Recent two-times winner of the UK’s best beach accolade, many are drawn to Bournemouth for its golden beaches, stretching to the east and west for seven glorious miles. During the summer months, this seafront area becomes the heart of the town, with a variety of activities for adults and kids alike.
Combine the town’s elegant architecture, informal family-friendly activities, and an exciting dining scene, and you have all the ingredients for a great day out or the perfect staycation. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Bournemouth to help you plan your visit.
Visit Bournemouth Pier
Bournemouth is home to not one, but two, beautiful piers.
Bournemouth Pier, the bigger of the two, started life as a wooden jetty in the 1840s. But reconstruction efforts eventually led to the 1000-foot iron-built structure that’s now a central feature of Bournemouth’s seafront. On the pier, visitors can enjoy classic arcade amusements, as well as shops and cafes.
Thrill seeker's tip
At the end of the pier there’s an exciting adventure attraction called Rock and Reef, featuring the world’s first pier-to-shore zip wire!
Revisit your childhood on Bournemouth’s beaches
When we first think of Bournemouth, many of us will picture the beach. Seaside resorts are a British tradition, and one we still have strong psychological links with. Bournemouth’s an ideal place to revisit cherished memories of paddling in the waves, digging our toes in the sand, buckets and spades, and the ubiquitous windbreak. Here are some of Bournemouth’s best:
Bournemouth beach
Bournemouth beach is the most central stretch of sand, and the most popular. It’s likely to be crowded during the summer, but will also have the most activities to enjoy and easy access to the town’s facilities.
Durley Chine and Alum Chine beaches
Durley Chine and Alum Chine beaches make up the western section of Bournemouth’s seafront, away from the busy central district. Blue Flag award-winners, these sand and shingle beaches are wide and supremely clean, with excellent facilities for families.
Boscombe beach
Boscombe beach, to the east of Bournemouth, is another popular spot for visitors. Stretching around a kilometre on either side of Boscombe Pier, this Blue Flag-awarded beach is one for the active amongst you. With table tennis, volleyball, and slacklining on offer, as well as access to a surf school during the summer, you simply won’t want to leave.
Further afield:
For more beaches, venture a few miles east, where you can explore the 95 miles of Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Make memories at the Oceanarium
Stoke up your kids’ interest in wildlife with a trip to the fascinating Oceanarium. Twelve habitats mimic the natural living conditions of a range of fish, crustaceans, and mammals.
Kids will love watching the comical penguins waddle around their beach environment, and there’s also the opportunity to feed the animals, with experiences available to get up close to sea turtles, penguins, and even - for the very brave - sharks!
Take a boat trip on the Dorset Belle
One of the best views of Bournemouth is from the water, so a boat trip’s a great way to see the town from a unique perspective. The Dorset Belle is a pleasure cruiser offering daily trips from Bournemouth Pier around Poole Bay. As you gently cut through the waves, enjoying the tang of the salty air and the breeze mussing your hair, take in the scenery of this pretty town, and the splendour of the surrounding Dorset coastline.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum
Indulge in some culture and pay a visit to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, a combined house, art gallery, and garden experience with spectacular views over the beach and sea beyond.
Step from the beautifully landscaped gardens into the house to appreciate the opulent Art Nouveau interior. Built between 1897-1901 by Merton Russell-Cotes as a gift to his wife, Annie, the property’s four galleries were designed to showcase the couple’s ever-growing collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture. There are also impressive artefacts collected during the Russell-Cotes’s extensive travels around the world.
Do some vintage shopping in Pokesdown
Pokesdown has become one of the best Bournemouth suburbs for vintage shopping. A revival took place around a decade ago, filling empty units with a variety of pre-loved, vintage, and antique shops and, in the process, creating a go-to destination for people in search of unique items.
Among the best options are:
● The Attic: for vintage clothing.
● The Crooked Book: specialising in second-hand books, vintage furniture, and (very tasty) coffee and cake.
● Bourne and Co Antiques: selling a vast selection of antique furniture and trinkets.
