If you're planning a trip to Swanage and want to make your money stretch further, you're in luck - this charming seaside town has lots of free activities and attractions for the perfect budget friendly getaway. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or a longer holiday, there are many free things to do where you can soak up the beauty, history, and atmosphere of Swanage without breaking the bank.
Durlston Country Park
A must-visit for nature enthusiasts, Durlston Country Park is a 320-acre paradise of coastal cliffs, wildflower meadows, and woodland trails.
Entry is free, and the park is home to the iconic Durlston Castle, which has a visitor centre with exhibitions and panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.
Spot dolphins from the cliffs, explore the Great Globe, and enjoy peaceful walks surrounded by wildlife. There’s also a café and scenic picnic areas too, so it's a brilliant place to visit for a budget friendly day out in Swanage.
It’s about a 30 minute walk from the town centre or there’s a large car park if you choose to drive – parking charges apply.
Swanage Beach
Swanage’s award-winning sandy beach is perfect for a relaxing day out. Build sandcastles, paddle in the clear waters, or simply soak up the sun. The beach is family-friendly and ideal for picnics, with nearby free toilets, showers and water refill points, as well as stunning views across the bay.
If your kids are desperate to build a sandcastle but you don’t have any beach toys with you, don’t worry. You can find a Beach Toy Library outside the Information Centre opposite the beach, where you can borrow a variety of toys for free. Just return them at the end of your day for the next family to enjoy.
Swanage Bandstand
The restored Edwardian bandstand at the Recreation Ground hosts free live music during the summer months. Bring a picnic blanket or chair, enjoy the sea breeze, and listen to local bands and performers in a charming seaside setting. It’s a quintessential Swanage experience that captures the town’s community spirit.
If you have children with you, there is a play area right next door to the Bandstand which is suitable for younger children, and there's free public toilets nearby as well.
Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre
Located in the historic Old Market Building, the Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past.
Admission is free, and visitors can explore exhibits on local geology, maritime history, and Victorian Swanage. It’s a great way to learn about the area’s rich heritage.
Gardens and Green Spaces
Swanage has many beautifully maintained public gardens that are perfect for a peaceful stroll or a summertime picnic, and all of them are free to visit.
Prince Albert Gardens near the seafront features an amphitheatre, seating areas, and gorgeous views across Swanage Bay and the Pier.
Children's Play Areas and Skate Park
Families will find plenty of free fun at Swanage’s play areas. King George’s Field has a well-equipped children’s playground and a modern skate park for older kids and teens. It’s a lively space where children can burn off energy while parents relax nearby.
Head over to Beach Gardens Sports Park to use the free Basketball Court or Table Tennis. If you need to borrow bats and balls, you can hire them for a small charge from Tea On The Green (next to the Tennis Courts) which is open from April to September.
Spyway Dinosaur Footprints
Located near Swanage, the Spyway Dinosaur Footprints offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistory. Over 100 fossilised tracks - believed to be the footprints of giant sauropods like Brachiosaurus - are preserved in a rock layer dating back around 145 million years.
You can walk to the Dinosaur Footprints from the National Trust’s Spyway car park on a 1 mile walk along the historic Priest’s Way trail. It’s a free, family-friendly experience that brings the Jurassic Coast’s rich heritage vividly to life.
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Swanage hosts a variety of free events, from food festivals and carnivals to gig racing and pirate festivals. Take a look at the events list for opportunities to join in the fun and experience the town’s vibrant culture.
Budget Friendly Holidays to Swanage
Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, Swanage has plenty to offer for budget savvy travellers. As well as free attractions and activities, you might also want to look out for discounts and special offers at local attractions and eateries.
When choosing somewhere to stay, many of the accommodation options in Swanage offer seasonal deals when travelling off-peak. The added bonus is that when you visit outside of the summer season, there'll be less crowds as well as cheaper prices.
Once you arrive in Swanage, make the Information Centre near the beach your first place to visit for all the inside knowledge of budget friendly things to do during your visit. You can also pick up maps and leaflets here to help you make the most of your time in the town.
