A bumper weekend of events in Swanage, Dorset, has been brought together by community group Planet Purbeck, to celebrate our local community, coast, and countryside.
From Friday 18th to Sunday 20th September 2026, there will be a big discussion about the ocean and marine recovery, yoga on the beach, a festival on Swanage seafront involving more than 20 community and environment organisations, and the first Purbeck Marathon in five years.
Plenty to discuss during Discovery Fest on the Saturday
Healthy Seas, Thriving Coast
Our Healthy Seas, Thriving Coast event on Friday 18th September 2026 will bring together Greenpeace, The Wildlife Trusts, and Bournemouth University to explore the links between marine recovery, wildlife, tourism, local livelihoods and thriving coastal communities, with films, expert talks and a live audience questions and answer session.
Confirmed guests include Professor Rick Stafford from Bournemouth University who will ask, can there be a win-win for ocean recovery and the local economy?
Also speaking will be Caitlin Woombs and Kizzy Beaumont from The Wildlife Trusts introducing the ambitious South Coast Marine Recovery Project, connecting efforts from Cornwall to Sussex.
The event will take place at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Swanage, with doors opening 6 pm for 7 pm. Booking is required for the free event with suggested £9 donation
Gazebos lined Shore Road for Discovery Fest in 2025
Discovery Fest
Then on Saturday 19th September 2026, the Discovery Fest takes over Shore Road on Swanage Seafront from 10 am to 3 pm with community and environment organisations hosting stalls with an array of information, alongside free family activities, and live local music.
- Amphibian and Reptile Conservation
- Andrew Simpson Foundation
- Dorset Climate Action Network
- Dorset Coast Forum
- Dorset Wildlife Trust
- Durlston Country Park
- Greenpeace
- Leeson House
- Octopus Energy
- Purbeck Natural History Forum
- Purbeck Sounds Radio
- Repair Café (Swanage & Purbeck)
- Sustainable Swanage
- Sustainable Wareham
- Swanage and Purbeck Rotary
On Saturday 19th September 2026, before Discovery Fest kicks off, at 8 am there will be a special Planet Purbeck yoga on Swanage Beach session by Mark from Stand Up For Yoga.
It costs £5, pay on the beach, and all proceeds go to Planet Purbeck.
Free fun activities for children
Purbeck Marathon
On Sunday 20th September 2026, it’s the Purbeck Marathon and while not a Planet Purbeck event, a share of its profits will be donated to the charity. There is also The Purbeck 16 for those who wish to take part but attempt a shorter distance.
A Purbeck Marathon registration desk will be at the Discovery Fest on the Saturday, and anyone taking part in the marathon is warmly welcome to come along to the Saturday event.
The popular Purbeck Marathon is back after a break of five years
Luke M Luke from Planet Purbeck said:
“Ocean recovery and why we should all care about the sea is a big issue, and so we’re really pleased that Professor Rick Stafford from Bournemouth University is coming to speak to us.
“Can improving our marine environment really result in a better local economy? I’m excited to hear what he has to say – I’m hoping we may all learn something during the evening.
“Discovery Fest has evolved since it was first held in 2021. It’s now in its sixth year and we already have more than 20 organisations taking part.
“It’s a relaxed day where people can wander along the seafront and chat to those taking part, finding out more about local projects and events. There’s also family friendly activities like water testing on the beach.
“And then on the Sunday, it’s the Purbeck Marathon, which I think was a convenient coincidence, but will round off a great weekend.
“The event has attracted people from across the UK to take part, and what better way for them to discover how beautiful Purbeck is, than running along the route with its sea views and stunning countryside.
“So plenty happening on our doorstep, but also really happy to have lots of visitors finding out more about Purbeck’s local community, coast, and countryside!”
Further information
- Friday 18th September 2026: Healthy Seas, Thriving Coast – Doors open 6 pm for 7 pm at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Swanage. Booking required for free event with suggested £9 donation
- Saturday 19th September 2026: Stand Up For Yoga on Swanage Beach at 8 am. Book direct with Mark
- Saturday 19th September 2026: Discovery Fest – Family-friendly celebration of Purbeck’s community, coast and countryside, 10 am to 3 pm on Shore Road, Swanage. Free event
- Sunday 20th September 2026: Purbeck Marathon and The Purbeck 16. Starts and finishes on Swanage Downs. Advance registration and payment required
