Mehmet's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Durlston Castle and Country Park, situated 1 mile from Swanage in Dorset, is a fabulous 320 acre countryside paradise. At this National Nature Reserve you'll find dramatic sea-cliffs, coastal limestone downland, haymeadows, hedgerows and woodland.
With stunning views, walking trails, the historic Great Globe, superb geology, fascinating wildlife and Durlston Castle, there is always something different to see and do.
Durlston is a gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site which runs from Exmouth in the west to Old Harry Rocks at Ballard Down just north of Swanage. The Park is also designated as Heritage Coast, Special Area of Conservation, Site of Special Scientific Interest, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and National Nature Reserve. Our offshore waters are part of the Marine Research Area. This makes Durlston and the surrounding area a very special place for wildlife and geology.
The Victorian Castle has been wonderfully restored and is fully accessible - you'll find a historical timeline connecting the car park to the castle, telling you the story of the Park.
81 íbúar mæla með
Durlston Country Park og þjóðgarður
Lighthouse RoadDurlston Castle and Country Park, situated 1 mile from Swanage in Dorset, is a fabulous 320 acre countryside paradise. At this National Nature Reserve you'll find dramatic sea-cliffs, coastal limestone downland, haymeadows, hedgerows and woodland.
With stunning views, walking trails, the historic Great Globe, superb geology, fascinating wildlife and Durlston Castle, there is always something different to see and do.
Durlston is a gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site which runs from Exmouth in the west to Old Harry Rocks at Ballard Down just north of Swanage. The Park is also designated as Heritage Coast, Special Area of Conservation, Site of Special Scientific Interest, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and National Nature Reserve. Our offshore waters are part of the Marine Research Area. This makes Durlston and the surrounding area a very special place for wildlife and geology.
The Victorian Castle has been wonderfully restored and is fully accessible - you'll find a historical timeline connecting the car park to the castle, telling you the story of the Park.
Is there a better way to arrive in a historic seaside town than onboard a steam train? Swanage Railway is a heritage railway running across the Isle of Purbeck, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Swanage.
For the ultimate day out, park at Norden and hop on a steam train to the coast. Along the way, you’ll pass by the stunning vista of Corfe Castle, as well as beautiful farmland, before pulling into the restored historic station in Swanage town centre.
Alternatively, if you’re staying in Swanage, you could use the Railway for a fun day trip to visit Corfe Castle. They also run several special events throughout the year, such as the Santa Special at Christmas time. So keep an eye on the website to see what’s on.
80 íbúar mæla með
Swanage Railway station
Station RoadIs there a better way to arrive in a historic seaside town than onboard a steam train? Swanage Railway is a heritage railway running across the Isle of Purbeck, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Swanage.
For the ultimate day out, park at Norden and hop on a steam train to the coast. Along the way, you’ll pass by the stunning vista of Corfe Castle, as well as beautiful farmland, before pulling into the restored historic station in Swanage town centre.
Alternatively, if you’re staying in Swanage, you could use the Railway for a fun day trip to visit Corfe Castle. They also run several special events throughout the year, such as the Santa Special at Christmas time. So keep an eye on the website to see what’s on.
Swanage is every bit the quintessential seaside town, so of course the beach is another of the best things to do. The sweeping sandy beach is one of the most popular beaches in Dorset. Especially because it’s won many European Blue Flag Awards and the Seaside Award. The bay is generally calm so it’s ideal for swimming.
This is a great beach for families, boasting some really good facilities including public toilets, beach huts for hire, and lots of nearby amusement arcades and parks.
70 íbúar mæla með
Swanage Beachfront
Shore RoadSwanage is every bit the quintessential seaside town, so of course the beach is another of the best things to do. The sweeping sandy beach is one of the most popular beaches in Dorset. Especially because it’s won many European Blue Flag Awards and the Seaside Award. The bay is generally calm so it’s ideal for swimming.
This is a great beach for families, boasting some really good facilities including public toilets, beach huts for hire, and lots of nearby amusement arcades and parks.
Just down the road, the stunning Corfe Castle is a must-visit if you’re exploring Dorset. It was built over one thousand years ago, but was partly destroyed in 1646 during the English Civil War.
