View source for Swanage

{{Short description|Town in Dorset, England}}
{{Use British English|date=May 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2016}}
{{Infobox UK place 
| official_name= Swanage
| type= [[Town status in the United Kingdom|Town]]
| static_image_name= Swanage - geograph.org.uk - 6609.jpg
| static_image_2_name =     [[File:Arms_of_Swanage.svg|150px|Image: 150 pixels]]
| static_image_2_width =   
| static_image_2_alt =     
| static_image_2_caption = [[Coat of arms]] of Swanage
| coordinates= {{coord|50.608|-1.960|display=inline,title}}
| population= 9,601
| population_ref= ([[2011 United Kingdom census|2011]])<ref name=2011census/>
| os_grid_reference= SZ0278
| civil_parish= Swanage
| unitary_england= [[Dorset (unitary authority)|Dorset]]
| lieutenancy_england= [[Dorset]]
| region= South West England
| country= England
| post_town= SWANAGE
| postcode_area= BH
| postcode_district= BH19
| dial_code= 01929
| constituency_westminster= [[South Dorset (constituency)|South Dorset]]
}}

'''Swanage''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|s|w|ɒ|n|ᵻ|dʒ}}) is a coastal town and [[civil parish]] in the south-east of [[Dorset]], England. It lies at the eastern end of the [[Isle of Purbeck]] and is one of its two towns,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://osm4wiki.toolforge.org/cgi-bin/wiki/wiki-osm.pl?project=en&article=Category:Towns_in_Dorset|title=OpenStreetMap for Wikipedia - Wikipedia article: Category:Towns_in_Dorset|website=osm4wiki.toolforge.org}}</ref> approximately {{convert|6+1/4|mi|0}} south of [[Poole]] and {{convert|25|mi|0}} east of [[Dorchester, Dorset|Dorchester]]. In the [[United Kingdom Census 2011|2011 census]], the civil parish had a population of 9,601.<ref name=2011census>{{NOMIS2011|id=1170213485|title=Swanage Parish|access-date=15 March 2018}}</ref> Nearby are [[Ballard Down]] and [[Old Harry Rocks]], with [[Studland Bay]] and [[Poole Harbour]] to the north; within the parish are [[Durlston Bay]] and [[Durlston Country Park]] to the south of the town. The parish also includes the areas of [[Herston, Dorset|Herston]], just to the west of the town, and [[Durlston]], just to the south.

The town, originally a small port and fishing village, flourished in the [[Victorian era]], when it first became a significant quarrying port and later a seaside resort for the rich of the day. Today, the town remains a popular tourist resort, which is the town's primary industry; many thousands of visitors come to the town during the peak summer season, drawn by the bay's sandy beaches and other attractions.

During its history, the bay was listed variously as Swanawic, Swanwich and Sandwich,<ref>National Archives; PROB 11/1835/407; Will of Richard Talbot, Gentleman of Sandwich otherwise Swanage Isle of Purbeck, Dorset; proved: 19 August 1834</ref> and only in more recent history as Swanage.<ref>Plea Rolls of the Court of Common Pleas; National Archives; CP 40/541; {{cite web |url=http://aalt.law.uh.edu/AALT6/R2/CP40no541a/aCP40no541afronts/IMG_0150.htm |title=AALT Page |access-date=2014-05-28 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304052352/http://aalt.law.uh.edu/AALT6/R2/CP40no541a/aCP40no541afronts/IMG_0150.htm |archive-date=4 March 2016 |df=dmy-all }}; second entry; the plaintiff is Wills. Geyler de Sandewych; (since the entries on this roll have county margination of Somerset, it is reasonable to suppose that Swanage, Dorset is meant, rather than Sandwich, Kent.</ref>

The town is located at the eastern end of the [[Jurassic Coast]], a [[World Heritage Site]]. The town contains many listed buildings and two conservation areas – Swanage Conservation Area and Herston Conservation Area.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dorsetforyou.com/purbeck/adopted_conservation_area_appraisals |title=Dorsetforyou - sorry this link is no longer active - Dorset Council |access-date=2015-03-04 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402121246/https://www.dorsetforyou.com/purbeck/adopted_conservation_area_appraisals |archive-date=2 April 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

== History ==

While fishing is likely the town's oldest industry, quarrying has been important to the town and the local area since at least the first century AD.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.13</ref> During the time of the [[Roman Britain|Roman occupation]] this industry grew, with the distinctive Purbeck marble being used for decorative purposes in buildings as far away as London. When the Romans left Britain, quarrying largely ceased until the 12th century.

The town is first mentioned in historical texts in the ''[[Anglo-Saxon Chronicle]]'' of 877. It is stated as being the scene of a [[Danes (Germanic tribe)|Danish]] naval disaster: ''"This year came the Danish army into Exeter from Wareham; whilst the navy sailed west about, until they met with a great mist at sea, and there perished one hundred and twenty ships at Swanwich."''<ref name=angloscanchronicle>{{cite web | title = The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle: Part 2 | url = http://mcllibrary.org/Anglo/part2.html | publisher = The Online Medieval & Classical Library | access-date = 9 July 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> The Danish ships were driven by a storm onto [[Peveril Point]], a shallow rocky reef outcropping from the southern end of Swanage Bay. A monument topped (historically incorrectly) by cannonballs was built in 1862 by [[John Mowlem]] at the southern end of the seafront promenade to mark this event - interpreted as great naval victory by [[Alfred the Great|King Alfred]].<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.16</ref>

In the 12th century demand for [[Purbeck Marble]] grew once again. While Purbeck marble is not suited to external use, as it does not weather well, it is however strong and suitably decorative for use as internal columns. As such the stone was used in the construction of many large churches and cathedrals being built at the time.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.37</ref>

In contrast to the decorative Purbeck marble, Purbeck limestone, or more commonly 'Purbeck stone', has been used in construction locally since the early days of quarrying on Purbeck. Its use is less well documented as it was taken for granted as the default construction materials in the area. However, the arrival of more modern quarrying techniques in the 17th century resulted in an increase in production.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.43</ref> The [[Great Fire of London]] in 1666 led to a period of large-scale reconstruction in the city, and Purbeck stone was extensively used for paving.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.49</ref> It was in this time that stone first started being loaded upon ships directly from the Swanage seafront; before this time quarried stone had been first transported to Poole for shipping.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.51</ref>

The idea that Swanage could become a tourist destination was first encouraged by a local MP [[William Morton Pitt]] in the early 19th century, who converted a mansion in the town into a luxury hotel.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.80</ref> The hotel is noted for having been visited in 1833 by the (then) [[Queen Victoria|Princess Victoria]], later to become queen.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.86</ref> The building was later renamed the Royal Victoria Hotel, now the building has been converted into flats and a bar and nightclub in the left and right wings respectively.

