There are a wide selection of dog friendly attractions near Swanage to explore during your stay at Ulwell Holiday Park. From historic castles to scenic country parks, you’ll find plenty of places to while away the day with your four-legged friend. Many places of interest have special facilities for dogs to enjoy – including water bowls, treats and even showers!
We’ve compiled a list of just some of our favourite dog-friendly attractions and activities to visit during your camping or caravan holiday in Swanage.
Swanage Railway
Photo credit: Alan Wilson, Flickr
The team at Swanage Railway welcome well-behaved dogs aboard their fleet of steam trains. Enjoy a scenic ride through the Dorset countryside, taking in spectacular views of Corfe Castle as you travel along the historic line. There is a small fee to bring your dog on the trip – £2 single / £3 return. They even get their own ticket, which we think is a lovely touch!
Dogs must stay on a lead throughout the journey and kept on the floor. They are not allowed in the buffets or dining trains. Only assistance dogs are permitted in the Station shop or on the Santa Specials.
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is a must see for any visitors interested in history. Spend an hour or two exploring the ruins while learning more about the buildings interesting past. There are plenty of information boards dotted around the site, which give an insight into the castle’s inhabitants throughout the years. Younger members of the family will love the dressing up box and taking part in medieval games!
The castle ruins are managed by the National Trust and dogs go free. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times, but are welcome in all areas of the site. If you’re lucky the friendly gate keepers might give your four-legged friend a treat on arrival!
Kingston Lacy
Photo credit: Marilyn Peddle, Flickr
Kingston Lacy was recently named one of the UK’s most dog friendly National Trust properties. Dogs are welcome in a number of areas throughout the grounds, including the woodland walks, parkland and Stables courtyard. There are miles of footpaths to explore and take in the scenery, flora and fauna. Visitors are requested to keep dogs on a lead so as not to disturb the abundant wildlife.
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the house or formal gardens. If you’re feeling peckish during your visit, be sure to stop by the on-site café. The courtyard area is dog friendly and there are water bowls to keep your four-legged friend hydrated.
Blue Pool
Photo credit: Alison Day, Flickr
Blue Pool is an idyllic destination for a leisurely dog walk on the Isle of Purbeck. Spend a relaxing afternoon walking around the expansive grounds while stopping to admire the impressive lake. The water colour changes throughout the day, depending on the conditions. Whenever you choose to visit, you’ll be treated to magnificent views and a network of forest trails to explore.
Photo credit: Herry Lawford, Flickr
This dog friendly attraction is open year-round, making it a great choice of activity during a spring, summer or autumn break at Ulwell Holiday Park. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and are not allowed to swim in the water. The tea rooms even serve doggy ice cream – perfect for keeping your canine companion cool on a sunny day.
City Cruises
Photo credit: Metrogogo, Flickr
If you fancy getting out on the water during your holiday in Swanage, there are a number of boat operators that welcome dogs onboard. City Cruises are perhaps the largest company – they offer scenic cruises along the Jurassic Coast from Swanage Pier.
During the two-hour round trip, you’ll experience the landscape from a completely different perspective and can take in popular sites including Old Harry Rocks, Studland Bay, Sandbanks and Poole Harbour. Dogs must be kept on leads throughout the trip.
Durlston Country Park
A trip to Durlston Country Park is an absolute must for any dog owners visiting Swanage. The whole site is dog friendly – including the castle, park and café, meaning you’ll be able to go wherever you please. It’s easy to spend the day here, enjoying scenic walks and searching for wildlife. There’s often an art exhibition in the castle and activities lead by the team of rangers to keep children entertained.
Owners are respectfully asked to keep dogs on a lead indoors and under close control outside. There are plenty of dog bins for disposing of waste and water bowls are available on the terrace outside of the castle.
Upton Country Park
Picture credit: Ian Stedman, Flickr
Upton Country Park is slightly further afield (around 30 minutes’ drive), but well worth the additional time spent in the car. Like all good country parks, this popular attraction boasts a variety of activities – but it’s the dog friendly facilities that really make it special.
In addition to a wide selection of on and off lead walks, there is a dog training area and play pen. These secure areas are completely fenced in, so you can let young or reactive dogs off lead, safe in the knowledge that they won’t run off!
If your four-legged friend gets wet and muddy during your visit, there’s no need to worry. There’s a DIY dog wash next to the main car park. For a small fee you can make use of warm water, specialty dog shampoo and a 2-speed hair dryer – leaving your dog smelling fresh before heading back to the park!
Ulwell Holiday Park is one of the best dog friendly caravan parks in Swanage. Our popular holiday park is situated within easy reach of a range of dog friendly beaches , attraction and restaurants, making it an excellent choice for visitors bringing their four-legged friend.
Dogs are permitted in a selection of our holiday homes and up to 2 dogs are allowed per camping or touring pitch.
Call our friendly reception team to book a Dorset getaway today. Or, search availability and book online via our website.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Dorset holiday park soon!
