Swanage is a popular tourist destination with its beautiful landscapes, crystal clear waters and sandy beach.
There is a lot to see in the little town, but one attraction stands out from the rest, and that is the award-winning Swanage Railway.
Nothing can beat a picturesque journey on a traditional steam or diesel locomotive.
Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a relaxing trip around The Purbecks, The Swanage Railway is a brilliant way to spend some time in a stunning part of Dorset.
Here’s what to look forward to when riding the railway.
Located in the centre of Swanage Town, you can find the traditional train station. You can purchase tickets at the station and take a journey travelling through beautiful landscapes and Dorset’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The train takes you from Swanage, Herston Halt, Harmens Cross, Corfe Castle and Norden.
You can buy a single or return ticket, and you can get off the train to explore. If you have a return ticket, you can do so when you’re ready.
🎟️ Tickets can be purchased at Swanage, Corfe Castle and Norden; for other stations, simply hop on the train and purchase tickets on board.
The Swanage Railway has a vast and interesting history. It opened in 1885 as a 10-mile branch line connecting Wareham, Corfe Castle and Swanage.
The line was popular with tourists and also transported Purbeck Stone in and out of the town.
However, as the number of cars increased in the 1950s, passengers declined, leading British Rail to want to close the line in 1967. The council objected to this, eventually leading to the line closing in 1972.
Seven miles of track were lifted in the summer of 1972, and after years of campaigning, the town council gave the Swanage Railway Society a one-year lease to use the train station in Swanage.
In 1976, volunteers slowly started repairing and refurbishing the building, and by 1977, the first tracks were allowed to be laid.
From then on, the railway grew in size, at first making small journeys with a diesel locomotive. Then, the track extended, eventually ending at Norden. Which is the line that is used today.
Today, the railway is volunteer-led and managed by the Swanage Railway Trust, a registered charity.
Over the years, it has travelled between Swanage and Norden, exciting little ones with its tooting and billowing steam and fascinating trainspotters, tourists and locals.
It’s impossible not to stop what you’re doing to watch the train whizz by and wave to the passengers.
🐶 Dogs are allowed on the train; however, they will need a ticket.
As you roll through the countryside, your little train lovers will love the excitement of the experience, from the conductors stamping your ticket to the people waving as you pass through the Purbecks.
🚂 Enid Blyton regularly visited the Purbecks and holidayed in Swanage. The railway was a source of inspiration, and tales of train journeys often appeared in the Famous Five books.
You can hop off the train at Corfe Castle and explore the castle ruins, which are full of history and hold regular family-friendly activities for children to enjoy.
Corfe Castle village, although small, has lots to offer, with multiple countryside pubs perfect for enjoying a spot of lunch or a trip to the model village and free museum.
The railway hosts many events throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Polar Express experience during Christmas.
Other events and experiences include galas, champagne afternoons, afternoon tea, children’s character events and more.
A beautiful journey and magical trip no matter your age, whether you love the history and nostalgic feeling of riding a traditional train or you want a unique experience that is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s face.
You can picnic in the Purbecks, visit Corfe Castle or sunbathe on Swanage beach. The area offers so much to do, offering old-fashioned fun that will never go out of style.
📍 Swanage Town Centre, BH19 1HB