[[File:Swanage Globus.jpg|thumb|right|Globe at [[Durlston Country Park]]]]
[[File:Swanage Town Hall.jpg|thumb|[[Swanage Town Hall]]]]

=== Mowlem and Burt – the Victorian era ===

The town's greatest prominence came during the Victorian period. [[John Mowlem]] (1788–1868), a Swanage resident, became a successful builder in London, creating the [[Mowlem]] construction company, which still existed as recently as 2006, when it was acquired by another company, [[Carillion]].<ref>[https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4505826.stm Construction firms agree takeover] ''BBC News'', 2006</ref>

John Mowlem made his business in London by importing stone into the city from around the country, including Purbeck limestone. Through this process, many relics and monuments were brought from London to Swanage in the 19th century by Mowlem and his nephew [[George Burt (Britain)|George Burt]] (1816–1894) who took over the business when Mowlem retired. It is said that these items brought from London were used as ballast for the empty vessels which transported the Purbeck stone to London.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://westcountrybylines.co.uk/the-ballast-of-swanage/|title=The Ballast of Swanage|date=25 January 2021|publisher=West Country Bylines|access-date=15 April 2021}}</ref>

[[File:Swanage coast.JPG|160px|right|thumb|The [[Wellington clock tower]] in Swanage, relocated from [[London Bridge]]]]
These include the big clock tower near [[Peveril Point]]. The clock tower, commemorating the [[Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington|Duke of Wellington]], designed by [[Arthur Ashpitel]], was built in 1854 at the southern approach to the old [[London Bridge]]. Within 10 years it became an obstruction to traffic on the busy bridge and had to be removed. It was re-erected 1867–68 on its present site at the southern end of the bay on the sea front. A further item transported from London to Swanage is the 1860 façade of the [[Mercers' Hall]], that was used as the façade of the [[Swanage Town Hall]], which was designed by G.&nbsp;R. Crickmay (1830–1907) of [[Weymouth, Dorset|Weymouth]], and built during the early 1880s.<ref>{{cite web |title=The History of Swanage Town Hall |url=https://www.swanage.gov.uk/TownHallHistory.aspx |website=Swanage Town Council |access-date=17 January 2020}}</ref> Immediately behind the town hall, but pre-dating it, is the Swanage lock-up. Dating from 1803, it is a scheduled monument.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1002727|title=Historic England List Entry No 1002727|access-date=20 August 2021}}</ref>

Mowlem and Burt were highly influential in the development of the town, taking an active interest in their town of birth into retirement. Between them they were responsible for the building of much of the town's infrastructure, including the town's first [[Swanage Pier|pier]], the Mowlem Institute (a reading room), the first [[Gasworks|gas]] and [[Water supply|water works]], and the development of the Durlston estate and [[Durlston Country Park|Country Park]], at the southern end of the town. The [[Great Globe]] which can be found slightly south of [[Durlston Castle]], both also designed by Crickmay, in the Durlston Country Park was completed by George Burt in 1887. It is made up of 15 sections of stone and joined with granite dowels. The Great Globe weighs {{convert|40|LT|abbr=off}} and is {{convert|10|ft|m|0}} in diameter.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/dorset/content/panoramas/durlston_360.shtml |title=Durlston's Great Globe |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=March 2008 |work=web page |publisher=BBC |access-date=20 December 2012}}</ref> Burt was responsible for the erection of the first civic memorial to [[Albert, Prince Consort|Prince Albert]], the [[Prince Albert Memorial, Swanage|Prince Albert Memorial]], in 1862.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.swanage.news/albert-memorial-gets-planning-permission-to-be-re-erected-in-prince-albert-gardens/|title=''Swanage News'': "Albert Memorial gets planning permission to be re-erected in Prince Albert Gardens", 4 October 2020|date=4 October 2020|access-date=30 August 2021}}</ref>

Newton Manor House on the High Street was a 17th-century farmhouse, remodelled in the 18th and 19th centuries. For some centuries the house and estate belonged to the Cockram family. In c1876 it was bought by Sir [[John Charles Robinson]], Director of the [[Victoria and Albert Museum]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Newton Manor A Grade II* Listed Building in Swanage, Dorset |url=https://britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101119898-newton-manor-swanage#.XujMwUVKhPY |website=British Listed Buildings}}</ref>

Swanage Lighthouse was built in 1880, on the clifftop at [[Anvil Point]], not far away from Durlston Castle.

The railways were introduced to the town in 1885 with the encouragement of Burt by the [[London and South Western Railway|London and South Western Railway Company]]. By this time the town was becoming a popular resort destination for the wealthy, noted for its fine weather and clean air. The town previously had been fairly cut off due to its valley location, but the introduction of the railway made the town much more accessible to visitors, with direct services running from London. However, the greatest increase in visitors came with the building of the second 'new' pier in 1895, built primarily for use by pleasure steamers.

=== The Great War to the present ===
The town enjoyed several decades quietly being successful as a seaside resort. The [[First World War]] left few physical marks on the town; however, during the [[Second World War]] gun emplacements and pillboxes were built at spots along the shoreline at the southern end of the bay. The town also received bomb damage during the Second World War, with 20 people killed. The town and other nearby villages are noted for playing a part in the development of [[radar]].<ref name=radarhistory>{{cite web | title = Story of Early Radar | url = http://www.purbeckradar.org.uk/story/index.htm | publisher = Purbeck Radar Museum Trust | access-date = 23 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120213005056/http://www.purbeckradar.org.uk/story/index.htm | archive-date = 13 February 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

After the Second World War the town, like many other seaside resorts and indeed the country at large, suffered a recession with few people able to spare the money for holidaying. In 1972 the Swanage branch line of the railway was closed by [[British Rail]] as part of larger network-wide cutbacks.<ref name=swanrailhist>{{cite web | title = Swanage Railway – History | url = http://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/n-history.htm | publisher = Swanage Railway | access-date = 23 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120620022131/http://swanagerailway.co.uk/n-history.htm | archive-date = 20 June 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> A group of local enthusiasts formed a charitable organisation with the purpose of restoring and preserving the branch line and steam and diesel locomotives to run along it, forming the [[Swanage Railway]].<ref name=swanrailhist/>

Through the years Swanage has suffered from flooding, with severe flooding occurring as recently as 1990. In 1993 a large-scale flood alleviation scheme was completed, ending in the banjo-shaped 'new jetty' outletting rainwater.<ref name=rgsflooding>{{cite web | title = Swanage – Flood Alevation | url = http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Schools/Fieldwork+and+local+learning/Planning+your+fieldtrip/Fieldwork+locations/Jurassic+Coast+of+Dorset+and+East+Devon/Swanage+-+Flood+alleviation.htm | publisher = Royal Geographic Society | access-date = 23 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120817223542/http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Schools/Fieldwork+and+local+learning/Planning+your+fieldtrip/Fieldwork+locations/Jurassic+Coast+of+Dorset+and+East+Devon/Swanage+-+Flood+alleviation.htm | archive-date = 17 August 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> This in itself created a new problem, disturbing the natural northward drift of sand up the bay, with a buildup on the southern side and reduction of sand on the northern. This reduction of sand levels exposed the foundations of parts of the seawall threatening to damage it. As a result, the beach was improved in 2005–06 by construction of new [[Lignum vitae|greenheart]] timber [[groynes]] and the placement of {{convert|90000|m3|abbr=on}} of sand as [[beach nourishment]].<ref name=beachnorishment>{{cite web | title = Swanage Beach | url = http://www.poolebay.net/PhaseI/swanage.htm | publisher = Borough of Poole Leisure Services | access-date = 25 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090607093739/http://www.poolebay.net/PhaseI/swanage.htm | archive-date = 7 June 2009 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

[[File:Swanage Panorama Crop.jpg|thumb|centre|upright=4|Panorama of Swanage, looking north-west from [[Peveril Point]]]]

