Karen's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Corfe Castle
Great walks, amazing views, you may even see our local dolphins swimming off shore and take a break in the cafe in the castle, on a sunny day sit outside and have a bite to eat.
81 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque Nacional y Reserva Natural de Durlston
Lighthouse RoadGreat walks, amazing views, you may even see our local dolphins swimming off shore and take a break in the cafe in the castle, on a sunny day sit outside and have a bite to eat.
Great walks or cycle tracks, adventure play area for kids, tree climbing, bird watching, mini beast hunting. Tea rooms and shop.
35 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
RSPB Arne
Arne RoadGreat walks or cycle tracks, adventure play area for kids, tree climbing, bird watching, mini beast hunting. Tea rooms and shop.
The Blue Pool
Furzebrook RoadCheck out Etches fossil museum and maybe find your own fossils on the beach. There is a £5 parking charge to get to the bay.
120 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Kimmeridge Bay
Check out Etches fossil museum and maybe find your own fossils on the beach. There is a £5 parking charge to get to the bay.
Play around of golf in an area of outstanding beauty. Followed by refreshments in the club house.
8 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Isle of Purbeck Golf Club
Corfe RoadPlay around of golf in an area of outstanding beauty. Followed by refreshments in the club house.
Visit woodhenge, pop into the Square and Compass pub for a ploughman’s and some local cider then walk some of the Jurassic coastal path.
Woodhenge
Newfoundland CloseVisit woodhenge, pop into the Square and Compass pub for a ploughman’s and some local cider then walk some of the Jurassic coastal path.
Peveril Point
Peveril Point RoadTake a trip back in time on our local steam train, stop off in the ancient village of Corfe Castle, take a trip up to the castle and a cream tea in the village. Watch out for special days throughout the year especially the Santa special!
80 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Swanage Railway station
Station RoadTake a trip back in time on our local steam train, stop off in the ancient village of Corfe Castle, take a trip up to the castle and a cream tea in the village. Watch out for special days throughout the year especially the Santa special!
Stroll along swanage pier, small donation requested, take in the stunning views, watch the fishermen and divers, pop in to the shop or have a bite to eat in the bistro.
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Swanage Pier
Swanage PierStroll along swanage pier, small donation requested, take in the stunning views, watch the fishermen and divers, pop in to the shop or have a bite to eat in the bistro.
A great walk on the Jurassic Coast, not far from Swanage. Fantastic scenery and would recommend walking some of the coastal path and admire this wonderful part of Dorset. Take a picnic and make a day of it. Exhilarating and stunning!
152 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Old Harry Rocks
A great walk on the Jurassic Coast, not far from Swanage. Fantastic scenery and would recommend walking some of the coastal path and admire this wonderful part of Dorset. Take a picnic and make a day of it. Exhilarating and stunning!
Dancing Ledge is part of the Jurassic Coast near Langton Matravers in the Isle of Purbeck. Dancing Ledge is a flat area of rock at the base of a small cliff. A little scrambling is required for access. It is signposted on the South West Coast Path a few kilometres west of Swanage. Steep hill to climb back up. There is a tidal pool that can be swam in but beware of strong currents.
43 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Dancing Ledge
South West Coast PathDancing Ledge is part of the Jurassic Coast near Langton Matravers in the Isle of Purbeck. Dancing Ledge is a flat area of rock at the base of a small cliff. A little scrambling is required for access. It is signposted on the South West Coast Path a few kilometres west of Swanage. Steep hill to climb back up. There is a tidal pool that can be swam in but beware of strong currents.
Studland Nature Reserve
Beach Road
Agglestone Rock
A lovely walk on Studland Heath.
A lovely place for a walk, with something a bit different to see with the rocky landscape and caves.
23 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Winspit Quarry
A lovely place for a walk, with something a bit different to see with the rocky landscape and caves.
Puerta de Durdle
Be prepared for lots of steps.
Castillo de Lulworth Wareham
Lulworth Cove
Discover the history of why this village had to be evacuated during the war. The residents didn’t know they were leaving their homes and lives forever. Walk down to Worbarrow Bay.
67 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pueblo de Tyneham
Discover the history of why this village had to be evacuated during the war. The residents didn’t know they were leaving their homes and lives forever. Walk down to Worbarrow Bay.
Worbarrow Beach
Discover the deserted village of Tyneham and take a walk down to this little bay.
Beautiful beaches, picturesque harbour, lively seaside resort.
109 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Playa de Weymouth
EsplanadeBeautiful beaches, picturesque harbour, lively seaside resort.
Lovely old market town, Wednesdays is market day.
