We wanted a base to explore the Dorset/Swanage area for a couple of days in winter, and were delighted to chance upon the Swanage Haven website. Online booking still being refined (couldn't book less than a week), but easy to sort out a booking with Dianne on the phone, and email confirmation very quick too. Thought the 5pm check-in would have us hanging around on the doorstep, but instead had a brilliant walk along Shell Beach (spotted as we disembarked from the ferry).

David was a very welcoming host, showing us to our well-appointed double room, whilst giving us lots of advice for eating out in Swanage. Highly recommended is Ocean Bay, five minutes walk away...
fantastic seafood and quality service, and a stunning location right on the beach.

Our breakfast at the Haven was delicious, nice to have fruit as well as a full English! And we had a dip in the hot tub, which has been well-designed with modern lighting.

All in all, a very pleasant stay in a comfortable guest house with friendly, helpful hosts.

Just spent the weekend travelling in Dorset. I phoned the Swanage Haven last week to see if they would take a one night booking, and spoke to David, who was extremly helpful and happy to accommodate me.
I booked a double room for the stay on the Saturday Evening.
- Check in is from 5pm, which is okay if your spending time sight seeing. We was taken to a lovely double room on the first floor, complete with toweling gowns and slippers. Nice flat screen TV with lots of channels, so was able to look at the Footy and Rugby Scores! before showering to go out.

The accommodation is up a very slight hill, and is approximately a ten minute walk along the sea front to the main town. However, there was a lovely restaurant at the bottom of the hill with lovely views and you can get a start and main for around £20. Booking recommended especially at weekends.
The Ship Inn, in town recently refurbished was a nice place for a few beers and nice food also. (again popular so go early evening or book)

David and Diane were very friendly and helpful hosts, and should I ever visit Swanage or nearby again, I would most definitely stay at this Haven!

My advise to anyone looking for somewhere to stay in Swanage, you will not be dissapointed if you stay here.

I wish them well in this venture, they definitely have the right attitude to ensure that this business does well.

Brenda and Peter - Surrey


We have just returned from a very enjoyable long weekend stay at The Swanage Haven. The owners have gone to great lengths to make their guests' visit pleasant with their numerous 'little touches'. Our room was very clean and beautifully decorated with all the comforts of home. The breakfasts included fresh fruit and home made cakes and pastries and Dianne's almond porridge is a definite must as is the organic cooked breakfast. Look forward to staying there again.

We have now stayed here twice in the last three months. the owners are incredibly friendly and produce delicious breakfasts - there is even a low miles option with very tasty food from local suppliers, and great little pancakes for children. There is also fresh fruit and homemade scones and brownies. It has eight very clean rooms with some nice touches such as mini chocolates on arrival and lovely fluffy dressing gowns and is in a great, quiet location near to the front. Get there before everyone hears about it!