== Governance ==

Local governance and service provision is provided by Swanage Town Council (based at [[Swanage Town Hall]]) and the newly formed unitary authority [[Dorset Council (UK)|Dorset Council]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Swanage Town Council - Swanage Town Council|url=https://www.swanage.gov.uk/Home.aspx|access-date=2021-03-10|website=www.swanage.gov.uk}}</ref> Swanage is represented within Dorset council by two councillors from the [[Swanage (ward)|Swanage Ward]], William Trite and Gary Suttle of the Conservative Party.<ref>{{cite web|title=Dorset Council Election results|url=https://mapping.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/dorset-council-elections/2019/Results|access-date=10 March 2021|website=dorsetforyou}}</ref> This changed with a [[Dorset County Council#2019 Structural changes|local government reorganisation]] in 2019 from a two-tier structure ([[Purbeck District|Purbeck District Council]] and [[Dorset County Council]]), to a single-tier unitary authority (Dorset Council) covering rural Dorset.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/reshapingyourcouncils/how-are-councils-in-dorset-organised-now/|title=How are councils in Dorset organised now? {{!}} Unitary options for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole|language=en-US|access-date=2019-09-30}}</ref> In terms of UK parliamentary representation, Swanage falls within the constituency of [[South Dorset (UK Parliament constituency)|South Dorset]] and is represented since 2024 by [[Lloyd Hatton]] of [[Labour Party (UK)|Labour]].

=== Town Council ===

Swanage Town Council is the Parish Authority based in the historic town hall in the High Street. Services provided by the Town Council include – "sport and recreational facilities, beach, tourist information and promotion of tourists, caravan parks, off-street car parks, public conveniences, cemeteries, allotments".<ref name=tcservices>{{cite web | title = Swanage Council – Services | url = http://www.swanage.gov.uk/fr.asp?section=localservices&topnav=Services&basenav=home | publisher = Swanage Town Council | access-date = 11 August 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071019075804/http://www.swanage.gov.uk/fr.asp?section=localservices&topnav=Services&basenav=home | archive-date = 19 October 2007 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> The Town Council consists of twelve elected Councillors, elected from two electoral wards (Swanage North and Swanage south), who each serve 4-year terms (after an initial 5-year term from 2019 due to local government re-organisation). As of the [[2019 United Kingdom local elections|2019 local elections]], the political makeup of the Town Council is 10 [[Conservative Party (UK)|Conservative]] Councillors (57% of total votes) and 2 Labour Councillors (23% of total votes).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/councillors-committees-elections/elections-and-voting/election-results/2-may-2019-dorset-council-and-parish-elections/results-of-the-2-may-2019-elections-for-swanage-town-council-areas.aspx|title=Results of the 2 May 2019 elections for the contested Swanage Town Council areas|website=Dorset Council|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-09-30}}</ref> These Councillors appoint a chairman to act as the Town Mayor, currently Cllr Avril Harris.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.swanage.gov.uk/Councillors.aspx|title=Swanage Town Council - Your Councillors|website=www.swanage.gov.uk|access-date=2018-07-22}}</ref> Working groups and committees are formed for specific concerns and functions such as; Transport, Capital Projects and General Operations.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Swanage Town Council - Town Council Meetings|url=https://www.swanage.gov.uk/Meetings.aspx|access-date=2021-03-10|website=www.swanage.gov.uk}}</ref> The council employs around 30 staff to deliver its services who are managed by the Town Clerk and various sub managers.<ref name=tcdetails>{{cite web | title = The Town Council – an overview | url = http://www.swanage.gov.uk/content_print.asp?pg=147&lt1=council&good=back | publisher = Swanage Town Council | access-date = 12 August 2009 }}{{dead link|date=May 2018 |bot=SheriffIsInTown |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

== Geography and geology ==
[[File:Swanage Bay, Dorset, England.jpg|thumb|left|Swanage Bay]]
[[File:SwanageGeology.png|thumb|Simplified geology map of the Swanage area]]

Swanage faces to the east Swanage Bay in Dorset on the south coast of England. The bay is at the eastern end of the [[Isle of Purbeck]], approximately {{convert|6|mi|0}} south of [[Poole]] and {{convert|25|mi|0}} east of [[Dorchester, Dorset|Dorchester]]. The northern headland of the bay is formed of chalk, the southern of Purbeck Limestone, with softer primarily Wealden clays forming the bay and valley in which the town is sited. The Purbeck limestone was extensively quarried with several sites to the south west showing evidence of former quarries, particularly [[Tilly Whim Caves]] and [[Dancing Ledge]], a man-made rock shelf used for loading ships. Natural erosion has formed stacks along and at the end of the northern headland, in particular the notable [[Old Harry Rocks]]. In part through the process of quarrying, [[fossils]] from the dinosaur age have been discovered in the local rock, and the coastline up to and including Swanage Bay has been included in the [[Jurassic Coast]] [[World Heritage Site]].

===Climate===

As with the rest of the [[British Isles]] Swanage experiences a [[maritime climate]] with warm (but not hot) summers and cool winters. Within this climate zone, Swanage's coastal location ensures a smaller range in annual temperature than in places further inland. The [[Met Office]] operates a weather station at the town,<ref>{{Cite web | publisher = [[UKMO]] | url = http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/networks/images/map6.gif | title = Weather Station | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121006021045/http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/networks/images/map6.gif | archive-date = 6 October 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> and temperature extremes recorded range from {{convert|-9.4|C|F}} in January 1963<ref>{{Cite web | publisher = [[KNMI (institute)|KNMI]] | url = http://eca.knmi.nl/utils/monitordetail.php?seasonid=7&year=1963&indexid=TNn&stationid=1813 | title = 1963 temperature | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120608170510/http://eca.knmi.nl/utils/monitordetail.php?seasonid=7&year=1963&indexid=TNn&stationid=1813 | archive-date = 8 June 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> up to {{convert|32.4|C|F}} during June 1976.<ref>{{Cite web | publisher = [[KNMI (institute)|KNMI]] | url = http://eca.knmi.nl/utils/monitordetail.php?seasonid=13&year=1976&indexid=TXx&stationid=1813 | title = 1976 temperature | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120608170515/http://eca.knmi.nl/utils/monitordetail.php?seasonid=13&year=1976&indexid=TXx&stationid=1813 | archive-date = 8 June 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> Rainfall typically peaks in winter, and is at its lowest during summer. The town's position on an east-facing bay provides it some protection from the prevailing southwesterly winds.

