Swanage Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Swanage, Dorset, England, UK)



Photo of the steam train, showing Corfe CastleCentral Swanage is where the majority of the town's tourist attractions reside, being particularly plentiful around the beach and the parallel Shore Road. The main attractions in Swanage town centre include a variety of water sports, boat hire, pleasure boat cruises, beach gardens, seaside amusements and the Mowlem Theatre.

Located just a short drive from central Swanage and virtually next door, in nearby Wareham, close to the Purbeck village of Wool, Monkey World is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the area for families. A particular highlight for visitors is the walkthrough ring-tailed lemur wooded enclosure, while children often favour the animals at pets corner.


Further picture of the railway

Swanage Railway

Address: Swanage, Dorset, England, UK
Swanage Railway is a heritage line measuring a total of 10 km / 6 miles in length, being located in the very scenic Purbeck area of Dorset. Established in 1885 and running between Norden and Swanage, this railway is famous for its steam locomotives, which have been lovingly restored and maintained, and are supported by a number of more modern diesel trains. In December, the seasonal Santa Special services are especially busy and often see the carriages packed with excited children. Tourists regularly chose to travel on the Swanage Railway to reach the ever-popular attraction of Corfe Castle.
Open hours: mid-February and March - Saturday and Sunday, April to December - daily
Admission: charge, discounts for children and families with no more than three children

Monkey World image

Monkey World

Address: Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6HH, England, UK
Tel: +44 01929 462537
Spread over 26 hectares / 65 acres, the award-winning Monkey World was founded in 1987, to operate as a rescue centre for abused chimpanzees, used for photography on the beaches of Spain. Various different primate groups are currently housed within Monkey World and these include not only rescued chimpanzees, but also orangutans, various gibbons, macaques, capuchin monkeys, marmosets, tamarins and squirrel monkeys, some of which have been saved from worldwide laboratory testing and general cruelty. To complete your visit, a gift shop is on hand with all manner of cuddly monkeys and soft toys, to tempt the younger ones.
Open hours: daily, July and August - 10:00 to 18:00; September to June - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children, families, groups and school outings

Mowlem Theatre

Address: Shore Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1DD, England, UK
Tel: +44 01929 422239
Opened in the late 1960s, the Mowlem Theatre stands on Shore Road and right next to the beachfront. Built to replace a smaller existing Victorian theatre, the Mowlem Theatre is considerably larger and can accommodate audiences of up to 400 people, in its circle and stalls seating arrangement. Performances here include theatrical shows, concerts, comedy gigs and present-day films, with the Mowlem often operating as a local cinema. Onsite are two bars, a popular restaurant, several shops and a large function room.
Open hours: hours vary according to performance
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Garden view

Beach Gardens

Address: Shore Road, Swanage, Dorset, England, UK
Tel: +44 01929 424339
Gifted to Swanage Council in 1930, the Beach Gardens are at their most attractive during the summer season, when the colourful bedding plants are in full bloom. Plenty of seating is available around the gardens, along with attractions such as mature trees, a bowling green, outdoor tennis courts and an 18-hole miniature golf putting course. The gardens are easy to find, being close to the seafront and located between De-Mowlem Road and Northbrook Road.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to dusk
Admission: free

Coastal image, showing the Purbeck Hills

Recreational Activities

Address: Swanage, Dorset, England, UK
The outdoor attractions both in and around Swanage are almost endless, although most are very much weather dependent. If the sun is shining and you want to explore the Purbeck coastline, then various hiking trails are available, particularly within the Durlston Park area. If you are feeling brave, you may like to try your hand at rock climbing up a cliff face. Alternatively, there are numerous bridleways throughout the Isle of Purbeck, being perfect for a relaxing cycle ride. If you are a lover of all things equestrian, then a horse ride along the beachfront is hard to top.
Open hours: daily - seasonal variations
Admission: free

Photo of local boats

Water Sports

Address: Swanage, Dorset, England, UK
It is the coastline of Swanage Bay that reliably draws the biggest crowds of sun seekers and holiday makers. The beachfront itself is not only ideal for sunbathing and sandcastle making, but it also affords a selection of water sports. The sea itself is usually quite calm and highly suitable for swimming and boating, with many tourists choosing to bring or purchase inflatable dinghies. It is also possible to hire pedalo boats, sea kayaks and jet skis, or join the sailing club next to the pier. Scuba diving is always a popular activity under the pier, with this site being used as a dive school for inexperienced divers, who always enjoy exploring the various coastal wrecks close by. Both Swanage Bay and Studland also often present good conditions for a spot of wind surfing.
Open hours: daily - seasonal variations
Admission: free