Driving Distance: 4.91 miles / About 10 minutes | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? No
What to expect: Swanage Coastal Park offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views, luxury lodges, and a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a play park, and a laundrette. With the added luxury of an outdoor hot tub in selected lodges, this park is an idyllic base for exploring Dorset’s natural and historic wonders.
Who will love these lodges? Families, couples, and groups looking for a peaceful getaway will adore Swanage Coastal Park. The park’s serene setting makes it ideal for those seeking relaxation amidst nature, while the nearby facilities at the neighbouring park, such as a health/fitness club and pool, cater to those desiring more active pursuits.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? Onsite, guests can enjoy the play park and laundrette. For dining and entertainment, the neighbouring park offers additional facilities. Swanage town centre, with its eateries and pubs, is just a mile away, perfect for a local dining experience.
What’s nearby? Corfe Castle, a historic fortification, is a mere 14-minute drive away. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also within easy reach. Enjoy traditional seaside attractions or embark on scenic coastal walks.
Accommodation options: Swanage Coastal Park features a range of accommodation options, including the Signature Lodge 3 for up to 6 guests, Superior Plus Lodge for 4, and the intimate Signature 1 for couples. While the park is not pet-friendly, it offers a variety of lodges with and without hot tubs to suit different preferences.
Driving Distance: 8.15 miles / About 15 minutes | Sleeps: Up to 14 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: At Sandford, guests are treated to an award-winning conservation park with a plethora of activities and facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, high ropes, and a variety of dining options. This family-friendly park is set in a serene woodland, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Who will love these lodges? Sandford is a haven for families and adventure seekers. The extensive range of activities caters to all ages, making it an excellent choice for a fun-filled holiday. The park’s conservation efforts will also appeal to eco-conscious travellers.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? With both indoor and outdoor pools, high ropes, crazy golf, and more, there’s no shortage of onsite activities. Dining options include The Boathouse Bar and Restaurant, as well as quick bites from the Fish and Chippery and Street Eats.
What’s nearby? The Jurassic Coastline is a short drive away, offering stunning beaches and coastal walks. The New Forest, Poole, and Bournemouth are also within reach for day trips and seaside fun.
Accommodation options: Sandford offers a variety of lodges, including the spacious Sandbanks Lodge for 6 guests, the grand Amberwood House for 14, and the cosy Poole Lodge for 4. Selected accommodations are pet-friendly, and some feature hot tubs for that extra touch of luxury.
Driving Distance: 8.15 miles / About 13 minutes | Sleeps: Up to 4 | Pet friendly? Selected lodges
What to expect: Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat is nestled in a peaceful setting, offering luxurious lodges with contemporary interiors and outdoor hot tubs. It’s an ideal escape for those seeking tranquillity and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Who will love these lodges? This retreat is perfect for couples and families looking for a serene getaway. The surrounding Wareham Forest provides a picturesque backdrop for walkers and cyclists, while the nearby coastal towns offer plenty of activities.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? The retreat focuses on relaxation and nature, with luxurious lodges and hot tubs to unwind in. While there are no onsite dining facilities, the local area offers various options for meals and drinks.
What’s nearby? The National Trust Purbeck Hills and the Jurassic Coast are close by, offering beautiful landscapes to explore. The towns of Poole, Swanage, and Bournemouth provide beaches and family attractions.
Accommodation options: Accommodations range from the Linden 2 Premier for families to the intimate Willow 1 Premier for couples. Selected lodges welcome pets, and many come with the indulgence of a private hot tub.
Driving Distance: 15.70 miles / About 23 minutes | Sleeps: Up to 8 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Warmwell is a lodge-only park set in a conservation area, offering a diverse range of activities including an indoor pool, ski slope, high ropes, and arts and crafts. It’s an ideal destination for families and adventurers seeking a dynamic holiday experience.
Who will love these lodges? With its extensive activity programme, Warmwell is a paradise for families and those looking for an active break. The park’s conservation status also makes it a great choice for nature lovers.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? The park boasts a variety of facilities such as an indoor pool with a waterslide, a ski slope, and an adventure playground. Dining options include The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant and the Fish & Chippery.
What’s nearby? Discover the Jurassic Coast, or visit the nearby towns of Weymouth and Dorchester for more entertainment and seaside attractions.