131 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Dorchester
Lovely old market town, Wednesdays is market day.
Muelle de Poole
The Quayhttps://www.dorsetguide.com/poole-quay/
Faro de Portland
Old Coastguard CottagesThe home of scouting. Visit this national trust nature reserve by boat and visit Brownsea Castle.
12 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Brownsea Island
The home of scouting. Visit this national trust nature reserve by boat and visit Brownsea Castle.
The historic town of Wareham on the river frome. Walk the walls or hire a rowing boat or kayak for a day to remember. Market day on Saturday morning.
68 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Wareham
The historic town of Wareham on the river frome. Walk the walls or hire a rowing boat or kayak for a day to remember. Market day on Saturday morning.
Compton Acres is recognised as one of the most important ornamental gardens in England.
Constructed in 1920 by Mr Thomas Simpson, today, Compton Acres is still acknowledged as one of the finest privately owned gardens in England. Enjoy over 10 acres of horticultural heaven, relax in our charming Café & Tea Rooms, browse the treasures in our Gifted Moment store or delve into the exciting world of plants within our Plant Centre.
61 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Compton Acres
164 Canford Cliffs RdCompton Acres is recognised as one of the most important ornamental gardens in England.
Constructed in 1920 by Mr Thomas Simpson, today, Compton Acres is still acknowledged as one of the finest privately owned gardens in England. Enjoy over 10 acres of horticultural heaven, relax in our charming Café & Tea Rooms, browse the treasures in our Gifted Moment store or delve into the exciting world of plants within our Plant Centre.
Wareham forest, so many trails and paths to wonder. Dog walks or bike trails, bikes can be hired at the Sika Trail car park.
Sika Trail car park
Wareham forest, so many trails and paths to wonder. Dog walks or bike trails, bikes can be hired at the Sika Trail car park.
Bournemouth pier, Victorian pier with an amusement arcade, a variety theatre, a cafe and boat trips along the coast. The Pier Theatre was designed by Elisabeth Scott (who designed the Royal Shakespeare Theatre) when she was working in the Bournemouth Borough Architect's office in the late 1950s, and built in 1960 on the Bournemouth Pier.
132 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Muelle de Bournemouth
Pier ApproachBournemouth pier, Victorian pier with an amusement arcade, a variety theatre, a cafe and boat trips along the coast. The Pier Theatre was designed by Elisabeth Scott (who designed the Royal Shakespeare Theatre) when she was working in the Bournemouth Borough Architect's office in the late 1950s, and built in 1960 on the Bournemouth Pier.
PierZip
Pier ApproachPier zip wire at Rock Reef on Bournemouth Pier.
On Bournemouth Pier a Complex featuring a rock-climbing wall, ropes course, zip line & cave-themed tunnels with ball pits.
46 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
RockReef
On Bournemouth Pier a Complex featuring a rock-climbing wall, ropes course, zip line & cave-themed tunnels with ball pits.
Food scene
Number 1 chip shop from locals, in the busy season expect queues, but it will be worth it.
28 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Fish Plaice
14 The SqNumber 1 chip shop from locals, in the busy season expect queues, but it will be worth it.
Highly recommended for that special meal or a spot of lunch.
165 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Pig on the Beach
Manor RoadHighly recommended for that special meal or a spot of lunch.
Whether you’re having a day on the beach or a special meal, check out the cabin, right on the beach. Check opening times.
8 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Cabin
Burlington RoadWhether you’re having a day on the beach or a special meal, check out the cabin, right on the beach. Check opening times.
Fortes Gelateria
Institute RoadNo explanation needed, yum.
Manor Farm
Homemade food and cakes served from the barn of an actual working farm.
Gee Whites Seafood Restaurant
1 High StWould definitely recommend to eat here but it would be a good idea to book even out of high season.
37 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Black Swan Inn
159 High StreetWould definitely recommend to eat here but it would be a good idea to book even out of high season.
Pier Head
The 1859 Pier Cafe & Bistro
Swanage PierBooking recommended, al a carte restaurant great for special occasions.
14 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Chilled Red
1-5 Commercial RdBooking recommended, al a carte restaurant great for special occasions.
Wok Chef Chinese Take Away
193 High StreetChinese takeaway 01929 422327
Golden Bengal
343 High StEat in or take-away but best to book.
Highly recommended. Great cafe for breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes etc, also do take-aways, but also check out their cocktails evenings and paella nights, in high season only
38 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Love Cake Etc
42 High StHighly recommended. Great cafe for breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes etc, also do take-aways, but also check out their cocktails evenings and paella nights, in high season only
Great new cafe run by a local family, check out their special evening events and find out the origins of the name!
