On England's southern coast lies the Dorset coastal resort of Swanage. Sitting on what is dubbed the 'Jurassic Coast', Swanage is popular with tourists and holidaymakers and has all the facilities expected of a resort, including many superb hotels in Swanage from 4-star luxury to budget basics. The seaside town is close to Dorset's other famous resorts such as Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth. Anyone wanting to visit from Poole can save time and road mileage by taking the car ferry from Sandbanks which leads to Corfe Castle just a few miles further along.
Swanage has a certain quaint charm and is not as brash as many modern-day holiday resorts. Its Victorian pier is particularly popular from where it is possible to look across to the Isle of Wight's 'Needles'. Boat trips are also available from Swanage Pier. Other attractions include the town's Beach Gardens and Heritage Centre. 'Heritage trails' are also available to allow visitors to see something of the old days gone by. Another way to see something of the area's delightful countryside is to take a run on the Swanage Railway.
Being beside the sea it is not surprising that the town has its own diving and sailing clubs, again all within easy reach of our many places to stay in Swanage. The Isle of Purbeck Golf Club draws local and visiting golfers. Access to Swanage from Bournemouth is by using the renowned Swanage Ferry, a chain link ferry that crosses the body of water that separates the peninsula.
As would be expected, tourism makes a major contribution to Swanage's prosperity. The local Wealden Clay has led to brickworks being established on Swanage's outskirts. Dorset is a popular place for retirement and there are also nursing and residential homes in the area.
