Swanage

A marvellously traditional seaside resort

Swanage - the beach,
looking towards Old Harry Rocks

Swanage
Located on the Isle of Purbeck's south-east coast, Swanage was originally no more than a small fishing village that initially flourished in the 19th century as a port associated with the quarrying industry, and later as a popular holiday destination. An extensive sandy beach, safe waters for bathing, a variety of entertainments and the presence of charming Victorian architecture all contribute to the town's continuing visitor appeal.

Swanage - distance from Lyndhurst
31 miles (50 kilometres) via the Sandbanks Ferry

Swanage - did you know?
Swanage is located at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, a spectacular 95 miles long stretch of coastline granted World Heritage Site status to reflect its outstanding geology. A fossil hunter's paradise!

Shopping therapy – yes

Swanage market day - Tuesday

Pubs and bars - oh yes

Swanage - an ever popular Punch and Judy show

Restaurants - of course

Nightclubs - yes

Theatre / Concerts / Cinema - try the Mowlem Theatre

Swanage Festivals
Special events and festivals are something of a Swanage speciality that often attract relatively large attendances. Check out the following before finalising dates for a visit:

Swanage Blues Festival
Swanage Regatta and Carnival Week
Swanage Triathlon
Swanage Folk Festival
Swanage Jazz Festival
Isle of Purbeck Walking Festival

Parks, gardens, children's play parks - yes, of course

Swanage Pier
Constructed at the end of the 19th century, the current pier replaced an earlier structure built in 1859 / 60 to serve the quarrying industry. Popular with strollers, anglers and scuba divers, the pier is also the departure point for a variety of pleasure cruises including those aboard the magnificently restored Waverley, the world's last ocean going paddle steamer. The pier also features a shop, cafe and exhibitions.

Swanage railway

Swanage museum
Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre

Open spaces for football, cricket, rounders and relaxing - yes

Swanage Railway
Originally opened in 1885, the town's railway closed in 1972, but not for long as by 1975 the Swanage Railway Society had taken possession of the disused Swanage station site and was intent on beginning restoration works that were to eventually provide delightful steam hauled journeys between Swanage and Norden, a little to the north of Corfe Castle.

Swanage walks
The South West Coast Path passes through the town, and Durlston Country Park is only a little to the south.