If you think that Swanage is only for summer holidays, think again...because there are some fantastic reasons to visit this charming seaside town during the winter months.
With warm and cosy accommodation perfect for unwinding during your stay, there are also winter-friendly activities for you to enjoy. Why not try stargazing, a seaside sauna or enjoying something to eat or drink at a pub with a roaring log fire!
Go stargazing in Swanage
Did you know that Swanage is the only town in Dorset to have its own astronomical observatory?
With the sky being dark enough to stargaze from just 2 hours after sunset, this means that younger members of the family can take part in astronomy events from 6pm during winter.
On a variety of dates, you can join the experts from the Wessex Astronomical Society at Durlston Country Park observatory. For a small charge, you’ll get to listen to a talk in the learning centre, followed by looking at the night sky through telescopes.
Between November and February you'll get the chance of seeing the planets, Moon, Tsuchinshan Atlas comet, as well as autumn and winter constellations. On 4th January 2025 at 6:28pm, there will be a rare event when Saturn emerges from behind the moon - one not to be missed!
So wrap up warm, bring a flask of hot drink and get ready to be amazed by our solar system, and beyond!
Seafront saunas and seaweed baths
If you want to try out the latest craze of soaking up the warmth of a sauna by the seaside, you have a couple of choices.
Just a short bus ride or drive away you’ll find the Sauna Hut at Knoll Beach in Studland, where you could combine a sauna with a seaweed spa including warm bath, face mask and foot scrub.
Coming soon – from mid-winter there will be brand new beach sauna next to Swanage Information Centre and just a quick hop across the pedestrianised road onto Swanage’s sandy beach.
Take in the beautiful views while you boost your mood and improve your physical well-being this winter. So sit back, breath deep and relax.
Entertainment for all seasons in Swanage
Located right next to Swanage Beach, The Mowlem has a theatre and cinema, plus a bar with panoramic views of Swanage Bay.
With a variety of shows, live music, movies and exhibitions, there is always something new to see and of course is brilliant for wet weather days.
Burlington Spa and indoor swimming pools
For budget friendly indoor activities, choose from a spa day or swim at one of Swanage’s indoor pools.
Burlington Health Spa and Fitness Club is at Grand Hotel. It has a heated indoor plunge pool, jacuzzi, sauna and a gym with weight room and aerobic machines. The date rate is just £9.50 per person for all facilities, or there are cheaper options if you only want to use the spa or gym (if you are staying at the hotel, the cost is included in your stay). To complete your day of relaxation, why not book a treatment with one of the beauty therapists or stop for lunch in the hotel restaurant which overlooks Swanage Bay.
There are two indoor swimming pools in Swanage which are open to the public - extra charges apply for day visitors.
At Ulwell Holiday Park’s lifeguarded indoor pool, kids will love the waterslide and separate toddler pool. Adults only swim sessions are also available for those seeking a quiet swim. The price is £5 for adults, £4 for children/OAPs and free for children under 4 years old. Booking is essential.
There is also an indoor swimming pool at Swanage Bay View Holiday Park where you can enjoy a drink afterwards in their on-site Coffee Lounge.
Warm and welcoming pubs in Swanage
There’s nothing better than going for a bracing, winter beach walk followed by toasting your feet by the fire in a pub.
There’s lots of pubs and inns located in Swanage and the surrounding villages which have log fires or wood burning stoves. All of them serve food and for those of you who enjoy a roast dinner, some have a Sunday Lunch menu too.
Within Swanage town centre seek out The Black Swan, The Crows Nest or The White Horse.
A short bus ride or drive away you’ll find traditional country pubs in neighbouring villages - The Kings Arms at Langton Matravers, The Bankes Arms Country Inn at Studland, The Scott Arms at Kingston and The Bankes Arms at Corfe Castle.
One of Dorset’s most loved pubs is the Square and Compass at Worth Matravers. Renowned for its local ales and quirky layout, there are two small rooms inside to enjoy a drink and a pasty. And there’s a fossil museum (free entry) next door with interesting and curious finds from the local beaches.
Book your winter break to Swanage
If you’re seeking the perfect place to hibernate away from the winter weather, there’s lots of accommodation options to choose from in Swanage.
Hotels with seaviews, cute cottages, seafront apartments, holiday parks and more – there’s something to suit any budget or requirement, and many offer discounts or special offers during the winter months. So go ahead, book yourself a bargain break!
