ACTIVITIES
Swanage and Studland areas
There is so much to do in the immediate areas surrounding Herston Yards Farm to occupy your days. The coast and train station is a short walk away and there are many activities within a short car or train journey. Studland, Knoll beach and Swanage Bay provide endless walks, with golden sand for sandcastles, and there are plenty of cafés and pubs. We have listed some of our favourite places and things to do here.
The Beaches
There are many beaches within a short distance of Herston Yards Farm, something for children, walkers and water enthusiasts alike!
Swanage is a traditional seaside town with easy beach access, amusements and the town centre for shopping, restaurants and cafes.
Studland Bay with Knoll, Middle and South beaches offer sandy dunes and miles of golden sand punctuated with cafes and watersports.
The National Trust has a restaurant and Shop at Knoll Beach and parking: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/studland-bay
Studland Watersports www.studlandwatersports.co.uk/
Swanage Steam Railway
The Swanage Railway, located on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast in the Isle of Purbeck, is a heritage attraction offering steam and diesel train rides along a 5.5-mile line from Norden to Swanage, with stops at Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross, and Herston (5 mins from Herston Yards Farm).
Visitors can enjoy station buffets, picnic areas, a well-stocked shop, and special experiences like cream tea trains and steam locomotive footplate rides. With convenient parking and easy access, it’s a fun day out for families, railway enthusiasts, and beachgoers alike. For more information and to book visit:
www.swanagerailway.co.uk
Old Harry Rocks
The walk to Old Harry Rocks is a scenic 4-mile (6.5 km) circular trail starting from Studland village. This route offers breathtaking views of the Jurassic Coast, passing through chalk grasslands and along dramatic coastal cliffs. Along the way, you’ll encounter the iconic chalk formations of Old Harry Rocks, with panoramic vistas of Swanage Bay, Poole Harbour, and the Isle of Wight. The path is moderately easy, featuring some gentle inclines and varied terrain, making it suitable for most walkers. It’s a popular route, so consider visiting during quieter times to fully appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife in tranquility.
For more information visit: www.virtual-swanage.co.uk
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is one of Britain’s most iconic and atmospheric historic sites.
A captivating destination for visitors of all ages, its dramatic ruins offer stunning views over the Purbeck landscape and a glimpse into 1,000 years of history as a royal palace and fortress.
Explore its fallen walls, hidden corners, and stories of treachery and intrigue. Look out for ‘murder holes’ and arrow loops, and experience the rich blend of history and nature that brings the castle to life.
