Swanage

The coastal town of Swanage invokes nostalgia and whimsy of a beautiful era gone by. Steam trains and the restored Victorian pier are just a flash of its sentimental charm and heritage, but a large allure of this coastal location is its connection to an epoch of much greater age.

Swanage is the most eastern town on the Jurassic Coast and is often considered an accessible gateway to the Purbeck stretch of the Jurassic coastline. The sandy beaches are a splendour in the warmer months and offer thrills for all the family. You have a wide selection of places to eat, shop and enjoy on your doorstep when being a resident of Dorset.

Swanage Railway

For rail enthusiasts and day-trippers alike, the rebuilt Swanage Railway is the perfect place to enjoy a great excursion. The heritage railway attraction operates full-size steam and diesel passenger trains along the five and a half miles of line from Norden to Corfe Castle and down to Swanage.

The railway frequently puts on experiences, including festive displays, luncheons and taster driving experiences where participants drive the steam locomotive five and a half miles between Swanage, Corfe Castle and Norden and then fire it for the return trip.

Bournemouth

For beautiful gardens and seven miles of sandy beaches, look no further than Bournemouth. As the largest resort in Dorset, there are plenty of attractions, activities, entertainment and adventure to keep all ages entertained.

From the 255.4 m pier to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, Bournemouth has it all. There are also excellent shopping facilities (incl. retail and supermarkets) and events going on all year round.

The Jurassic Coast

For nature lovers, avid ramblers, dino devotees and casual strollers alike, this 95-mile stretch of idyllic coastline is a feast for the senses. The Jurassic Coast is an outstanding place to explore Earth’s history and stay in touch with the great outdoors. Sea air, spectacular cliffs and showcases await you from Exmouth to Swanage… and there’s no telling what you’ll discover along the way.

Studland Bay

Studland Bay is a glorious slice of natural coastline with four miles of fine golden sand beaches surrounding it. All beaches are owned by The National Trust and parking is available at most sites (perfect for the 8-minute drive from Cauldron Barn Farm Park).

The heathland found along the beaches is a haven for native wildlife and features all six British reptiles as well as a wealth of wildflowers. Studland Bay is also the start of the well-known and popular South West Coast Path.

Coastal Trails

Talking of walking along the South West Coast Path, the area around Cauldron Barn Farm Park is FULL of coastal trails and hiking routes. From the Smugglers Way three-mile circular trail to the Purbeck Way walk, there’s plenty of options for anyone looking to stretch their legs or set a challenge.

Weymouth

When living in Dorset, sun, sea and sand are in abundance in this seaside town. There are so many things to discover and activities to suit every preference and ability. Whether it’s lounging on the Blue Flag winning Weymouth Beach, traipsing along the Esplanade, drinking by the harbour or having a day out with all the family, this seaside escape has something for locals and visitors alike.

Best of all, it’s only an hour away from Cauldron Barn and has some gorgeous views to appreciate along the route.

Durlston Country Park

Durlston Country Park is a 320-acre country park and nature reserve that is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The park has an amazing diversity of wildlife that stems from a combination of geography, geology, history and careful management.

The park is only a mile from Swanage and features exciting things to see such as Durlston Castle, the Great Globe and star clusters, galaxies and meteor showers on a dark night. Dogs are also allowed!

Cruises & Fishing Trips

With so much coast and sea on your park home doorstep when living in Dorset, becoming ocean-bound is always on the cards. Passenger boat trips run from Swanage Pier and range from full-day cruises along the Jurassic Coast to shorter trips to see Old Harry Rocks and into Poole Harbour.

Poole (36-minutes from Swanage) has a selection of cross channel ferries that are ideal for day trips and short breaks to France.

For keen anglers and fisherfolk, a lot of companies run sea fishing excursions from Swanage and the local area. So whether it’s a sense of achievement, adventure or an appetiser you’re after… it’s covered hook, line and sinker.