Visit Swanage a charming Victorian seaside resort

Located within the beautiful Isle of Purbeck on Dorset’s coastline, the seaside resort of Swanage evokes nostalgic holidays by the sea.

Known for its mild weather and unique micro-climate, it’s a destination for all seasons with fresh air and traditional seaside fun guaranteed. There’s a packed programme of year-round events and festivals for all ages and interests too.

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.

Swanage’s jewel in the crown is the award-winning golden sandy beach which is a firm favourite with families and is accessible to all visitors. But Swanage is more than just buckets and spades, it’s also a haven for watersport enthusiasts for diving, kayaking and sea fishing along this stretch of the world-famous Jurassic Coast.

Whether you’re visiting for a walking break to explore the South West Coast Path or seeking a relaxing seaside holiday, we’re sure you’ll create memories you’ll treasure forever in this pretty corner of Dorset.

The Punch and Judy Show on Swanage Beach in Dorset

The best of arts, culture and history

Get the inside scoop from a local about Swanage's arts, culture and history.

A variety of drinks served at The Narrows Kitchen and Bar in Swanage, Dorset

New places to eat & drink

Discover 5 newly opened restaurants and cafes in Swanage to enjoy a meal or a drink.

Man and woman walking towards Ballard Down in Swanage, Dorset

Walking and Trails

There are many coastal and countryside walking trails to follow in Swanage.

Wild swimmers in the sea near Swanage Pier in Dorset

Sea Swimming

Take the plunge in Swanage - swim with a local group or join a wild swimming retreat.

Monkey Beach in Swanage Dorset copyright Lyons Photography

Dog Friendly

Many of the parks, attractions and eateries welcome dogs and Monkey Beach is dog friendly all year round.

Stargazing in Swanage

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

Plan Your Visit

Swanage Recreation Ground beach huts and beach in Dorset copyright Lyons Photography

Explore and Discover

Swanage is located on the Jurassic Coast - a natural World Heritage Site.

Steam train pulling into Swanage Railway Station in Dorset

Travelling Around Swanage

Neighbouring villages and local landmarks can be reached by bus and train.

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.