiches, burgers, seafood and salads.

Sun-beds, beach chairs, windbreaks & parasols for hire from The Cabin
Hire beach seating & parasols from The Cabin

Sun lounger hire

Extend your visit to The Cabin by hiring a sun-bed or beach chair from the café to enjoy on its very own stretch of beach.

Relax to the sound of the waves knowing that delicious food and a refreshing drink is on hand.

You can also hire windbreaks and parasols to provide shade – just ask one of the team at The Cabin.

 

Opening times

The Cabin is open seasonally from 1 April – 30 September.

Breakfast is served daily between 9am – 11am, when the menu changes to its main lunch menu from 11.30am.

British flags flying on Swanage beach outside The Cabin café
The Cabin’s flags mean they’re open

Tables are non-reservable and in peak holiday season there may be a short wait to be seated as it’s a popular place for both locals and visitors.

Naturally, due to the nature of The Cabin’s outdoor location, opening times can be weather-dependent. In the case of heavy rain for example it may be closed.

Closing times may vary according to the weather, but you’ll be able to see at a glance from along the beach whether The Cabin is open as it will have its Union Jack flags flying.

Location & parking

📍 Burlington Rd, Swanage BH19 1LW 

How to find The Cabin

The Cabin is set just below The Grand Hotel and close by to The Pines Hotel, about half way along Swanage Beach.

The Cabin café below the Grand Hotel in Swanage
The Cabin

If you’re spending the day at the seaside, or visiting town for the day or on holiday, you simply need to walk along the beach or promenade from the town centre till you reach The Cabin. It’s easy to spot, situated just past the stretch of colourful beach huts beyond Ocean Bay Watersports.

Parking

Parking on the nearby residential roads may be tricky as these are used by locals and residents of The Grand Hotel, but you can park in town and walk up the beach or via the roads – there are two pathways down to the beach from Burlington Road (both with steps).

Step-free access is via the promenade.

North Beach Car Park is the closest long-stay car park to The Cabin.

Contact details

Keep up-to-date with The Cabin by following them on Facebook, or call for any enquiries:

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants

Castaways

Café & restaurant Castaways on Swanage's high street
Castaways

This family-owned restaurant on Swanage High Street is a friendly, welcoming space serving a range of plates from traditional fare to the more unusual.

With a convivial atmosphere, the staff are attentive and the menu changes with the seasons.

We don’t do fast food, we do good food as fast as we can!

Expect starters such as prawn cocktail, homemade paté and deep-fried brie with red onion chutney, and hearty mains such as Hunters’ Chicken wrapped in pancetta, beef lasagne or steak & chips, alongside lighter options like the asparagus & spinach quiche or poached fillet of salmon with parsley sauce.

Beef chateaubriand to share (credit: Castaways)

If you want to share, Castaways’ decadent fillet of beef chateaubriand for two is a must-try. It’s served with a béarnaise sauce, sautéed potatoes and vegetable medley.

For afters, keep it savoury with a cheeseboard or choose from a selection of desserts from the sweets board.

Castaways is a popular spot for diners, especially during peak summer and for pre-show meals at The Mowlem, so booking in advance is recommended. It’s also a great choice for your evening meal if you’re staying at the Purbeck House Hotel, which is a short stroll along High Street.

Outside of the busy summer season, Castaways offers various seasonal special menus, such as their Winter Special three-course menu, which includes a glass of house wine or soft drink, for £22.95, and their indulgent Christmas dinner menu with all the festive trimmings.

Castaways also has a children’s menu with something to suit every young person’s taste. There’s the familiar favourites such as macaroni cheese, scampi or cod & chips and chicken breast nuggets, or if your small person fancies something from the main menu, you can request a half portion for 50% of the menu price.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available at Castaways.

Fresh mussels sign on Swanage High Street
Fresh mussels at Castaways

Opening hours

Castaways is open throughout the year as follows:

  • Tuesday – Saturday – From 5pm
  • (Closed Sundays & Mondays)

Contact details

Call to book a table at Castaways:

  • 01929 288338
  • 07879 707179 (Out Of Hours)

Follow Castaways’ latest updates and check out their most current seasonal menu on social media:

Location in town & parking

📍 67 High Street, BH19 2LY

Find Castaways along High Street, close to The Red Lion pub, Smith’s Antiques and opposite Tawny’s wine bar.

There’s some on-street parking available immediately outside Castaways, as well as a little further up High Street toward the Methodist church, however most Swanage car parks are just a short walk away.

The closest short-stay car park is at Co-Op, which is free after 7pm. Long-stay car parks nearby include Broad Road and Main Beach (Victoria Avenue) car park.

Castaways location on High Street (credit: Google Maps)

Categories
Florists Shopping

Florists

Buds of Mave

Whether you’re looking for a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers to send to a loved one, a dried wreath for your seasonal home décor, or want the perfect floral arrangement for an event or special occasion, these Swanage-based florists can create just what you need.

Dress your wedding table with the perfect bespoke centrepiece and have complementary colour schemes throughout your bridal bouquet and buttonholes.

Choose from luxury floral designs to simple & rustic, country-inspired themes for any occasion, including christenings & baby showers, dinner or work parties, and sympathy & funeral flower arrangements.

Or simply treat yourself to a one-off or regular seasonal subscription to brighten up your home.

Swanage Florist

This independent florist based in Swanage offers same-day delivery with floral arrangements in a natural and relaxed country style with flowers that are largely home-grown.

(images credit: Swanage Florist) 

Bouquets start from £20, with wreaths for special occasions such as weddings and funerals at £40.

Your flowers from Swanage Florist can be delivered within 10 miles of town.

Visit Swanage Florist’s website for a gallery of photos and full price list.

Contact details & ordering

Get in touch to discuss your requirements including your preferred foliage and colour of blooms.

Buds of Mave

Swanage-based Buds of Mave offers a friendly and personal service to clients who tend to find owner Caroline through word of mouth.

(pictures credit: Buds of Mave)

Caroline creates beautiful seasonal arrangements, bouquets and funeral tributes, with a commitment to using top quality fresh flowers to keep blooms in their best condition.

Buds of Mave also occasionally runs flower-arranging workshops and demonstrations in the area.

Contact details & information

Find out more and explore Buds of Mave’s stunning event floristry on its Facebook page or call to place an order:

Selina Kerley

Selina Kerley is a freelance florist based in Swanage and specialises in wedding & events floristry both in Dorset and across the UK.

(pictures courtesy of Selina Kerley)

Selina trained and worked at a luxury florist in London for six years before returning to Dorset, where she offers floral support to weddings and events companies.

Selina also takes on a number of personal clients throughout the year too.

You can view some of Selina’s exquisite floristry skills on her Instagram page: www.instagram.com/selinaleakerley_flowers/

Contact details

Call or email to get in touch:

  • 📞 07850 492000
  • 📥 selinakerley@gmail.com

Purbeck-based florists

Christmas wreaths for sale at Swanage Christmas Market
Locally-made wreaths from My Scented Home at Swanage Christmas Market

There are various further options for bespoke floristry services just outside Swanage, too.

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants Takeaways

La Trattoria

Signage for The Tratt and Candleworld in Swanage
la Trattoria

La Trattoria in Swanage has been a firm favourite in town since it first opened its doors in 1970.

This popular Italian restaurant on High Street serves authentic Italian food in its two distinct dining rooms – the cosy, romantic restaurant side and the light, bright bistro side with its doors that open out onto the street in the summer months, meaning you can have a different experience each time you visit.

Italian restaurant la Trattoria on Swanage's High Street
La Trattoria

La Trattoria – or ‘The Tratt’, as it’s known by locals – sources ingredients locally where possible and its menu caters for everyone from kids to vegetarian and those wanting to sample some seasonal fish or seafood.

The friendly and welcoming family-run establishment specialises in simple yet delicious Italian cuisine such as a simple fungi or piccante pizza, and traditional cannelloni, pasta ragu and lasagne.

For a three-course meal there are plenty of starters and desserts to choose from, including bruschetta or caprese salad to start, and an indulgent tiramisu or chocolate torte with gelato for afters.

You can view la Trattoria’s dine-in and takeaway menu on its website: https://www.latrattoria.co.uk/menus

Booking a table in peak seasons is recommended as the restaurant does get busy for both lunch and dinner.

La Trattoria is situated in the heart of Swanage, surrounded by various local pubs. It’s also a just couple of minute’s walk from the beach and The Downs, making it the perfect spot for a bite to eat after a long walk.

Contact details

Book a table by calling or online via la Trattoria’s website

Categories
Butchers Cafés Farm shops Food & Drink Restaurants

The Salt Pig Too

Outside The Salt Pig Too, Swanage, with takeaway coffee
Grab a takeaway coffee

Salt Pig Too is a thriving independent café & restaurant, butchery and urban farm shop in the heart of Swanage town centre and just a short stroll from the beach.

The sister business of The Salt Pig in Wareham, which opened its doors in 2010, Swanage’s very own Salt Pig opened its doors in 2018.

Serving seasonally-inspired dishes, Swanage’s Salt Pig restaurant can seat 50 people and all ingredients are locally-sourced where possible.

(all images courtesy of The Salt Pig’s Instagram)

With a strong commitment to animal welfare, provenance and responsible rearing practices, The Salt Pig proudly sources all its pork, lamb and beef within 8 miles of both premises, and fresh fish and shellfish are delivered daily.

The Salt Pig’s own family of rare breed Mangalista & Berkshire pigs are kept on local heathland and woodland and have famously appeared on the BBC’s Countryfile programme.

Butcher & meat boxes are also available via The Salt Pig’s butchery and can be ordered online ready for collection from either farm shop.

