Swanage

Swanage has one of the cleanest, safest beaches on the South Coast. Attractions range from Punch & Judy, canoes and pedaloes to water skiing and scuba diving. Take a walk along the restored pier or take a boat trip to view the Jurassic Coast, the new World Heritage Site which starts at Old Harry Rocks near Swanage and ends at Orcombe Point, Devon.

The town itself has many interesting shops and plenty of cafes, tea-rooms and a Friday Market.  Relax in the beautiful seafront gardens or have a go on the putting greens, bowling green or tennis courts at Beach Gardens - directly opposite Glenlee Guest House. Visit the Heritage Centre, the Mill Pond and if you're into steam the Swanage Railway.

Swanage is the ideal place for walkers. The coastal paths are stunning and Durlston Country Park contains miles of peaceful walks and much rare wildlife from Orchids to Dartford Warblers.

The newly refurbished Durlston Castle is now a visitor centre with interactive displays, a gallery, cinema, shop and restaurant.

 

Things to do in Swanage

Swanage Beach and Bay - Facing east, this Blue Flag-awarded bay with its beautiful sandy beach is normally calm and sheltered and good for swimming, sailing and scuba diving.

Swanage Railway - The Swanage Railway offers a more intensive heritage steam and diesel timetable train service than virtually any other preserved railway.

Old Harry Rocks - Breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast and unique rock formations.

The Square and Compass - Unchanging country pub at Worth Matravers with masses of character. In the same family for many years. Lovely sea views and fine nearby walks.

Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre - Open May to September 30th (10am-5pm), October (10.30am-4.30pm), November (weekends only 11-3pm)

Studland Beach and Nature Reserve - The inspiration for Noddy's Toytown, this is a beautiful four-mile stretch of sand with gently shelving bathing waters. Ideal for water sports and includes the most popular naturist beach in Britain. The heathland behind the beach is a haven for native wildlife.

Durlston Country Park - Durlston Country Park has 280 acres of very special countryside. Established in the 1970s by Dorset County Council, it is a superb site for all to enjoy. Durlston Castle was restored in 2011 as a spectacular new facility for visitors to Durlston and the Jurassic Coast.

Swanage Pier - Whether you're diving, sailing, fishing or simply strolling, Swanage Pier offers something for everyone including, of course, the finest views of Swanage.

Swanage Tourist Information - Swanage Tourist Information Centre (T.I.C.) is an excellent point of reference for all visitors to the area. Its friendly staff will be delighted to help you plan your holiday and find out more about the area.

Swanage Open Air Market - Fridays, from 3 April to 30 October, at Victoria Avenue car park (BH19 1AP).

RSPB Bird Reserve, Arne - An unusual and special landscape where you can enjoy a vast expanse of open heathland and old oak woodland. Arne is a fantastic place for family walks and has regular children's days so all the family can learn about the unique nature of the heaths.

Lulworth Cove - a cove near the village of West Lulworth, close to the rock arch of Durdle Door and other Jurassic Coast World Heritage sites. It is one of the world's finest examples of such a landform, and is a tourist location with approximately 500,000 visitors a year.