{{Weather box
 | width       = auto
 | metric first = yes
 | single line = yes
 | location    = Swanage (1991–2020)
|Jan record high C = 14.8
|Feb record high C = 16.2
|Mar record high C = 19.8
|Apr record high C = 23.2
|May record high C = 27.8
|Jun record high C = 32.4
|Jul record high C = 30.2
|Aug record high C = 31.6
|Sep record high C = 27.7
|Oct record high C = 22.6
|Nov record high C = 17.2
|Dec record high C = 15.0
|year record high C = 32.4
 | Jan high C = 9.0
 | Feb high C = 8.9
 | Mar high C = 10.5
 | Apr high C = 12.8
 | May high C = 15.7
 | Jun high C = 18.3
 | Jul high C = 20.5
 | Aug high C = 20.6
 | Sep high C = 18.6
 | Oct high C = 15.5
 | Nov high C = 12.2
 | Dec high C = 9.8
 | year high C = 14.4
 | Jan mean C = 6.5
 | Feb mean C = 6.3
 | Mar mean C = 7.7
 | Apr mean C = 9.6
 | May mean C = 12.4
 | Jun mean C = 15.1
 | Jul mean C = 17.1
 | Aug mean C = 17.3
 | Sep mean C = 15.4
 | Oct mean C = 12.7
 | Nov mean C = 9.5
 | Dec mean C = 7.2
 | year mean C = 11.4
 | Jan low C = 4.0
 | Feb low C = 3.7
 | Mar low C = 4.7
 | Apr low C = 6.3
 | May low C = 9.1
 | Jun low C = 11.7
 | Jul low C = 13.6
 | Aug low C = 13.8
 | Sep low C = 12.1
 | Oct low C = 9.7
 | Nov low C = 6.7
 | Dec low C = 4.5
 | year low C = 8.4
|Jan record low C = -9.4
|Feb record low C = -7.8
|Mar record low C = -6.7
|Apr record low C = -2.6
|May record low C = -0.6
|Jun record low C = 3.4
|Jul record low C = 5.0
|Aug record low C = 5.6
|Sep record low C = 2.8
|Oct record low C = -2.2
|Nov record low C = -4.5
|Dec record low C = -6.5
|year record low C = -9.4
 | precipitation colour = green
 | Jan precipitation mm = 95.2
 | Feb precipitation mm = 67.3
 | Mar precipitation mm = 58.5
 | Apr precipitation mm = 52.1
 | May precipitation mm = 45.7
 | Jun precipitation mm = 50.9
 | Jul precipitation mm = 49.5
 | Aug precipitation mm = 54.9
 | Sep precipitation mm = 63.3
 | Oct precipitation mm = 98.4
 | Nov precipitation mm = 108.2
 | Dec precipitation mm = 108.1
 | year precipitation mm = 852.7
 | unit precipitation days = 1.0 mm
 | Jan precipitation days = 13.2
 | Feb precipitation days = 10.9
 | Mar precipitation days = 9.8
 | Apr precipitation days = 9.2
 | May precipitation days = 8.0
 | Jun precipitation days = 7.6
 | Jul precipitation days = 7.8
 | Aug precipitation days = 8.3
 | Sep precipitation days = 8.7
 | Oct precipitation days = 12.6
 | Nov precipitation days = 14.0
 | Dec precipitation days = 13.9
 | year precipitation days = 124.0
 | Jan sun = 66.5
 | Feb sun = 88.4
 | Mar sun = 134.7
 | Apr sun = 188.1
 | May sun = 222.0
 | Jun sun = 226.9
 | Jul sun = 236.0
 | Aug sun = 213.1
 | Sep sun = 167.3
 | Oct sun = 119.8
 | Nov sun = 81.2
 | Dec sun = 61.0
 | year sun = 1805.5
| source 1 = [[Met Office]]<ref name="MetOffice">{{cite web
|url = https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/research/climate/maps-and-data/uk-climate-averages/gbyxgmvts
|title = Swanage - Climate Station (Dorset) UK climate averages - Met Office
|publisher = Met Office
|access-date = July 4, 2024}}</ref>
|source 2 = Starlings Roost Weather<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.roostweather.com/ukobs/temp_station_extreme_map.php|title=Monthly Temperature Extremes}}</ref>
|date=October 2025}}

== Economy ==

Swanage's primary sources of employment are wholesale and retail trade (including mechanics), health and social work, and accommodation and food service activities.<ref name=2011census/> The town has a tourism industry; however, the demand level is highly seasonal, and as such people looking for permanent work may have to commute to nearby towns such as [[Poole]] and [[Bournemouth]].

The town centre has a few medium-sized outlets for major retailers, a collection of local retailers, a number of cafes, bars, restaurants and pubs. The seafront has two [[amusement arcades]], several ice cream outlets, fish restaurants and cafes. The town also has a number of successful small-scale cottage industries.

There is a [[brickworks]] on the outskirts of the town<ref name=ibstock>{{cite web | title = IBSTOCK Ancestry | url = http://www.ibstockancestry.co.uk/swanage.htm | publisher = IBSTOCK Bricks Ltd | access-date = 24 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090321221444/http://ibstockancestry.co.uk/swanage.htm | archive-date = 21 March 2009 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> that uses the Wealden Clay found in the valley for producing bricks, and quarrying still continues to the south.<ref name=suttle>{{cite web | title = Suttle Natural Stone | url = http://www.stone.uk.com/ | publisher = J. Suttle Swanage Quarries Ltd | access-date = 25 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100109052351/http://www.stone.uk.com/ | archive-date = 9 January 2010 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

=== Tourism ===
[[File:Swanage beach, Dorset, England.jpg|thumb|right|Swanage beach]]
During the peak summer season many people are drawn by the town's beautiful setting, the beach and other attractions. The town has numerous hotels and guest rooms though the number (particularly of hotels) has reduced slightly in recent years. Swanage has a gently sloping white sand beach which is sheltered and generally calm. The beach is well served by local businesses providing refreshments and services. For hire are [[deck chair]]s, boats, [[pedalo]]s and general watersports equipment. There are amusement arcades and parks.

Besides the beach, other local attractions include the restored [[Swanage Railway|Swanage Steam Railway]], the [[Swanage Pier|Victorian Swanage Pier]], and [[Durlston Country Park]] National Nature Reserve. The town may also be used a base from which to visit other nearby areas of interest, such as [[Corfe Castle]].
{{wideimage|SwanageSeafront.jpg|1000px}}

== Culture ==

As a small town there are no large cultural institutions based in the town, though there are a number of small clubs and groups, including the Swanage Town Band formed in the late 19th century.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.158</ref> The largest facility in the town is the Mowlem Theatre, on the site of the former Mowlem Institute, opened in 1967.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.165</ref> Performing a dual role as a 400-seat theatre and cinema, the complex also hosts a bar and restaurant and a small collection of shops. Typically there are around 200 film showings and 60–100 nights of live theatre.<ref name=mowlem>{{cite web | title = The Mowlem Theatre | url = http://www.mowlemtheatre.co.uk | publisher = Mowlem Theatre | access-date = 28 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090901191948/http://www.mowlemtheatre.co.uk/ | archive-date = 1 September 2009 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

Swanage has a Detached Flight of the [[Air Training Corps]] which regularly partakes in activities around the town, including charitable collections, training exercises and parades. 2185 (Swanage) DF is attached to 2185 (Wareham) Squadron ATC as its parent unit.

=== Festivals and events ===

The town hosts a number of annual festivals and events. In the summer months there is a [[carnival]] week which includes a procession of floats and dancers and several firework displays, and many other attractions and small events including live music from various bands from all over [[Southern England]], races and a [[regatta]].

The railway used to have special [[Thomas the Tank Engine]] themed events, and other special services.

The town also hosts successful festivals, which attract more than a purely local audience. These include a jazz festival, a folk festival, a blues festival, and there are plans for a food festival in the future.

New Year's Eve has traditionally been a big event for Swanage, with the town drawing more people from surrounding areas, and people travelling considerable distances to attend.<ref>[[David Lewer|Lewer]]/Smale p.174</ref> In part this has been due to attendance by employees of the nearby Wytch Farm oil processing facility. While the popularity of the event has waned somewhat from its peak in the early 1990s, with fewer oil employees in the area, there is still a large gathering each year, spilling out into the square and High Street at midnight. It is a long-standing tradition in Swanage for people to dress up for New Year's Eve to add to the atmosphere. There is no specific fancy dress "theme".