Accommodation options: Warmwell offers a selection of lodges, including the Charminster 3 Bed Lodge for 6 guests and the larger Weymouth 3 Bed Lodge for 8. Pet-friendly options are available, ensuring the whole family can enjoy a break together.
What to do on a family or couple’s hot tub break in Corfe Castle
Welcome to the quintessential village of Corfe Castle, a jewel nestled in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, South West England. This charming location offers a perfect blend of history, stunning landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for families and couples looking for a hot tub break with a touch of adventure and relaxation.
Sightseeing in Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is not just a village; it’s a gateway to the past. Dominated by the ruins of its namesake, the castle stands as a sentinel over the landscape, offering panoramic views and a tangible connection to England’s rich history. The village itself is lined with traditional Purbeck stone cottages, adding to the area’s enchanting character. Sightseeing here is a delightful journey through time, with each corner turned revealing another piece of the past.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Corfe Castle
1. Corfe Castle
The iconic ruins of Corfe Castle are a must-visit. Managed by the National Trust, this ancient fortress offers a glimpse into a thousand years of history. Explore the fallen walls and imagine the sieges this castle has withstood. Family-friendly events are often hosted here, bringing history to life. Estimated pricing: Adults £11.00, Children £5.50. For more information, visit the official National Trust website.
2. The Corfe Castle Model Village
Step into a miniature world at the Model Village and see Corfe Castle as it was before its destruction. The attention to detail is remarkable, and the gardens are a peaceful retreat. It’s an enchanting experience for all ages. Estimated pricing: Adults £3.95, Children £2.95.
3. Swanage Railway
Take a nostalgic journey on a heritage steam train from Corfe Castle to Swanage. The scenic ride offers breathtaking views of the Purbeck countryside and is a romantic step back in time. Estimated pricing: Return Adult £12.50, Child £8.00.
4. Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum
Discover the area’s industrial heritage at this museum, which provides insight into the local ball clay mining industry. It’s a fascinating and educational visit for the whole family. Estimated pricing: Free entry, donations welcome.
5. Corfe Castle Village Bakery
No visit to Corfe Castle is complete without sampling the local fare. The Village Bakery is renowned for its delicious pastries and traditional Dorset apple cake. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet treat after a day of exploring. Estimated pricing: Items from £1.50.
Good to Know…
| 1. Corfe Castle’s history dates back to the 11th century. |
| 2. The castle is open year-round, with varying seasonal hours. |
| 3. Many local businesses are family-run, offering a personal touch. |
| 4. The village is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. |
| 5. Walking trails abound, suitable for all levels of hikers. |
| 6. Dogs are welcome in many areas, but check specific attraction policies. |
| 7. Local accommodations often offer hot tubs for a relaxing end to your day. |
| 8. Advance booking for attractions is recommended during peak seasons. |
| 9. The village is accessible by public transport, but a car allows for greater exploration. |
| 10. The Isle of Purbeck is not an actual island but a peninsula with a wealth of natural beauty. |
5 detailed Corfe Castle visitor FAQs
Q1: What is the best time of year to visit Corfe Castle?
A1: The summer months offer the best weather, but spring and autumn provide fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Winter has its own charm, with fewer tourists and a more intimate experience of the village.
Q2: Are there any family-friendly accommodations in Corfe Castle?
A2: Yes, there are numerous family-friendly options, including lodges with hot tubs, quaint B&Bs, and self-catering cottages, all offering a warm Dorset welcome.
Q3: Can you recommend any dining options in Corfe Castle?
A3: The village boasts several cosy pubs and cafes, serving everything from traditional pub fare to gourmet meals. Don’t miss the chance to try some local seafood and Dorset cream teas.
Q4: Are there any walking or cycling routes nearby?
A4: Absolutely, the Purbeck Way and other trails offer excellent walking and cycling opportunities, with stunning views of the coast and countryside.
Q5: Is Corfe Castle suitable for a romantic getaway?
A5: Definitely. The village’s picturesque setting, luxury lodges with hot tubs, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect romantic retreat.
Some helpful links
Corfe Castle, with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Whether you’re soaking in a hot tub under the stars after a day of exploration or wandering the historic streets, this Dorset gem is sure to captivate your heart.