(pictures credit: The Salt Pig)

Opening hours & contact

Opening times

The Salt Pig logo

The farm shop and restaurant in Swanage is open as follows:

  • Monday – Wednesday – 8am – 6pm
  • Thursday – Saturday –  8am – 11pm
  • Sunday – 8am- 4pm

Contact details

Call to book a table or follow The Salt Pig’s social media for their latest news and updates:

Location in town

📍7A Station Road Postcode: BH19 1AB

Centrally-located on Station Road, Salt Pig Too is a stone’s throw from the beach, The Mowlem theatre & cinema, and all of Swanage’s main shops and amenities.

There is a small amount of short-stay on-street parking on Station Road itself, which is handy if you’re popping in to collect your butcher’s box or visit the urban farm shop.

There are two short-stay car parks a short stroll from the café (Mermond Place & Co-Op) and two long-stay car parks within a five-minute walk of Salt Pig Too (Broad Road & Main Beach car parks) if you’re staying for a quick coffee, lazy brunch or hearty dinner.

The Salt Pig Too lotion in Swanage (credit: Google Maps)

Catering

The Salt Pig team can cater for your wedding or event at any location across Purbeck.

Event catering (picture credit: The Salt Pig)

They’ll work with you to come up with your perfect menu, whether that’s a hog roast at a big family BBQ, canapés at a work meeting or even a private party.

Weddings will be given an extra special touch with a dedicated food & drinks wedding planner.

No menu design is too big or too small – you can request a special afternoon tea, rustic outdoor buffet or full sit-down dinner.

The Salt Pig regularly caters for businesses in the area including the RSPB and the National Trust.

For catering enquiries, visit The Salt Pig’s website: www.thesaltpig.co.uk/outdoor-catering/

The Sandy Salt Pig

The Sandy Salt Pig, Studland
Sandy Salt Pig

The Sandy Salt Pig is a new mobile food trailer based at Middle Beach in Studland – the perfect accompaniment to a seaside stroll.

Warm up after your walk with a breakfast butty & hot drink on a crisp winter day or stay a while and brunch by the beach on a warm afternoon.

Sandy Salt Pig opening times: Daily, 9am -4pm

Salt Pig pop-ups

The Forgotten Salt Pig

Salt Pig mobile catering at Tyneham village
The Forgotten Salt Pig mobile snack van at Tyneham

This mobile catering van can often be at Tyneham, where facilities are otherwise limited.

Typically, Tyneham hosts the Forgotten Salt Pig through the summer, serving hot & cold drinks, and light bites such as sausage rolls and sweet treats.

(Note that at Tyneham it’s cash-only payments due to there being no signal in the abandoned village.)

The Artful Pig

You’ll find this pop-up at artist collective & gallery Sandy Hill Arts in Corfe Castle.

Stop for a snack here as you browse the art and craft at The Boilerhouse Gallery or visit Corfe Castle Railway Station.

Sandy Hill Arts holds regular live music and arts events, including a range of workshops for both adults and children. Find out more online: sandyhillarts.co.uk

The Salt Pig, Wareham

Find the original Salt Pig on North Street in Wareham:

  • 📍6 North Street, BH20 4AF
  • 📞 01929 550673
  • 📥 wareham.saltpig@gmail.com
Categories
Health Pharmacists Shopping Shops

Boots

Boots Pharmacy in Swanage town centre
Boots on Station Road

Boots in Swanage is right in the centre of town and provides a variety of services, goods and  both over-the-counter and prescription medicines.

It also sells beach-side essentials such as sunscreen and sunglasses – handy if you’re here on holiday and have run out of sun protection.

Boots chest on Station Road in Swanage
Boots is next to WHSmith

Swanage’s Boots store stocks various health & beauty products, including Max Factor and No.7 cosmetics, and has a fragrance counter.

There’s also a private consultation room if you need to speak to a pharmacist in confidence, which can be booked in advance.

Opening times

Both shop and pharmacy are open every day during the following hours:

  • Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm
  • Sunday 10am – 4pm

Pharmacy services

Pharmacy cross sign in Swanage
Pharmacy

Pharmacy services include:

  • Medicines
  • Prescription collection from local GP practices
  • Prescription delivery service
  • Seasonal flu vaccination
  • Appointment booking available for consultations
  • Private consultation room

NHS pharmacy services

Boots in Swanage also offers the following NHS services.

  • Emergency contraception (NHS)
  • Supervised consumption of medicines
  • Stop smoking service (NHS)
  • NHS Health Check

Accessibility information

This Boots store has step-free access and is wheelchair-accessible.

It is also fitted with an induction loop for hearing-aid users.

Contact number

📞 01929 422096

Boots Pharmacy in Swanage town centre
Boots on Station Road

Location & directions

📍1-3 Station Road Swanage, BH19 1AB

You’ll find Boots opposite The Mowlem, close to the beach and next door to WHSmith.

There is some short-stay, on-street parking a few hundred yards away on Station Road.

Alternatively Mermond Place and Co-Op car parks are also both nearby.

Boots location in town (image credit: Google Maps)

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants Takeaways

Dragon Inn

Swanage Chinese restaurant and takeaway the Dragon Inn
The Dragon Inn

The Dragon Inn is one of two Chinese takeaway restaurants in Swanage.

Located centrally on High Street, near to the White Swan pub, the Dragon Inn offers both takeaway and restaurant dining.

You can call or pop in to order your takeaway, or order online or via an app, where you can view menus.

Find out more via their website: https://mealmap.co.uk/laihoswanage/

📞 Contact number: 01929 425237

Opening hours

Dragon Inn is open six days a week as follows:

  • Monday – Sunday: 5pm-10.30pm
  • Tuesday: Closed

Location & parking

📍 15 High St, Swanage BH19 2LP (at the former Lei Ho premises)

There is a limited amount of free one-hour on-street parking outside the Dragon Inn.

Alternatively, the nearest car park is just around the corner.

Dragon Inn location in Swanage (credit: Google Maps)

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants

Chilled Red

Outside the circular Chilled Red restaurant building in Swanage
Chilled Red

Chilled Red is a primarily seafood restaurant in Swanage – a hidden gem tucked away in a small courtyard behind the town’s main high streets.

It’s well-known for its high-quality European and British dishes in an intimate setting, and for its friendly, attentive staff.

The restaurant, which serves a regularly-changing set menu for lunch and dinner, also has vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options, as well as further options such as steak, lamb and duck.

Example dishes include halibut with a lobster sauce, mixed seafood jalfrezi, venison steak, and fresh lobster caught from Swanage Bay.

Opening hours

Chilled Red is currently open for evening meals as follows:

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings from 6pm.

Location

📍 Tilly Mead, 1-5 Commercial Road, Swanage BH19 1DF

Chilled Red logo on the restaurant windows in Swanage

You’ll find Chilled Red down a pedestrianised lane in the centre of Swanage.

It’s on Commercial Road, which is home to a number of other local businesses, such as Chococo, Swanage Bay Fish and Java Independent Coffee House.

Access is via a short alleyway from either High Street (near the library) or via Institute Road by McColls’s newsagents.

Contact details

Call or pop in to book a table at Chilled Red.

(Note that Chilled Red doesn’t have a website).

📞 01929 426066

Categories
Cafés Food & Drink Shopping Shops

Chococo

'Chococo - the Purbeck Chocolate Co.' cup
Hot chocolate at Chococo

Tucked away down a little Swanage side-street you’ll find award-winning Chococo – a family-run, handmade chocolate company that began life right here in town.

Swanage is the home of Chococo’s first chocolate house, which has now expanded into a shop & café, with further premises in Winchester, Exeter and Horsham.

It’s the perfect place to stop for a hot chocolate and brownie on a chilly afternoon, a refreshing gelato on a summer’s day, or to purchase a special chocolate-themed gift.

There’s seating both downstairs and upstairs in the café next to the adjoining chocolate shop, as well as a small amount of seating in the lane outside. Upstairs you’ll also find a small children’s area with colouring activities.

In addition to Chococo’s signature chocolatey baked goods and specialty drinks, there’s also a range of other items on the menu, including local Dorset tea, scones and toasties.

As well as the Purbeck chocolate company’s firm favourites, such as their beautifully handmade chocolate bars & slabs and delicately decorated boxed chocolates, Chococo also creates seasonal and occasion products. Gifts can also be personalised for the recipient.

Can’t choose between your favourites? Why not put a hamper together, or buy a subscription as an unusual gift for a foodie friend?

Chococo also often holds fun chocolate lolly-making workshops in the holidays – keep an eye on Chococo’s Facebook page for updates, or pop into the shop to find out about any upcoming events.

(Pictures all courtesy of Chococo)

Chococo has won over 100 national and international awards over the years since its inception in 2002 and boasts a tempting range of flavours from traditional favourites like Dorset sea salt caramel to its award-winning gin collection.

Popular chocolates include ginger, honeycomb, raspberry and bandanna & cinnamon, along with various novelty chocolates for the perfect edible gift.

Many of Chococo’s chocolate products are naturally vegan, but there are is also a special vegan-friendly range of chocolates available made using oat milk.

Opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 9.30am to 5pm
  • Saturday – 9.30am – 5.30pm
  • Sunday – 10am – 5pm

Location in town

📍 Commercial Road, Swanage, BH19 1DF

Commercial Road is pedestrianised and accessible both from Institute Road (the alleyway opposite The Mowlem) and from High Street via the passageway between JJ Moore’s butchers and Swanage Library.

It’s also a stone’s throw from the beach as well as all of Swanage’s central shops and other amenities.

Contact details

Explore Chococo’s products and other chocolate houses on their website, or call to place an order for collection.

Categories
Food & Drink Takeaways

Wok Chef

Outside Chinese takeaway Wok Chef in Swanage
The Wok Chef

Wok Chef is a Chinese takeaway located at the top end of Swanage’s High Street.

