PEOPLE are being encouraged to ditch their cars and hop on a bus to visit some of some of Purbeck’s most sought after destination spots.
The Purbeck Shuttle trial shuttle bus service, which was originally set up by the RSPB to connect Wareham train station and RSPB Arne Nature Reserve, has been extended to cover the period from 28th May to the end of August 2025 on a two-day-a-week service on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
The service provides a sustainable public transport link from Wareham Station to the RSPB Arne Nature Reserve, The Blue Pool Nature Reserve and Purbeck Park, connecting with the Swanage Heritage Railway.
No bookings are needed; just step onboard, enjoy the journey, and experience the outstanding scenery within Purbeck’s internationally recognised heathland.
To mark the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, the shuttle service has also been renamed Purbeck Shuttle 200.
A spokesperson for the service said: “This we hope will establish a regular service now this is becoming known to locals and tourists alike and a growing expectation the bus will be there this summer.
“This is particularly useful for those without access to a car and is also beneficial for local people coming into Wareham from the outlying parishes acting as a rural transport hub.”
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The project is supported and funded by the Purbeck Community Rail Partnership, Dorset Council’s Community Transport Fund, RSPB Arne, The Blue Pool, Wareham Town Council and operated by Dorset Community Transport.
Steven Booth, Purbeck community rail officer said: “We are so pleased to be involved in this project working with our partners as it supports our aims and objectives to promote sustainable integrated transport by linking the railway and bus to Purbeck’s most picturesque attractions.
“RSPB Arne remains one of the few places in the UK where all six of the UK’s native reptiles can be found situated on Poole Harbour and within the Dorset Natural Landscape area.
“In addition to this the popular natural tourist attraction, The Blue Pool Nature Reserve, situated in the tranquil scenic surroundings of a former clay mining pit can also be reached for the first time by public transport.”
Tim Christian, Dorset community transport manager, said: “We’re delighted to offer the continuation of the shuttle bus through the summer period.
“This is a valuable service for those who can’t drive or don’t have access to a car to be able to come and visit RSPB Arne and the Blue Pool and connect by rail.
“Whether visitors choose to leave their cars at home, don’t have access to a vehicle, we hope our Purbeck Shuttle 200 service will enable more people to enjoy these major Purbeck attractions, experiencing wonderful wildlife, and stunning views.”
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