Visit Bournemouth for sandy beaches and beautiful gardens

Bournemouth is the largest resort in Dorset and along with seven miles of sandy beaches also has beautiful parks and gardens.

You’re sure to find plenty of things to do while exploring this coastal town, with lots of attractions, activities, entertainment and adventure to keep all ages happy. With great shopping and eating out experiences as well as lots of events all year round, there really is something for all ages and budgets.

Enjoy Bournemouth’s buzzing nightlife with some of the best pubs, bars and clubs to be found along the south coast. The town also has a cinema complex, a casino, bingo halls, comedy clubs, open mic nights and themed events at many of its hotels.

Explore Bournemouth's coastline

Enjoy invigorating walks alongside Bournemouth Bay and breath-taking views from the cliff tops. Discover Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve to the east and the beautiful coastline heading west towards Alum Chine and its tropical gardens.

Beneath the magnificent cliffs you’ll find Bournemouth’s award winning beaches and world-class seafront. From family attractions and a historic house-museum to picturesque walks and outdoor activities – as well as restaurants and bars – Bournemouth’s coastline is the jewel in its crown. For a warm welcome to the resort, head to Pier Approach and visit the award-winning Tourist Information Centre where the staff can help you make the most of your stay.

Beach huts are a very British tradition that actually originated in Bournemouth in 1908 - you can even rent the world’s oldest beach hut! The traditional beach huts and funky beach pods are available for daily or weekly hire and are ideal for taking in the stunning views and watching the world go by.

Fabulous food

Bournemouth is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes and bistros, from seafront eateries and award-winning fine dining to afternoon tea and international cuisine. Don’t forget to check out the seafood restaurants and try the local fish – a ‘must’ when visiting Dorset.

And if you're looking for something different, then Bournemouth is the place to be. Have a bite to eat at one of the vegan cafes or maybe you're after something hot and spicy. Bournemouth's restaurants, cafes and takeaways offer flavours of the world and cater for all tastes and budgets.

A place to stay

From well-known hotel brands and family run guest accommodation to independent hotels, B&Bs and fantastic self-catering options, there is something for everyone in Bournemouth. You can even stay right on the beach in one of the fabulous Beach Lodges.

Book to stay at one of the clifftop hotels looking over the glorious Bournemouth Bay, choose somewhere with views over the vibrant and colourful gardens or head to one of the coastal villages for some home comforts.

Wherever you choose to rest your head during your holiday, short break or weekend escape in Bournemouth, you'll be assured of wonderful hospitality and a great nights sleep.

Experience Bournemouth

Take in the crisp sea air on a pier-to-pier walk along the promenade from Bournemouth Pier to Boscombe Pier. Or have a go at Adventure Golf next to Bournemouth Pier.

Just a short stroll from the beach and stretching 1.5 miles into the town centre lie Bournemouth’s grade-II listed Victorian gardens, home to a number of attractions including the art exhibition at Pine Walk, an aviary, the bandstand, an ornamental rockery and mini golf, as well as a selection of food and drink kiosks.

Don’t forget to visit the central and upper gardens too – a quiet haven in a cosmopolitan resort with a Gothic-style water tower, tree trail walk and pretty red bridges dotted over the Bourne stream.

The gardens host a variety of events throughout the year including Arts by the Sea festival held in October and Christmas Tree Wonderland in December.

Shopping by the sea

Love shopping or fancy a treat? Let us help you find that special something in the selection of well-loved high street brands and labels. We'll guarantee you'll find everything from clothes and shoes to toiletries and electronics, all within walking distance from the central town square.

Step off the beaten track and into one of our unique Victorian arcades where you’ll discover an eclectic mix of boutiques, jewellers and independent retailers.

Events

Bournemouth boasts a year-round programme of events, so whatever time of year you visit and whatever your interests, there’s always something to enjoy…

From music concerts by big named artists to art performances and sporting events (including the Bournemouth Bay Run) and not forgetting the Bournemouth Air Festival, there really is something to entertain all ages.

Bournemouth has plenty for all you culture lovers with some of the best entertainment venues around. The Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) and the Pavilion Theatre offer live entertainment from children’s shows and comedy to ballet and ice dancing. Pavilion Dance South West also offers classes and performances across a variety of traditional and contemporary dance genres.

Find out more about Bournemouth

Thinking of visiting Bournemouth? For more information, visit the Bournemouth Tourism website.

You can also read about spending 24 hours or 48 hours in Bournemouth for some extra inspiration.

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DiscoverBournemouth

Things To See and Do

From iconic tourist attractions to beachfront fun, you'll never be short of new and exciting experiences to try.

Places To Stay

Hotels, B&Bs, self-catering apartments and even beach-side lodges, the choices are endless.

Shopping

Bournemouth's high street is full of big-named brands - be sure to visit Westbourne and Castlepoint too.

Eating Out and Takeaways

There's an endless list of restaurants, cafes and bars - try something local or opt for flavours of the world.

Events and Festivals

With a year round programme of events, there's always something to enjoy whatever the weather.

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