Serving popular Cantonese and Malaysian takeaway food, Wok Chef is open throughout the year – check their Facebook page for opening times and current menus.

There’s generally a small amount of parking in the street immediately outside the takeaway, or in nearby residential areas.

The Wok Chef is close to The Black Swan pub and the Swanage Legion, so you can stop for a drink while you wait for your food to be ready.

There’s also a Spar shop close by for any drinks or snacks you might need to accompany your meal.

Contact details

Signage outside Chinese takeaway Wok Chef, Swanage
Wok Chef takeaway Chinese food

Simply pop in to place your order or call in advance for collection at a time to suit you.

Check the Wok Chef’s Facebook page for further information including seasonal opening hours and current menus.

Categories
Cafés Food & Drink

Love Cake

Outside Love Cake Cafe in Swanage
Street-side seating

This busy little, family-run café on Swanage’s High Street is a popular spot for everything from celebration afternoon teas to hearty breakfasts, from light lunches to main meals – and of course: cake.

It’s a short stroll from Swanage Beach and all the town’s main shops and amenities – perfect for a bite to eat after a swim or to grab a takeaway coffee and cake to take on your beach walk.

The fully-licensed café uses locally-produced Dorset ingredients and suppliers where possible and even has a little in-store deli where you can pick up local chutneys, biscuits, chocolate and more – or ask them to put together a hamper for you or as a gift.

Love Cake’s in-house bakery can also create bespoke cakes for your special occasion – simply get in touch with your requirements.

The café often holds special themed and seasonal evenings – keep an eye on their social media pages for the latest.

And you may see them and get a chance to sample special menus at certain local events, such as at Rollington Barn for Purbeck Art Weeks.

Opening hours

Love Cake is open every day between 9am & 5pm.

Time may differ at certain times of the year, with special evening openings, for example, for seasonal special nights.

Check in online on their website or socials for the latest updates.

Contact details

Raspberry and macaroon dark chocolate tarts by Lovel Cake catering at PAW
Takeaway chocolate tart with macaroons

Booking a table here in advance is advised, especially during busy seasons.

There may be parking on the one-way street outside (max one hour), but if not the café is almost equidistant to Co-Op and Mermond Road car parks, as well as long-stay Broad Road car park.

The Bear

Check out Love Cake’s sister business in Wareham – a cosy, stylish refurbished 18th Century coaching inn –

It’s a hotel, restaurant, café and function venue.

The Bears’ 11 bedrooms are charmingly named after famous bears -including Paddington, Pooh and Rupert.

Function rooms include an intimate library setting for up to 14, or main function room which can seat 40+.

Find out more on The Bear’s website: www.thebearwareham.co.uk

Categories
Health Hospitals

Swanage Community Hospital

View of Swanage Hospital entranceway from the road outside
Swanage Hospital

Swanage Hospital is a community hospital in Swanage, providing minor injuries care and a number of other health services.

There is no major Accident & Emergency department here – for urgent care contact 111 in the first instance. For medical emergencies telephone 999.

View of Swanage Hospital entranceway from the road outside
Swanage Hospital

Minor Injuries Department

Swanage’s Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) is open daily (Monday- Sunday) between 8am and 8pm, including bank holidays.

The team here can help patients with the following:

Welcome board and opening hours information outside Swanage Hospital Minor Injuries Unit
MIU opening times

  • Limb injuries, such as sprains and fractures
  • Eye injuries and infections
  • 
Foreign bodies (for example splinters and fish hooks)
  • 
Head injuries
  • Wounds (including suturing if required)
  • 
Insect bites and stings
  • Emergency contraception

If, after phoning 111, in-person, face-to-face support is required, a member of hospital staff may book you an appointment at the minor injuries unit here – and kindly ask that you do not turn up unannounced.

Services

Services provided by Swanage Community Hospital include:

List of departments at the Swanage Hospital
Swanage Hospital departments

  • Cardiology
  • Children’s & Adolescent services
  • Ear, Nose & Throat
  • Gastrointestinal & Liver services
  • General Surgery
  • Gynaecology
  • Occupational Therapy services
  • Rehabilitation

For full information about this healthcare provider’s services visit: www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk

Visiting times & information

Patients on one of Swanage Hospitals wards can see visitors seven days a week, including bank holidays.

Ward visiting hours are 2-4pm and 6-8pm each day.

Contact details

  • Minor injuries & conditions: 111
  • Emergency/life-threatening: 999
  • Hospital phone number: 01929 422282

Location & how to get there

📍 Postcode: BH19 2ES

Swanage Hospital is located on Queens Road, Swanage.

Google map screenshot showing the location of Swanage Community hospital
(Swanage Hospital location (credit: Google Maps)

Your nearest Accident & Emergency departments

In an emergency call 999

If you require urgent care, the NHS urges you to telephone 111 in the first instance.

The A&E departments at these nearest major hospitals and urgent care centres are open 24 hours a day.

  • Poole Hospital -📍Longfleet Road, Poole, BH15 2JB 📞 01202 665511
  • Dorset County Hospital (Dorchester) -📍Williams Ave, Dorchester, DT1 2JY 📞 01305 251150
  • Royal Bournemouth Hospital -📍Castle Lane East, Bournemouth, BH7 7DW 📞 01202 303626
Categories
Uncategorised

Christmas

Swanage Rotary Father Christmas
Father Christmas in Swanage

There’s lots of fun, festive things to do in and around Swanage in the lead-up to Christmas.

It’s a time for supporting local makers as they sell their handmade crafts, for community groups to come together to celebrate the season, and to enjoy the many cosy places to eat & drink with friends and family.

Christmas Market & Shopping

Mulled wine and spiced cider van at Swanage Christmas market

Support local in your Christmas shopping by finding gifts, stocking fillers and festive dinner essentials from the shops in town, or head to Swanage’s annual Christmas market to browse the stalls whilst enjoying entertainment and festive food & drink.

There’s also a number of Christmas craft fairs in nearby villages and towns to find that elusive unique gift. Try Corfe’s Christmas gift fair, visit the Etsy sellers at The Tank Museum, or discover new handmade items at quirky venues such as at Swanage’s beach huts with Artisans on the Beach.

Christmas Lights

Station Road Christmas lights, Swanage
Christmas lights in Swanage

Welcome the start of the festive season by gathering in town to watch the Swanage lights switch-on. Swanage Pier will also have its own lights switch-on, where you can dedicate a light to a loved one.

Corfe Castle’s Christmas lights switch-on and arrival of Santa in the village square is also always a popular Christmassy evening, and the Kimmeridge tree-lighting at the beginning of December is a lovely way to honour the season (with carols being sung around it on Christmas Eve).

Further magical winter illuminations in Purbeck include Swanage Railway’s Christmas train and the Blue Pool’s Illuminate event.

Music & Entertainment

Various traditional carol concerts are held in and around Swanage and Purbeck from late November and throughout December.

From small candle-lit experiences to lively brass-band performances, there’s a way for every member of the family to enjoy the festive season.

Young children can join in a Christmas sing-along at the Mowlem’s Santa Show, and there’s the town’s annual panto to look forward to in January, brought to us by Swanage Drama Company.

Family & Kids

Swanage Rotary Father Christmas

Kids (and big kids!) can keep an eye out where they live for Father Christmas in the first two weeks of December, with Swanage & Purbeck Rotary’s Santa’s sleigh as he makes his way around the streets of Swanage, Corfe and Langton.

And enjoy a wintery stroll around Corfe Castle‘s Christmas trail, with stories from the Lord of Misrule.

With a Santa’s Grotto at the Blue Pool this year – and even one for your pets at Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centre – Father Christmas will never be far away, so best get working on those Christmas lists already!

Christmas Trees

Christmas trees and handmade wooden reindeer for sale at the entrance of the farm shop at Norden
Norden’s one of the go-to places for locals to buy their Christmas trees

These are the best places around Purbeck to buy your Christmas tree this year:

    • RSPB Arne – Pick your own at Arne’s annual pull-a-pine event and help the environment too!
    • Rudges Garden Centre – Open for winter hours (Weds, Fri, Sat & Mon) and also selling trees at Swanage FC Christmas market and Swanage Christmas Market
    • Norden Farm – Norden’s always stocked with a great selection of trees including Norman Fir from the end of November. And if you require a very large tree just get in touch with the farm to order ahead
    • Lenctenbury Farm – Lenctenbury Farm stocks a good range of Dorset-grown Christmas trees – from mini, potted ones to 8ft non-drop trees
    • Emmanuel Baptist Church – Sponsor a tree at the Purbeck Christmas Tree Festival and take it home when the event’s ended
Categories
Attractions

The Flying Scotsman

Flying Scotsman nameplate on the side of the locomotive
The Flying Scotsman

Arguably the highlight of the Swanage Railway enthusiasts’ calendar is the visits by one of the world’s most famous locomotives, Flying Scotsman.

Continue reading “The Flying Scotsman”
Categories
Uncategorised

Swanage Railway Webcam

Webcam screenshot diesel train leaving Swanage station
Swanage Railway webcam

Visit Swanage Railway virtually and watch steam and diesel trains as they come and go via the railway’s webcams.

Live streams of the platform and tracks at Swanage Station and Corfe Castle Station are broadcast via webcams that can be viewed at any time.

Swanage Station webcam

Watch as the Railway’s resident steam and diesel locomotives haul passenger trains from Swanage Station, or watch special and visiting locos come and go during one of the many events the heritage railway attraction holds throughout the year.

The railway webcam is a great way to view the spectacular Steam & Lights experience at Christmastime if you can’t make it down.

