Norden is the first – or last, depending which direction you’re coming from – stop on the Swanage Railway.
Situated just outside Corfe Castle, Norden is a handy stop for exploring the nearby Purbeck countryside. Or, if you want a car-free day of exploring, you can use the handy park-and-ride and catch a heritage steam or diesel train to Corfe, Harman’s Cross or Swanage.
Walking and biking trails lead from Norden onto Hartland Moor and across to Arne.
In the summer months, you can also pick up the bus to Corfe Castle, Swanage and Wareham from Norden, making it a good place to park-and-go to explore.
There is also a train-themed play area for little ones to let off steam while you wait for your train or bus.
Mining Museum at Norden
Norden is also home to the Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum, which takes visitors into the industrial Purbeck of the past, showcasing the area’s ball clay mining history.
Incorporating a disused underground mine, the mining museum gives a real insight into the extractive industry of Purbeck.
You can find out all about the history of the railway itself at the Swanage Railway Museum, based at Corfe Castle railway station.
Station facilities
Cycle hire
If you’ve been inspired to burn off steam yourself, why not hire a bike from Norden station and cycle to Dorset Adventure Park – an outdoor inflatable assault course situated on the Studland road between Norden and Corfe Castle.
Toilets
There are public and accessible toilets located in the car park, close to the station.
Refreshments
Norden has a small refreshment kiosk as well as dedicated picnic areas.
The nearby Norden Farm shop and garden centre also sells various picnic essentials, as well as camping, garden and pet supplies.
Norden Farm also offers seasonal camping and self-catering accommodation.
How to get to Norden station
For your SatNav: BH20 5DW
Norden station is located just off the A351.
If you’re coming from Swanage, head through Corfe Castle and take the second exit off the first roundabout outside the village where you will see signs for Norden Station and the car parking area, Purbeck Park.
Norden farm shop is just off the first exit of this roundabout.
