Swanage and Studland Culture and Heritage

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is a fantastic day out for both adults and children. Learn about 1000 years’ worth of history and wander around the ruins that overlook the village and across Purbeck. Now owned by the National Trust, the castle is an iconic attraction, costing just over £8 per person. While you are there, you can also visit Corfe Castle Model Village to take a look at what the castle looked like before it was destroyed.

The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ

Tel: 01929 481294

Durlston Castle

Durlston Castle was restored in 2012 and now proudly acts as the gateway to Durlston Country Park. Just south of Swanage the castle sits in large grounds that are great for walking around and exploring. The castle and the park are part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, BH19 2JL

Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island is a small island located in Poole Harbour, enjoying spectacular views across the water to Poole and the Purbeck Hills. On the island you can experience a thriving natural habitat packed with wildlife, and you will be sure to see a red squirrel or two. Owned by the National Trust it is the largest of the islands in the harbour, and can be reached via ferry.

Poole Harbour, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7EE

Tel: 01202 707744

Swanage Railway

Swanage Railway is a heritage railway line running between Swanage and Norden Park & Ride with stops at Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross and Herston Halt. Parking is available opposite the train station, meaning you can hop on the train for the day and enjoy the beauty of the Purbeck region. Throughout the year the railway run special events which always prove popular particularly with the kids. Peppa Pig, Fireman Sam and Paddington Bear are just a few of the events, alongside the annual Santa Special trains.

Swanage Railway, Station House, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1HB

Tel: 01929 425800

Tyneham

Tyneham is a unique heritage attraction, and is classed as a ghost town having been taken over by the Army in 1943 and later purchased in 1948. Since then it has been used as a military training ground, but pressure from the local community meant it was re-opened to the public. You can wander around the town, visit the church and enjoy the natural wildlife that has taken over since the villagers left the town. Visiting Tyneham gives you the opportunity to step back in time to 1943, when time stood still for this village. Jurassic Coast – The Jurassic Coast is a spectacular stretch of coastline that is categorised as a ‘World Heritage Site’ due to the geological history attached to this part of the UK. The best way to explore the Jurassic Coastline is on foot via the South West Coast Path. Along here, you can wander the length of the coastline or choose circular walks to suit your needs, all the while enjoying spectacular views out the sea, and inland. The South West Coast Path can be accessed from most of the major towns and villages on route.