See what’s happening at Swanage Station right now: maybach.railcam.co.uk/Swanage_43965/embed.html

Corfe Castle Station webcam

Corfe Castle Railway Station also has its own webcam, which gives a great view of the platform and castle ruin.

Watch for a vintage locomotive going past the castle here: maybach.railcam.co.uk/Corfe_14435/embed.html

(Images credit all: Swanage Railway webcam screenshots)

Locomotives in screenshots

Information & history on the locos caught on webcam here can be found on the Swanage Railway website:

Be sure to check out our very own Swanage Bay webcam – enjoy the scene, check the weather and tide or see how busy the beach is.

Categories
Accommodation Hotels

Purbeck House Hotel

In the garden of Swanage's Purbeck House Hotel
Outdoor seating areas

For real, old-world charm and character in the heart of Swanage town, the Purbeck House Hotel is hard to beat.

Once a private Victorian residence, the hotel now boasts 18 rooms all maintaining that traditional country house atmosphere, some of which have sea views, as well as an additional garden lodge with 20 modern bedrooms.

The Purbeck House hotel has a charming three-acre garden where you can take a stroll or sit out on the terrace or lawn with your morning coffee or evening drink.

The friendly staff here are always on hand to answer any queries and the hotel won the category of Best Family Business in the 2023 Purbeck Business Awards.

Just along High Street, where Purbeck House Hotel is situated, you’ll find a range of great places to eat – try The Black Swan, Love Cake or the Red Lion pub for excellent lunch, dinner and afternoon tea, or to sample some local beers.

The rest of Swanage’s amenities are conveniently located just a stone’s throw from your door and the beach is just a five-minute walk away.

After exploring Swanage and the surrounding area, relax with a drink in the hotel’s Bar 1875 or its Thomas Hardy Lounge, which overlooks the gardens. Bar 1975 is also open to members of the public.

In the morning, after a good night’s sleep, enjoy breakfast in the garden conservatory.

Accommodation

Stay in the main house for a more traditional experience, or the more modern Louisa Lodge, which has dedicated family rooms.

Each room comes equipped with flatscreen TV, desk/vanity table and chair, hot drink-making facilities, hairdryer and complimentary WiFi & toiletries.

Main House

Purbeck House itself offers a range of accommodation, from single rooms for solo or business travellers to a grand four-poster bed experience.

With the single and double rooms there is an option to upgrade to a sea view room.

The Superior Double rooms (king-size bed) are spacious and have either a garden or sea view and the added luxury of bath robes.

And the cherry wood four-poster room has a feature fireplace, with views looking toward St Mary’s Church.

Louisa Lodge

Louisa Lodge rooms range in size, catering for single visitors to families of up to five.

The family and double rooms benefit from garden views, or you can upgrade your double to a sea view room.

Spacious Superior rooms come with small seating areas overlooking Swanage Bay.

Upgrade to a Superior Balcony to enjoy your morning coffee outside.

Garden

The garden of the Purbeck House Hotel is little hidden gem in Swanage, with its setting so central on the High Street.

Stroll about the three acres, or sit and enjoy the sun with a drink in this little oasis of calm in the centre of town.

The head gardener will be only too pleased to tell you about the garden’s Victorian beginnings, including the striking 90-year-old weeping ash tree.

And tucked away is a small kitchen garden with resident chickens and honey bees.

Residents’ Lounge

Relax and unwind in the lounge area after a long day exploring Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck.

The welcoming room has plenty of comfy seating with views out onto the hotel’s garden.

There’s a small selection of board games as well as a large bookshelf just outside the room.

Food at Purbeck House Hotel

Note that this is a breakfast-only hotel, not serving lunch or dinner.

Purbeck House Hotel conservatory set for breakfast
Enjoy breakfast in the garden conservatory

However, you’ll find a great range of places to eat right outside your door – on High Street itself, as well as dotted around town.

Check out the nearby restaurants, pubs and cafés or wander down to the bay for some fish and chips.

Residents of Purbeck House Hotel can enjoy 10% off their meal at nearby Tawny’s Wine Bar.

Weddings & Events

The hotel is a great choice for your event, being centrally located in Swanage and close to all the town’s amenities.

Whether you’re planning your big day, charity event or meeting, there’s a range of options to choose from.

Weddings

Ceremony

Purbeck House Hotel is licensed to hold weddings and civil partnership ceremonies in its dedicated Purbeck Room, which will be beautifully dressed for your special day.

The former convent has an arched ceiling and chapel backdrop, with wood panelling – all lending an air of romance and providing the perfect setting in which to say your vows.

The room accommodates up to 100 guests.

Reception

The Elizabeth garden conservatory seats up to 100 guests and has its own bar as well as dance floor and space for a band or DJ.

French doors open onto the terrace, so you can spill outside into the gardens.

The hotel uses local caterers who use Dorset produce and who will work with you to create a wedding menu bespoke to you and your friends & family.

General hire

As well as the Purbeck Room, the bar, conservatory and Thomas Hardy Lounge are also available to book for your event.

You can also hire the whole place exclusively.

Car park spaces may also be available for hire throughout the year.

To discuss your room-hire requirements and for prices, contact the hotel direct.

Purbeck House Hotel History

Built in 1875 by Swanage businessman George Burt, in Scottish Baronial style, the hotel has strong connections with the capital, with architectural relics salvaged from London including statues from the Royal Exchange, an arch that once stood in Hyde Park, carvings from the Houses of Parliament, and a balustrade and columns from Billingsgate Market – all adding to the building’s imitation feudal castle look.

 

Location and directions

Purbeck House Hotel is the most centrally-located hotel in Swanage town and has handy on-site parking.

Situated on High Street, there are a range of shops, restaurants, pubs and cafés within walking distance. And of course Swanage Bay and beach are also a short five-minute stroll away.

You’ll also find various amenities close by such as Swanage Library, hairdressers and a dry cleaner, and points of historical interest such as St Mary’s Church, Swanage Museum and Swanage Pier.

Location of Purbeck House Hotel in town (credit Google Maps)

Contact and booking

Get in touch with The Purbeck House Hotel:

To book your hotel getaway here email reservations@purbeckhousehotel.co.uk or book online direct with the hotel.

Categories
Car Parks Travel

Wareham Long-Stay Parking

Car park in Wareham along Bonnet's Lane

Spend a day in Wareham at a riverside restaurant, taking a boat trip, or walking the Saxon walls that surround this historic town.

There are various pubs, restaurants and cafés to choose from, as well as a range of handy shops, including supermarkets, household & pet supplies and specialist shops like that angling centre.

Bonnet’s Lane – Postcode: BH20 4NN

Park for 30-minutes (50p) to up to 10 hours (£6) or more at this large parking area behind the main shopping streets.

Car park in Wareham along Bonnet's Lane
Bonnet’s Lane car park

It’s close to Boots, The Salt Pig, Wareham Town Museum and general amenities.

Parking location number: 7710 (Same reference no. for West & Eat)

Streche Road – Postcode: BH20 4PB

Park here for the Wareham Walls walk, town shopping and The Rex cinema.

Cars parked by the Wareham Walls at Streche Road car park
Streche Road car park in Wareham

This large car park also accommodates coaches and lorries.

Location reference: 7714

Connegar Lane – Postcode: BH20 4NQ

Located close to Lady St Mary church & cemetery and The Priory Hotel.

JustPark location no: 7711

Wareham Train Station – Postcode: BH20 4BG

Car parked at Wareham Station
Temporary (20 minute) parking bays are available for drop-off & pick-up

Park for the day at a cost of £2 at weekends and £3.10 during the week, and head out to explore a new part of Dorset by train (South Western Railway Line).

Discounts are applied for purchasing multiple-day or week-long tickets.

Park for Wareham Station using the RingGo app with location number: 77556

Free on-street parking

There’s also parking on the main streets of town in Wareham, where you can park for free for up to an hour.

Most car parks in town are also free after 6pm.

Click here for short-stay parking in Wareham.

Categories
Car Parks Travel

Wareham Short-Stay Parking

Outside the Sainsbury's shop in Wareham, at the Rempstone car park
Sainsbury's in Wareham

Use one of Wareham’s short-stay car parks to do a bit of shopping, meet friends for a coffee or drink, or visit one of the town’s galleries.

There’s a range of café’s, shops and amenities in the Saxon walled town, with lots of hidden gems, such as Purbeck Artisan Yard – a collective of local arts and crafts makers.

Rempstone Centre (behind Sainsbury’s) – Postcode: BH20 4NX

Park for up to two hours at this centrally-located town car park, situated just off Church Street.

JustPark location reference: 7713

Co-Op  – Postcode: BH20 4AB

Find this small shoppers’ car park by turning off the main North Street onto Cow Lane and left again into St Michael’s Road.

There’s a handy back-entrance into the Co-Op store direct from this car park

Free parking in Wareham

You can park for an hour on the main streets of town free-of-charge.

It’s also free-of-charge to park in most car parks after 6pm.

Long-Stay parking in Wareham is also available.

Categories
Car Parks Travel

Tyneham for Worbarrow Bay Parking

Car parking £2 donation sign in Tyneham, Purbeck
Tyneham village car park

Closest postcode: BH20 5QN

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten track beach with a bit of history attached to it, head to Tyneham village car park.

It’s about a mile’s walk to the pebble and sand shore from the car park at the famous ‘ghost village’.

Facilities here are limited, but there are public toilets near the car park (at Tyneham Farm).

Swimming here is not generally suitable for children or novices as the beach can shelve steeply.

Note that coaches are strictly unable to access the road either to Tyneham or Worbarrow Bay.

Categories
Car Parks

Durdle Door Car Park

Cars parked at Durdle Door, from the overflow parking section
Car parking at Durdle Door

Parking postcode – BH20 5PU

The car park for Durdle Door is situated at Durdle Door Holiday Park.