==Media==
Local news and television programmes are provided by [[BBC South]] and [[ITV Meridian]]. Television signals are received from [[Rowridge transmitting station]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukfree.tv/transmitters/tv/Rowridge|title=Rowridge (Isle Of Wight, England) Full Freeview transmitter|date=1 May 2004|website=UK Free TV}}</ref>

Local radio stations are [[BBC Radio Solent]] on 96.1 FM, [[Heart South]] on 102.3 FM, [[Greatest Hits Radio South]] on 105.8 FM, [[Nation Radio South Coast]] on 106.6 FM and Purbeck Coast FM, a community based radio station that broadcast on 101.2 FM.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://purbeckcoast.com/about/|title=About}}</ref>

The town is served by these local newspapers:
* The Swanage & Wareham Advertiser <ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.britishpapers.co.uk/england-sw/swanage-advertiser/ | title=Swanage & Wareham Advertiser &#124; British Newspapers Online | date=5 February 2014 }}</ref>
* The Purbeck Gazette <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/|title=Purbeck News &#124; The Purbeck Gazette &#124; In Print & Online|website=The Purbeck Gazette}}</ref>
* Swanage News <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.swanage.news/|title=Swanage News - Independent local breaking news|website=Swanage News}}</ref>
* [[Dorset Echo]]

== Churches ==

There are several church congregations in Swanage, many of which meet at sites of historic interest. [[St Mary's Church, Swanage|St Mary's Anglican Church]] was rebuilt from 1860<ref name=geocatching>{{cite web | title = Geocatching | url = http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?wp=GC262Z3 | publisher = Geocatching | access-date = 15 May 2010 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120309153748/http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?wp=GC262Z3 | archive-date = 9 March 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> and Swanage [[Methodist Church]] was built in 1886.<ref name=swanagemethodist>{{cite web | title = Swanage Methodist Church | url = http://www.swanagemethodist.org.uk/ | publisher = Swanage Methodist Church | access-date = 15 May 2010}}</ref> There are also three more Anglican churches, Emmanuel [[Baptist Church]], a [[Society of Friends|Quakers']] meeting house, [[Roman Catholic]], [[Salvation Army]] and [[United Reformed Church]].  All the churches are part of the ecumenical group known as "Churches Together in Swanage and District" which also extends to churches within [[Langton Matravers]], [[Kingston, Purbeck|Kingston]] and [[Worth Matravers]].

The town also has the "Old Stable", a Christian-led community centre in the town centre.<ref name=oldstable>{{cite web | title = The Old Stable | url = http://www.swanagechristiancentre.org.uk/ | publisher = The Old Stable | access-date = 15 May 2010 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120306171142/http://www.swanagechristiancentre.org.uk/ | archive-date = 6 March 2012}}</ref>

== Transport ==
===Railway===
[[File:Dorset swanage station.jpg|thumb|Swanage railway station is a terminus of the Swanage Railway]]

The nearest main line railway station to Swanage is [[Wareham railway station|Wareham]], with [[South Western Railway (train operating company)|South Western Railway]] services westward to [[Dorchester South railway station|Dorchester South]] and [[Weymouth railway station|Weymouth]] and eastwards towards [[Poole railway station|Poole]], [[Bournemouth railway station|Bournemouth]], [[Southampton Central railway station|Southampton Central]] and [[London Waterloo railway station|London Waterloo]].

[[Swanage Railway]] is a heritage steam railway, which operates for most of the year; the town is served by [[Swanage railway station]] on this line. In February 2013, it obtained a government grant of £1.47&nbsp;million to reintroduce regular services to the main line at [[Wareham railway station|Wareham]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/10219321.Swanage_Railway_claim___1_47_million_grant/|title=Swanage Railway claim £1.47&nbsp;million grant|publisher=Bournemouth Echo|date=11 February 2013|access-date=11 February 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131215200559/http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/10219321.Swanage_Railway_claim___1_47_million_grant/|archive-date=15 December 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The physical connection between the Swanage Railway and the main line has been restored, but is currently used only during the summer months. In 2023, a regular four day per week service from Wareham was restored between April and September.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/news/view/trial-train-service-from-wareham-main-line-into-the-heart-of-purbeck-thanks-to-working-in-partnership|title=Trial train service from Wareham main line into the heart of Purbeck thanks to working in partnership|website=Swanage Railway|date=9 March 2023|accessdate=10 March 2023}}</ref> Limited ferry services also run between [[Poole#Quay|Poole Quay]] and [[Swanage Pier]]. These are used by Swanage residents for shopping trips to Poole's large shopping centre and also by tourists in Poole for day trips into Swanage.

To avoid the narrow A351 through [[Corfe Castle]] village and parking in Swanage, a [[park and ride]] facility operates at [[Norden railway station (England)|Norden]], with connections into Swanage provided by Swanage Railway steam trains or buses on routes 30 and 40. Together with Swanage Railway trains from Wareham, boat trips from Poole and the scenic bus route from Bournemouth, this provides an unusually wide and attractive range of public transport options with low [[carbon footprint]] for visiting the town.

===Roads===
Swanage is accessible by main road either through [[Wareham, Dorset|Wareham]] and its bypass or via the [[Sandbanks Ferry]] which provides a shorter route to [[Bournemouth]]. There is a minor road connecting Swanage to [[East Lulworth]] via [[Corfe Castle]] but this passes through a military firing range and is closed during firing exercises.

===Buses and coaches===
Bus services are provided predominantly by [[Wilts & Dorset|Morebus]]; key routes include:
* 40 runs between Swanage and Poole
* 30 between Swanage and Weymouth (summer time only)
* 50 runs between Swanage and Bournemouth via the Sandbanks Ferry. 

[[Double-decker bus|Double-deck]] open top buses are used on the [[Poole]] and Bournemouth to Swanage routes in the summer months. The buses on these routes are branded as ''Purbeck Breezers''.<ref name=breezers>{{cite web | title = £2.4M new bus investment for Swanage services |url = http://www.wdbus.co.uk/promotions/index.asp |publisher = Wilts & Dorset | access-date = 4 August 2009 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090113043222/http://www.wdbus.co.uk/promotions/index.asp |archive-date = 13 January 2009}}</ref> The Bournemouth to Swanage route was voted one of Britain's top three scenic bus routes in 2018.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-44226761 |title=Britain's most scenic bus routes |work=bbc.co.uk |year=2018 |access-date=27 August 2018}}</ref>

[[National Express Coaches]] operates a daily return coach service from Swanage to London.

