Visit Swanage a charming Victorian seaside resort

Swanage is a traditional Victorian seaside town on the Dorset coast. Located within the beautiful Isle of Purbeck, this seaside resort evokes nostalgic holidays by the sea.

Swanage is famous for its award-winning sandy beach, iconic Victorian pier, heritage steam railway, a clifftop castle and spectacular coastal scenery. 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.

Known for its mild weather and unique micro-climate, it’s a destination for all seasons with fresh air and traditional seaside fun guaranteed.

Swanage’s jewel in the crown is its golden sandy beach, which is loved by families and accessible to all visitors. But Swanage is more than just buckets and spades. From watersports including kayaking, diving, paddleboarding and sea fishing to family attractions, independent shops, cafés and coastal dining, there are countless things to do in Swanage. There’s a packed programme of year-round events and festivals for all ages and interests too.

Whether you're planning a family holiday, romantic mini-break, walking adventure or a seaside getaway, we’re sure you’ll create memories you’ll treasure forever in this pretty corner of Dorset.

Plan your visit to Swanage, find accommodation, discover upcoming events and explore more about this beautiful seaside resort.

Man and woman standing on the Banjo Pier in Swanage Dorset

Swanage in Autumn

With the rush of the summer holidays over, now is the time for a more relaxed holiday to Swanage.

Two people sat on a bench on Swanage Pier in Dorset looking towards the Purbeck hills

3 Days in Swanage

A 3 day itinerary for exploring the coastal town of Swanage in the Isle of Purbeck.

Swanage Bay Sauna

Read our guest blog about why Swanage Bay Sauna is a must visit for your holiday or day trip.

Man and woman walking along Swanage Pier in Dorset

Things To Do for Couples

If you are planning a trip to Swanage with your loved one, here's our top 10 things to see and do for couples.

Leaning about astronomy boy with telescope

Stargazing in Swanage

Swanage is the only town in Dorset where you can visit an Astronomy Centre and stargazing Observatory.

Inside Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre in Dorset

Things To Do on Rainy Days

Swanage offers plenty of rainy day attractions and activities for all ages to enjoy.

Plan Your Visit

Purbeck Breezer bus at Swanage train and bus station

How To Get Here

Swanage can be easily reached by road, coach, bus and boat, with a mainline train station just 10...

Where to Stay

For all budgets and requirements, there's a holiday accommodation in Swanage to suit.

Swanage Town Council beach huts credit Swanage Town Council

Book a Beach Hut

Beach huts are available to book for the day, week or longer.

Swanage Information Centre

Swanage Information Centre provides lots of to help make your visit to Swanage truly memorable.

Getting to Swanage

Getting to Swanage couldn't be easier. The town has good links to international airports and ferry ports as well as railway, coach and bus services, making it an accessible holiday destination in the South West.