Attractions
History and culture
Corfe Castle
One of Britain's most majestic ruins and once a controlled gateway through the Purbeck Hills. The castle located between Wareham and Swanage boasts breathtaking views and several walks.
Corfe Castle Model Village and Gardens
See what Corfe Castle and village would have looked like before its destruction by Cromwell’s troops in 1646. Set in an acre of landscaped gardens.
Corfe Castle Museum
A museum containing exhibits of local history and dinosaur footprints, plus an archive of photographs and records of the parish.
Langton Matravers Museum
Restored coach house at Langton Matravers that shows how the local stone was quarried and used.
Lulworth Castle and Park
17th century castle set in 12,000 acres of landscaped parkland in East Lulworth.
Swanage Museum and Heritage Centre
Museum on Swanage seafront where the local quarried stone was stored before shipment. The Heritage Centre contains information on the history, geology and geography of the town and surrounding area.
Swanage Railway and Museum
Pick up the steam train at the Swanage southern terminus for a nostalgic train ride and learn all about the railway in this educational attraction.
Tyneham Village
Village that was deserted at the request of the army during World War II so it could be used for live firing of tanks and weapons. It is open to the public most weekends and school holidays. The village of Worbarrow Bay is a short walk away which is part of the Jurassic Coast.
Wareham Town Museum
Archaeology, pictorial collection of Lawrence of Arabia and artefacts relating to the town of Wareham.
Wareham Walls
Saxon ramparts which surround the historic town of Wareham. Paths on the walls give good views of the rivers and town.
Leisure
Fine Foundation Marine Centre
Kimmeridge Bay lies within the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and boasts the best rockpooling and safest snorkelling site in Dorset. Try out fossil rubbing, sustainable fishing and learn about strandline treasures washed up on the shore. With fishtanks and an underwater camera on the seabed operational during summer.
Leslie Gibbons A.T.D The Owl Pottery, Craft Workshop and Shop
Workshop and shop producing highly decorated, hand-made and hand-painted earthenware pottery.
Margaret Green Animal Rescue
Animal Sanctuary and Visitor Centre at Church Knowle that rescues a variety of animals including cats, horses, farm animals, rabbits and birds.
Monkey World
Ape rescue centre near Wareham with rescued and endangered monkeys and apes.
Putlake Adventure Farm
Family adventure farm set in the Purbeck countryside at Langton Matravers with playzones, crazy golf, tractor rides and animals.
For further information
Tel: 02392 222 870
