Swanage Pier
We highly recommend a visit to Swanage Pier during your holiday in Swanage. Swanage Pier dates back to the Victorian Era and has been lovingly restored by a team of volunteers in the years since. This Grade II-listed structure has plenty to offer holidaymakers and locals looking for a fun-filled afternoon. The pier is the starting point for fishing, boat trips, diving and watersports. It’s also a lovely place to sit and take in the views.
Attractions & activities
Exhibition space – There is a small exhibition space where you can learn about the piers history. Browse a range of artefacts found in wrecks in Swanage Bay alongside photos and other heritage items. A digital tour is available via smart phones and tablets.
Pier 1859 cafe – Visit Pier 1859 for a tasty breakfast, lunch or hot drink. The cafe is open daily.
Gift shop – A range of souvenirs are available to purchase from the gift shop at the end of Marine Villas.
Diving – Diving schools offer diving sessions and training courses from the pier. It is one of only a handful of sheltered diving sites on the UK, providing diving opportunities in most weather conditions. Every year hundreds of divers explore the wooden framework beneath the water. There is a buoyed off area next to the pier with a depth of 5 metres.
The dive shop provides equipment hire, air and Nitrox and diver charters.
Divers facilities include toilets, showers and trolleys.
Watersports – If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at a range of watersports activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding and kayaking. Swanage Sailing Club and Swanage Sea Rowing Club also operate from here.
Fishing – Fishing is a popular past time on Swanage Pier. Spend a day soaking up the sunshine, whilst trying to catch a personal best. A small fee is charged for fishing from Swanage Pier and anglers must abide by the ‘Fishing Code of Conduct’. There’s a chance of catching pout, pollack, garfish, mackerel and bass.
Boat trips – A range of boat trips operate from Swanage Pier throughout the summer months, providing trips along the Jurassic Coast and into Poole Harbour. The historic Waverley Paddle Steamer runs occasional trips as part of its UK tour.
Of course, the pier is also an attraction in itself. Walk to the end and spend some time admiring the far reaching views across the bay and towards Pevril Point and Ballard Down. You can even see Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight on a clear day. There’s plenty of Victorian style seating if you want a quiet moment to soak up the scenery!
Events
Swanage Pier plays host to a range of events throughout the year – keep an eye on the Swanage Pier Trust website to stay up to date with the latest news.
Opening times
The Pier is open from April to September
Weekdays – 9am – 5pm
Weekend 7am – 5pm
Times are extended during the summer months, weather dependent.
Prices
Swanage Pier is managed by the Swanage Pier Trust. A small entry fee is charged for strolling along the pier to ensure it can be maintained for generations to come.
Adult strolling – £2.00
Children under 14 strolling – free (must be accompanied by adult)
Dogs welcome on leads.
Ulwell Holiday Park
Ulwell Holiday Park is the perfect base for exploring Swanage. Stay in our holiday homes, touring pitches or glamping pods and enjoy a well-earned break on the Jurassic Coast!
We have a range of on-park facilities, including a swimming pool, shop, bar and restaurant and beer garden. Book online, or call and speak to one of our friendly reception team.
