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OverviewReviewsPhotosLocation
Unwind on the decking with a view across the bay
Spacious open plan living area
Bright space with double height ceilings
Relax with a movie or watch the boats go by
Well equipped kitched for whipping up a meal
Wake up to the sound of the sea in the comfy bedroom
Dual aspect bedroom
Relax after a day exploring
Ensuite bathroom
Spacious decking for alfresco dining
View towards apartment from across the bay
Can you spot your porthole from the pier?
1 / 12  Unwind on the decking with a view across the bay
2 / 12  Spacious open plan living area
3 / 12  Bright space with double height ceilings
4 / 12  Relax with a movie or watch the boats go by
5 / 12  Well equipped kitched for whipping up a meal
6 / 12  Wake up to the sound of the sea in the comfy bedroom
7 / 12  Dual aspect bedroom
8 / 12  Relax after a day exploring
9 / 12  Ensuite bathroom
10 / 12  Spacious decking for alfresco dining
11 / 12  View towards apartment from across the bay
12 / 12  Can you spot your porthole from the pier?

Porthole Penthouse

Swanage, Dorset
holidaycottages.co.uk logo

This property is managed by holidaycottages.co.uk info_outline

Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
No Dogs
5 star
Waterside views
Internet access
Pub nearby
Shop nearby
Beach within easy reach
Luxury
Romantic
Parking on site / nearby
Apartment
Towels included
10 more

At a glance

  • Stunning penthouse apartment sleeping two in luxury
  • Set within an exclusive development located on the water’s edge
  • Panoramic, unspoiled views of the beautiful Swanage Bay from the roof terrace
  • The iconic Victorian pier plus a collection of shops, eateries and sandy bay of Swanage are within 400 yards
  • Jump on board the steam train from Swanage station to enjoy a nostalgic ride along the Purbeck line
  • Venture inland to discover the scenic walking trails of the Hartland Moor National Nature Reserve
Overview
Property code: DC124

Incredible penthouse apartment located right on the water’s edge, boasting uninterrupted panoramic views of the beautiful Swanage Bay and Ballard Down beyond, and within easy reach of the town's attractions and amenities.

Located on the water’s edge, this stunning first-floor penthouse apartment offers uninterrupted panoramic views of Swanage Bay. The property features a sunny rooftop terrace which allows you to take in the glorious sights of the region, including the famous Victorian pier, Wellington Tower, the spectacular sandy beach with its colourful beach huts, and the sweep of the bay towards Ballard Down. Set within an exclusive development, this is a fantastic holiday home for a couple seeking a tranquil base for exploring the Purbeck region of Dorset.

Situated on the edge of the town, this charming first-floor property is accessed via a curved staircase from the hall which leads you into the tastefully decorated open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner. This bright and welcoming triple-aspect space has a double-height vaulted ceiling and a large porthole window with sea views. You can sit back in the bright and relaxing lounge or enjoy a romantic meal for two in the pretty dining area. The fully equipped kitchen is perfect for rustling up a favourite meal or snack. You will also find an attractive double bedroom with an en-suite shower room. French doors lead out onto the beautiful rooftop terrace where you can sit back and enjoy a BBQ or an evening drink.

Perfectly situated just a few hundred metres from the heart of Swanage, this delightful property is perfect for couples looking to enjoy the town’s fantastic range of pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops. Perfect for exploring the Jurassic Heritage Coast, nearby attractions include Anvil Point Lighthouse (2 miles), The Great Globe (1.5 miles), Dancing Ledge (3.5 miles), Winspit Quarry (6 miles) and Old Harry Rocks (4 miles). Durlston Bay lies to the south, and you can also visit Durslton Country Park (1.5 miles) and Corfe Castle (6.5 miles) or catch a ferry from Studland (4 miles) to explore Brownsea Island.

  • 1 bedroom with 5ft double bed
  • 1 en-suite shower room
  • Hob, oven, fridge with ice-box, microwave, dishwasher, washer/dryer
  • Rooftop terrace with seating area
  • Off-road parking for 1 car in car-port
  • Smart TV
  • Pubs and shops within half a mile
  • Bluetooth sound system
  • Nespresso machine
  • BBQ available
  • No telephone
  • Regret no children
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
  • Sorry, no dogs allowed
  • There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £150 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £20. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

Claire Tranter

This property is personally managed by Claire.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 40 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 stars4.9
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.5 starsOverall equipment 4.5 starsOverall equipment 4.5 starsOverall equipment 4.5 starsOverall equipment 4.5 stars4.5
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 stars4.6
Overall location
Overall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 starsOverall location 5 stars5

Reviewed by Ruth 18th April 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Pamela 4th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Fabulous

Reviewed by Steven 7th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a perfect short break and looking forward to going back in a few months, would highly recommend.

Reviewed by Sebastian 7th February 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Lovely flat. Superb views over Swanage bay.

Reviewed by Nicholas 20th January 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Amazing location, and so comfortable and spacious. Close enough to walk into Swanage and just stunning views.

Reviewed by Kaye 25th October 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Valerie 4th October 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

We had a very comfortable stay here.

