Holiday cottages and bed and breakfasts in Swanage

Swanage is situated on the magnificent Jurassic Coast in south-east Dorset: a stretch of coastline unlike any other, consequently becoming England's first World Heritage Site in 2002. Becoming a thriving town in the Victorian era, then playing a crucial role in the evolution of the radar during the Second World War, it is now a popular summer destination for holidaymakers looking for sun, sea and beautiful sceneries. There is an abudance of choice on what to see in this area, so don't wait and book one of the many holiday rentals available in Swanage.

When to visit Swanage

Being a seaside town, Swanage is a popular summer destination so peak tourist season is in the months of July and August when there are the warmest temperatures and children are off school. If you would like a more tranquil holiday, avoid the summer crowds and visit in May, June or September when it is still pleasant weather and school is on.

How to get to Swanage

There are several ways to get to Swanage, depending on where you are situated. If you find yourself already on holiday in Poole, with your car you can hop onto a chain ferry through and out of Poole Harbour down the coast to reach this part of the Isle of Purbeck. Parking in Swanage is limited, particularly in peak season, so it's advised to park in Norden Car Park from which you can travel in time by taking the steam train from the Norden station with Swanage Railway directly into Swanage. If you are already travelling by train, South Western Railway offers services from cities such as London, Southampton and Bournemouth to the nearest station which is Wareham. From here there are regular buses into the town or you can take the steam train with Swanage Railway.

Where to book a holiday cottage or b&b in Swanage

Near the beaches in Swanage Bay you can find quaint little b&bs for couples looking for a quiet getaway by the sea or larger holiday homes, some with gardens, perfect for large groups and families with children looking for more space to relax in, where you will also be able to eat outside during summer evenings. There are also comfortable holiday homes available near Swanage Pier and The Downs, so that you are only a couple of steps from the coast and parks which are a perfect place to have a picnic and starting points for coastal walks.

What is there to do in Swanage?

Swanage Beach

The main attraction and first thing you will see when you arrive in the centre of Swanage is its beach, located just a couple of steps from the cafés and restaurants of the High Street and Shore Road. On Shore Road you will find what makes Swanage Beach so characteristic: its colourful beach huts that line the road in orderly fashion. You can also rent deck chairs to relax on this fun and beautiful stony beach.

Swanage Pier

One of the first things you will see when you are standing in Swanage Bay is its Pier. This Victorian structure lies on the southern side of the Bay. Initially built for commercial purposes mainly linked to the local stone quarrying industry, it is now open to the public and has a gift shop, café and museum displaying the marine life that can be found in the surrounding area. It also boasts the oldest diving school in the UK, both for beginners and qualified divers. Its current success is due to the fact it is one of the only sheltered diving areas in the sea available on the south coast.

Corfe Castle

A mere 15 minute drive from Swanage, you will find the magnificent remains of Corfe Castle, which dates back to the 11th when it was built by William the Conqueror. These ancient ruins are well worth a visit and make for a great subject for photos with the surrounding scenery and village.

Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve

A coastal walk down Durlston Bay, south of Swanage, will take you to the beautiful Durlston Country Park and Nature Reserve. Here you can admire the scenery of this part of the Isle of Purbeck as well as the wildlife and natural habitat. There is also a visitor centre inside a renovated Victorian castle.

Explore the Isle of Purbeck

Old Harry Rocks

The Jurassic Coast, this stretch of the Isle of Purbeck and UNESCO World Heritage Site, has many beautiful areas to explore during your stay. The chalk formations of Old Harry Rocks are a magnificent example of the white cliffs of this coast, with three separate rocks that extend into the sea. They are situated 15 minutes north of Swansea by car or could make for the perfect end point to a walk along the coast.

Go fossil hunting

This area isn't called the Jurassic Coast for nothing: another fun activity for the whole family is visiting the many beaches in the area and looking for fossils. Scattered around are many rocks from hundreds of millions of years ago, the Jurassic period, on which you will be able to see marks of ancient species. These make for the perfect memorabilia from your holiday without having to spend a penny.

Worth Matravers and Winspit beach

Another place in the area that is definitely worth a visit is the stunning village of Worth Matravers, a mere 15 minute drive west of Swanage, here you will be able to stroll through its lovely quiet streets and enjoy a pint in the garden of its famous pub The Square and Compass. After this you can walk down and spend the afternoon on Winspit Beach, a stunning rocky beach full of rockpools that children can sit and splash in, and, if you're feeling brave you can go for a swim in the cold English Channel. There is also a disused quarry which means there are empty caves in the rock face you can visit but be careful as it is uncertain how safe these caves actually are.