McAllisters
24 Institute RoadGreat new cafe run by a local family, check out their special evening events and find out the origins of the name!
Wimpy
5 Institute RoadOne of the last remaining original Wimpy’s. Eat in or takeaway.
Chococo
23A Commercial RdChocolate heaven! Cafe and shop.
The Salt Pig
6 North StDelicatessen, shop, cafe and restaurant
Dino's Takeaway Swanage
16 High StreetGreat for burgers, pizzas, KFC type chicken, churros and much more
Speciality coffees and teas, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
28 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Java Independent Coffee House
Unit 3 Commercial RdSpeciality coffees and teas, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
They have a fantastic a la carte menu packed with fresh, local seafood and produce from the surrounding areas. If you are hankering for a snack or a freshly brewed cup of coffee before a beach walk instead, we have garden seating (also with water views) and a bistro area where a light bite can be enjoyed.
92 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Shell Bay Seafood Restaurant
Ferry RoadThey have a fantastic a la carte menu packed with fresh, local seafood and produce from the surrounding areas. If you are hankering for a snack or a freshly brewed cup of coffee before a beach walk instead, we have garden seating (also with water views) and a bistro area where a light bite can be enjoyed.
Meals/lunches are served in the Garden Conservatory & Coast Restaurant, offering a Seasonal Menu, with locally sourced products where possible. Both restaurants afford stunning views across the bay. Lunches, cream teas or traditional afternoon teas are also available – check out their Sunday lunch carvery - It is essential to book to avoid disappointment.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Grand Hotel
Meals/lunches are served in the Garden Conservatory & Coast Restaurant, offering a Seasonal Menu, with locally sourced products where possible. Both restaurants afford stunning views across the bay. Lunches, cream teas or traditional afternoon teas are also available – check out their Sunday lunch carvery - It is essential to book to avoid disappointment.
A good day deserves a great breakfast open from 7:30am to 10:00 am Monday to Saturday 8:00am to 10:00am on Sundays (Open to Non Resident). A full English breakfast is served in the Elizabeth Garden Conservatory. Breakfast is served in the Elizabeth Garden Conservatory to give residents a chance to view the gardens while they enjoy a relaxing breakfast. Our Full English breakfast buffet includes free range eggs (fried or scrambled), hash browns, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, bacon, sausage, and black pudding. Dorset kippers are also available on request. All of our menu items are locally sourced.
Vegetarian breakfast – Vegetarian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, baked beans, grilled tomato and local free range eggs. Our Continental buffet includes a large selection of cereals & mix seeds (gluten free cereal), porridge, fruit salad, fresh fruit, prunes, grapefruit, yogurts and preserves.
Purbeck House Hotel
91 High StreetA good day deserves a great breakfast open from 7:30am to 10:00 am Monday to Saturday 8:00am to 10:00am on Sundays (Open to Non Resident). A full English breakfast is served in the Elizabeth Garden Conservatory. Breakfast is served in the Elizabeth Garden Conservatory to give residents a chance to view the gardens while they enjoy a relaxing breakfast. Our Full English breakfast buffet includes free range eggs (fried or scrambled), hash browns, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, bacon, sausage, and black pudding. Dorset kippers are also available on request. All of our menu items are locally sourced.
Vegetarian breakfast – Vegetarian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, baked beans, grilled tomato and local free range eggs. Our Continental buffet includes a large selection of cereals & mix seeds (gluten free cereal), porridge, fruit salad, fresh fruit, prunes, grapefruit, yogurts and preserves.
Our newly refurbished restaurant has breath taking views over Swanage Bay and the Isle of Wight. Open 7 days a week for lunches (including a Sunday lunch carvery) and dinners – non residents are very welcome. Booking a table in advance is recommended.
Pines Hotel
34-36 Burlington RoadOur newly refurbished restaurant has breath taking views over Swanage Bay and the Isle of Wight. Open 7 days a week for lunches (including a Sunday lunch carvery) and dinners – non residents are very welcome. Booking a table in advance is recommended.
Take the Studland ferry to the Sandbanks restaurant this is the perfect spot near to Poole and Bournemouth to enjoy classically prepared fish and seafood in a sophisticated environment with unrivalled views of the harbour and Brownsea Island beyond.
120 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Rick Stein, Sandbanks
10-14 Banks RdTake the Studland ferry to the Sandbanks restaurant this is the perfect spot near to Poole and Bournemouth to enjoy classically prepared fish and seafood in a sophisticated environment with unrivalled views of the harbour and Brownsea Island beyond.