Get competitive with VR Laser Tower Tag
Don your VR headset and get ready to enter a whole new world!
At Centre VR in Bournemouth, you’ll join the futuristic land of Laser Tower Tag and use your ultra-modern laser tag gun to take aim and shoot, claiming the surrounding towers as your own. Work together with your teammates, or perhaps some AI bots, to become the winning team. Be careful though, because wearing the high-tech haptic vests, you’ll feel any bullets that the other team fires your way! But that’s what makes this all-senses experience truly unforgettable.
Take the land train from Bournemouth to Boscombe
A land train is always a big attraction in seaside destinations, and it’s no different in Bournemouth. Kids - and big kids - will love waving at passers-by from the cheerful trains that traverse the promenade from Bournemouth Pier to Boscombe Pier. Enjoy the scenery, maybe indulge in an ice cream, and see if you can spot the Isle of Wight and Purbeck Hills along the way.
Appreciate nature at Hengistbury Head
If you’re willing to travel a short distance east of Bournemouth, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views from Hengistbury Head. Unbeatable for nature lovers, this reserve is home to over five hundred species of plants and oodles of birds, English coastal insects, and animals. With a short hill climb, you’ll arrive at yet more wonderful views from the top of Warren Hill. There are also cafes and facilities available, making this is an ideal day out for the whole family.
Top tip
Hengistbury Head has its own land train running between Hengistbury Head car park and Mudeford Spit.
Treat someone special to a bubbly afternoon tea
Afternoon-tea-at-home was a saviour for many during pandemic times. But how lovely to get back out into the world and enjoy the ritual as you should - in beautiful, elegant surroundings.
This afternoon tea experience takes place at the two AA Rosette-winning Arbor Restaurant, located in Bournemouth’s eco-conscious Green House hotel. Choose to dine inside or in the hotel’s pretty gardens and enjoy a fine selection of sweet and savoury delicacies - champagne included, of course - while reconnecting with a friend or loved one.
Stay in a luxury beach lodge
Quirky accommodation can be a real draw, and Bournemouth’s decision to allow the creation of a mini-village of luxury beach lodges has proven to be inspired.
There are 24 lodges, each sleeping up to six people. Wake to uninterrupted views of Boscombe beach and, with the sea right outside your door, enjoy an early morning paddle before the crowds arrive.
Take a turn on the Bournemouth Big Wheel
In the summer months, Bournemouth is visited by the popular Bournemouth Big Wheel. Standing at an impressive 100+ feet tall, when you reach the top of the wheel’s ascent, you’ll be treated to glorious panoramic vistas of Bournemouth town and its lovely seafront.
Join forces on a tricky treasure hunt
Sometimes adding a bit of purpose into a day trip can really liven up proceedings. So why not explore Bournemouth’s many charms on a Great UK Outdoor Treasure Hunt? The two-and-a-half-hour hunt is a fantastic opportunity for you to join forces with friends and venture deep into the heart of Bournemouth, solving clues and puzzles while exploring some of the town’s most famous landmarks. Eventually - fingers crossed - you’ll find your treasure!
Save your legs using the Cliff Lifts
The trek from Bournemouth’s seafront to the town above can be steep, so in the 1900s, Cliff Lifts - essentially short funicular railways - were constructed to transport visitors. There are three cliff lifts, two of them currently operating:
● West Cliff Lift: Built in 1908, this cliff lift links up Bournemouth International Centre and the seafront.
● Fisherman’s Walk Cliff Lift: This lift, built in 1935, links up the beach and a cliff-top cafe and play area.