== Education ==
=== Current ===
Swanage has four primary schools covering academic years 1–6; St Mary's Catholic,<ref name=stmarys>{{cite web | title = St Marys Swanage | url = https://www.stmarysswanage.dorset.sch.uk/web/ | publisher = St Marys School | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref> St Mark's CE,<ref name=stmarks>{{cite web | title = St Marks Swanage | url = https://www.stmarksswanage.dorset.sch.uk/ | publisher = St Marks School | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref> St George's CE,<ref name=stgeorges>{{cite web | title = St Georges Swanage | url = https://www.stgeorgeslangton.dorset.sch.uk/ | publisher = St Georges School | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref> and Swanage Primary School (also known by its location of Mount Scar.)<ref name=swanageprimary>{{cite web | title = Swanage Primary School | url = https://www.swanageprimary.dorset.sch.uk/ | publisher = Swanage Primary School | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref>

Swanage has one secondary school, The Swanage School.<ref name=swanageschool>{{cite web | title = The Swanage School | url = https://www.theswanageschool.co.uk/ | publisher = The Swanage School | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref>

The town has a library in the town centre housed in a distinctive 1960s octagonal glass and Purbeck Stone building.<ref name=swanagelibrary>{{cite web | title = Swanage Library | url = https://www.dorsetforyou.com/swanagelibrary | publisher = Dorset County Council | access-date = 28 April 2014 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140429061911/https://www.dorsetforyou.com/swanagelibrary | archive-date = 29 April 2014 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

A small museum (the [[Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre]]) with artefacts and displays recounting the town and surrounding area's history is located at the square on the seafront.<ref name="swanage museum">{{cite web | title = Swanage Museum Home | url = http://www.swanagemuseum.co.uk/ | publisher = Swanage Museum | access-date = 28 April 2014 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140429050715/http://www.swanagemuseum.co.uk/ | archive-date = 29 April 2014 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> The museum had previously been housed in the historical [[Tithe Barn]] building; however, mounting maintenance costs<ref name=tithebarn>{{cite web | title = Decay or Restoration | url = http://www.dorsetlife.co.uk/2009/02/decay-or-restoration/ | publisher = Dorset Life | access-date = 28 April 2014 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140429075550/http://www.dorsetlife.co.uk/2009/02/decay-or-restoration/ | archive-date = 29 April 2014 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> forced the relocation of much of the collection to the new site, with the remainder in storage.

=== Former ===

Until 2013 schools in [[Purbeck District]] operated as part of a three-tier comprehensive pyramid system. Under this system, the [[The Purbeck School|Purbeck]] Secondary School in Wareham was fed by the various [[middle school]]s in the Purbeck district, including the former Swanage Middle School on the edge of the town at Herston. These in turn were fed by the district's primary schools. However, in November 2010<ref name=twotierbbcnews>{{cite news | title = BBC News – Purbeck school system overhaul agreed | url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-11870023 | publisher = BBC News | access-date = 12 December 2011 | date = 29 November 2010 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101203142314/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-11870023 | archive-date = 3 December 2010 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> a move to change to a two-tier system was approved following a proposal from Dorset County Council in May of that year. This culminated in the closure of Purbeck's Middle Schools in September 2013. As a further result the district's primary schools, including the 4 in Swanage are required to accommodate children through two additional school years. These cover years 1–6, with children moving on to secondary education from year 7 onwards.

Concern from parents and teachers following the original announcement of these plans prompted the formation of the Education Swanage group, who put together a proposal to form a [[Free school (England)|free school]] in the town to provide secondary education. Having successfully completed several rounds of reviews with the [[Department for Education]], Education Swanage's proposal was finally accepted in October 2011.<ref name=swanagefreeschoolacceptance>{{cite web | title = The Swanage School – Good News! | url = http://www.educationswanage.co.uk/NewsArticle.aspx?id=73 | publisher = Education Swanage | access-date = 12 December 2011 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130420023705/http://www.educationswanage.co.uk/NewsArticle.aspx?id=73 | archive-date = 20 April 2013 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> "The Swanage School" opened in September 2013 temporarily located at Harrow House, an international language school within the town until the new building became ready. Pupils moved to the new building in Easter 2014.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-dorset-23962576 | work=BBC News | title=Swanage secondary free school opens | date=4 September 2013 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130915184245/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-23962576 | archive-date=15 September 2013 | df=dmy-all }}</ref>

Harrow House, a large former private language school in the town catered for foreign pupils. The school, founded in 1969<ref name=harrowhouse>{{cite web | title = Harrow House | url = http://www.harrowhouse.com/ | publisher = Harrow House | access-date = 28 April 2014 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140429045532/http://www.harrowhouse.com/ | archive-date = 29 April 2014 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> had a large white pressurised dome which serves as a sports hall, which was visible from some distance. The school closed during the pandemic of 2020 and did not reopen.<ref name=harrowhouseclosure>{{cite web | title = UK ELT schools MLS and Harrow House close down | url = https://studytravel.network/magazine/news/1/27742 | publisher = Study Travel Network | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref>

Adjacent to Harrow House was Purbeck View School, owned by Cambian Education. This school catered to the needs of autistic children and teenagers and provides boarding facilities. Following a number of issue with Ofsted inspections and reducing the number of young people served
<ref name=bbcnewspurbeckview>{{cite web | title = Parents 'disgusted' over short notice to leave special school | url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-63809782 | publisher = BBC | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref> the school finally closed in August 2023.<ref name=purbeckviewclosure>{{cite web | title = Ofsted - Purbeck View School | url = https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/27/113950 | publisher = Ofsted | access-date = 14 November 2024}}</ref>

There was a [[Swanage Grammar School]] between 1929 and 1974.

== Public services ==
The town is served by a small [[fire station]] provided by [[Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service]] and located centrally within the town. Swanage Police Station, originally opened in 1899 and was operated by [[Dorset Police]], before being closed in November 2012.<ref>{{cite news|title=Swanage Police Station Closes Its Doors|url=http://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/news/info.aspx?f=1232|access-date=20 September 2013|newspaper=The Purbeck Gazette|date=22 November 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921055806/http://www.purbeckgazette.co.uk/news/info.aspx?f=1232|archive-date=21 September 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

Swanage Hospital is a [[Community hospital#United Kingdom|community hospital]] provided by [[Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust|Dorset Healthcare]] with an accompanying Ambulance Station provided by the [[South Western Ambulance Service]]. The hospital has a Minor Injuries Unit, providing basic emergency care from 8am to 8pm, [[inpatient]] and [[outpatient]] departments, an [[operating theatre]], [[radiography]], [[physiotherapy]] and [[occupational therapy]] departments.<ref name="swanhospital">{{cite web|url=https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/our-services-hospitals/community-hospitals/swanage-community-hospital|title=Swanage Hospital|publisher=Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust|access-date=22 July 2018}}</ref> Swanage Medical Practice provides [[General Practitioner|GP]] services.<ref name=swangp>{{cite web | title = Swanage Medical Practice | url = http://www.swanagemedical.org.uk/default.asp | publisher = Swanage Medical Practice | access-date = 12 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://archive.today/20121224054604/http://www.swanagemedical.org.uk/default.asp | archive-date = 24 December 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

Given the coastal location, the town is also served by [[Swanage Lifeboat Station]], an [[RNLI]] lifeboat station,<ref name=swanlifeboat>{{cite web | title = Swanage Lifeboats Online | url = http://www.swanagelifeboat.org.uk/ | publisher = Swanage Lifeboats | access-date = 31 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080512085346/http://www.swanagelifeboat.org.uk/ | archive-date = 12 May 2008 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> a [[Her Majesty's Coastguard|HM Coastguard]] post,<ref name=swancoastg>{{cite web | title = Swanage Coastguard Online | url = http://www.swanagecoastguard.org.uk/ | publisher = Swanage Coastguard | access-date = 31 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070205080208/http://www.swanagecoastguard.org.uk/ | archive-date = 5 February 2007 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> and a [[National Coastwatch Institution]] station.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Swanage - QAVS {{!}} National Coastwatch Institution|url=https://www.nci.org.uk/swanage|access-date=2021-03-10|website=www.nci.org.uk}}</ref>

==Sport and recreation==

Swanage is represented in a number of sports, including football, rugby, cricket, croquet, hockey, sailing and rowing.

