At the southern end of Swanage, immediately behind Prince Albert Gardens are the Swanage Downs. The grassy hills of the Downs and its dramatic cliffs gives you a sense of the wild and tranquility, just moments from the bustling town centre.

Stroll along the Downs until you reach Peveril Point, the most southerly point of Swanage Bay. From here you can take in the outstanding views across the bay over to Old Harry Rocks as well as across Durlston Bay to Durlston Head.

Both locals and visitors use the Downs as a spot to watch the sun setting over the bay with some fish & chips or a picnic, and as a fantastic spot to view the annual fireworks of Swanage Carnival, held annually in the summer.

Durlston – take a walk across the Downs and over the hills to Durlston Country Park in under half an hour, by following the South West Coast Path. From here there’s far reaching views and more cliff top walking routes. Try the Woodland Trail.

The Obelisk – a short hike up a steep hill in the Ulwell area of Swanage will bring you to The Obelisk and its panoramic views over Studland Bay, Swanage Bay and the Isle of Wight. Ballard Down, where the obelisk is situated, is part of the Purbeck Hills ridgeway. Try this suggested route

Old Harry Rocks & Studland – for a longer leg stretch take the coast path to this famous chalk rock formation and the beautiful Studland Bay.

The Purbeck Hills can be seen all around you on the Isle of Purbeck and offer endless hours of walks and exploration, all with fantastic views of the towns, villages, farmland and sea below. Find out more

The Downs and its nearby cliff walks, bays and country park are home to a wealth of wildlife – from seabirds nesting in the cliffs to dolphins, sunfish and seals which can often be spotted in the sea from the clifftop walks here.