Today, the remaining ruins stand proudly on a hilltop in Purbeck, creating a striking image. As well as a fascinating history – and plenty of ghost stories and gruesome tales – the castle offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. When you’re done exploring, call into any of the pubs in Corfe Village for lunch, or head to a local tearoom for a cream tea.
425 íbúar mæla með
Corfe Castle
Just down the road, the stunning Corfe Castle is a must-visit if you’re exploring Dorset. It was built over one thousand years ago, but was partly destroyed in 1646 during the English Civil War.
Today, the remaining ruins stand proudly on a hilltop in Purbeck, creating a striking image. As well as a fascinating history – and plenty of ghost stories and gruesome tales – the castle offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. When you’re done exploring, call into any of the pubs in Corfe Village for lunch, or head to a local tearoom for a cream tea.
One of the most iconic sights in Swanage is the town’s pier. The restored Victorian seaside pier extends into the southern end of the bay. As well as offering charming views of the beach, the pier also boasts a lot of history. And there’s a surprising amount to do here.
Interestingly, this is a popular dive spot, with lots of sea life making a home beneath the pier’s boards. Several companies also offer sailing trips leaving from the pier. And the Swanage Pier Trust runs multiple events throughout the year, such as guided and self-guided walks. Keep an eye on their website to see what’s on when you visit.
31 íbúar mæla með
Swanage Pier
Swanage PierOne of the most iconic sights in Swanage is the town’s pier. The restored Victorian seaside pier extends into the southern end of the bay. As well as offering charming views of the beach, the pier also boasts a lot of history. And there’s a surprising amount to do here.
Interestingly, this is a popular dive spot, with lots of sea life making a home beneath the pier’s boards. Several companies also offer sailing trips leaving from the pier. And the Swanage Pier Trust runs multiple events throughout the year, such as guided and self-guided walks. Keep an eye on their website to see what’s on when you visit.
One of my personal favourite spots on the Isle of Purbeck is Studland Beach and Nature Reserve, which is just along the coast from Swanage. Protected by the National Trust, Studland boasts over 4 miles of sandy beaches, dotted with rolling dunes and drifting seagrasses.
As well as the beach, the national nature reserve is made up of heaths, wetlands, and woodlands. The area is a haven for native flora and fauna, especially the heathland behind the beach, which is home to all six species of native British reptiles.
52 íbúar mæla með
Studland Nature Reserve
Beach RoadOne of my personal favourite spots on the Isle of Purbeck is Studland Beach and Nature Reserve, which is just along the coast from Swanage. Protected by the National Trust, Studland boasts over 4 miles of sandy beaches, dotted with rolling dunes and drifting seagrasses.
As well as the beach, the national nature reserve is made up of heaths, wetlands, and woodlands. The area is a haven for native flora and fauna, especially the heathland behind the beach, which is home to all six species of native British reptiles.
The Isle of Purbeck has a long history of quarrying rock, including the famous local Portland Limestone used by Christopher Wren in the construction of buildings like St Paul’s Cathedral. So the coastline outside of Swanage is dotted with historic quarries.
Just up the road from the town, the Burngate Stone Carving Centre draws on this rich heritage. The centre provides facilities and expert tuition for traditional stone carving skills. They also offer a range of courses, regular exhibitions of sculpture, and a variety of family activities during the school holidays.
Burngate Stone Carving Centre
Kingston RoadThe Isle of Purbeck has a long history of quarrying rock, including the famous local Portland Limestone used by Christopher Wren in the construction of buildings like St Paul’s Cathedral. So the coastline outside of Swanage is dotted with historic quarries.
Just up the road from the town, the Burngate Stone Carving Centre draws on this rich heritage. The centre provides facilities and expert tuition for traditional stone carving skills. They also offer a range of courses, regular exhibitions of sculpture, and a variety of family activities during the school holidays.
You can’t beat an old-school arcade at the seaside! This has always been one of my favourite things to do in Swanage, and there are several to choose from. Cheesy? Yes! But it’s a great way to while away a bit of time, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worst.
K’s Funworld Swanage
11 Shore RdYou can’t beat an old-school arcade at the seaside! This has always been one of my favourite things to do in Swanage, and there are several to choose from. Cheesy? Yes! But it’s a great way to while away a bit of time, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worst.