Pamper yourself on a Bournemouth spa break
Bournemouth has a plethora of hotels, restaurants, and beauty salons. But sometimes, it’s nice to have everything in one place. If you’re looking to thoroughly spoil someone special - or yourself - this relaxing one-night pamper break in Bournemouth is perfect. You and a chosen guest of honour will be treated like royalty at the West Cliff, a refined hotel right in the centre of Bournemouth. With extensive spa facilities and a renowned brasserie restaurant, no matter how you arrive, you’ll leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Relaxing One Night Pamper Break with Dinner and Treatment for Two at Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel
Treat yourself and a lucky guest to a One Night Pamper Break with Dinner for Two at Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel. Close to sandy beaches and the bustling town centre, you can explore all that Bournemouth has to offer, or relax in the hotel spa, where you can each enjoy a 25-minute pamper treatment.<br /> In the evening, you’ll be served a delicious three-course meal in the hotel’s contemporary restaurant; and after a restful night in your Classic room, you can tuck into a cooked or continental breakfast.
Find out more
Get competitive at Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf
A Bournemouth seafront attraction that’s popular with families is Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf. Don’t let the beautiful backdrop of the beach and historic pier distract you, because this is a full-on golfing battle, and you’ll need to take on the mindset of a smuggler to win the game. 18 inventive holes will keep everyone entertained, and there’s even an app to help you keep score.
Enjoy a show at the Bournemouth Pavilion
The historic Bournemouth Pavilion has been sitting proudly in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens since it was built in the 1920s. Art deco in style, the building has undergone numerous alterations to its facade, but the elegant interior has remained, taking you back in time. The Pavilion is a hub for Bournemouth-based entertainment, with year-round theatre, music, and comedy shows, plus at Christmas - everyone’s favourite - the pantomime arrives.
Visit upmarket Westbourne
If you’re in the mood to explore a little out of town, Westbourne is a fantastic suburb a quick 15-minute stroll away. Known for its upmarket vibe, you’ll find plenty of independent restaurants and shops to explore here. But the star of the show is the ornate Westbourne Arcade, a beautiful red brick and stone structure with a cast iron frontage. Inside is beautiful tile work and a glass ceiling, which creates an airy and welcoming atmosphere.
Top tip
The Westbourne Arcade is home to the UK’s smallest cinema, the Bournemouth Colosseum.
Learn about all-things-beer at Brewhouse and Kitchen
Part of the experience of visiting somewhere new is relaxing and enjoying a drink. So, for the beer-lovers in your life, why not treat them to the gifting glory that is a beer masterclass and food pairing experience at Bournemouth’s Brewhouse and Kitchen? Not only will you learn about the beers you sample, but you’ll also begin to understand how to pair food with beer - a skill more usually associated with wine. This experience is great as a unique celebration for a birthday or anniversary.
See the landmarks on a hop-on hop-off bus tour
If you don’t have much time, a brilliant way to discover the best of Bournemouth is on a City Sightseeing Bournemouth hop-on hop-off bus tour. This hourly service will take you to some of the most notable spots in the area, including Bournemouth Pier, Westbourne, and Canford Cliffs. If you decide to stay on board, for the full route, it’s a pleasant hour and a half ride, with audio commentary providing you with Bournemouth’s history and some fun facts along the way.
See jaw-dropping mansions at Sandbanks
Sandbanks is another worthwhile trip only minutes from Bournemouth. A millionaire’s playground, this peninsula at the inlet of Poole Harbour is home to some seriously swanky property and also some of the best beaches on the south coast.
Can you believe it?
In 2018, it was claimed that the 13 homes on ‘Millionaire’s Row’ in Sandbanks had become the most expensive waterfront property in the world!
Explore Bournemouth from a luxury eco-hotel
There are so many things to do in Bournemouth that you may want to extend your stay for a night or two. The Green House Hotel, steps from Bournemouth’s seafront, is a superb option for a two-night luxury break right in the heart of the action.
The hotel, winner of the Condé Nast Johansens Green hotel of the year, has impressive eco-credentials. And, as you explore Bournemouth’s beautiful surroundings by day, you’ll know you have a luxurious and comfortable Grade II listed villa to return to each night.
Get a taste of Bournemouth’s famous food scene
Bournemouth’s food scene has come on in leaps and bounds over the last few years. Once a haven for retirees, a younger, more forward-looking clientele now demands innovative and exciting food - and Bournemouth has more than risen to the challenge. Of particular note are:
- Restaurant Roots Ltd
The Restaurant Roots Ltd fine-dining experience is run by a local husband and wife team. Aiming to create a comfortable, informal atmosphere while treating diners to impeccable food inspired by nature, this restaurant is a real treat.
