Discover Bournemouth | A Visitor's Introduction to Bournemouth

Why is Bournemouth Worth a Visit?

Bournemouth is worth visiting for its stunning coastline, lively atmosphere, and variety of activities. From relaxing days on the golden sands and exploring scenic gardens to water sports, festivals, and nightlife, Bournemouth has a little something for everyone. Located close to the New Forest and the Jurassic Coast, it’s also a fantastic base for exploring the natural beauty of Dorset and Hampshire. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the sea, enjoy thrilling activities, or immerse yourself in a bustling seaside town, Bournemouth promises a memorable stay.

Bournemouth Highlights: Things to See and Do in Bournemouth

1. Bournemouth Beach and Pier

Bournemouth Beach is consistently ranked among the UK’s top beaches for its soft sands, clear waters, and family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is lined with colourful beach huts and has amenities, including cafes, showers, and watersport rentals. Bournemouth Pier, at the centre of the beach, offers a traditional seaside experience with an arcade, cafes, and the thrilling PierZip, a zipline that stretches from the pier to the shore. Spend a day sunbathing, swimming, or trying paddleboarding or surfing.

2. Lower Gardens

The Lower Gardens are a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Bournemouth, stretching from the town centre to the seafront. These well-maintained Victorian gardens feature colourful flower beds, a tropical greenhouse, mini-golf, and shaded benches for a relaxing stroll. The gardens also host events, concerts, and the annual Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland in winter, featuring light displays and festive cheer.

3. Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum

Housed in a stunning Victorian villa on the East Cliff, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum showcases an impressive collection of art, sculptures, and artefacts from around the world. The house itself is a work of art, with intricate interiors, lush gardens, and panoramic views over the sea. The museum’s exhibits range from Victorian art to Japanese ceramics, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of its eccentric founders, Sir Merton and Lady Annie Russell-Cotes.

4. Hengistbury Head

Just a short distance from Bournemouth, Hengistbury Head is a nature reserve and ancient site with sweeping coastal views and diverse wildlife. This stunning peninsula is ideal for walking, cycling, and birdwatching, with several trails leading through heathland, cliffs, and beaches. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers, offering views over Christchurch Harbour and the Isle of Wight on clear days. A small land train can take visitors from the car park to the beach, or you can enjoy a scenic walk along the clifftop paths.

5. Oceanarium

The Bournemouth Oceanarium, located near the pier, is an excellent family attraction featuring marine life from around the world. Highlights include the underwater tunnel, where you can see sharks and turtles swim overhead, as well as the penguin beach, which hosts daily feeding sessions. With interactive exhibits, educational talks, and a cafe with sea views, the Oceanarium provides a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

6. Boscombe Pier and Beach

For a slightly quieter experience, head to Boscombe Beach, just east of Bournemouth Pier. Boscombe Pier has a unique musical walkway and a series of quirky art installations, making it an interesting spot to explore. The beach here is a favourite among surfers and offers surf schools, beach volleyball courts, and the famous Overstrand building with its cafes and shops. Boscombe is ideal for those looking to enjoy Bournemouth’s beachside charm with a more relaxed atmosphere.

7. Bournemouth International Centre (BIC)

Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is the town’s premier venue for concerts, comedy shows, exhibitions, and events. With a calendar packed with big-name performers and touring theatre productions, BIC is the place to go if you’re looking to experience some nightlife or cultural entertainment. Check the schedule in advance for tickets to concerts, comedy shows, or family-friendly events during your visit.

8. Westbourne Village

Westbourne is a stylish suburb of Bournemouth with a village-like feel, known for its independent shops, cafes, and boutiques. It’s a fantastic spot for shopping and has a unique character with beautiful Victorian arcade architecture. Enjoy a coffee at a local cafe, browse the artisan shops, and discover hidden gems in this charming area just a short walk from the beach.

9. Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island

A quick drive from Bournemouth, Poole Harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world and a hub for watersports, boat trips, and exploring nearby islands. Take a ferry to Brownsea Island, a beautiful nature reserve managed by the National Trust, famous for its red squirrel population and scenic woodlands. The harbour area itself offers plenty of waterside cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.

10. The Jurassic Coast

Bournemouth provides easy access to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and fossil-rich beaches. Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are iconic landmarks just a short drive away, offering spectacular views and ideal spots for hiking and photography. Join a guided tour from Bournemouth to learn about the area’s geology and history, or plan a self-guided day trip along this beautiful stretch of coastline.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Bournemouth is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Direct trains from London Waterloo take approximately two hours, while Bournemouth Airport, just a 15-minute drive from the town centre, offers flights to several UK and European destinations. By car, Bournemouth is easily accessible from the A338, which connects to the M27 and M3 motorways. National Express and Megabus coach services also provide direct routes to Bournemouth from major cities.

Parking

Parking in Bournemouth can be busy, especially near the beach and town centre during the summer. There are several car parks near the seafront, including at the Bournemouth International Centre and the Pavilion, as well as along Westover Road. If you’re visiting Hengistbury Head or Boscombe, both areas have dedicated car parks. To avoid parking stress, consider using park-and-ride services or arriving early in peak seasons.

Dining

Bournemouth’s food scene is diverse, with options ranging from fresh seafood to international cuisine. For a traditional seaside meal, WestBeach is a popular beachfront restaurant known for its seafood dishes. The Crab, located in the town centre, offers refined British cuisine and a great selection of local seafood. The Larder House in nearby Southbourne is a local favourite, known for its creative small plates and rustic charm. For casual dining, the beachfront cafes along the pier offer everything from fish and chips to cream teas.

Shopping

Bournemouth has a mix of high-street shops, independent boutiques, and charming markets. The town centre’s main shopping area is around Commercial Road, while the Victorian arcades in Westbourne are perfect for discovering unique boutiques and artisan stores. The Boscombe Vintage Market, held monthly, is a fun stop for antiques, vintage clothing, and handmade crafts. Additionally, Castlepoint Shopping Park, a short drive from the centre, offers a wide range of popular retailers.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Bournemouth is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities. Summer is the busiest time, with plenty of events and festivals, such as the Bournemouth Air Festival in August, which draws large crowds with aerobatic displays and fireworks. Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, making these seasons perfect for sightseeing. Winter can be quieter, and while it’s too cold for the beach, Bournemouth’s gardens and festive events, like the Christmas Tree Wonderland, bring a cosy charm to the town.

Local Events

Bournemouth hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year. The Bournemouth Air Festival, held in August, is one of the UK’s largest free airshows, with aerial displays, live music, and entertainment on the seafront. The Arts by the Sea Festival, usually in October, is another highlight, showcasing performances, art installations, and live music. During the festive season, the Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland transforms the town with a display of illuminated trees, a Christmas market, and seasonal entertainment.

Exploring Beyond Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a fantastic base for exploring Dorset and the surrounding area. The New Forest National Park, located around 30 minutes away, offers scenic walking and cycling routes through ancient woodlands and charming villages. For coastal adventures, head to Swanage for a traditional seaside town experience or visit Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove to see the Jurassic Coast’s most famous landmarks. Further afield, the historic city of Salisbury and the iconic Stonehenge site are both under an hour’s drive from Bournemouth, providing great day-trip options.