This is one of the best things to do if you’re interested in learning a little more about the local history of the area. As well as the history of the town, there’s a focus on the geology and geography of the surrounding area.
The museum is free, but is run by volunteers and totally dependant on donations. So be sure to offer a little something, or spend some money in the gift shop, which has a great range of locally made crafts.
12 íbúar mæla með
Swanage Museum
The SquareThis is one of the best things to do if you’re interested in learning a little more about the local history of the area. As well as the history of the town, there’s a focus on the geology and geography of the surrounding area.
The museum is free, but is run by volunteers and totally dependant on donations. So be sure to offer a little something, or spend some money in the gift shop, which has a great range of locally made crafts.
Food scene
Multi-award-winning chocolatiers Chococo hail from Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The company was set up right here in Swanage by husband & wife team Andy & Claire Burnet. And although they now enjoy national recognition, with shops across the country, they certainly haven’t forgotten their roots!
You can visit the original Chocolate House in Swanage to indulge your sweet tooth. The on-site cafe is perfect for relaxing with a hot chocolate and a yummy cake (or two!). Chococo also offer workshops, tastings, and parties in their chocolate kitchen opposite the shop.
21 íbúar mæla með
Chococo
23A Commercial RdMulti-award-winning chocolatiers Chococo hail from Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The company was set up right here in Swanage by husband & wife team Andy & Claire Burnet. And although they now enjoy national recognition, with shops across the country, they certainly haven’t forgotten their roots!
You can visit the original Chocolate House in Swanage to indulge your sweet tooth. The on-site cafe is perfect for relaxing with a hot chocolate and a yummy cake (or two!). Chococo also offer workshops, tastings, and parties in their chocolate kitchen opposite the shop.
Pop in downstairs to our very own Wimpy and enjoy some comfort food right at your doorstep!
The famous Wimpy brand is well-known across the UK and the first restaurant opened in 1954.
Since then many on the casual diners have closed, with the Wimpy in Swanage being Dorset’s last remaining one.
Renowned for its mouth-watering range of Wimpy burgers - choose between 100% British Beef, Chicken, Fish or Meat-Free alternatives - today’s menu also includes a selection of Tasty Sides, Classic Breakfasts & Muffins, Grill Plates, Delicious Desserts, Iconic Thick Shakes and a great value Kids’ range. With table service from our friendly staff, you can relax in our restaurant and enjoy a hearty meal any time of the day, or simply stop by for a freshly brewed coffee and snack. You can also get your favourite dis
Wimpy
5 Institute RoadPop in downstairs to our very own Wimpy and enjoy some comfort food right at your doorstep!
The famous Wimpy brand is well-known across the UK and the first restaurant opened in 1954.
Since then many on the casual diners have closed, with the Wimpy in Swanage being Dorset’s last remaining one.
Renowned for its mouth-watering range of Wimpy burgers - choose between 100% British Beef, Chicken, Fish or Meat-Free alternatives - today’s menu also includes a selection of Tasty Sides, Classic Breakfasts & Muffins, Grill Plates, Delicious Desserts, Iconic Thick Shakes and a great value Kids’ range. With table service from our friendly staff, you can relax in our restaurant and enjoy a hearty meal any time of the day, or simply stop by for a freshly brewed coffee and snack. You can also get your favourite dis
This Italian restaurant in Swanage has been open since 1970, offering a bright continental cafe-style area, with fully opening south facing windows.
The setting is popular for families looking for homemade pizza, pasta and fresh seafood or a glass of delicious Italian wine.
Menu choices include the Spaghetti Al Pomodoro, made with slim spaghetti with classic onion, herb and tomato sauce.
Or why not try one of the pizzas. All pizzas are made with 11 inch bases, made on the premises to a Forte family recipe. The pizza sauce is homemade from Italian tomatoes and fresh herbs.
10 íbúar mæla með
La Trattoria
12 High StThis Italian restaurant in Swanage has been open since 1970, offering a bright continental cafe-style area, with fully opening south facing windows.
The setting is popular for families looking for homemade pizza, pasta and fresh seafood or a glass of delicious Italian wine.