[[Swanage Town and Herston F.C.]], who play in the [[Dorset Premier League]]
<ref name=stfcleague>{{cite web | title = Magna Dorset Premier League | url = http://full-time.thefa.com/Index.do?league=6392495 | publisher = The FA | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130605004935/http://full-time.thefa.com/Index.do?league=6392495 | archive-date = 5 June 2013 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> have a dedicated football ground with limited covered seating and associated social club. Swanage & Wareham Rugby Club, who play in the South West 1 East League<ref name=swrcleague>{{cite web | title = Swanage & Wareham RFC | url = http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/swanagewareham/ | publisher = Pitchero | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120401075459/http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/swanagewareham/ | archive-date = 1 April 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> are based in neighbouring Wareham. Swanage and Wareham Hockey Club have Ladies', Men's and Mixed teams. The Ladies play in the Channel 1 and 2 West Leagues, the Men in the Hampshire League Division 4 and the Mixed team in the Mixed Division 5. Swanage Cricket Club has teams in both the Dorset Saturday and Sunday leagues each in Division 1.<ref name=sccleague>{{cite web | title = Dorset League Tables | url = http://www.dorsetcricketboard.co.uk/node/310 | publisher = Dorset Cricket Board | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120202065300/http://www.dorsetcricketboard.co.uk/node/310 | archive-date = 2 February 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> The town's Croquet Club is also based at the Cricket Club.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.croquet.org.uk/clubs/clubs.asp?Action=List&ClubID=319&pup=y|title=Club Details|website=www.croquet.org.uk|access-date=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018065852/https://www.croquet.org.uk/clubs/clubs.asp?Action=List&ClubID=319&pup=y|archive-date=18 October 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

The sea cliffs and quarries to the west of Swanage provide excellent venues for rock climbing.<ref name=climbing>{{cite web | title = Rock Climbing England | url = http://www.climb-europe.com/RockClimbingEngland.htm | publisher = Climb Europe | access-date = 12 August 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090924202846/http://www.climb-europe.com/RockClimbingEngland.htm | archive-date = 24 September 2009 | df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref name=climbing2>{{cite web|title=Outdoor Activities Purbeck |url=http://www.dorsetadventure.co.uk/outdoor_activities_purbeck.shtml#climbing |publisher=Poole and Dorset Adventure Centre |access-date=20 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090111035442/http://www.dorsetadventure.co.uk/outdoor_activities_purbeck.shtml |archive-date=11 January 2009 }}</ref>

The surrounding areas make for excellent [[hiking|walking]]<ref name=walking>{{cite web | title = Walking in Purbeck | url = http://www.dorsetforyou.com/walking/purbeck | publisher = Dorset County Council | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120829204118/http://www.dorsetforyou.com/walking/purbeck | archive-date = 29 August 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> and as such the town is a popular destination for hikers who use the town as base. Many beauty spots are in walkable distance, while never being too far from refreshment. The town is on the Dorset Coast Path with attractive cliffs walks to [[Old Harry Rocks]] and [[Studland]] to the north, and [[Durlston Head]] and [[Lulworth Cove]] to the south and west.

===Parks===

Swanage has a [[King George's Field]] near the centre of town in memorial to [[George V of the United Kingdom|King George V]], which includes large playing fields, as well as skate park facilities and a hi-tech play area, both funded by community groups.<ref name=kgvfield>{{cite web | title = King George's Field | url = http://www.swanage.gov.uk/King_Georges_Field.aspx | publisher = Swanage Town Council | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120804054955/http://www.swanage.gov.uk/King_Georges_Field.aspx | archive-date = 4 August 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>
There are plans also for the building of a new sports pavilion at the park, to replace the previous building which had been demolished due to safety concerns. Parks in the town centre include [[Prince Albert Gardens]], where the [[Prince Albert Memorial, Swanage|Prince Albert Memorial]] is now located, and the [[Recreation Ground, Swanage|Recreation Ground]], where the war memorial and bandstand are located, and where a memorial to [[Trevor Chadwick]] is proposed (2021) to be located.

Towards the eastern end of town is Days Park, which includes a playing field, play area and gardens.<ref name=daysfield>{{cite web | title = Days Field | url = http://www.swanage.gov.uk/DaysPark.aspx | publisher = Swanage Town Council | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120804054950/http://www.swanage.gov.uk/DaysPark.aspx | archive-date = 4 August 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

===Water sport===

Swanage bay provides a well sheltered environment for a range of watersports, including swimming, [[kayaking]], [[canoeing]], sailing, [[windsurfing]] and [[jetski]]ing.

[[Scuba diving]] takes place under the piers and at nearby coastal wrecks. Swanage is considered by many to be the home of British scuba diving.<ref name=swdivingreview1>{{cite web | title = Swanage Pier | url = http://www.jlunderwater.co.uk/old_site/photoix/swanage/ | publisher = John Liddiard | access-date = 12 August 2009}}</ref> It is one of the most popular sea water training sites for dive schools and clubs to take trainee divers due to the sheltered conditions within the bay.<ref name=bsac>{{cite web | title = Dive Locations – Swanage | url = http://www.bsac.com/divelocations.asp?section=1251&sectionTitle=UK&itemid=1925 | publisher = British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150923194850/http://www.bsac.com/divelocations.asp?section=1251&sectionTitle=UK&itemid=1925 | archive-date = 23 September 2015 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> The dive school on the pier was the first dive school in Great Britain.<ref name=dive>{{cite web | title = Divers Down Website | url = http://www.diversdownswanage.co.uk | publisher = Divers Down Dive School | access-date = 18 June 2008 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080513130744/http://www.diversdownswanage.co.uk/ | archive-date = 13 May 2008 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

Swanage [[Sailing club]] was established in 1935 and is located immediately south of the pier.<ref name=swanagesailing>{{cite web | title = About Us | url = http://www.swanagesailingclub.org.uk/clubhouse/aboutus/aboutus.htm | publisher = Swanage Sailing Club | access-date = 27 August 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100425022353/http://www.swanagesailingclub.org.uk/clubhouse/aboutus/aboutus.htm | archive-date = 25 April 2010 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

Swanage Sea Rowing Club, formed in 2001 has been highly successful and currently has over 100 members and four [[Cornish pilot gig]]s of its own,<ref name=ssrc>{{cite web | title = About The Club | url = http://www.ssrc.org.uk/default.aspx?p=about | publisher = Swanage Sea Rowing Club | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120810155122/http://www.ssrc.org.uk/default.aspx?p=about | archive-date = 10 August 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> funded through donations. Competitions take place at [[regatta]]s of which the club attends several per year, including the [[World Pilot Gig Championships]] held on the [[Isles of Scilly]].

