Swanage Tourist Information and Tourism

(Swanage, Dorset, England, UK)

Formerly a small fishing village, Swanage became a popular seaside resort during Victorian days, and continues to draw the summer crowds today. It is the soft golden sands of Swanage that are the big tourism magnet here, although there is much more to the town than simply its lengthy beachfront and fictional hometown of Basil Fawlty - the much-loved hotelier character in the BBC sitcom, Fawlty Towers.

As well as relaxing on Swanage Beach, holiday makers are also able to explore the surrounding Purbeck Hills, on foot or by mountain bike. Many beach facilities, shops and amusements line Short Road, which runs right next to the seafront and is where you will find the town's tourist information centre, located in the easy to spot White House.

Swanage Tourist Information and Tourism: Top Sights

Apart from the glorious beaches around Swanage, there are plenty of sights and tourist attractions within the town centre itself. If you have had your fill of sunbathing, swimming and making sandcastles, then there is still plenty to do close by. Swanage holiday makers can hire a motor boat or pedalo, enjoy the local amusements and gift shops, take in a show or film at the Mowlem Theatre, or play a round of miniature golf at the Beach Gardens. Also in the town centre is the station for the steam railway, which is the most scenic way to travel to the nearby National Trust owned Corfe Castle. Families in Swanage often like to make the short journey to neighbouring Wareham, where Monkey World is located. More information about Swanage Tourist Attractions.

Throughout Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck area are plenty of fascinating local landmarks, which come in the form of fortresses, ruins, stately homes and natural formations. Take time out to stroll along the Victorian Swanage Pier and chat to the anglers or resident scuba divers, or head to the Durlston Country Park, where both the Anvil Point Lighthouse and Durlston Castle await. If you are someone that enjoys the great outdoors, then the Purbeck Hills offer endless hiking opportunities, leading to the famously eroded Old Harry Rocks. More information about Swanage Landmarks and Monuments.

Both in the town and close by are a number of very appealing museums. Your first stop should be Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre, where you will learn much information about the town's strong connection with its coastline. If you are prepared to travel a little, then the Bovington Camp Tank Museum is always highly recommended, as is the Wareham Town Museum. Art lovers in Swanage should be sure to check out the various galleries lining the High Street, such as the Mulberry Tree Gallery and the Photographers Lounge, while next to the pier, the Art Hut is full of seaside character. More information about Swanage Museums and Swanage Art Galleries.

If you are holidaying in Swanage, then you really must make the effort to properly explore the surrounding Dorset region. There are just so many quality tourist attractions close to Swanage, that it would be almost criminal not to see at least a few. Most beach-goers tend to spend a day at Studland Beach, which is just a ten-minute drive away and known for its natural appearance. The seaside towns of Boscombe, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Weymouth are all strong contenders for a day trip, while for a touch of culture, then consider taking a guided tour around Salisbury Cathedral, or finding out about Dorchester's most famous resident, Thomas Hardy. More information about Swanage Attractions Nearby.

More Swanage Information / Fast Facts and Orientation

• Country: England (South-West)
• Location: Dorset / eastern side of the Isle of Purbeck
• Status: town / seaside resort
• Population: approximately 12,000
• Language: English
• Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
• Time zone: GMT / UTC and BST (British Summer Time), 5 hours from Eastern Standard Time
• Country dialling code: +44
• Telephone area code: 01929
• Average daily Swanage January temperature: 7°C / 45°F
• Average daily Swanage July temperature: 24°C / 75°F