Part of the adventure of coming to the Isle of Purbeck - why not try arriving by the chain ferry - the crossing from Poole includes some spectacular scenery on your approach to Swanage - everyone loves it - including the grown-ups! No need to book, nominal fee.
Swanage Carnival end of July beginning of August, plus spectacular firework displays throughout the summer holidays.
Take a trip through the Isle of Purbeck countryside on a Steam Train with Swanage Railway
Beach Gardens Tennis Courts, Putting Green and Bowls Green are within minutes walk from the house. Another Pitch and Putt course is just five minutes away.
Durlston Country Park and Castle overlooks Swanage, (five minutes drive) which encompasses the coastal path and globe. If you are lucky enough you may see dolphins from here.
Swanage Victorian Pier at the southern end of Swanage Beach.
The main beaches are Swanage with its fine soft sand and Studland with its nature reserve; there are many more secluded beaches for you to explore along the coast. Also Dancing Ledge near Langton Matravers on the South West Coastal Path where you may see Puffins while walking along the coast paths.
From Arbour House there is easy access to the coastal footpaths which are part of the World Heritage Jurassic coastline. If you enjoy cycling there are many circular routes both on and off road.
Festivals in Swanage:-
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Gig Rowing Regatta
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Swanage Blues and Roots Festival
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Jazz Festival
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Swanage Regetta and Carnival
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Folk Festival
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Blues Festival
If you enjoy visiting houses and gardens there is Kingston Lacy, Athelhampton House, Staplehill Abbey and many more.
The historic village of Corfe Castle is just four miles drive, alternatively leave your car and travel by the Swanage Steam train to Corfe Castle and walk back along Nine Barrow Down to Swanage.
Other places of interest include Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, Kimmeridge Bay, Monkey World, Bovington Tank Museum, Cloud's Hill (Lawrence of Arabia's Cottage), Brownsea Island, RSPB Arne, Thomas Hardy's Cottage, National Trust Properties, Compton Acres to name but a few.
Places to Eat
The Salt Pig - Swanage
Pig on the Beach - Studland
Shell Bay - Studland
Rick Stein - Sandbanks
Useful Links
Virtual Swanage - Local information website
Nordic Walking Festival