Holiday rentals in Swanage

The Isle of Purbeck, on which Swanage sits, is one of the gems of the Dorset coastline. It isn’t actually an island, but its relative inaccessibility — it used to be cut off by marshland — has preserved its sparkling countryside and white-sand beaches from too much modernity. The town, whose stunning pier was built in 1895, retains an air of Victorian civility. But much of Swanage’s appeal lies in what surrounds it, from the gently rolling Purbeck Hills to the fossil-rich shores of its coast. Cliff walks offer much to explore, like the iconic chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks and the 320-acre Durlston Country Park. There are other ways to see the sights too. A heritage steam railway chugs inland through Purbeck’s delightful countryside and villages, while an absorbing ferry ride delivers you across Poole Harbor to Sandbanks, home to the most exclusive beachside property in the UK.

The South Coast of England enjoys some of its sunniest weather, and Swanage beach in particular is well sheltered from the more blustery winds that tend to batter the clifftops. In summer, average temperature highs are around 68 degrees Fahrenheit; in the winter, the average low drops to 39 degrees. But it can be a very pleasant place to book a holiday cottage at any time of year, so long as you’ve come prepared with waterproof layers and something warm to shield you from the winds. The maritime climate means that the weather is unpredictable and rain is never far away, so remember to pack your umbrella.

Corfe Castle

Standing imposingly atop a green hill, the ruins of Corfe Castle look down on the village below, even though it has been 400 years since their stone walls last saw combat. Built after the Norman Conquest, the fortress was besieged during the English Civil War, and today is a popular site for historical re-enactments. It’s only a 15-minute drive — or, even better, a short steam-train ride — from Swanage.

Studland Bay

With acres of sand dunes, wooded heath, and thriving wetlands, this nature reserve is a stunning mixture of wilderness, wildlife, and sandy beaches. There’s all sorts to look out for, from the World War II pillboxes to the UK’s most famous stretch of nude beach. The cliffs offer views of Old Harry Rocks and even the Isle of Wight, 20 miles offshore.

Durdle Door

Stretching into the waters of the English Channel like a rocky bridge to nowhere, Durdle Door is a spectacular sight. Located 20 miles along the coast from Swanage, the limestone archway is created by natural erosion, and can be accessed across the shingle beach at Lulworth Cove or from a cliff-top car park. Neighboring Lulworth Castle, an impressive Jacobean hunting lodge, is worth a look while you’re nearby.