Located in between the amusement arcade and Santa Fe park on the seafront. Eat in or takeaway Fish n chips, burgers and much more. Great views, children and dogs welcome. Also has an alcohol license.
The Hungry Shark
9 Shore RoadLocated in between the amusement arcade and Santa Fe park on the seafront. Eat in or takeaway Fish n chips, burgers and much more. Great views, children and dogs welcome. Also has an alcohol license.
Takeaway, delivery and eat in. Pizza’s, burgers, sides. As well as a breakfast menu until 11.30am.
Old Brick Pizza Company
23 High StTakeaway, delivery and eat in. Pizza’s, burgers, sides. As well as a breakfast menu until 11.30am.
The Ship Inn offers a superb range of ales, wines and spirits and a hearty menu of freshly cooked food. Extensive menu including Sunday roasts. The pub has plenty of room inside and out, live music and a lively friendly atmosphere.
56 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Ship Inn
23A High StThe Ship Inn offers a superb range of ales, wines and spirits and a hearty menu of freshly cooked food. Extensive menu including Sunday roasts. The pub has plenty of room inside and out, live music and a lively friendly atmosphere.
The Cabin
Burlington RoadRestaurant, cafe on the beach
Not just a tea room but you can also get a full English breakfast and roast dinners, while looking out to sea views.
Brook Tea Rooms
15 The ParadeNot just a tea room but you can also get a full English breakfast and roast dinners, while looking out to sea views.
The Village Inn restaurant welcomes the general public as well as guests staying at Ulwell Holiday Park.
Open 10am – breakfast served until 11.30am
Morning Coffee and drinks – 10am – 12pm
Lunch 12am – 2pm daily
Afternoon – drinks only
Evening meals – from 5.30pm – last food orders 8.45pm
The Village Inn
The Village Inn restaurant welcomes the general public as well as guests staying at Ulwell Holiday Park.
Open 10am – breakfast served until 11.30am
Morning Coffee and drinks – 10am – 12pm
Lunch 12am – 2pm daily
Afternoon – drinks only
Evening meals – from 5.30pm – last food orders 8.45pm
Evening entertainment.
Always great for live music on a Saturday night, and a great fried breakfast.
The White Horse Inn swanage
11 High StAlways great for live music on a Saturday night, and a great fried breakfast.
Check listings for the theatre and cinema.
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Mowlem Theatre
Shore RoadCheck listings for the theatre and cinema.
The Anchor Inn
30-32 High StLive music and restaurant
Crows Nest Inn
11 Ulwell RoadPub, restaurant and children’s play area in large garden.
Red Lion
33 High StLarge beer garden, good pub grub.
The East Bar operates as a live Sport venue, late night bar & a traditional pub.
Formerly The Peveril Inn, The East Bar is one of Swanage's most established venues.
Best known for their live sport coverage on flat HD screen's, with football being the priority sport, they cover the Premier League, England Internationals, La Liga, Champions League and domestic cup competitions.
As well as live sport, they are also one of Swanage's main nightspots, with local DJs most Saturday nights playing the latest tunes into the early hours.
Drink promo's run all year round and their happy hour is on every day till 8pm with selected pints just £3.10.
East Bar
1A High StThe East Bar operates as a live Sport venue, late night bar & a traditional pub.
Formerly The Peveril Inn, The East Bar is one of Swanage's most established venues.
Best known for their live sport coverage on flat HD screen's, with football being the priority sport, they cover the Premier League, England Internationals, La Liga, Champions League and domestic cup competitions.
As well as live sport, they are also one of Swanage's main nightspots, with local DJs most Saturday nights playing the latest tunes into the early hours.
Drink promo's run all year round and their happy hour is on every day till 8pm with selected pints just £3.10.
Only place in swanage open until 3am Saturday night. Reasonably priced and decent selection of drinks. Friendly and efficient staff and service.
The Club - Swanage
High StreetOnly place in swanage open until 3am Saturday night. Reasonably priced and decent selection of drinks. Friendly and efficient staff and service.
Children’s entertainment
Great to keep kids entertained, petting animals, play area, sandpit, go-carts, tractor trailer rides, bottle feed the lambs, and a large indoor soft play area. Visit the Poppy tea rooms, they have an all day breakfast.
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Putlake Adventure Farm
High StreetGreat to keep kids entertained, petting animals, play area, sandpit, go-carts, tractor trailer rides, bottle feed the lambs, and a large indoor soft play area. Visit the Poppy tea rooms, they have an all day breakfast.
Great day out, get up close and personal to your favourite monkeys from the TV series. Lots of children’s play areas.
