Swanage, a hidden gem of the British coast (Well it was hidden from my world that’s for sure). If you travel when the weather is hot and squint your eyes a little, you could well be on a Greek island.
This guide is simple. Be spontaneous and set off when the weather is HOT. Camp, hit the beaches and eat fish & chips. Done
Travel Details:
Age: 12 Months | Date: July 2017 | Means of transport: Car, Joolz Pushchair, Ergo Baby 360 Sling | How I got here: Drove 3hrs from London with a screaming baby in the car seat but it was worth it | How you can get there: Train from London Waterloo to Wareham then a 30min bus ride to Swanage = 3hr Journey |Accommodation: Camping
CAMPING
Herston Yards Farm, Washpond Lane, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3DJ
I was a bit nervous about camping with a baby but this campsite made the experience extra special. The staff were welcoming and helpful throughout our stay.
The bathrooms are modern, spacious and probably cleaner than my own bathroom at home. We pitched up on the sea view field, close to all the facilities; toilets/shower room, restaurant, bar & convenient store
Camping list:
Tent, camping table & chairs, baby high chair, electric cooler/fridge to store food, container for water, camping cooker with a cartridge gas, comfy foldable mattress, duvet, pillows, kitchenware
SITESEEING
Durdle Door Beach
This place is mind blowing, to say the least, with spectacular views of the Jurassic coast.
Using a sling was the most convenient way to treck up and down. It’s a bit of a walk from the car park but I wouldn’t recommend bringing a pushchair though. The track is quite bumpy and there are plenty of steps to the pebbled beach.
We spent most of the afternoon in the 25c direct heat. The water was very refreshing and kept baby cool. She managed a lovely afternoon nap in the sun tent which was great.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY
Studland Beach
A stunning sandy beach with a lovely cafe and ice cream bar on site.
The water was clean and baby enjoyed dipping in and out of the sea throughout the day. There were plenty of breastfeeding mothers around so I felt very comfortable feeding my baby here. Another perfect beach day
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY
Swanage beach
A European award winning sandy beach stretched right across the town. It is backed by an amusement park, cafes and attractions.
We ate lunch at ‘The Cabin’ facing the sea. The food was so good we came back and ordered the same mixed fish platter for dinner. Baby found the food delicious too which is always a winner.
IF WE HAD MORE TIME
We had clear blue sky’s and 25c every day on our trip so we opted to make the most of the beaches. If we had more time we would visit nearby farms, amusement parks, historical sites and castles. There’s plenty to do in this region so even a 1 week holiday will keep your family more than occupied.
Until next year!
Boss Motherhood! 