Designated in April 2023, Peveril Point and The Downs form a dramatic coastal landscape at the southern edge of Swanage, now recognised as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR). Managed by Swanage Town Council, the area includes open grassland, rugged cliffs, and panoramic views across Swanage Bay, Old Harry Rocks, and Durlston Head.
The land was originally part of the grounds of the former Grosvenor Hotel, acquired by the local authority in 1931, and has been under the stewardship of Swanage Town Council since 1974. The LNR designation followed years of collaborative work between the Town Council, Sustainable Swanage, and local volunteers, including public consultations, habitat surveys, and the development of a detailed Management Plan.
The reserve supports over 300 plant species and 100 animal species, including rare butterflies such as the Lulworth Skipper, and forms part of the South Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It also includes areas designated as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC), underscoring its ecological significance.
New interpretive signage has been installed to share the site's rich geology, wildlife, and history, and management practices now include allowing sections of grassland to grow long during summer to encourage biodiversity, while maintaining accessible areas for recreation.
From this location, visitors can begin a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path to Durlston Castle and Country Park, one of Dorset’s finest destinations for birdwatching. The clifftop path also offers opportunities to spot dolphins and seals, making it a favourite for nature enthusiasts.
The South West Coast Path National Trail, which stretches 630 miles from Minehead to Poole, includes the 95-mile Jurassic Coast section from Old Harry Rocks to Exmouth. This area offers a wide variety of circular walks via connecting footpaths and bridleways, allowing visitors to explore the dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity on foot.
For more information about nearby Durlston Country Park, please visit: www.durlston.co.uk.
Please see here for a copy of the Council's Management Plan for the Peveril Point and The Downs Local Nature Reserve: Management Plan for Peveril Point and The Downs Local Nature Reserve Swanage.