It’s a pleasant downhill walk to the beach here and to the adjacent Man O’ War Bay (note that both are not suitable for swimming or climbing).

Alternatively, park at Lulworth Cove for a picturesque but mildly challenging walk up a hill and along the coast path down to Durdle Door.

This popular walk has fantastic scenery and will work up an appetite for lunch back in West Lulworth.

Car parking for Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove costs £5 for four hours or £10 for the day.

Categories
Car Parks

Lulworth Cove Car Park

View of Lulworth car park from Durdle Door path
Overflow car parking for Lulworth Cove in the summer

Postcode: BH20 5RQ

Perfect for a paddle or for a picnic on a pretty, white stony shore, the beach here is surrounded by stunning views and coastal walks packed with intriguing Jurassic Coast geology.

The cove itself is a five-minute stroll from the car park situated in the village of West Lulworth.

There’s loads of facilities on hand – ice cream parlours, gift shops, fish & chip restaurants, as well a visitor centre and toilet complex.

Parking can be exceptionally busy here at peak times so check travel updates in advance and arrive early.

Car parking for Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door is £5 for four hours or £10 for the day.

Categories
Car Parks Studland Bay Parking

Shell Bay Car Park

Shell Bay Studland beach sign
Ferry & South West Coast Path signage at Shell Bay

Postcode for parking – BH19 3BA

If you’re staying in Swanage and you want to make a day trip to Sandbanks, you can park here at Shell Bay and take the ferry over to the Sandbanks side as a foot passenger.

Or simply park for a walk or sunbathe on the vast sands of Studland’s Shell Bay and views across Poole Harbour.

There’s also a lovely seafood bistro opposite the car park here.

Park for free as a National Trust member.

Categories
Car Parks

Seafront Parking

Pay-and-display machine on Swanage seafront
Parking on Swanage seafront

Postcode for Shore Road parking – BH19 1LB

Park right by the shore for an easy stroll along the prom or for a quick swim.

There’s plenty of parking along the length of Shore Road, although it’s worth noting that it is partially pedestrianised in the summer.

You can park on Shore Road from £4.30 for an hour. Charges apply 24 hours a day, however from 6pm (till 8am) there is a single charge of £4.

JustPark location no: 7683

Partially-pedestrianised section

The section closest to town (from The Mowlem up to Banjo Pier/the junction with Victoria Avenue) is closed to cars during the peak summer season (May – September inclusive) for the benefit of pedestrians using the ice cream shops, entertainment facilities and beach huts here.

It also allows event-organisers to utilise this prime position in Swanage – from special summer markets to festival events, such as Swanage Carnival’s street art competition and wheelbarrow race.

Categories
Services

Swanage Household Recycling Centre

Site information at Swanage Household Recycling Centre
Swanage Household Recycling Centre

The recycling centre in Swanage is open every day throughout the year, with a few exceptions, such as Christmas and New Year.

Located just off the main road into town (Victoria Avenue), Swanage Household Recycling Centre is a spacious, pleasant experience with helpful staff on-hand at all times.

There’s a re-use area, where you can donate items that aren’t perhaps fit for the bin or for charity, and where you might find a treasure! A small donation’s usually expected if you want to take something away.

You can recycle most items at the tip here, excluding asbestos.

For a full list of what you can take to Swanage Household Recycling Centre visit the Dorset Council website.

For commercial waste, speak to the on-site team or call W&S Recycling on 01202 979011.

Opening hours

Opening times vary seasonally to reflect daylight hours as follows:

  • 1 April – 30 September – Daily from 9am to 4pm
  • 1 October – 30 March – Daily between 9am – 4pm
  • Bank holidays – Open (except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day when the tip is closed)

How to get there

📍Postcode – BH19 1EJ

Swanage Recycling Centre is a short walk or drive from all the town’s main amenities – there’s a Texaco garage just outside and Main Beach Car Park is just down the road, so you can pop to the shops, park or beach after visiting the dump.

It’s located at Prospect Business Park, just off Victoria Avenue.

Swanage Household Recycling Centre location (credit: Google Maps)

Wareham tip

There’s also a household recycling centre in Wareham.

It’s situated just outside the northern end of town off the Bere Road – postcode: BH20 4SN.

Categories
Car Parks Short-Stay

Co-Op Car Park

Car parking sign at Swanage Co-Op
Co-Op's car park

Co-Op postcode – BH19 1HP

Park for up to two hours in peak season at the centrally-located Co-Op or by the hour during low season.

This car park is great for a couple of hours’ shopping or bite to eat in town, catching an evening show at The Mowlem or checking out Swanage’s heritage railway station.

Parking prices

  • Low season price – 60p per hour; free
  • High season – One hour: £1.20 and £2.10 for two hours
  • Park for free – From 7pm – 8am throughout the year

JustPark location no: 5952

If you pay by card or cash you can use your refund voucher to get your car parking payment back in-store, however this doesn’t apply if you use the pay-by-phone app.

Categories
Car Parks Long-Stay

Main Beach Car Park

Sign in Swanage town for Main Beach car park
Main Beach Car Park

Postcode: BH19 1AP

Park here for an easy day at the beach – just walk straight up Victoria Avenue and you’ll reach the sea within five minutes.

You’ll also pass by the town as you stroll down, so you can make a quick detour to the shops to stock up on beach supplies and picnic food.

It’s also a handy place to park for King George’s playground, Swanage Golf Games and the Friday Market.

Parking charges

Park by the hour, for the day, for three days or for a whole week:

  • Hourly – Park from £1.50 for an hour, or £1.80 in high season
  • Daily – A day ticket costs £8 and is also valid at Broad Road Car Park
  • Three-day or weekly tickets – You can get a three-day or weekly car parking ticket at Main Beach, which is handy if you’re staying at a nearby B&Bs that may not have its own parking

JustPark park location number: 5951

Main Beach Car Park also has coach and campervan parking, as well as electric vehicle charging points.

Categories
Car Parks Long-Stay

North Beach Car Park

Sign in Swanage for long-stay car park North Beach

Postcode: BH19 1NL

Located at the northern end of town, North Beach Car Park is handy for the middle and northern end of Swanage beach, walking in the Purbeck Hills and visiting the hotels or pubs at this end of town for a meal.

It’s a bit further away from the town’s main shopping area and entertainment, but there’s a waterfront bar and public toilets, as well as kayak-hire with Ocean Bay on the strand in the warmer months.

 

Parking information and prices

  • Park for the day at North Beach from just £1.50
  • A day-ticket here is just £6

JustPark location ID – 5954

Categories
Car Parks Long-Stay

Broad Road Car Park

Pay-and-display parking machine at Swanage's Broad Road car park
Broad Road parking

Parking postcode – BH19 2BB

This large long-stay car park is convenient for various pubs and restaurants including la Trattoria and The Ship Inn, as well as for exploring Swanage Pier or a quick scamper on the town’s year-round dog-friendly beach.

It’s also the nearest car park to the town’s amphitheatre located in Prince Albert Gardens, which holds  performances and plays host to various festivals throughout the year.

You’ll find Broad Road car park by following High Street to the southern end of town.

Turn right up the hill by Gee Whites and East Bar onto Seymer Road and the car park at Broad Road will be on your left.

Parking prices

  • Hourly – Park from £1.50 for an hour to just over £6 for four hours, or up to £7.20 for six hours. If you’re arriving in the evening it’s just £1 from 6pm for the duration of your parking (until 8am the following day)
  • Daily – A daily car parking ticket (£8) is also available and can also be used at Main Beach Car Park
  • Three/seven-day tickets – You can pay for a three-day or weekly car parking ticket at Broad Road, which is handy if you’re staying at one of the local B&Bs that may not have dedicated parking, or if you’re staying in a neighbouring Purbeck village, but want the ease of being able to come and go to Swanage as you please. This pay-by-phone only parking ticket is valid in all long-stay Swanage car parks.

JustPark location – 5950

Parking prices vary slightly according to whether it is high or low season – visit the town council’s parking large for full information: www.swanage.gov.uk/carparkcharges.aspx

Categories
Car Parks Short-Stay

Mermond Place (Recreation Ground)

Cars parked at Recreation Ground or Mermond Place car park in Swanage
Parking spaces at Recreation Ground (Mermond Place)

Postcode – BH19 1DQ

Mermond Place/Recreation Ground is a handy short-stay car park for popping to the shops or for a quick play at the park, a game of crazy golf, or meeting friends for a coffee.

It’s also a short stroll to the beach from here and the closest car park for Budgens supermarket, Boots and the Salt Pig.

(Note that there is a height restriction of 7ft 6in at this car park).

Parking hours & prices

Park from one to two hours.

Charges apply from 8am – 7pm. (No overnight camping or sleeping allowed).

  • High season (April – October) – £1.20 for an hour, or £2.10 for two hours
  • Low season (November – March) – 60p per hour

JustPark location number – 5953

Categories
Car Parks Long-Stay

Purbeck Park

Brown sign for Purbeck Park and trains to Corfe Castle and Swanage
Purbeck Park car park at Norden, near Corfe Castle

Purbeck Park – for Swanage Railway

Postcode for SatNav: BH20 5DW

If you’re coming via Wareham/the A351, simply turn into the large parking area at the Norden roundabout (just before Corfe Castle) and from there you can hop on a heritage steam or diesel train into Corfe itself, or continue on to Harman’s Cross and Swanage.

You can also pick up the Number 40 bus to Swanage here, hire a bike, or head out into the countryside along walking trails.

Purbeck Park is also the best place to park for visiting the Purbeck Mineral & Mining Museum.

There’s also a small children’s play area and refreshments kiosk here.

