Things to do in Swanage

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Visit Swanage

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Swanage travel guide

Town of Swanage, Shutterstock ID 1028623069, SF SSA Case with Manager Approval: Case 07151371, Job: Prepay credit, Client/Licensee: , Other:

Handing over the token at Swanage railway station.
The token is a physical object, that the driver must be in posession of, to gain access to a section of track,between two points. This is a safety measure,dating back to the birth of the railways,to avoid collisions on a single line.

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What to do in Swanage

Popular places to visit

Swanage Beach

4/5(22 reviews)

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Swanage Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Swanage. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

Studland Beach and Nature Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Studland Beach and Nature Reserve, a lovely green space in Swanage. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

Old Harrys Rocks, Swanage, Dorset; Shutterstock ID 454177753

Old Harry Rocks

Explore the great outdoors at Old Harry Rocks, a lovely green space in Studland. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Tilly Whim Caves just further along the coast path from the Lighthouse.
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Durlston Country Park

5/5(1 review)

Explore the great outdoors at Durlston Country Park, a lovely green space in Swanage. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Shell Bay Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Shell Bay Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Swanage. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

I'd never heard of this little place until Monday. A short detour downhill from the SW coastal path and you will find yourself here. This is a wave cut platform formed over thousands of years. The layered geology of the landscape is so clear to see as you climb down onto the platform or the dancefloor as it is known.

Dancing Ledge

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Dancing Ledge during your travels in Langton Matravers. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Isle of Purbeck

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Isle of Purbeck during your travels in Worth Matravers. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Swanage Pier

4.5/5(4 reviews)

After visiting Swanage Pier, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Swanage. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

Studland South Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Studland South Beach during your trip to Studland? Wander the beaches and seaside while you're in the area.

Brownsea Castle featuring heritage architecture

Poole

Sandbanks

Canford Cliffs

Frequently asked questions

Is Swanage worth visiting?

One of the most popular things to do in Swanage is explore Sandbanks Beach. Tick this leading attraction off your list, then discover more of this area's watersports and walking trails.

How do I spend a day in Swanage?

When you've checked off top attractions like Sandbanks Beach and Swanage Beach, spend some time enjoying Swanage's shopping and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Swanage?

Don't leave without visiting Sandbanks Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Swanage.

Is three days enough to stay in Swanage?

Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, like Sandbanks Beach, Swanage Beach and Studland Beach and Nature Reserve. The average stay in Swanage is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Bournemouth isn't far away.

Is Swanage a walkable city?

That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Swanage. Several sights, like Swanage Beach and Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Swanage's best neighbourhoods, Studland is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Ulwell is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Swanage with kids?

If you're searching for sights and activities for all of your group, check out these fantastic ideas for what to do in Swanage with kids.

What to do in Swanage for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there are loads of things to do in Swanage for adults including Rockley Sands Beach and Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum.

Are there free things to do in Swanage?

One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Swanage is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Sandbanks Beach is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.