Prince Albert Gardens was developed as part of the Swanage Seafront Improvement Scheme in 1996, on the site of the old Miniature Golf Course. This beautifully landscaped public garden with an open-air amphitheatre is well used in the summer months. If you just want to sit and enjoy the views across the bay, or visit one of the many events that take place in the tourist season this is the place to be! The landscaping forms a gradual transition from the urban edge of the town to the wilder adjoining landscape of the Downs. Local materials and attention to detail gave the project a commendation at the Civic Trust Awards soon after its completion in 1997.
The gardens are an ideal place to watch the activities of pleasure boats that come and go from the wonderful Victorian Pier. The pier has being lovingly restored and is a credit to the volunteers of the Swanage Pier Trust. More information on the pier can be found on www.swanagepiertrust.com.
A sight not to be missed is when the world’s last sea going paddle steamer ‘Waverley’ comes into the bay to collect passengers from the pier. It gives a sense of nostalgia to see this old steamer moored at the pier, disembarking and embarking passengers. For information on the timetable and destinations for the Waverley please visit www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk
Prince Albert Memorial
The Prince Albert Memorial is a distinguished historic monument that commemorates the life and legacy of Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria. Originally erected in 1862, it holds the notable distinction of being the first civic memorial in the United Kingdom dedicated to Prince Albert following his death.
The initiative to construct the memorial was led by George Burt, a prominent local figure and philanthropist, who proposed the use of locally quarried Purbeck stone to honour the Prince’s contributions to public life, education, and social reform. Despite Swanage’s modest population at the time, the community collectively funded the project, demonstrating a profound sense of civic pride and national respect.
Initially situated at the junction of Court Hill and High Street, the obelisk endured decades of exposure and was eventually dismantled in 1971 during redevelopment works. For many years, the stones remained in storage, and various efforts to restore the monument were unsuccessful.
In 2021, following a collaborative effort between the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust, Swanage Museum, and local benefactor Mike Sloggett, the memorial was meticulously restored and reinstalled in its current location. The restoration incorporated original stonework where possible, with missing elements faithfully reproduced by skilled local stonemasons, preserving the integrity of the original design.
Its placement in Prince Albert Gardens - near the site of the Prince’s documented visit to Swanage in 1856 - offers panoramic views of Swanage Bay, Ballard Down, and the Isle of Wight.
Cancare Sanctuary Garden
The Cancare Sanctuary Garden, located in a peaceful corner of Prince Albert Gardens, was officially opened in May 2024 to mark the 35th anniversary of the Swanage-based cancer support charity, Cancare.
Funded by a generous legacy from local residents Margaret and Ian Crofts, the garden was designed by Michelle Brown, an award-winning RHS Chelsea garden designer, and constructed by Wycliffe Landscapes. It was envisioned as a tranquil space for reflection, remembrance, and healing - open to all members of the community.
Featuring Purbeck stone, sculptural moongates, and panoramic views of Swanage Bay, the garden offers a serene environment that complements the natural beauty of the seafront. It stands as a lasting tribute to those affected by cancer and to the compassion and resilience of the Swanage community.