- Sobo Fish
It would be remiss not to include a quality seafood option in Bournemouth’s dining scene, and Sobo Fish, located in the suburb of Pokesdown, perfectly fits the bill. With menus created daily, the skilled chefs succeed in whipping up inspiring and tempting dishes that keep people coming back for more.
- Twelve Eatery
Reflecting today’s diners’ appetite for plant-based cuisine, Twelve Eatery was created to encourage people of all food preferences to come together and enjoy vegan cooking at its finest. Footfall has proven they’re doing it right.
Sample the lively nightlife
Bournemouth has a busy and varied nightlife scene - perhaps surprisingly so - with distinct areas that will please everyone:
● Bournemouth Town Centre: this is where you’ll find the big-ticket venues, the O2 and Bournemouth International Centre.
● The Triangle: the majority of Bournemouth’s LGBTQ+ entertainment is located here.
● Lansdowne: close to Bournemouth University, this is a student-rich district offering wallet-friendly options.
● Boscombe: a low-key, bohemian nightlife scene has developed here, thanks to the local creative community.
Free things to do in Bournemouth
You don’t need to spend money to have a great time in this gem of the south coast. Here are some suggestions to help you decide what to do in Bournemouth when you want to keep down the costs.
Nature
● Traverse the Bournemouth Gardens Tree Trail
Highlighting some of the best trees in the Lower, Central, and Upper Gardens, the two-hour Bournemouth Gardens Tree Trail will delight dendrophiles - that’s tree lovers to you and me. Access the route for free by downloading the trail map.
● Alum Chine Tropical Gardens
The Green Flag award-winning Alum Chine Tropical Gardens showcase Bournemouth’s famed microclimate, where tropical plants and flowers thrive as you’d never expect in England. This is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the stunning views over the water below.
● Stour Valley Nature Reserve
The Stour Valley Nature Reserve sits alongside the River Stour, and is a fascinating place to discover river-dwelling animals and plants. In the Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre, you can pick up a free trail map, and while you’re there, learn about the illegal dealings of olden-day smugglers!
Culture and Sights
● Visit The Gallery at Arts University Bournemouth
The Gallery at Arts University Bournemouth is an impressive space where you can view contemporary and innovative art exhibitions, as well as attending artist’s talks, to learn about the work on display.
● Visit Boscombe Pier
Boscombe is the second of Bournemouth’s seafront piers, and at 600ft long, the shorter of the two. It’s free to enter, and if you walk to the viewing platform at the end, there are great views back over the beach towards Bournemouth.
● Soak up the atmosphere in The Square
All roads meet at The Square! This public space is the very heart of Bournemouth and is a popular place to sit and watch the world - and plenty of people - go by.
● Seek out Mary Shelley’s grave
St Peter’s Church is a Gothic Revival church built in the 1870s. Visitors can wander the churchyard on the hunt for the grave of Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, who is buried here.
Festivals
● Arts by the Sea festival
Running since 2011, the Arts by the Sea Festival takes place each year and is Bournemouth’s celebration of its local art, people, and places. Organisers curate a varied programme of events, all of which are free to attend.
● Join in with Summer Live
Taking over The Square each summer is Bournemouth’s Summer Live Festival. With free music performances each afternoon, and child-friendly activities during the summer holidays, the whole family will be entertained.
● Marvel at the Bournemouth Air Festival
Not only confined to the air, there are also land and sea displays to enjoy during the annual Bournemouth Air Festival. It really is a spectacular event and topping it off is the arrival of the UK’s favourite flying squad, the Red Arrows.
● Experience Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland
Everyone loves the magic of Christmas. And Bournemouth has created an extra special Festive Trail to enjoy at their annual Christmas Tree Wonderland. With over 100 Christmas trees beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and garlands, the joy of Christmas begins the moment the trail begins.