Car park opening times and charges

JustPark location no: 7712

The car park is open daily from 7am – 7pm, and charges apply from 8am – 6pm.

Tickets are £4 for the day for cars and £7 for motorhomes.

Train tickets can be booked direct on the Swanage Railway website.

Categories
Car Parks Long-Stay

Motorhome Parking

Back of an orange camper van, parked in Swanage

Both Main Beach and North Beach car parks accommodate campervan and motorhome parking.

Note that if your vehicle takes up two spaces you’ll need to pay double.

Parking for motorhomes and camper vans in Swanage
Dedicated campervan parking at Main Beach Car Park

All car parks in Swanage do not allow overnight parking, camping or sleeping, but there are a number of excellent caravan sites and tourist parks in the area to stop for the night.

Categories
Car Parks Resident's Parking

Residents’ Parking

Mini parked by residents' ticket machine in Swanage
Horsecliffe Lane is handy for bandstand events

You can apply for a residents’ parking permit for the Horsecliffe Lane parking area (behind Chadwick Park and Mermond Place car park) if you live in Swanage or other Purbeck villages and environs.

Horsecliffe Lane is reserved for residents only, however a residents’ permit also allows you to park for two hours at Main Beach and Mermond Place (Recreation Ground) car parks.

The maximum number of hours’ stay still applies.

  • Seasonal cost – Residents’ parking is free in low season (November – March inclusive), with a small charge during high season
  • Price of permit – You simply need to pay a one-off admin fee of £5 to Swanage Town Council, and submit a copy of your council tax bill and vehicle registration document

To apply for a parking permit visit Swanage Town Council’s website: www.swanage.gov.uk/carparking

Parking details for Horsecliffe Lane

  • Postcode: BH19 1DQ
  • Parking app reference number: 5955
Categories
Car Parks Studland Bay Parking

Middle Beach Car Park

National trust flag and information hut at Middle Beach car park
Middle Beach Car Park payment machine

Park here for one of Studland’s smaller beaches and for Fore/Adventure’s watersports activities.

Middle Beach has a small outdoor café and interesting WWII historical relics.

As with all Studland Bay car parks, if you’re a National Trust member you can park for free.

Postcode for parking – BH19 3AX

Categories
Attractions Farms

Putlake Adventure Farm

Putlake Farm entrance and welcome sign, Langton Matravers
Fun for little ones at 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.

Groom the ponies, have a cuddle with a guinea pig and bottle-feed the lambs at this family-run working farm.

But it’s not just a traditional farmyard experience here – Putlake’s also a great place to have your birthday party, and you can even camp here in the summer.

Meet the animals

The animals at Putlake Farm can’t wait to meet you – and some even like to interact with you…the ponies always like a fuss and a groom; in spring the lambs need bottle-feeding; the rabbits and guinea pigs like a lap to sit on; and if you say hello to the parrot in the aviary, he might reply!

Visit the alpacas and donkeys in the outdoor paddocks and get up close to the resident owl, tortoises and peacocks who also call the farm their home.

There’s traditional farmyard animals, too, including pigs, cows, chickens and goats – did you know goats can be milked, just like cows? You can have a go too, with Mildred the Milking Goat and experience what it’s like to be a real farmhand.

Indoor soft play

After you’ve said hello to the farmyard friends, it’s time to explore the indoor adventure soft play zone.

There’s a zip wire, ball pit, fun slides and nets to climb, spread across three levels.

Baby and toddler soft play at Putlake Farm
Indoor play area

Babies and toddlers have their own section, and there’s also an indoor football table for older kids.

For grown-ups, there’s plenty of seating to watch the children play and have a cuppa – order snacks and drinks from the kiosk inside the indoor play zone and it will be brought across from the tea room for you.

There’s also a small gift shop here for kids to spend their pocket-money at.

  • Entrance to the indoor play zone at Putlake is included in the general farm entry fee.
  • Please wear socks in the soft play zone

Outdoor fun

Head outside to race around the pedal go-kart course or challenge yourself on the climbing frames where you can scramble up the cargo nets and whizz down the slides.

You’ll also find small trampolines, a fun sandpit area and ride-ons. There’s even the chance to have a trip around the farm on the tractor-trailer ride.

Pretend you’re a farmer by having a go at one of the mechanical diggers to excavate a huge pile of sand or try out Mildred the Milking Goat.

The outdoor playground area is right by the duck pond and has lots of picnic areas and benches, so you can have a snack or lunch when you’re done playing.

Ticket prices

You don’t need to book ahead at Putlake – just turn up and pay on the door.

  • Adults & children – £10.25
  • Senior citizens – £5.95
  • Under 2s – Free

Parties

Putlake Adventure Farm is a great place to celebrate your birthday with your friends and family.

Table set for party food (picture credit: Putlake)

Choose your favourite Putlake activities or have a go at everything – work up an appetite in the indoor soft play area before heading to the specially-decorated party room for your choice of hot or cold party food.

Discover the farm on the fun – and bumpy! – tractor-trailer ride (weather permitting) and see what the animals are up to – if it’s feeding time you can help out, or just sit and have a cuddle with the guinea pigs  or groom the ponies.

Party booking details & pricing

  • A minimum of eight children is required for booking
  • Book at least one week in advance to ensure you get your preferred date
  • The cost is £15.95 per child (£30 deposit on booking to secure your slot)
  • Two adults can come along for free

To book your party at Putlake simply pop in or call on 01929 422917.

Farm shop

The farm shop stocks a wide range of handy items (picture credit Putlake Adventure Farm)

The farm shop at Putlake is a handy amenity for locals and visitors alike, with pet, garden, seasonal supplies and local produce.

There’s also essentials such as logs and gas, and in the run-up to Christmas the shop sells trees and festive wreaths.

If you’re camping at Putlake or at one of the nearby campsites, you’ll find a range of camping items, as well as children’s toys, sweets and souvenirs.

Opening hours

Putlake Adventure Farm is open throughout the year as follows:

  • February half term – Daily 10am – 4.30pm
  • Spring/summer (April -end October half term) – Daily 10am – 4.30pm
  • Autumn/winter hours (November – March) – Weekends only, 10am – 4.30pm

Camping

Putlake offers camping during the summer, from mid-July to the end of August, for tent and campervans up to a VW T5 size.

This is a quiet, family-friendly site in the village of Langton Matravers, which is just a five-minute drive from Swanage town and beach. Also nearby is the historic ruin and village of Corfe Castle. If you want to leave the car behind for the day, the Number 40 bus stops right outside Putlake.

Enjoy great views and plenty of walking trails on your doorstep and of course you can stroll down and hang out with the farm animals and make use of the indoor and outdoor play areas at the on-site petting farm (entrance charges apply).

Campsite facilities include toilets, showers (50p per token) and the on-site farm shop, which sells a range of camping gear, such as airbeds, pumps, roll mats, sleeping bags and gas. Note that there is no electric hook-up here at this traditional farm campsite.

You can buy breakfast, snacks or lunch at the farm’s tea room, or visit the village pub, The King’s Arms, just a short walk up the road.

Campfires are permitted – please purchase logs and coal from the farm shop.

Book your pitch

Either call the farm to let them know when you want to come and stay or book via pitchup.com: www.pitchup.com/campsites/England/South_West/Dorset/Swanage/putlake-adventure-farm/

Camping tariffs

Prices are shown per night:

  • Family pitch (two adults & two children (aged 3-16) – £24
  • One-two person tent – £18
  • Backpacker pitch –  £8.00

Additional adults can stay at a cost of £6 a night and extra children are £3.

Extra cars, awnings or gazebos are £3 per night.

Note that the normal entrance fee to the adventure farm applies to campers.

Location

📍 High Street, Langton Matravers, Swanage BH19 3EU

Putlake Adventure Farm is between Corfe Castle a& Swanage, in the village of Langton in Purbeck
Location of Putlake Adventure Farm (credit: Google Maps)

Contact details

Call, email or pop in to enquire about booking a party or camping pitch.

You can also book the campsite via pitchup.com, where you can read handy tips from other campers who enjoyed their stay.

Categories
Trains Transport Travel

Wareham Train Station

Car parked at Wareham Station
Temporary (20 minute) parking bays are available for drop-off & pick-up

Wareham Station is on the South Western Railway London Waterloo to Weymouth line and is the closest mainline station to Swanage.

Less than a mile from Wareham town centre (Swanage nearest town), it’s well connected to Purbeck and other parts of Dorset.

Not only is it a great way for visitors to access the Isle of Purbeck, Wareham Station is a key way for residents to commute to and visit the conurbation of Poole & Bournemouth to the east, and Dorchester and Weymouth to the west.

Trains typically run twice an hour each way – from Weymouth to London Waterloo, and from Waterloo to Weymouth.

  • Journey time from London Waterloo to Wareham: 2 hours, 13 mins – 2h 22m (check National Rail Enquiries or the South Western Railway website to book tickets and for live updates and possible changes/disruptions to services: www.southwesternrailway.com)

Onward travel to Corfe Castle & Swanage

Purbeck Breeze number 40 bus at the Sandford Roundabout, Wareham
The No. 40 arriving at Wareham Station bus stop (platform 1 side)

By bus

The MoreBus Number 40 stops at Wareham Station, so you can pick up the bus right from the train on toward Corfe Castle and Swanage.

This is an hourly bus service (check with the bus company for timetables so you can coordinate your arrival on the train with the bus departure time: www.morebus.co.uk)

  • Journey time from Wareham to Swanage via bus: Around 40 minutes

By taxi

Various local taxi companies also work out of Wareham Station, enabling you to get to your destination with ease.

There may be taxis already waiting at the taxi rank for you to pick up but it’s always worth phoning ahead to book to ensure your journey goes smoothly.

