Attractions and Activities in Swanage

Wondering what there is to do during a trip to Swanage? No matter if you’re just here for the day or staying a little longer, we’re sure you’ll have a fantastic time. 

Rain or shine, the town’s popular attractions and activities provide hours of fun and entertainment.  

Whether you want to walk the South West Coast Path, take a boat trip or simply relax in a deckchair on the beautiful sandy beach, there is lots of choice for all ages and budgets in Swanage. 

Sports and activities 

Being on the coast but within easy reach of the surrounding countryside, Swanage is the perfect place to visit for a walking break or to head out for a day of walking during your stay. There’s lots of routes to choose from including history and art trails. 

Feeling adventurous? Why not try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, coasteering or abseiling? You might even want to go sea fishing, learn bushcraft skills or go foraging for your dinner! 

Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach you’ll find the Beach Garden Sports Park with tennis courts, outdoor bowls, an 18 hole putting green and basketball court – great value fun for all members of the family. 

History and heritage 

Swanage’s heritage attractions really do evoke the Victorian era.  

Imagine that you’ve stepped back in time as you board the Swanage Railway or take a stroll along the restored Pier.  

A visit to Durlston Country Park’s Castle and Great Globe is a must with fantastic views of the town and Jurassic Coast. And if you want to learn more about the history of the town, the Museum and Heritage Centre down on the seafront tells the story of ‘Little London by the Sea’. 

Arts and crafts 

A few miles outside of Swanage and easily reached by bus, why not create your own piece of art at Burngate Purbeck Stone Centre. You’ll learn stone carving skills and get to take home a souvenir of your visit to Swanage. 

Want to see the latest blockbuster movie or take in a show? The Mowlem Theatre and Cinema is the perfect place for some evening entertainment or for rainy days.  

The Swanage and Isle of Purbeck Sculpture Trail is an exciting way to discover the stone heritage of the local area. Visit various locations in the town centre and surrounding villages to see artwork by local artists as well as beautiful architecture. 

Family fun 

Hearing the ‘choo choo’ of the Swanage Railway steam trains will make visitors of all ages smile from ear to ear. Kids big and small will love getting the train from Swanage Railway Station for a day out to Corfe Castle. The train also stops at Norden, Herston and Harman's Cross. 

It wouldn’t be a visit to the seaside without going to the amusement arcades. Have a go on the 2p machines, test your skill to win a cuddly toy or play retro arcade games – the kids will love it! 

A great low-cost activity for all ages, crazy golf is fun for all the family and there’s two courses to choose from in Swanage.