319 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Monkey World - Centro de Rescate de Simios
LongthornsGreat day out, get up close and personal to your favourite monkeys from the TV series. Lots of children’s play areas.
Great day out. Don’t miss the daily outdoor battle display.
247 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
El Museo de Tanques
Linsay RoadGreat day out. Don’t miss the daily outdoor battle display.
You can hop off the steam train on your way back from Corfe Castle and let the kids burn off any excess energy.
Playground
Haycrafts LaneYou can hop off the steam train on your way back from Corfe Castle and let the kids burn off any excess energy.
Inflatable water park, 2 lakes full of inflatables, wetsuits etc provided, booking essential. Or try the 5k mud trail, wear old cloths it will be super muddy. Kids parties catered for.
44 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Dorset Adventure Park
Inflatable water park, 2 lakes full of inflatables, wetsuits etc provided, booking essential. Or try the 5k mud trail, wear old cloths it will be super muddy. Kids parties catered for.
K’s Funworld Swanage
11 Shore RdAmusement arcade
Santa-Fe Fun Park
Shore RoadBeautiful open space for games and dog walking, with a playground and outdoor gym equipment.
Days Park
Northbrook RoadBeautiful open space for games and dog walking, with a playground and outdoor gym equipment.
Swanage Beachfront
Shore RoadSwanage is a great local skatepark with a decent set of obstacles. It is a great place for beginners to practise the basics but not if you want a more challenging skate.
Swanage Skate Park
Swanage is a great local skatepark with a decent set of obstacles. It is a great place for beginners to practise the basics but not if you want a more challenging skate.
This park is more for toddlers and primary age children. Great views and toilets are in the car park next door.
Recreation Ground
Horsecliffe LaneThis park is more for toddlers and primary age children. Great views and toilets are in the car park next door.
Next to a large playing field and skate park, this park is suited to older children although there are a few things for younger ones.
King George Playing Field
12 Northbrook RdNext to a large playing field and skate park, this park is suited to older children although there are a few things for younger ones.
Land & Wave helps people have brilliant adventures in Dorset and the UK. We think that sharing adventures with people in incredible places is important.
9 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Land & Wave
Victoria AvenueLand & Wave helps people have brilliant adventures in Dorset and the UK. We think that sharing adventures with people in incredible places is important.
Cumulus Outdoors
Cobblers LaneChallenge yourselves!
Swanage Sea Fishing
6 High StFishing charters and tours.
Hop on for a trip down memory lane, through the picturesque countryside. Hop off at Corfe Castle for a day trip, then back to swanage.
80 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Swanage Railway station
Station RoadHop on for a trip down memory lane, through the picturesque countryside. Hop off at Corfe Castle for a day trip, then back to swanage.
Children will love visiting all the rescue animals.
Margaret Green Animal Rescue - Church Knowle Animal Sanctuary & Visitor Centre
Children will love visiting all the rescue animals.
Pierhead water sports based on the pier supply your adrenaline based activities. From powerboat rides, sightseeing trips, kayak hire, paddle board hire, waterskiing and wakeboarding, ringos, guided paddle tours, powerboat courses, bareboat yacht charter and skippered yacht charter.
12 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pier Head
Pierhead water sports based on the pier supply your adrenaline based activities. From powerboat rides, sightseeing trips, kayak hire, paddle board hire, waterskiing and wakeboarding, ringos, guided paddle tours, powerboat courses, bareboat yacht charter and skippered yacht charter.
Swanage Bayview park is open to non residents. Their facilities include a restaurant and bar which welcomes children, swimming pool and gymnasium.
Swanage Bay View Holiday Home Park
Panorama RoadSwanage Bayview park is open to non residents. Their facilities include a restaurant and bar which welcomes children, swimming pool and gymnasium.
Longleat
Drive through safari park, zoo, historic house, large play park
At Ulwell Holiday Park you’re guaranteed a day of fun, whatever the weather thanks to our indoor swimming pool. Complete with a separate toddler pool and waterslide, there’s no better place to spend a couple of hours having fun with the kids. Our indoor pool is open to holiday park guests as well as the general public.
Please note: Currently you need to book a swimming session to use the pool. To book either call or come in to reception.
Ulwell Holiday Park
At Ulwell Holiday Park you’re guaranteed a day of fun, whatever the weather thanks to our indoor swimming pool. Complete with a separate toddler pool and waterslide, there’s no better place to spend a couple of hours having fun with the kids. Our indoor pool is open to holiday park guests as well as the general public.
Please note: Currently you need to book a swimming session to use the pool. To book either call or come in to reception.