  • Journey time from Wareham to Swanage via car/taxi: Around 25 minutes

Find local taxi companies here.

Purchasing tickets for your journey

You can buy your tickets in advance online or visit the ticket office at Wareham Station, which is located at ground level and accessible both from the car parking area or from platform 2.

There are ticket machines on platform 2 to either purchase tickets or collect pre-bought tickets. You’ll need your booking reference number and the card used to pay for the tickets.

Ticket office opening hours

  • Monday – Friday – 6.10am – 6.30pm
  • Saturday – 7.15am – 1.50pm
  • Sunday – 10am – 2pm

Buy tickets online via websites such as National Rail and Trainline, or directly through South Western Railway. All have the option to add railcards, such as the Family & Friends railcard, the 16-17 saver, 16-25, 26-30, senior, veterans and disabled railcards, which all typically give you 1/3 off your ticket price. Find out more information on the National Rail website: www.nationalrail.co.uk/times_fares/National-Railcards.aspx

Station facilities

People waiting for a train on Platform 2 at Wareham
Platform 2 viewed from Platform 1

You’ll find public toilets and an enclosed waiting room on platform 2.

There is no refreshments kiosk at Wareham Station but there are various small shops, cafés and supermarkets in Wareham itself.

Wifi is available, and there are public telephones.

Bike racks are available at the station. There is also a handy bicycle repair, sales and advice shop – Cycleworks – right next door to Wareham ticket office.

Parking at the station

Car parked at Wareham Station
Temporary (20 minute) parking bays are available for drop-off & pick-up

There’s a good-sized car park (69 spaces) on the Platform 2 side of the station.

You can purchase a car parking ticket in the station ticket office, from a machine outside, or via the RingGo parking app (location number 77556). Alternatively call to pay to park on 01256 802804.

Purchase either a day, weekly, monthly, quarterly or annual ticket.

  • Weekday day ticket: £3.10/day
  • Weekend day ticket: £2/ day
  • Weekly ticket: £14.10

Accessibility information

Pedestrian crossing at Wareham Station
Foot, cycle and wheelchair accessible controlled crossing

The guard on the train is available to offer assistance to board and alight the train. Assistance can be booked in advance but is not necessary – simply make yourself known to the guard and they will gladly help you out.

There is a ramp available for wheelchair access to the train.

Ticket machines and toilets at the station are accessible.

To access the opposite platform there is a stepped footbridge, however there is also level access via a controlled pedestrian level crossing. The foot and cycle crossing is manned and has locking automatic gates.

Location & contact details

Wareham Station is easy to find and is located just off the main A351 from Poole to Swanage, and equally accessible from the Bere Road direction.

  • 📍 Wareham Station postcode: Northport, BH20 4AS
  • 📞 Customer services phone number: 0800 5282100

Google map showing the location of Wareham Station in relation to Swanage, Poole & Bournemouth
Wareham Train. Station’s location (Google Maps)

You might be interested in…Wareham Station’s history

Wareham Train Station was once part of the branch line to Swanage, which closed in 1972.

After much campaigning, local residents and historic railway enthusiasts managed to get the line partially rebuilt and restored. The Swanage Railway now runs as a popular heritage line and is one of Swanage and Purbeck’s main attractions, running steam and diesel locomotives throughout the year, along with various events and festivals.

A limited number of special services run on the Swanage Railway line all the way to Wareham for special events. It is hoped that this will become a more regular and permanent feature of the railway in future.

Read more about the railway, its stations, history and ongoing projects here.

Categories
Clubs, Groups & Societies Things to do

Swanage Town Band

Musical performance by Swanage Town Band at Swanage bandstand
Swanage Town Band plays its Summer in the Bandstand post-restoration

Swanage Town Band is a concert band of wind, brass and percussion players, holding regular gigs in Purbeck throughout the year.

The band is led by conductor Dave Cook in practising a range of traditional band, folk and popular music, including toe-tapping show medleys, in preparation for performances at a range of local events.

Some of the most popular performances are the band’s Summer in the Bandstand recitals – grab a blanket and a picnic and head down to enjoy some good, old traditional fun in the sun at the town’s 1920s bandstand, which has excellent views over Swanage Bay. Or wrap up warm in winter for some festive tunes and carols at Christmastime and sing along with the band.

Swanage Town Band often plays in association with various local causes, so it’s also a great opportunity to donate to the latest charity or appeal the musicians are supporting.

  • Find out when Swanage Town Band is playing next by checking our Events page or by following the band on Facebook: en-gb.facebook.com/SwanageTownBand/
  • To book Swanage Town Band for your event email Cathy: cathyleach21@yahoo.co.uk

Summer in the Bandstand

A firm favourite in Swanage’s summer calendar is the collection of performances at Swanage’s bandstand.

Look out for daytime and evening concerts at this unique piece of Swanage history – read more about its restoration journey here.

  • ℹ️  Performances are free to attend, but a donation in the collection tin will be very welcome
  • 📍 Nearest car park: Recreation Ground (Mermond Place) BH19 1DQ

Rehearsal information & joining

If you play a brass or wind instrument, why not join Swanage Town Band – it’s a friendly group which meets for weekly practice and delights audiences with performances throughout the year.

There are currently over 40 members in the band, but newcomers of all ages and abilities are always welcome.

  • When – Every Wednesday evening during term time from 7pm -8.30pm
  • Where – Swanage Methodist Church, 105 High Street, BH19 2LZ

If you’re interested in joining Swanage Town Band, contact Liz on 01929 481419 or conductor Dave Cook by emailing 2dcook@gmail.com.

Categories
Classes & Workshops Volunteering

The Shed at Durlston

View of the Shed at Durlston's volunteering area in the woods
Outside The Shed

Fancy discovering a new hobby or rekindling an old favourite pastime in a beautiful, natural setting?

The Shed at Durlston Country Park is a great way to try out skills like woodworking, arts & crafts and gardening, whilst meeting other like-minded people in this fantastic community work base.

Sign on The Shed at Durlston made out of scrap metal
The Shed at Durlston

The Shed is nestled in the trees, just past the woodland entrance to the Park, on Lighthouse Road.

The Shed is fully accessible and is open to all ages. It’s especially popular with people with disabilities, long-term health problems and dementia.

There’s always a team of friendly and helpful volunteers on hand to support whatever projects are happening. Even if you don’t fancy trying one of the activities, it’s a lovely place to sit and soak up a bit of nature and socialise for a couple of hours.

With a fully equipped workshop inside the shed, a healthy supply of tea, coffee and biscuits on hand, and a garden area including raised beds and a greenhouse, there’s something for everyone at Durlston’s shed.

Items made at the shed are often sold in the shop in Durlston Castle.

Timings

There are various regular meeting times for different activities at The Shed, as well as Monday morning sessions for students from local schools.

  • Cuppa & Chat – Pop to The Shed for an informal meet-up with a friendly bunch of people, Mondays, 2pm – 4pm
  • Help a Ranger – Lend a hand with some fun DIY projects around the park, including painting and craftwork, Tuesdays 2.30pm – 4.30pm
  • Shed meet-up – Have a go at woodwork, gardening or arts & crafts, led by ‘Lead Sheddies’, Wednesdays 2.30pm – 4.30pm
  • Gardening Club – Join the group in tending to The She’d veg patch, plants and flowers – produce is sold at the plant stall to help with fundraising, Fridays 2pm – 4pm

Check out how you could learn a new skill or contribute to Durlston’s conservation in this short video:

Categories
Food & Drink Restaurants Takeaways

Fish & Chips

Fish & chip restaurant on Swanage Beach
Battered sausage, chips and a great view

A visit to Swanage isn’t complete without the time-honoured English tradition of beach-side fish & chips.

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Categories
Train stations Trains Travel

Swanage Railway Station

Swanage Railway station sign on platform
Swanage Railway is based right by the bus station

Swanage Railway Station is one of the town’s most-loved landmarks. Located close to the town centre and beach, it’s the start of a memorable journey through the picturesque landscape of the Isle of Purbeck.

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Categories
Food & Drink Pubs

The Ship Inn

Outside of The Ship Inn in Swanage
The Ship Inn

In the heart of town, The Ship Inn is a great place to wile away a couple of hours for drinks with friends or a hearty meal after a day at the beach.

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Categories
Attractions Charities Coastal

Swanage Lifeboat & Station

The George Thomas Lacy (picture credit: RNLI Swanage)

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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Categories
Cars Travel

Electric Vehicle Charging Points

Electric vehicle charging bays, Swanage

There are three main public locations in Swanage where you can recharge your electric vehicle, with some further charging stations nearby.

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Categories
Cars Petrol stations Travel

Petrol Stations

Cars at the filling station in Swanage

There’s one main filling station within Swanage itself (on Victoria Avenue) as well as a few more nearby for you to fuel up before you head out on your day’s adventure.

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Categories
Accommodation Caravan sites Holiday Parks Self-catering

Swanage Bay View Holiday Park

Blue sky and sea views at Swanage Bay View Holiday Park

Swanage Bay View Holiday Park is one of the most popular places to stay in Swanage thanks to its prime location above the town, fantastic indoor heated pool and great views over Swanage Bay.

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Categories
Accommodation Self-catering

Holiday Cottages

Folded towels on bed in holiday home at Swanage Coastal Park
Modern, fresh and cosy master bedroom

Cosy up in a home-from-home holiday cottage in the beautiful Isle of Purbeck’s only seaside town – stay in a luxury beach-side apartment for a relaxing and restorative break, a large Victorian property to spend time with the whole family, or keep it cheap with budget accommodation for a seaside staycation with friends.

