Swanage is a small, family-friendly beach town on the renowned Isle of Purbeck, at the eastern extremity of Dorset’s renowned Jurassic Coast. Swanage is arguably best known for its lovely, gently sloping golden sands. The small town is well renowned for its annual jazz festival, which is held in July, and for its abundance of stores, fine taverns, and restaurants, some of which specialise in locally caught seafood. The charming Victorian wooden pier is a lovely spot to promenade, go fishing, or just sit and take in the sights. It’s also a popular starting point for divers. Regular vintage steam engine excursions transport tourists on a charming 6-mile journey, chugging through gorgeous countryside to stop just beyond the romantic ruin of Corfe Castle, from the town’s terminal on the historic Swanage Railway. With beautiful coastline walks, dolphin sightings, and wildlife viewing in addition to comfortable viewing areas and a well stocked cafe for a treat after all the fresh air, nearby Durlston Country Park makes for a fantastic day out. Take the frequent chain ferry that travels over the mouth of Poole Harbour to Sandbanks and the short drive to Studland, which has one of the best beaches in the nation and is bordered by heathland. Any time of year, you can have a wonderful break here.