Reviewed by Graham 27th September 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The main attractions of this accommodation are the views and location. The flat is well equipped, although the lack of pint glasses and a bottle opener were annoying oversights. The patio area is comfortable and affords great views but it needs refreshing and the glass panels should be cleaned between lets. The top catch of the bedroom portal is miRead moressing which allows a draft and it can get quite noisy on a windy night. We had to leave early due to illness but we enjoyed our stay. Hide

Reviewed by Derek 20th September 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Ideal location great view and sitting out area. Comfy seating and dining area. Bed excellent and shower room great. Lovely holiday place to stay.

Reviewed by Gwynn 23rd August 2024

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Reviewed by ian 19th July 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by K 12th July 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Beautiful apartment in a stunning location at the waters edge. Flooded with light from the many windows, it has a really spacious feel with glorious views in every direction. Simply and tastefully furnished, it provides a great base from which to explore the area on foot, or by car if you want to go further afield. We love this place and have returRead morened eight years in a row. Hide

Reviewed by Lesley 28th June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Fully satisfied with this property. Well equipped, furnished to a high standard and the views wonderful.

Reviewed by Pamela 21st June 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

This apartment has a magnificent location, is well equipped and immaculate. A favourite which we return to again and again.

Reviewed by P 14th June 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Ihad an excellent week.I love the location.I love the apartment.

Reviewed by William 7th June 2024

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Beautiful property in excellent location. Easy walk to Swanage restaurants, beach and town centre. Ideal base for coast walks and for access to Purbeck attractions including Arne RSPB reserve, Studland, Corfe Castle and Durlston Country Park.

Reviewed by Anthony 31st May 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Teresa 24th May 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

I had a lovely stay at Porthole Penthouse, a real wow factor with wonderful views. The flat was immaculately clean and would definitely consider staying here again. Easy walk into Swanage and I love the secret gate to the coastal path. Brilliant outside space and made use of the BBQ which was fun. On the expensive side but you pay for quality.

Reviewed by Alan 10th May 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Spent a really nice relaxing week here. Great location with lovely views over Swanage Bay and the beach area - plenty to do in the town and surrounding area. It's just a 10 minute walk into town and the sea gate provides a useful shortcut (although the first 50m or so is quite rough and can be slippery). The apartment itself is spacious, comfortablRead moree and well-equipped. Hide

Reviewed by Kim 3rd May 2024

Guest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 stars

Great location a perfect base for walking we stayed for a week and the car had a break too we didnt use it for 4 days!!! Would definitely return back

Reviewed by Peter 15th March 2024

Guest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 stars

This is a lovely apartment in an outstanding location with views across Swanage Bay to Old Harry Rocks, but it is not cheap for a one bedroom apartment. It was a pity that it suffered from a lack of attention to detail, as far as cleaning and maintenance were concerned, and was in need of a facelift.

Reviewed by Robert 8th March 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Debbie 24th February 2024

Guest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 stars

Reviewed by Jennifer 16th February 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Joy 29th December 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Antony 20th October 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by John 6th October 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Excellent location, equipment and all round presentation.

Reviewed by Russell 29th September 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Derek 22nd September 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Porthole at Swanage was brilliant and definitely 5Star. Apartment spotless on arrival and the location was wonderful with everything you need close to hand. Good local restaurants and a reliable bus service to varying places. Strongly recommend - we will be returning.

Reviewed by Tony 15th September 2023

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Fabulous flat, great location and nearly perfect but things were looking slightly worn out and poorly maintained for the rental charge.

Reviewed by K 8th September 2023

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Wonderful location, quiet yet close to all facilities. We did not use our car at all, enjoying open top buses, steam trains and walking instead.

Reviewed by Bryan 1st September 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Gail 25th August 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Perfect location, comfortable and clean . Would love to return.

Reviewed by Paul 4th August 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We stayed here for a week omg we absolutely loved it the apartment the location the cleanliness and was quite lucky with the weather to its a really relaxing property and the views were amazing and shell bay restaurant is fantastic.

Reviewed by K 14th July 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

This was our seventh visit to Porthole Penthouse. Simply, yet tastefully furnished with everything you need, this apartment is in the most superb location. We never tire of the views from the porthole and sun terrace. Plenty to explore nearby and no need to use the car if you dont want to. Even when the weather is a bit inclement, its still fascinaRead moreting watching the sea from the apartment. Everything is presented and maintained to the highest standard. Hope to be back next year. Hide

Reviewed by Michael 30th June 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by William 23rd June 2023

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Perfect position and lovely apartment. Beautifully appointed and equipped, although the mattress could have been more comfortable.

Reviewed by P 16th June 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

I love this property. It is clean,comfortable and well positioned. I love the views,the balcony.In fact I could live here permanently.

Reviewed by Pamela 2nd June 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

A very comfortable apartment in an excellent location.

Reviewed by Alan 12th May 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The lower path through the gate was a bonus for us but we only found out about it while looking through the previous visitors comments (unless we missed it somewhere in the information pack). An ideal location and with the weather we had, a lovely holiday.

38 more

Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Island Cottage Holidays is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Island Cottage Holidays | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House Gammaton Road Bideford EX39 4DF Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.