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Categories
Accommodation Self-catering

Self-Catering

Sofa and chairs in comfy liounge area of Sonwhay Farm holiday cottage, The Old Workshop
Clean and cosy living room at The Old Workshop holiday cottage

Relax and rejuvenate in Dorset in a cosy holiday home-from-home by the sea or splash out on a luxury countryside villa for the whole family for the ultimate staycation experience.

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Categories
Accommodation B&B

B&Bs

Groyne stretching into the sea at Swanage Beach on a sunny day
Sandy beach at Swanage

A warm welcome awaits at one of the many family-run B&Bs in Swanage.

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Categories
Attractions Cinemas Theatres

The Mowlem

Craft stalls in the sunshine outside The Mowlem Theatre & Cinema in Swanage
The Mowlem, in the heart of town

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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Categories
Train stations Trains Travel

Harman’s Cross Railway Station

Sign for Harman's Cross station
Take a ride on the Swanage Railway

Harman’s Cross Station is one of the stops along the heritage Swanage Railway line, that runs through the Purbeck countryside to and from Swanage and Norden, via Corfe Castle.

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Categories
Shopping Supermarkets

Supermarkets

Opening hours and facilities at Swanage Co-Op

Swanage is served by two major supermarkets: Co-Op and Budgens, both of which are centrally located and easy to access.

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Categories
Museums

Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre

People outside the Swanage Museum and 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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Categories
Shopping Shops

Shops

People walking by the shops in Swanage's Institute Road

Whether you live here or are staying in Swanage on holiday there’s a broad selection of shops for all occasions – do your weekly shop at one of the supermarkets, support local business and producers at the Friday market and independent food outlets, and pick up a gift, souvenir or refresh your home decor with a unique handmade find from a local Dorset maker.

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Categories
Nature Walks & hiking

Wareham Forest

Bridle path in Wareham Forest
Wareham Forest - Explore wide bridleways and intricate deer tracks through this 45ha conifer plantation and heathland. The closest start point to Wareham town is the Sika Trail, from where you can also hire bikes

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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Categories
Property

Property

The Purbeck Ridgeway and Swanage Beach and town across the bay

Rent a home with sweeping bay views, buy a townhouse close to the central hub of Swanage, or invest in a country property in one of the Isle of Purbeck’s most sought-after villages, or require some land or a commercial property for your expanding business.

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Categories
Shopping Supermarkets

Budgens

The entrance to Swanage's Budgens store
Budgens, Swanage

Budgens is one of two main supermarkets in Swanage – Budgens is located centrally in town, and Co-Op is a stone’s throw away opposite Swanage Railway station.

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Categories
Estate Agents Property

Oliver Miles

Oliver Miles frontage on Institute Road in Swanage

Chartered Surveyors and estate agent Oliver Miles has been going strong in Swanage for over forty years and is located centrally in town.

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Categories
Estate Agents Property

Miles & Son

Miles & Son Estate Agents on the main roundabout in town, Swanage

The oldest estate agent in Swanage, first established in 1873, Miles & Son is a trusted go-to for sales and lettings in and around Swanage.

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Categories
Estate Agents Property

Corbens

Window frontage of Corbens estate agents in Swanage

Corbens is a family-run estate agency in the heart of Swanage that’s been going strong since 1896.

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Categories
Food & Drink Pubs

The Black Swan Inn

The Black Swan, on Townsend Road and High Street, Swanage
Find the Black Swan on the corner of High Street and Townsend Road

The Black Swan pub on Swanage’s High Street is a locals’ and visitors’ favourite for its great food and relaxed vibe.

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Categories
Pubs

The Red Lion

Frontage of Swanage's Red Lion pub

Situated in the heart of Swanage, The Red Lion pub is a traditional family-run establishment serving local beers, ales and hearty, old-fashioned pub grub.

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Categories
Estate Agents Property

Albury & Hall

People browsing property for sale in window of Swanage's Albury & Hall estate agents
Albury & Hall estate agents

Albury & Hall has fast become one of Dorset’s leading estate agents and property consultancies, with offices in Swanage, Wareham, Poole & Bournemouth, and London.

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Categories
Food & Drink

Restaurants

Peach pudding and ice cream, Swanage Grand Hotel

Whether you’re looking for somewhere special for a lazy brunch, or a quick, hearty bite to fuel a day exploring the Isle of Purbeck, Swanage has a great range of restaurants, cafés, pubs and takeaways.

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Categories
Careers Jobs

Jobs

Person making a takeaway coffee in a Purbeck café
Barista making coffee

There’s a diverse range of job opportunities in Swanage and the surrounding Purbeck area, from seasonal work to a variety of full and part-time employment opportunities across a range of sectors.

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Categories
Accommodation

Hotels

Folded towels on freshly made bed at the Grand Hotel in Swanage
Fresh towels and sheets

A great way to explore Dorset and the Isle of Purbeck is to stay in one of Swanage’s hotels, where you’ll have a comfortable base to return home to each day and everything you’d need on hand.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Self-catering

California Meadows Campsite

Self-catering shepherd hut for rental at California Campsite in Swanage
Views down to the Isle of Wight from the shepherd hut (picture courtesy of California Meadows)

Being set slightly above Swanage, California Meadows Campsite has spectacular views down over Swanage Bay and across to the Purbeck Hills.

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Categories
Accommodation Holiday Parks Self-catering

Sandford Holiday Park

Sign outside Parked Resort Sandford showcasing its 18-hole gold course and indoor & outdoor swimming pools

If you’re arriving to Purbeck via Poole, Bournemouth, Dorchester, or from the north of the county, you’ll likely drive through Sandford, which is home to a Parkdean holiday resort.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites Self-catering

Campsites & Caravan Sites

Caravan and tent area at Tom's Field Campsite, near Swanage
Spacious camping field

For a fun, nature-filled and budget-friendly way to holiday in Swanage, try one of the local campsites or touring parks – the back-to-basics way to explore Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

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Categories
Accommodation Self-catering Venue hire

Kombi Klassics – VW Campervan Hire

Classic VW camper vans for hire at Wareham's Kombi Klassics
VW campervan hire at Wareham's Kombi Klassics

Hire a lovingly-refurbished vintage VW campervan and explore the Dorset countryside in truly classic style – in Kombi Klassics’ words: ‘Home is where you park it’.

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Categories
Businesses Things to do

Hartland Stud

Signage for Camp Hartland, near Wareham

Historically a horse stud, Hartland is now a thriving centre for a unique range of local businesses offering classes and services to both locals and visitors, located just between Corfe Castle and Wareham.

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Categories
Accommodation Self-catering

Go Solent Motorhome Hire

One of the Roller Team motorhomes available for hire at Go Solent Motorhome Hire in Poole
Roller Team 747

Explore Purbeck’s Jurassic Coast in a luxury motorhome from Go Solent Motorhome Hire.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Self-catering

Burnbake Campsite & Lodges

Lodge amongst the trees at Burnbake Campsite, Purbeck
Lodges are tucked away in the trees

Camp amongst the woodland or in a field surrounded by wildlife, or cosy up in one of the pristine forest lodges at award-winning Burnbake.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites

Birchwood Tourist Park

Caravans pitched at the Birchwood Tourist Park by Wareham Forest

This family-friendly touring park sees return visitors year after year, with its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, great facilities and proximity to Wareham as a gateway to Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites

Steeple Leaze Farm

Camping chairs outside bell tent at Steeple Leaze Farm Campsite

Steeple Leaze is a large, spacious campsite set across fields on a working beef farm, close to the villages of Corfe Castle and Church Knowle.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites

Woodyhyde Campsite

Sign for Woodyhyde Campsite along the Valley Road toward Swanage
Woodyhyde Campsite is off Valley Road between Corfe Castle and Swanage

This well-maintained, family-run campsite situated between Corfe Castle and Swanage is popular with families and is a great base for exploring the Jurassic Coast.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites

Quarr Camping

Camping field at Quarr Campsite, Harman's Cross

Quarr Campsite is ideally located for rural camping on a friendly campsite within five minutes of both Swanage and Corfe Castle.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites

Corfe Castle Dorset Camping

Motorhomes and camping pitches at Corfe Castle Camping & Caravan Club site
Corfe Castle Camping

Located just outside the village of Corfe Castle and nestled at the foot of the famous Purbeck Ridgeway, Corfe Castle Dorset Camping is a traditional, well-kept, friendly and pleasant spot for tourers and campers.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites

Acton Field Campsite

View of Ballard Down from Acton Field Campsite
Views across farmland toward the Purbeck Hills and the Isle of Wight

Camping in the rural surrounds of the hamlet of Acton will feel like wild camping, whilst giving you just the right amount of handy mod cons, such as flushing loos and hot showers.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites

Studland Summer Camp

Two tents next to some trees
(Picture credit: Christina Peng)

Studland Summer Camp is the only naturist campsite in Purbeck and is popular with visitors wishing to visit the well-known and dedicated naturist beach in Studland Bay.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites Caravan sites Self-catering

East Creech Farm Campsite

View from the trees of motorhomes and play area at East Creech Farm Campsite, with Poole Harbour and Bournemouth in the distance
Caravans pitched at East Creech Farm Campsite

East Creech Farm is a hidden rural gem in Purbeck – a working farm that runs a campsite as well as offering camping pods and two holiday cottages.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites

Swanage Bijou Camping

Bell tent with bunting at Swanage Bijou Glamping
Swanage Bijou is the closest campsite to the beach & town

Swanage Bijou Camping is a hidden gem in the centre of Swanage, nestled within the grounds of Swanage Golf Games’ Kirkwood Park.

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Categories
Accommodation Campsites

Camp Hartland

Bell tents at Camp Hartland
Bell tents in a tranquil spot (credit: Camp Hartland)

This small-but-perfectly-formed campsite is a magical little spot for a few night’s camping – and one you can combine into a relaxing wellness retreat.

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