Classic Walks on Dorset's Purbeck Peninsula

4 days walking, based in Swanage

Swanage, our base for 'Classic Walks on Dorset's Purbeck Peninsula', is a small and charming Victorian seaside resort situated within the area covered by the 'Jurassic Coast' World Heritage Site. During the 18th century, and prior to its popularity as a holiday destination, Swanage was a major port for the transportation of locally quarried stone and evidence of the wealth created can be seen in the historic town centre and attractive harbour. One quirky feature of Swanage is a number of masonry artefacts brought from London during the 18th century and incorporated into the fabric of buildings in the town. The Swanage has a range of shops and services, and plenty of hotels and pubs serving food in the evening.

The daily meeting point in Swanage is outside the Tourist Information Centre.

Accommodation

There is a wide variety of accommodation available in Swanage, including hotels, guesthouses and self-catering lets. Details can be found on the following websites:

Alternatively, an accommodation guide can be obtained from the Tourist Information Centre in Swanage, whose contact details are as follows:

Tourist Information Centre, Shore Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1LB
Telephone: 0870 4420680
Fax: 01929 423423
E. Mail: mail@swanage.gov.uk

How to reach Swanage by public transport

The nearest mainline railway station is at Wareham, 10 miles distant. From Wareham the Wilts & Dorset Bus Company run an hourly service (No.s 142 & 143, Swanage to Poole) to Swanage on 'normal' weekdays and Saturdays, and a reduced service on Sundays and Bank Holidays; journey time 38 minutes. National Express run a limited coach service to Swanage and a more frequent service to Poole.

General information on Swanage and the surrounding area can be found on the following websites:

Classic walks in: