Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre

The Museum and Heritage Centre is situated in the Old Market Building (built in the 1890's) on Swanage seafront on the site of the former 'Bankers' where the local quarried stone was stored before shipment. The Centre contains information on the history, geology and geography of the town and surrounding area. Educational packs are available and talks can be given. There is also a small retail area including local crafts.

As well as the Museum itself, there is a research room where access can be provided to an extensive photo and newspaper archive which is constantly being updated. The staff are able to provide access and assistance to those people researching their family trees through early parish registers, burial records, rates books and trade directories. Access to early maps of the town and environment are available for public viewing. Items in the collection but not on view at the Museum may be accessed through an appointment with the Curator or the Collections Manager.

There are a team of dedicated researchers to help with any enquiry about Swanage and its environment.

There is no charge for any research, but donations are gratefully received as the Museum is run as an entirely voluntary organisation. To contact us for research please call or email: swanagemusuem@swanagemuseum.plus.net