Looking for family friendly things to do in Swanage during the school summer holidays? We’ve got lots of ideas to make your summer the best one yet.
Boat trips, family time on the beach, carnivals, exploring castles and lots lots more will create long lasting memories.
So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable holiday to this charming coastal town in Dorset!
Beach days and watersports
Swanage Beach is a perfect spot for families wanting to enjoy the sun, sand and sea. The gently sloping sandy beach is a great place for paddling in the sea, building sandcastles and playing beach games. During the summer there is a designated swimming zone, lifeguards and Punch and Judy shows. For those seeking some adventure, you can hire kayaks and paddleboards to explore Swanage Bay.
This Blue Flag beach has clear water, soft sand and stunning views of Peveril Point and Ballard Down. And you don’t need to worry about packing chairs, sun umbrellas and wind breaks, because you can hire them for the day.
Take a step back in time
Swanage’s heritage attractions offer a glimpse into the past. Swanage Railway is a steam railway that runs from Swanage to Norden. It stops at 3 stations along the way, including the picture postcard village of Corfe Castle, where there’s a castle and model village to explore.
Durlston Country Park and Castle is another must visit attraction for families, and the added bonus is that it’s free entry. There’s plenty of space for kids to run around and burn off some energy, plus they have family friendly events, a café and picnic areas too.
Family-friendly events and festivals
Swanage Carnival © Claire Richards
During the summer holidays, Swanage comes alive with various events and festivals.
Swanage Carnival is a highlight of the summer, featuring a week of parades, live music, fireworks, and family-friendly activities. The carnival atmosphere is vibrant and offers something for everyone, and in 2025 it takes place from Saturday 27 July to Saturday 3 August.
Raising money for the RNLI, Swanage Lifeboat Week will be from Saturday 9 August to Sunday 17 August 2025. It's always hugely entertaining, and includes a raft race on the Saturday with a chance to sup a few beers afterwards at the BBQ in Prince Albert Gardens.
Purbeck Valley Folk Festival is a small, family friendly festival located at a farm on the outskirts of Swanage. It's a festival loved by everyone because there's loads for kids to do, loads for parents, and loads for the old folkies! You can camp here for the weekend and enjoy live music across 5 stages, dancing, food, drink, comedy, crafts and even a healing area. Book your tickets for 14 to 17 August 2025.
Outdoor adventures
© Cumulus Outdoor Adventure
For families who love outdoor activities, Swanage has plenty to offer. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for cycling and walking.
There’s also boat trips along the coast, coasteering, rock climbing, scuba diving and fishing trips to choose from.
Low cost activities
For those of you seeking some budget friendly options, there’s crazy golf, amusement arcades, crabbing and footgolf for those low cost or no cost days out.
At Beach Gardens Sports Park families can see who has the best skills on the putting green, play tennis or shoot some hoops on the basketball court.
Swanage also has a variety of parks and playgrounds, such as King George's Playing Field, where children can enjoy the free skate park.
Eating out
Swanage has places to eat out for all tastes and budgets. From traditional fish and chips to cafés and family-friendly restaurants, there's something for even the fussiest of eaters.
Many eateries have outdoor seating, giving families the chance to enjoy some fresh sea air as well as some summer sun.
If you’re visiting Swanage Pier, don’t forget to stop by the small visitor centre inside 1859 Pier Café to learn more about the history of this iconic landmark. The Café has fantastic views of the bay, and you’ll often see divers surfacing from their underwater explorations.
Arts and crafts
© Burngate Purbeck Stone Centre
For those interested in arts and crafts, Swanage has several workshops and galleries where kids explore can their creative sides.
At Burngate Purbeck Stone Centre, families can have a go at stone carving on a 2 hour taster course, and at the end you'll be able to take home your masterpiece as a memento of your visit to Swanage.
If drawing is something that your kids love doing, why not stop by Andy Knill's Art Studio to use the Art For Fun table. For just a small donation, children and families can use the pens and paper to create a piece of art to keep as a reminder of their holiday.
Book your summer break
Now that we’ve given you lots of inspiration for how to spend your summer in Swanage, it’s time to book somewhere to stay.
Choose from holidays parks, self-catering cottages or apartments, B&Bs, caravan parks, campsites or hotels.