Menu choices include the Spaghetti Al Pomodoro, made with slim spaghetti with classic onion, herb and tomato sauce.
Or why not try one of the pizzas. All pizzas are made with 11 inch bases, made on the premises to a Forte family recipe. The pizza sauce is homemade from Italian tomatoes and fresh herbs.
Open everyday serving breakfasts, sandwiches, cakes, burgers and daily specials. The restaurant is open 7 days a week with late openings on a Friday and Saturday. This is a dog friendly restaurant in Swanage, with plenty of outside seating.
19 íbúar mæla með
The 1859 Pier Cafe & Bistro
Swanage PierOpen everyday serving breakfasts, sandwiches, cakes, burgers and daily specials. The restaurant is open 7 days a week with late openings on a Friday and Saturday. This is a dog friendly restaurant in Swanage, with plenty of outside seating.
The restaurant is able to seat 50 guests and is a stone’s throw away from Swanage beach. On the menu you’ll discover fresh fish and shellfish from local fishermen on a daily basis, as well as serving local meat.
65 íbúar mæla með
The Salt Pig
6 North StThe restaurant is able to seat 50 guests and is a stone’s throw away from Swanage beach. On the menu you’ll discover fresh fish and shellfish from local fishermen on a daily basis, as well as serving local meat.
This fully licensed Indian restaurant in Swanage is located in the centre of town. The menu boasts traditional offerings including Korma, Dopiaza, Rogan Josh and more. There are also plenty of chef specials and Tandoori specials available as well.
12 íbúar mæla með
Swanage Museum
The SquareThis fully licensed Indian restaurant in Swanage is located in the centre of town. The menu boasts traditional offerings including Korma, Dopiaza, Rogan Josh and more. There are also plenty of chef specials and Tandoori specials available as well.
A good old-fashioned pub with two bars serving a lovingly-selected range of ales, ciders, wines and spirits as well as delicious food. The menu is carefully selected to feature freshly cooked, wholesome dishes using the freshest ingredients sourced from local vendors. It’s also one of the pubs in Swanage where you can get fish and chips.
Located just a five minute walk from the seafront, why not enjoy a walk along the seafront after a nice meal.
37 íbúar mæla með
Black Swan Inn
159 High StreetA good old-fashioned pub with two bars serving a lovingly-selected range of ales, ciders, wines and spirits as well as delicious food. The menu is carefully selected to feature freshly cooked, wholesome dishes using the freshest ingredients sourced from local vendors. It’s also one of the pubs in Swanage where you can get fish and chips.
Located just a five minute walk from the seafront, why not enjoy a walk along the seafront after a nice meal.
An al fresco casual dining cafe bar and restaurant with views over the bay. The restaurant specializes in locally caught seafood and shellfish.
You can also enjoy a variety of breakfast items, jacket potatoes, pizzas, salads and afternoon tea
29 íbúar mæla með
Gee Whites Seafood Restaurant
1 High StAn al fresco casual dining cafe bar and restaurant with views over the bay. The restaurant specializes in locally caught seafood and shellfish.
You can also enjoy a variety of breakfast items, jacket potatoes, pizzas, salads and afternoon tea
The family friendly bar and restaurant is located in Ulwell Holiday park and open for residents and the general public.
You’ll find specials boards as well as the main menus, offering breakfast, lunch, main meals and light bites.
On Sunday they serve a traditional roast dinner with locally sourced meat and accompanying vegetables. There are 1, 2 and 3 course options as well as a portion for smaller appetites.
The Village Inn
The family friendly bar and restaurant is located in Ulwell Holiday park and open for residents and the general public.
You’ll find specials boards as well as the main menus, offering breakfast, lunch, main meals and light bites.
On Sunday they serve a traditional roast dinner with locally sourced meat and accompanying vegetables. There are 1, 2 and 3 course options as well as a portion for smaller appetites.
A friendly pub and restaurant located close to Swanage beach. The pub serves home cooked food as well as Sunday roasts. The service is friendly and there is a small outside seating area.
56 íbúar mæla með
The Ship Inn
23A High StA friendly pub and restaurant located close to Swanage beach. The pub serves home cooked food as well as Sunday roasts. The service is friendly and there is a small outside seating area.