Watch the new film all about Swanage that explores the backstreets and the independent shops that the tourists miss if they aren’t in the know.
Backed by Swanage’s Chamber of Commerce and funded by an EU grant, the video was shot between lockdowns and goes behind Swanage’s obvious assets like the beautiful beach and stunning seafront to explore the shops that are surviving because of their individuality.
The Purbeck New Wave Gallery
Visit Swanage
The video, titled Visit Swanage was filmed by cameraman, Kevin Babey and presented by local resident, Emma Fidler.
Veering away from the commercial uniformity of retail chains, Swanage had always clung to its own style and given residents and visitors a unique shopping experience far removed from the soulless traipse around a retail mall.
The Salt Pig Too in Station Road and a row of small independents in Commercial Road including the hair and beauty salon, Serendipity
“Share this video and share our wonderful town”
Chair of the Swanage Chamber of Commerce and Swanage Town Councillor, Caroline Finch said:
“Swanage has had a few more than just the usual drawbacks this year with Covid, the Institute Road alterations, and of course, the Sandbanks Ferry being out of service. I know the local businesses would really appreciate all the community and businesses that have social media accounts to share this video and share our wonderful town.
“We need to keep our shops from closing down permanently as they have done in other seaside towns. We can all play our part – I wonder how many views we can get!?”
Great places to eat chocolate and cake!
“Our amazing and unique shops and eateries”
Swanage Information Centre added:
“This wonderful film highlights some of our amazing and unique shops and eateries here in Swanage. It was made to support our passionate, independent small business and to encourage people to shop locally where possible.
“There are so many beautiful Christmas window displays, the town looks amazing!”
Festive displays
The Christmas lights are also an attraction in their own right and have brightened the town, while shopkeepers have joined in by decorating their windows with festive displays.
The Chamber of Commerce is running a Christmas window competition and it’s urging residents, alongside the businesses, to join in too. To be in with a chance of winning, those wanting to take part, must submit their name and address to the jewellery shop, Amber Bay at 23 Institute Road, Swanage BH19 1BT. Judging will take place the week before Christmas.
“Reduced car parking charge of £1”
Caroline Finch said that unlike other town centres there’s no problem with parking:
“From November till March we have two council car parks – Main Beach and Broad Road that offer a much reduced car parking charge of £1 for up to 24 hours, to help our day visitors stay longer and have a memorable day.”
