Swanage is home to a wide selection of fantastic cafés and restaurants within a short walk of the town centre and beach. Whether you’re looking for a taste of the seaside with locally caught fish, a trendy cafe or a traditional pub meal with all the trimmings, there is something for everyone to enjoy! We’ve hand picked some of our favourites for you to try during a trip to Swanage – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
The Village Inn
Our very own on site bar and restaurant, the Village Inn is open for lunch and dinner. With a bar, family restaurant and dog friendly patio area, it is the perfect place to visit for a light bite or evening meal.
Gee Whites
Sample a platter of locally caught seafood at Gee Whites restaurant over looking Swanage Bay. Enjoy an al fresco dining experience from the Top Deck roof terrace, which has far-reaching views out to sea. If you’re short of time you can order the delicious food to take away, or if you are just looking for a midday snack, there is also an ice cream parlour serving a range of tasty sundaes and milkshakes.
Chilled Red
Tucked away in a quiet courtyard just a couple of roads from the main high street, Chilled Red is well worth a visit during a trip to Swanage. Serving an ever-changing menu of freshly cooked food, this brassiere style diner has earned a reputation for excellent food and friendly and helpful staff.
Salt Pig Too
Live Local… Eat Local is the motto of the Salt Pig Too who serve a tasty selection of meat and fish, all sourced from farms within 8 miles of the café. The café prides itself on its relationship with local farms and makes its own sausages and bacon from their own rare breed pigs, which are available to purchase from the on site urban farm shop at butchers.
The Black Swan Inn
Situated on the outskirts of Swanage, just a short walk from the harbour and town centre, the Black Swan Inn serves a variety of home cooked and hearty meals. The traditional countryside pub is favoured amongst locals meaning it is necessary to book to secure a table. The beer garden is popular during the summer months and is the perfect place to sit back after a busy day exploring the Purbeck region.
Cauldron Bistro
The Cauldron Bistro is a charming and quirky restaurant famed for homely atmosphere. The bistro is only open on Saturdays and Sundays and limited to just 12 covers, which are lovingly prepared and served by husband and wife duo, Terry and Margaret.
Seventh Wave
Seventh Wave café bar and restaurant is set in an enviable location, over looking Durlston Bay and Swanage. It is part of Durlston Castle visitors centre and offers an array of locally source produce as part of its daily and specials menu. Whether you sit in the contemporary dining area or on the wrap around terrace you will be treated to stunning views and tasty food!
Bliss Food Co
Bliss Food Co. create delicious homemade meals with only the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Their small but beautifully decorated restaurant has a warm and friendly atmosphere and the staff are known for being helpful and welcoming. The menu is varied with plenty of options including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free dishes.
The 1859 Pier Cafe & Bistro
Situated at the bottom of Swanage Pier, with lovely views across the bay, The 1859 Pier Cafe and Bistro is brand new to Swanage and is set to become a firm favourite. In addition to the cafe, there is also a refreshments tuk tuk serving a selection of drinks, snacks and ice creams!
If you’re bringing your four-legged friend for a holiday in Swanage check out our pick of the best dog friendly cafe’s, pubs and restaurants.
