Bournemouth

Studland Beach and Nature Reserve

One of the UK’s finest beaches and extensive nature reserve. Enid Blyton lived here, so look for Policeman Plod’s thatched cottage!

Brownsea Island

The perfect day’s adventure, this island wildlife sanctuary is easy to get to but feels like another world from the moment you step ashore. The island sits in the middle of Poole Harbour, with dram

Watersports in Swanage

In Poole Harbour you can try your hand at something less 'wet'...parasailing!

Arne Nature Reserve (RSPB)

A special landscape where you can enjoy the vast open heathland with an opportunity for bird watching. A fantastic place for family walks at any time of year.  One of the few places in

Mowlem Theatre

Opened in 1967, the Mowlem Theatre is situated on the sea front at Swanage and has over 200 film productions a year as well as 60-100 nights of live theatre.

Swanage Steam Railway

Explore the beautiful countryside around Swanage on the old steam trains that chuff along to Corfe Castle and beyond. Visit the website

Walking and Rambling in Swanage

The whole of Purbeck area, a lot of which is An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is just waiting to be explored.

Swanage

A friendly, colourful seaside town with an award winning beach, amazing chalk pillars of Old Harry's Rocks and a very English Victorian pier.

Cycling in Swanage

Cycling is very popular in Dorest, thatched villages and quiet lanes make it easy to get off the beaten track and explore the tranquil terrain. Here the pace is leisurely and the going is easy.

Liberty's Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre

6 miles Home to a large collection of birds of prey and reptiles. Watch the birds flying free and reptiles up close during the spectacular displays. Visit the website  

Corfe Castle

Uncover the secrets of Dorset's iconic medieval monument and discover how royalty, warfare and nature have shaped the castle.

Mountain Biking in Swanage

There are some great routes including Chalk Ridge between Corfe Castle and Old Harry Rocks, it's quite steep at first but suitable for all levels and there's stunning views on either side.

Forest Leisure Cycling

0.1 miles Just 5 minutes walk from the YHA and situated in the traditional village of Burley. We recommend Forest Leisure Cycling for cycle hire, repairs and cycling accessories.

New Forest Tour

See the New Forest National Park like never before! Enjoy grandstand views on an exhilarating, open-top ride through pretty villages and magical landscapes, passing wandering ponies.

New Forest Water Park

Set in 50 acres of beautiful countryside, the park is a great place to try waterskiing, wakeboarding or you the inflatable banana and tyre rides.

Climbing in Totland Bay

There are various indoor and outdoor climbing walls in close proximity to the Youth Hostel. For something a little different, why not try tree climbing?