Things to do in Swanage

Activities, attractions and tours

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Swanage travel guide

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What to do in Swanage

Popular places to visit

Swanage Beach

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 Harry Rocks

Explore the great outdoors at Old Harry Rocks, a lovely green space in Swanage. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

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.

Durlston Country Park

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.

Anvil Point Lighthouse

Find out about the history of Swanage when you spend time at Anvil Point Lighthouse. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Dancing Ledge

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Dancing Ledge during your travels in Langton Matravers. Stroll along the seaside 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.

Great Globe

Find out about the history of Swanage with a stop at Great Globe. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area or visit its lively bars.

Brownsea Castle featuring heritage architecture

Poole

Sandbanks

Compton Acres featuring heritage architecture and a park

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.

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