This small Victorian seaside town lives up to the reputation of the World Heritage area in which it is situated. A traditional atmosphere with plenty of shops, but not too many to spoil the small town aesthetic. Swanage is a great base from which to visit attractions around the Isle of Purbeck, and ideal for popping over Poole harbour on the car ferry. Corfe Castle is a short drive and there are plenty of quiet little beaches to explore along the Jurassic Coast. You can even travel between historic sites on the Swanage steam railway.