Is there much to do in Swanage?

Yes, Swanage offers a wealth of activities, making it a bustling destination for all ages. Located on the Jurassic Coast, it features a sandy beach, the historic Swanage Railway, a pier, and nearby attractions like Durlston Country Park, providing a mix of traditional seaside fun, outdoor adventure, and local heritage.

Is Swanage worth visiting?

Yes, Swanage is definitely worth visiting, especially for families, beach lovers, and those exploring the Jurassic Coast, offering nostalgic Victorian charm, Blue Flag beaches, steam train rides to Corfe Castle, coastal walks, and a relaxed atmosphere with independent shops and eateries. It's a classic British seaside town ideal for relaxing breaks, water sports, and exploring geological wonders.
 

How to spend a day in Swanage?

Swanage -- a cute little town I really want to explore properly

• 1. Visit the Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre
• 2. Explore the streets of Old London by the Sea
• 3. Walk in the footsteps of Enid Blyton
• 4. See the World at Durlston Country Park
• 5. Gorge on chocolate and cheese

How long to spend in Swanage?

A 3 day getaway in Swanage offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and cultural exploration. Swanage is a charming seaside town located in the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset.

What activities are available for tourists in Swanage?

Top Things to Do in Swanage and Purbeck

• Tyneham. Tyneham is a small abandoned village around 5 miles west of Corfe Castle which was taken over by the army in World War Two to use as target practice area.
• Worth Matravers. ...
• Durlston Castle. ...
• Studland. ...
• Durlston Country Park. ...
• Old Harry Rocks. ...
• Beaches around Purbeck. ...
• Corfe Castle.

Should You Visit Swanage 2023

Is Swanage a bit rough?

January 2021 was also a bad month for Swanage residents, when it was Dorset's most dangerous area for theft from the person, recording 1 crime at a rate of 0.11 per 1,000 daytime population. The most common crimes in Swanage are violence and sexual offences, with 174 offences during 2025, giving a crime rate of 18.

What is the prettiest seaside town in Dorset?

While "prettiest" is subjective, Lyme Regis, known as the "Pearl of Dorset," is consistently praised for its stunning Jurassic Coast scenery, historic Cobb harbour, and charming, fossil-rich beaches, rivaled by the classic Victorian charm of Swanage with its sandy bay and colourful beach huts, and the lively, family-friendly Weymouth with its Georgian seafront and vibrant harbour.
 

Which is nicer, Swanage or Lyme Regis?

It may come as no surprise to see the best beach resort in Dorset is Lyme Regis, closely followed by Swanage. Weymouth, Poole and Bournemouth also made the list, each scoring highly for their beaches.

How much does it cost to go on Swanage Pier?

Admission prices

To take a stroll along Swanage Pier, there is a small charge of £1.80 for adults. Children (up to 14) are free and must be accompanied by a responsible adult. An annual Strolling Pass costs £24.

Is Swanage good for shopping?

Swanage town centre has a bustling high street filled with small, independent shops as well as well-known brands. There's also an outdoor town market every Friday. From boutiques and art galleries to chocolate makers and delicatessens, you'll find everything you need in Swanage.

Does Swanage have a market day?

Swanage Market is held weekly every Friday morning from 8am to 1pm in the Main Beach Car Park (Victoria Avenue). It is developing into a busy and vibrant market with many returning customers every week. We have a wide variety of goods and fresh produce sold by our friendly traders.

Why do tourists visit Swanage?

The town has kept much of its original Victorian charm with a magnificent heritage pier, steam railway and clifftop castle. Sometimes known as 'Little London By The Sea', you'll notice architecturally impressive buildings within the town, some of which originate from England's capital city.

What is the prettiest place in Dorset?

Dorset's prettiest spots are subjective but often include the iconic Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove for dramatic Jurassic Coast scenery, the fairy-tale village of Corfe Castle with its ruins, the famous hilltop Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, and the charming seaside town of Lyme Regis with its historic Cobb harbour, alongside stunning viewpoints like Golden Cap and tranquil islands like Brownsea Island, offering diverse natural beauty and historic charm. 

Can you see dolphins in Swanage?

There are many good vantage points and benches along the coast path of Durlston Country Park from which to admire the view and watch for seabirds and dolphins – a pair of binoculars is recommended for experiencing these relatively rarely-sighted, friendly mammals.

Can you park for free in Swanage?

Free parking in Swanage

Useful places to look include Northbrook Road outside Day's Park and some of the roads in the Durlston area. Some car parks are also free during evening hours, such as Co-Op Food on King's Road West, which is free from 7pm - 8am.

Is Swanage Railway worth it?

Authentic Steam Railway

This did not disappoint. We were staying in Swanage 5 minute walk away, took the first train to Corfe for a day out returning late afternoon. The line is professionally run with absolutely everything in period styling, very authentic. Had to give 4stars as they do not accept cash.

Is there a ferry from Poole to Swanage?

BOURNEMOUTH-SWANAGE MOTOR ROAD AND FERRY COMPANY

The company operates the "Bramble Bush Bay" chain ferry that crosses the entrance to Poole Harbour between Sandbanks and Shell Bay. The shortest route connecting BOURNEMOUTH and POOLE with SWANAGE. Saving over 25 miles on a return journey from Poole to Swanage.

What is the nicest coastal town in Dorset?

While "prettiest" is subjective, Lyme Regis, known as the "Pearl of Dorset," is consistently praised for its stunning Jurassic Coast scenery, historic Cobb harbour, and charming, fossil-rich beaches, rivaled by the classic Victorian charm of Swanage with its sandy bay and colourful beach huts, and the lively, family-friendly Weymouth with its Georgian seafront and vibrant harbour.
 

Was any of Harry Potter filmed in Dorset?

Yes, parts of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince were filmed in Dorset, specifically at Abbotsbury Swannery, where the reed beds were used to digitally create the exterior of the Weasley family's home, The Burrow, for night shots. Dorset's film locations, Dorset's film locations
 

Is Swanage a nice town?

The coastal town is known for its quaint housing and charming independent shops. Here you can enjoy a balance of stability, decent amenities and a classic seaside living experience without being overwhelmed with modern-day trendiness.

What is the poshest seaside town in the UK?

The 10 Most Expensive Coastal Towns in England 2020

• Sandbanks, Poole (£1,243,364 Average asking price, May 2020) ...
• Canford Cliffs, Poole (£1,011,466) ...
• Salcombe, Devon (£730,213) ...
• Aldeburgh, Suffolk (£570,831) ...
• Milford On Sea, Hampshire (£565,408) ...
• Padstow, Cornwall (£497,051) ...
• Barton On Sea, Hampshire (£494,493)

What is the posh area of Dorset?

Britain's most expensive seaside location revealed

Sandbanks in Dorset topped the list in the survey by Lloyds bank, which tracked house price movements in 197 coastal locations. It found the average house price in the area sat at £965,708 last year, which was actually down by more than £33,500 compared with 2023.