Swanage Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Swanage Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Swanage packs loads of attractions into a small area. The town's Victorian pier (BH19 1JB, open daily 10am-5pm) offers fishing, boat trips and an exhibition about its history. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors praising the views across the bay.

Durlston Country Park (BH19 2JL) sits on the clifftops just south of town. This 320-acre park features woodland walks, sea views and a Victorian folly called Durlston Castle. The visitor centre opens 10am-5pm and entry is free, though parking costs £5 for the day.

Swanage Railway (BH19 1HB) runs steam trains between Swanage and Corfe Castle. A return trip takes about 40 minutes and gives amazing views of the Purbeck countryside. Adult returns cost £16 with trains running hourly in summer. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5 from over 2,500 reviews.

Don't miss Old Harry Rocks, the chalk stacks marking the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. The walk from Swanage takes about an hour and offers some of the best coastal views in Dorset. I recommend going early morning when the light makes the white cliffs glow.

Pet Friendly

Swanage is brilliant for dogs, with sections of the main beach allowing dogs year-round. The northern end stays dog-friendly even in summer when restrictions apply elsewhere (May-September).

The Black Swan pub (BH19 2LJ) welcomes dogs inside and out, even providing water bowls and treats. Their Sunday roasts are legendary, but book ahead as tables go fast.

Durlston Country Park has miles of dog-friendly paths where your pet can run off-lead in designated areas. The park café welcomes dogs too, with outdoor seating offering spectacular sea views while you enjoy your coffee.

Many Swanage cottages with hot tubs accept pets, but always check specific rules about dogs and hot tub use. We've found most owners just ask that dogs stay out of the tubs (seems reasonable!) and provide secure gardens for exercising.

The Swanage Deli (BH19 1DJ) sells homemade dog treats alongside human goodies, perfect for stocking up before a coastal walk. They open 9am-4pm daily except Mondays.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Swanage

Corfe Castle (BH20 5DR) stands just 6 miles from Swanage and ranks as one of Britain's most spectacular ruins. This 1000-year-old fortress was partially destroyed during the Civil War, creating the dramatic silhouette we see today. National Trust members get in free, while others pay £12.50 for adults. One visitor told me: "The views from the top are worth every penny of admission - you can see for miles across Purbeck."

Studland Bay offers four miles of sandy beaches backed by dunes and heathland. The middle section (Shell Bay to Knoll Beach) has the clearest water for swimming. The more adventurous can try the naturist beach at the northern end! The National Trust car parks (BH19 3AQ) cost £5 for two hours or £10 all day. After exploring, your cottage hot tub will feel even better.

Swanage Museum (BH19 2LJ, open 10:30am-4:30pm, free entry) tells the fascinating story of the town's development from fishing village to Victorian resort. The collection includes fossils from the Jurassic Coast and exhibits about the local stone quarrying industry that built parts of London. Kids love the interactive displays about smuggling along this coastline.

Is Swanage good for families?

Absolutely! The safe, sandy beach has shallow water perfect for paddling. Swanage Pier offers crabbing (equipment sold at the gift shop) and Putlake Adventure Farm (BH19 3EU) provides indoor and outdoor play areas for rainy days. Most hot tub cottages provide board games and DVDs too.

When's the best time to visit Swanage?

July and August offer the warmest weather but biggest crowds. I prefer June or September when temperatures remain pleasant but you'll have more space. The Swanage Carnival (late July/early August) brings parades, fireworks and air displays if you enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Can I get to Swanage without a car?

Yes, though it limits your options. Trains run to Wareham station, then the 40 bus connects to Swanage (30 minutes). In summer, the Swanage Railway also links to the mainline. Once in town, local buses serve the main attractions, but taxis are limited so book in advance.

Where can I buy groceries in Swanage?

The Co-op (BH19 1DF) on Kings Road opens 7am-10pm daily and stocks everything needed for self-catering. For local produce, try Swanage Farm Shop (BH19 3DH) for Purbeck meats, cheeses and vegetables. Their homemade pies make an easy hot tub supper!

Is Swanage good for walking?

It's walking heaven! The South West Coast Path runs through town, offering spectacular routes in both directions. The walk to Durlston Head takes about 40 minutes, while more ambitious hikers can reach Worth Matravers (5 miles) where the Square and Compass pub serves excellent local cider.

What should I pack for a hot tub cottage break in Swanage?

Besides swimwear for the hot tub, bring walking shoes as the coastal paths are too good to miss. Binoculars help spot seabirds and dolphins sometimes seen from the cliffs. Even in summer, pack a windproof jacket as sea breezes can be chilly.

1. Visit Swanage Official Tourism Site
2. Swanage Railway Timetables
3. Corfe Castle Information
4. Durlston Country Park Events