Spots you can’t miss in and around Swanage
Swanage is an idyllic seaside town on Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck, Swanage and the nearby areas make for the perfect day out. With its iconic steam railway, shows of traditional Punch and Judy on the beach, a beautiful beach in a sweeping bay, and plenty of nearby nature, there is lots to see and do in and near Swanage.
Not only is the seaside town of Swanage beautiful in a quintessentially traditional English way but, the areas surrounding Swanage are also, and there are tons to see and do in the town itself. So, whether you live nearby in Dorset and are just looking for a few new things to do or you’re planning a staycation to Dorset and looking for places to visit in Dorset then here’s a round-up of all the best things to do in and near Swanage.
Planning a visit to Dorset? You might also enjoy reading Best Places To Visit In Coastal Dorset.
Take a ride on Swanage Railway
What better way to see a quintessentially English town than to take a ride on a traditional steam train? The train runs between Norden – Corfe Castle (more on this later) and the coastal town of Swanage. It’s more expensive than a usual train but can you blame it for the unique experience that you’ll get with this journey!
Durlston Country Park
Durlston Castle and Country Park can be found 1 mile from Swanage in Dorset. It is a fabulous 320-acre countryside paradise and is one of the top things to do near Swanage. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a coastal walk and take in the views of Swanage from afar. There are plenty of marked walking trails, as well as a visitor centre and cafe in the restored Durlston Castle.
The perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring Dorsets Jurassic coast.
Take a walk on Swanage Pier
Swanage Pier is a restored Victorian seaside pier located at the far Southern end of Swanage. As well as the beautiful view that you get over Swanage from it there is also a cafe on it and a diving shop. It’s a popular spot to dive from and get your PADI licence if this is something that interests you (personally we prefer the warmer water). If not, it’s a beautiful spot for a walk!
Visit Corfe Castle
A different spot from the usual coastal towns that you usually find within the top things to do near Swanage. But, the crumbling walls of Corfe Castle make for an epic place to admire nested amongst the countryside, so whether you’re bringing the whole family or coming as a couple this is a must add onto your itinerary. If you are part of the National Trust then you can visit for free! If not a ticket costs £11 for an adult and £5.50 for a child.
Old Harry Rocks
Old Harry Rocks are three chalk formations, including a stack and a stump, standing tall on the southern end of Studland Bay. The rocks are one of the most famous landmarks on the South Coast and a brilliant spot to visit for a beautiful view over the Jurassic Coast.
You can opt to walk from Swanage to Old Harry Rocks. The walk takes around 1.5-2 hours and is considered moderate. Despite it being challenging in parts the walk is mostly a leisurely stroll across the top of Ballard Down, with beautiful panoramic views of Poole Harbour and Swanage Bay. You can read more about the hike on AllTrails here.
Studland Bay
A beautiful part of the Jurassic Coast in Dorset is Studland. A must-see thing to do near Swanage. A vast stretch of white sandy beach Studland is a far more ‘raw’ beach than its neighbouring Sandbanks or Bournemouth Beaches. With a backdrop of sandy dunes and incredible views over Old Harry in the distance, Studland is a spot to not be missed come winter or summer.
If you fancy treating yourself during your visit to Studland then pop into The Pig on the beach for a coffee or cocktail depending on what mood you’re in! It’s a large restaurant sitting on the cliffside with a wonderful interior and views complete with a restaurant and bar. If this isn’t your thing then there are also plenty of cafes dotted along the beachside where you can grab a coffee for your walk.
Swanage Beach
We couldn’t write a list of things to do near Swanage without including the Beach, the beautiful sandy beach is certainly of the main local attractions. It’s beautiful all along but, if you head towards the North end of Swanage then you’ll be met with uninterrupted views, clear blue water and Old Harry just around the corner. Not many people seem to venture this way. Therefore, you’ll also have a lot more space on the beach here compared to if you stop in the main section.
