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A mini guide to
Swanage, Studland & Purbeck: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Ride the railway
The Swanage Railway runs steam and diesel trains from Norden to Swanage via Corfe Castle, and its site says there is parking at Purbeck Park next to Norden station. Check its timetable before you plan the day around it.
Leave the cliff edges alone
Visit Dorset advises staying away from any cliff edge and from the base of cliffs, because rock falls can happen at any time. Check current advice before fossil hunting or walking below cliffs.
Kimmeridge has a fossil museum
Visit Dorset says fossils on most Dorset beaches are not safe or not allowed to collect. At Kimmeridge the Etches Collection shows fossils found on the local coast and will say what a find might be.
Walk one section, bus back
Visit Dorset says the Purbeck Breezer and the Jurassic Coaster buses suit walkers who want to do one stretch of the South West Coast Path and return by bus.
Check Corfe Castle before you go
The castle is a National Trust site, so check the National Trust page for opening and any closures before travelling.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Swanage, Studland & Purbeck?
Swanage, Studland & Purbeck is in Dorset, England. A Victorian seaside town, a ruined castle and the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. Nearby stops and stations include Swanage, Corfe Castle, Wareham.
How long do I need in Swanage, Studland & Purbeck?
Two days. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Swanage Railway, Corfe Castle, Durlston Country Park. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Swanage (Swanage Railway); Corfe Castle (Swanage Railway); Wareham (South Western Railway); Purbeck buses (More buses; Purbeck Breezer). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 11 places to eat and drink in and around Swanage, Studland & Purbeck, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 5 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Swanage, Studland & Purbeck accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Swanage, Studland & Purbeck
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Corfe Castle
Norman castle ruin above the village, in a gap in the Purbeck Hills; besieged twice in the Civil War and now National Trust.
Durlston Country Park
Clifftop nature reserve south of Swanage with Durlston Castle, the Great Globe, walks and sea views.
Swanage Pier
Pier built in 1895 for passenger steamers, now looked after by a charitable trust; open to walkers and anglers.
The Jurassic Coast
More areas to explore
Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door & Wareham
A famous rock arch, an almost circular cove and a Saxon walled town
Open the mini guide →
Weymouth & Portland
A Georgian harbour town, a wide sandy bay and the Isle of Portland
Open the mini guide →
Bridport & West Bay
A market town, a small harbour and the cliffs of Golden Cap
Open the mini guide →Photo credits
- Corfe Castle Model Village: Chris Gorringe, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Corfe Castle: Chin tin tin, CC BY 3.0, source
- Durlston Country Park: Michael Garlick, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Swanage Pier: Daniel Schmidt, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door & Wareham: Brian Deegan, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Weymouth & Portland: Jorge Franganillo, CC BY 4.0, source
- Bridport & West Bay: Martinvl, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Lyme Regis & Charmouth: Martinvl, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Seaton, Beer & Sidmouth: michael cooper, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring the Jurassic Coast