DISCOVER DORSET'S DELIGHTS

Beaches, Villages, and Beyond

The Isle of Purbeck is an unspoilt paradise in south-east Dorset. Forming part of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the coastline from Lulworth to Swanage is part of the spectacular Jurassic Coast and a World Heritage Site. With glorious, safe and sandy beaches, picturesque towns and villages and a wealth of family attractions, it forms an ideal holiday destination. The area has a particularly mild and agreeable climate which makes the area one of the sunniest places in the country during summer and autumn.

Ruins of an ancient stone castle on a grassy hill, framed by leafy branches under a partly cloudy sky.

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is a picturesque village in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, it takes its name from the dramatic stone fortress that rises above the village. The quaint village offers a selection of pubs and tea rooms, a bakery and village shops. The Swanage steam railway stops at Corfe Castle, it is an enjoyable way to travel through the beautiful countryside.

A vibrant sunset over a coastal town with a pier, boats on calm water, and colorful clouds in the sky.

Swanage

Swanage is a traditional coastal town with so much to offer. With beautiful award-winning safe and sandy beaches, fish and chip shops, tea rooms, pubs and an abundance of sports and leisure activities, there is something for everyone. Throughout the year there is a range of events, including Jazz, Folk, Blues, Fish and Pirate festival and the week long Swanage Regatta and Carnival!

Two people walking along a sandy beach under a partly cloudy sky, with gentle waves lapping at the shore.

Studland

Studland is a small village located close to Swanage and Corfe Castle. Studland is famous for its gorgeous beaches, nature reserve and the chain link ferry over to Sandbanks. The beaches at Studland are called Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach and are all owned by the national Trust along with the Heathland. Studland is also home to the most popular naturist beach in Britain.

A serene village pond surrounded by stone walls and greenery, with traditional stone houses in the background under a clear blue sky.

Worth Matravers

Worth Matravers is a village located south of Corfe Castle. known for its stone cottages, peaceful village green, and the iconic Square and Compass pub. Surrounded by stunning coastal walks to spots like Winspit Quarry and Chapman's Pool, it’s a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking a quiet escape with a touch of history and breathtaking sea views.

A historic stone church with a tall tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a winding path, under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Kingston

Kingston is situated about two miles south of Corfe Castle and five miles west of Swanage. The village of Kingston is situated on a hill near Swyre Head, the highest point of the Purbeck Hills, it offers stunning views stretching from Corfe Castle to Swanage. There is a lovely village pub and a beautiful historic church.

Rocky coastline with rugged cliffs and waves crashing against the shore under a clear blue sky.

Langton Matravers

Langton Matravers village is a small village in the Isle of Purbeck, situated on the Purbeck Hills about 2 miles west of Swanage and 5 miles south-east of Corfe Castle. The village is full of traditional charm, with a village pub, deli and a beautiful church. Langton Matravers is very popular due to the many magnificent walking routes.

A serene riverside scene with historical buildings, including a church tower, reflecting in the calm water under a clear blue sky.

Wareham

Wareham is a charming Saxon walled town. The Quay is very popular, visitors can hire boasts and row along the river enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife. There are a selection of pubs, restaurants and cafes as well as some pretty walks. Wareham Wednesdays also prove very popular to visitors in the summer months with music, games, food stalls and fireworks.

Rocky shoreline at sunset with vibrant pink and purple sky, waves crashing, and a distant silhouette of a building on the horizon.

Church Knowle and Kimmeridge

Church Knowle is a pretty village near Corfe Castle. Villages in this area offer visitors some amazing countryside and coastal walks. Kimmeridge Bay form parts of the Jurassic Coast, it boasts some of the best and safest rock pooling, snorkelling, diving and fossiling in the whole of Dorset!

View of Durdle Door rock formation through a cave opening, with a sandy beach, calm sea, and a vibrant sunset sky filled with clouds.

Lulworth, Durdle Door and Tyneham

Lulworth is made up of two picturesque villages, East and West Lulworth, it’s part of the Jurassic coast and is home to some of the most spectacular landmarks. There are many exciting attractions and places of interest located in the surrounding villages and towns near Lulworth, check out our favourite ones.

Coastal scene with a sandy beach, a long pier extending into the sea, and a pathway lined with greenery under a cloudy sky.

Poole and Bournemouth

Poole is a town located in the east of Dorset, its most well known for being Europe’s largest natural harbour. Visitors are drawn to the award winning blue flag Sandbanks Beach as well as the bustling quayside and historic old town. Bournemouth boasts seven miles of sandy beaches, beautiful parks and gardens, as well as a vast array of shops, restaurants.

A sandy beach with a row of white beachfront buildings under a blue sky with scattered clouds. Benches and a few people are visible in the distance.

Sandbanks and Brownsea Island

Sandbanks and Brownsea Island offer the perfect blend of luxury and nature. Relax on Sandbanks’ golden beaches, soak in the coastal elegance. Across the bay explore Brownsea’s tranquil woodlands, rare wildlife, and rich history — a seaside escape with something for everyone.