Swanage Railway is a beautifully preserved heritage steam railway running six miles through spectacular Purbeck countryside from Swanage to Corfe Castle, with ongoing extension to Wareham. This volunteer-run preserved line recreates the golden age of steam travel with lovingly restored locomotives, vintage carriages, and period station buildings. The scenic journey passes through Corfe Castle village beneath the dramatic castle ruins, across Purbeck heathland, and through beautiful countryside. Trains are hauled by magnificent steam engines including famous locomotives from across Britain, with diesel services also operating. Stations at Swanage, Corfe Castle, Harmans Cross, and Norden feature carefully restored period details, signal boxes, and railway memorabilia. Special events include Thomas the Tank Engine days, 1940s weekends, Santa Specials, and dining trains. The railway offers nostalgic charm, family entertainment, and practical transport combining tourism with heritage preservation. The journey provides unique perspectives on Corfe Castle and Purbeck landscapes. Essential for railway enthusiasts and families seeking classic British seaside railway experience.
Photo by Richard Croft from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Swanage Railway
Location
Photo Gallery
Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more places within 10km
Swanage Pier
Restored Victorian pier for fishing, promenading, and boat trips with heritage visitor center.
Purbeck Stone Museum
Museum celebrating Swanage's stone quarrying heritage and famous Purbeck marble.
Constitution Hill Viewpoint, Swanage
Accessible hilltop offering spectacular 360-degree views of Swanage Bay and Jurassic Coast.
Durlston Country Park
320-acre clifftop country park with wildlife, coastal views, and Victorian castle.
Durlston Country Park & Castle
320-acre coastal National Nature Reserve with spectacular cliffs, wildlife, Victorian castle, and Great Globe.
Studland Bay
Four miles of golden beaches with sheltered waters, rare wildlife, and Old Harry Rocks views.