This August, families across the Purbecks are invited to dive into a series of free, hands-on coastal events designed to inspire a deeper connection with the incredible marine environment on their doorstep.
Delivered as part of the Andrew Simpson Foundation’s Wild Blue Events in collaboration with Planet Purbeck, the three-event series will see Swanage Beach turn into an outdoor classroom, where children and adults can explore science, wildlife and the sea through interactive activities, beach discoveries and creative challenges.
Running across three weekends in August, each event explores a different aspect of our coastal environment while encouraging families to spend time together outdoors.
The programme begins on August 1st with The Purbeck’s Wild Blue, celebrating the rich marine habitats found along the Jurassic Coast. Families can join guided shoreline surveys, discover fascinating wildlife, learn about seahorses and take part in organised beach cleans.
On August 9th, The Ocean in Motion explores the forces that shape our coastline.
Visitors can become ocean scientists for the day by testing water quality in a mini beach laboratory, investigating tides and currents through interactive games, and designing their own sea defences while learning how nature helps protect our coasts.
The series of events concludes on August 16th with From the Sea, focusing on the ocean as a source of food. Through games, activities and hands-on learning, families will discover sustainable fishing practices, food webs, and the importance of healthy marine ecosystems, alongside opportunities to meet local organisations connected to the sea.
Across all three events, participants can also enjoy organised beach cleans and creative activities, with every family receiving a digital activity booklet packed with nature challenges to continue their Wild Blue adventure beyond the beach.
The Wild Blue Events aim to help more young people and families develop a lasting connection with the UK’s blue spaces by making ocean learning accessible, engaging and rooted in local communities.
By combining science, creativity and outdoor exploration, these events aim to inspire the next generation of ocean advocates while celebrating the remarkable coastal environment that makes the Purbecks so special.
“These events are just going to be a really fun way of getting out in nature! There will be something for all the family and hopefully they will encourage families to feel inspired to explore their local blue spaces!” – Holly Jones, Sustainability Lead at Andrew Simpson Foundation.
Each event will also have unique event partners contributing exciting science and activities including Project Seagrass, The Final Straw Foundation, Surfers Against Sewage, The Smiling Sea and Swanage Beach Buddies.
All activities take place on Swanage Beach and are suitable for the whole family and are funded by the National Lottery.
Places are free but booking is required for activity sessions, booking will be available through our website from the 3rd July.