There are two public swimming pools, one at the Swanage Bay View Holiday Home Park<ref name=swimming1>{{cite web | title = Swimming Pool | url = http://www.swanagebayview.co.uk/leisure-facilities.php | publisher = Swanage Bay View | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130802044638/http://www.swanagebayview.co.uk/leisure-facilities.php | archive-date = 2 August 2013 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> and another at Ulwell Caravan Park.<ref name=swimming2>{{cite web | title = Facilities | url = https://www.ulwellcottagepark.co.uk/play/facilities/ | publisher = Ulwell Cottage Caravan Park | access-date = 22 June 2012 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120620210544/http://www.ulwellcottagepark.co.uk/facilities.htm | archive-date = 20 June 2012 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> Both offer swimming lessons and [[Water aerobics|aquarobic]] sessions.

==Twin towns==
{{See also|List of twin towns and sister cities in the United Kingdom}}
Swanage is [[Twin towns and sister cities|twinned]] with:
* [[Rüdesheim am Rhein]] in Germany.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swanagetowntwinning.co.uk|title=The Swanage Town Twinning Association|website=www.swanagetowntwinning.co.uk|access-date=5 May 2018|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180322023558/http://swanagetowntwinning.co.uk/|archive-date=22 March 2018|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="Dorset twinnings">{{cite web|url=http://www.twinning.org.uk/main.htm|title=Dorset Twinning Association List|access-date=1 August 2013|work=The Dorset Twinning Association|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120621101744/http://www.twinning.org.uk/main.htm|archive-date=21 June 2012 }}</ref>

==Notable residents==
Between 1934 and 1936, Swanage was the home of artist [[Paul Nash (artist)|Paul Nash]]. He worked on the ''Shell Guide to Dorset'' and produced a considerable number of paintings and photographs during this period. Also staying in Swanage at this time was the surrealist [[Eileen Agar]], with whom Nash collaborated.
In 1936 Nash wrote an essay entitled "Swanage or Seaside Surrealism", in which he described the town as having something "of a dream image where things are so often incongruous and slightly frightening in their relation to time or place."<ref name=SwanTCat>{{cite web|author=Tate|url=http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/nash-swanage-t01771/text-catalogue-entry|title=Catalogue entry for ''Swanage'' c. 1936|access-date=17 June 2014|work=Tate|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810170732/http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/nash-swanage-t01771/text-catalogue-entry|archive-date=10 August 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

The novelist [[Charles Chadwick (novelist)|Charles Chadwick]] (1932–2025) was born in Swanage.

Artist and writer [[Philip Sugden (artist)|Philip Sugden]] was born and raised in Swanage. He is known for his drawings and paintings of India and Tibet, and his books entitled ''Visions From the Fields of Merit'' and ''White Lotus''.<ref name=sugden>{{cite web | title = Philip Sugden, artist | url = http://philipsugden.com/pages.php?content=resume.php&navGallID=Resume | publisher = Philip Sugden | access-date = 20 April 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101201010315/http://philipsugden.com/pages.php?content=resume.php&navGallID=Resume | archive-date = 1 December 2010 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

The Canadian poet, novelist and painter [[P. K. Page]] was born in Swanage, Dorset on 23 November 1916. In 1919, she left with her family for Canada. In 1954, Page won the Canadian Governor General's Award for poetry and in 1977 was made an Officer to the Order of Canada, and was subsequently promoted to the rank of Companion of the Order of Canada.

Swanage is stated as the hometown of [[John Cleese]]'s character [[Basil Fawlty]] in the sitcom ''[[Fawlty Towers]]''.<ref name=basil>{{cite web|title=FawltySite.net |url=http://www.fawltysite.net/basil_cv.htm |publisher=FawltySite.net |access-date=20 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090409104858/http://www.fawltysite.net/basil_cv.htm |archive-date=9 April 2009 }}</ref>

The first episode of the second series of the British sitcom ''[[The Inbetweeners]]'', "The Field Trip", is set mainly in Swanage, although the episode was actually filmed in [[Littlehampton]].<ref name=inbetweeners>{{cite web | title = The Field Trip | url = http://www.e4.com/inbetweeners/series2-episode1.html?resource=urn:article:9ee0d6a6c2129bad69dfafb3342b5dad&commentSize=smallComment&pageTitle=The+Field+Trip&comments-range=1-5&anchor=comment | publisher = Channel 4 | access-date = 27 August 2009}}</ref>

In 1997, a {{convert|12|mi|0|abbr=on}} diameter crater on Mars was named after Swanage.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov/Feature/5785|title=Planetary Names: Crater, craters: Swanage on Mars|website=planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov|access-date=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018065852/http://planetarynames.wr.usgs.gov/Feature/5785|archive-date=18 October 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

==In literature==
Swanage is called Knollsea in [[Thomas Hardy]]'s novels. In ''[[The Hand of Ethelberta]]'' it is described as "a seaside village lying snug within two headlands as between a finger and thumb".<ref name=ethelberta1>{{cite web | title = Dorset Guide | url = http://www.dorsets.co.uk/Swanage/ | publisher = Dorset Guide | access-date = 20 April 2009 | url-status = live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090423113312/http://www.dorsets.co.uk/Swanage/ | archive-date = 23 April 2009 | df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref name=ethelberta2>{{cite web | title = The Victorian Web | url = http://victorian.lang.nagoya-u.ac.jp/victorianweb/photos/hardy/31.html | publisher = The Victorian Web | access-date = 20 April 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100807133358/http://victorian.lang.nagoya-u.ac.jp/victorianweb/photos/hardy/31.html | archive-date = 7 August 2010 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

In [[E. M. Forster]]'s ''[[Howards End]]'', Margaret and Mr. Wilcox first kiss there at the end of an evening's stroll, and the town is mentioned frequently throughout the book.<ref name=howard>{{cite web | title = Howard's End | url = http://www.doc.ic.ac.uk/~rac101/concord/texts/howards_end/howards_end.cgi?word=Swanage | publisher = Imperial College London | access-date = 20 April 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110607150931/http://www.doc.ic.ac.uk/~rac101/concord/texts/howards_end/howards_end.cgi?word=Swanage | archive-date = 7 June 2011 | df = dmy-all }}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[List of Dorset beaches]]

Local villages:
* [[Corfe Castle (village)|Corfe Castle]]
* [[Harman's Cross]]
* [[Kingston, Purbeck, Dorset]]
* [[Langton Matravers]]
* [[Worth Matravers]]

==References==
===Citations===
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

===Sources===
* [[David Lewer|Lewer, David]] & Smale, Dennis. (2004) Swanage Past. Chichester: Phillimore & Co Ltd
* Cooper, Ilay. (2004). Purbeck Revealed. Bath: James Pembroke Publishing.
* Hardy, Thomas. (1876) The Hand of Ethelberta. (online). The Literature Network. Available from: [http://www.online-literature.com/hardy/hand_ethelberta/31/ The Hand of Ethelberta by Thomas Hardy: Chapter 31].
* [[Ward Lock & Co]] (undated). ''Swanage and South Dorset: Illustrated Guide Books''. (Twelfth edition). London: Ward Lock & Co. Ltd.

==External links==
{{Commons category|Swanage}}
* [http://www.swanage.gov.uk Town Council website]
{{Dorset}}
{{Purbeck}}
{{Jurassic Coast}}
{{Viking Invasion of England}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Swanage| ]]
[[Category:Isle of Purbeck]]
[[Category:Towns in Dorset]]
[[Category:Beaches of Dorset]]
[[Category:Populated coastal places in Dorset]]
[[Category:Jurassic Coast]]
[[Category:Seaside resorts in England]]