Sand, sea and one of the sunniest spots in England. Bournemouth is home to all things nautical, a seven-mile swathe of Blue Flag beaches dotted with quintessentially English beach huts, a traditional pleasure pier and plenty of ice-cream kiosks. Rattle up the cliffs in the funicular lift for views to the Isle of Wight and encounters with local kestrels and green lizards, or admire the blooms in the chine gardens below. When afternoon tea beckons, hop out to one of the traditional Dorset villages and then browse boutiques, farmers markets and antiques. After dark, it’s time for a tipple at trendy wine bars before catching a show straight from the West End.
Places to visit in Bournemouth
Pier to Pier in Bournemouth
Got a spare hour or two in Bournemouth? Then take a stroll between the two piers.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Make waves on a water sports holiday in Bournemouth
Bournemouth has a vast array of water sports on offer throughout the year for both the novice and professional.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
See the gardens in bloom in Bournemouth
Head down to Bournemouth to see the extensive collection of gardens and enjoy the wide range of facilities on offer.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Satisfy your inner Willy Wonka at The Chocolate Hotel
Calling all chocoholics: the UK’s only chocolate-themed hotel has 15 rooms, dedicated to all that is tasty and tantalising.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Enjoy a romantic break surrounded by echoes of royal love
Opulent comfort and English grandeur, in a house that once bore royalty.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
September events: Bournemouth Air Festival
The world's biggest airshow brings together the thrill of gravity-defying plane displays and an abundance of family entertainment on the ground - all for free!
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Dive into the deep blue sea at Oceanarium
Bournemouth's Oceanarium is a great indoor attraction that allows you to discover the secrets of the deep.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Experience a spiritual side to Bournemouth's history
Visit St. Peter's Church for the stunning architecture, the famous final resting places or simply the atmosphere.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Fly along the world’s first pier-to-shore zip wire
Climb the Zip tower at the end of Bournemouth Pier and above the sea and zip-surf over the waves to the shore. Race friends and family to the beach!
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Take a wild break at the The Coastal Activity Park
The Coastal Activity Park has everything from sports courts and water sports to delicious cocktails.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
December events: Explore the Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland
Full of atmosphere and tradition, the Christmas Tree Wonderland is an epic trail through historic gardens and seafront walkways draped in lights.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
