The Railway Campsite

The Railway Campsite at Harman’s Cross in Purbeck offers ‘back to basics’ camping in a field for caravans and tents. Water, toilets and a shower area are provided. Local facilities include an excellent park, two garage/shops and a nearby bus route.

Train spotters will find the location ideal. Harman’s Cross railway station is across the lane. The campsite is an excellent base from which to explore the Jurassic Coast and the beautiful countryside of the Isle of Purbeck.

Booking and contact

Please phone Annabel on:
01929 424941 or 07748 200271

Find us

We are at Harmans Cross, postcode BH19 3EB

View Harmans Cross in a larger map

The 8 acre site is situated 2 miles from Corfe Castle and 3 miles from Swanage, just south of the A351 in the village of Harmans Cross, BH19 3EB. Turn right at the crossroads, cross over the railway bridge and the Railway Campsite is on your left.

The Campsite

In the heart of Purbeck, the Railway Campsite is as close to heaven as a steam railway enthusiast can get. The renowned Swanage Railway runs within a dozen yards of the campsite border, giving true believers an unparelled view of the tracks. The very keen may camp close enough to feel the vibrations of the mighty behemoths thundering by and hear the hiss of vented steam as they brake for Harman’s Cross Station, which is just across the lane.

Campers more inclined to view and hear their steam trains from the middle distance might prefer to pitch their tents further up the slope where the experience is somewhat less extreme. Views of the Purbeck hills and vales await. The campsite is gently undulating with plenty of space to spread out, bordered by hedgerows bustling with life. Bird watchers will find fertile fields of feathered friends while wildlife watchers won’t be disappointed.

 

Facilities and prices

Facilities are simple and this is reflected in the charges - from £5 per person per night.

Regularly spaced taps deliver drinking water. Temporary toilets are provided and elsan facilities are available for those with in house arrangements.

We also provide a modest showering area. Our zip-up tents provide perfect privacy but you need to bring your own shower or we can provide the black-bag-with-tap-attached arrangement which, left in the abundant Purbeck sunlight, really works.

Foragers will find plenty of seasonal vegetables and eggs from nearby honesty-box stalls

Well behaved dogs are welcome. Barbeques and stoves are permitted. Caravans by arrangement only.

There are regular trains to and from Corfe Castle and Swanage (click here for railway timetables) and a playing field nearby with newly equipped playground.

Garage and shops are at the main crossroads.

 

Campfires

This is ‘back to basics’ camping. Campfires are fine provided they are properly contained. Above ground fireplaces are preferred but pits are OK, just cover them when you leave, please.

The use of guitars, harmonicas, squeeze boxes and vocal cords is encouraged.

There is plenty of space so you can leave your suburban head behind. Remember though, you are amongst nature – please respect it by leaving no trace when you leave.