Swanage Steam Railway

This wonderful steam railway runs for 9.5 miles through some of the Dorset coasts best countryside, linking Swanage to Corfe Castle. The delightful village, sitting at the foot of the castle, constructed almost completely of local grey Purbeck limestone, has only two main streets, East and West Street which are linked at the north end by a square with its cross commemorating Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

The village has a number of excellent pubs and restaurants and, if you like gin, a very interesting selection in the local post office!

Taking the steam train makes access to the village and castle much easier as in the peak holiday  periods the narrow roads and limited parking can mean long and frustrating delays. The station at Corfe village has been restored giving a sense of going back in time to a gentler era. The 17 minute journey to Swanage to the sounds of a steam loco and the rhythm of the rails is intoxicating. Manned mainly by volunteers, attired appropriately you really could forget you are in 2024.

The coastal town of Swanage, known for its mild climate, is pure nostalgia as you arrive at the station to this seaside resort, walk along the Victorian pier and enjoy the view over Swanage Bay from Durlston Castle. This family resort is ideal for exploring the Jurassic coast.