The rugged Jurassic coastline climbs from the beautiful sandy beaches of Studland and Swanage. Old Harry Rocks stand tall between the tranquil bays of the seaside town of Swanage and the long sandy beaches of Studland. These English gems are surrounded by some of the county’s most breath-taking, diverse countryside.
The seaside town and resort of Swanage owes its origins to the quarry industry and the world famous, unique Purbeck Stone and Marble, quarried here for centuries. This world heritage site has endowed this stone with the fossilized remains of its former inhabitants. Making the marble particularly prized. At one point if a man wasn’t a quarryman he would have been a sailor.
Swanage town has something for everyone. This vibrant family resort, although particularly suited for children, offers a lively and sophisticated adult night life; there are many restaurants, bars and shops to be enjoyed; you will certainly have everything at your fingertips.
The soft sand of the award winning beach is not to be missed whether you are topping up your tan or building castles in the summer sun. Winter time in Swanage has its own charm and couples wishing a romantic getaway would be well advised to taste what this seaside retreat has to offer.
The beach has been awarded Blue Flag Status and the waters in the bay are generally regarded as one of the safer spots to bathe. The beach has a good set of toilets with sand showers and water available. The visitor centre also lies on Shore Rd and is easily accessible. Half of Shore Rd is closed during the summer months, making it a much more relaxing place to visit.
Keep an eye on the events calendar these will include the jazz, comedy, folk & blues festivals, a huge summer carnival and fabulous walking events. For a full list visit the Swanage eventspage.
Swanage has many attractions including the Victorian pier, blue flag sandy beach, safe swimming environment, diving, boat trips, amusement arcades, beach gardens, heritage centre and Historic Swanage Railway. There is also the Purbeck Way walking route and South West Coast Path which will enable you to explore Purbeck’s countryside and the Jurassic Coast, Durlston Country Park and Nature Reserve is a countryside paradise with stupendous views, the Great Globe, a variety of walks, children’s activities and fascinating geology – there’s always something new to see and do. Not only teeming with bird and animal life, but a vantage point for spotting the pods of dolphins which swim in the waters along the Dorset coast. If you would like more information visit Swanage Attractions.
When planning your trip you may want to consider using the Sandbanks Ferry and of course you will need to know all the details that relate to parking in the town. You can travel by coach to Swanage station and the steam railway now links with the main line, full details can be found here.
Studland is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the South West, there are miles and miles of sandy beach backed by dunes and the wild heathland all cared for by the National Trust. From the chalk stacks of Old Harry to the Chain link ferry at Shell Bay, Studland beaches are endowed with soft white Mediterranean sand. The bay makes many water sports available for the family holiday maker including Windsurfing, Jet and water-skiing, sailing, including deep water moorings, pedalos and swimming.
Of course if sunbathing is your preferred pastime, Studland boasts three beaches, Middle, South and Knoll. For the more adventurous, Shell bay offers private naturist sunbathing.
Ramblers will enjoy the many coastal walks at your fingertips including the stunning Old Harry Rock walk where you will encounter breath-taking views and the unique rock formations.
Access to Poole Harbour, the world’s second largest natural harbour, behind Sidney Harbour in Australia, is another of the walking gems on offer. This habitat is a natural haven for many of the UK visiting birds. Horse lovers can go riding on the beach or in the picturesque heathland surrounding Studland.
You can also walk to the seaside town of Swanage or Corfe Castle. The village centre lies behind the beach a short walk away.
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