Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Swanage Carnival

Welcome to Swanage Carnival! Get ready for a week of fun, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:

Dates and Location

• Dates: July 26th – August 2nd, 2025
• Location: Swanage, Dorset, UK

Getting Here

• By Car: Swanage is accessible via the A351 from Wareham. Parking is available at designated areas around the town.
• By Train: The nearest train station is Wareham, with regular bus services to Swanage. The steam train is available from Norden to Swanage. Find out more about Swanage Railway here.
• By Bus: Local bus services run frequently from surrounding areas. You can find more information on bus times here.
• By Ferry: Enjoy a scenic route via the Sandbanks Ferry from Poole, either by foot, car or bicycle.

Accommodation

You can find several options on places to stay in Swanage on our website.

• Hotels and B&Bs: Book early to secure your stay at one of Swanage’s charming hotels or bed and breakfasts.
• Camping and Caravanning: Several campsites and caravan parks are available for a more adventurous stay.
• Holiday Rentals: Consider renting a holiday home for a comfortable and convenient option.

Event Highlights

To start planning your Swanage Carnival 2025, pre-order your Carnival programme! Remember, the only place you can find the FULL line up prior to Carnival week is in our souvenir programme. Download the Swanage Carnival App to keep up to date with news throughout the week!

• Opening Day: Don’t miss the spectacular Red Arrows display on July 26th.
• Parades: Join the crowds to watch colorful floats and performers in the Carnival Procession on Sunday 27th July.
• Live Music: Enjoy performances from local bands and artists throughout the week.
• Family Fun: From beach games to craft workshops, there’s something for all ages.
• Fireworks: End your evenings with dazzling fireworks over the bay. Fireworks will take place on Saturday 26th July, Wednesday 30th July and Saturday 2nd August.

Food and Drink

• Local Cuisine: Savor delicious food from local vendors on Sandpit Field.
• Refreshments: Keep yourself hydrated at the Carnival Arms, or make a pit stop at our Pimms, Prosecco and Gin Bar.

Tickets and Donations

• Entry: Live music, displays and entertainment are free! Activities and competitions may have an entry fee. You can register online for a number of our events.
• Charity: In 2024, the carnival donated £30,900 to 23 local organizations. This year, we aim to raise even more! Please donate generously and support Swanage Carnival.

Volunteers

• Get Involved: Join our team of dedicated volunteers and be part of the magic. For more info and to sign up, click here.

Stay Up-to-Date

For the latest news, make sure you follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and of course, download the Swanage Carnival App!

We look forward to welcoming you to Swanage Carnival 2025! Are you ready to join the fun? 🎉