Bournemouth is the largest resort in Dorset, and along with seven miles of sandy beaches it also has beautiful parks and gardens.
You’re sure to find plenty of things to do while exploring this coastal town - there's lots of attractions, activities, entertainment and adventure to keep the whole family 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, 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 or watching the world go by.
Things to do in Bournemouth
Fancy trying a new activity or sport? How about zip-lining and rock climbing, golf, go-kart racing, dance, indoor laser tag and high-rope activities – you’ll be spoilt for choice! The Bournemouth and Poole coast offers a fantastic range of watersports to try. Surfing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, sailing, jet-skiing and power-boating, to name a few.
For a more leisurely way to enjoy the breath taking coastal views, book a trip on a local boat cruise or hire a private charter for a day. You could also hop on a Purbeck Breezer bus to explore further afield towards Poole and the Isle of Purbeck.
Bournemouth is also home to one of the UK’s most fascinating cultural attractions – the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is a treasure trove of paintings and artefacts from around the world.
Explore the world class seafront with its Pier, amusement arcades, eateries and of course Bournemouth's aquarium - The Oceanarium. 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.
Bournemouth's fabulous food and drink
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.
If you're looking for something different, then Bournemouth is the place to be. Have a bite to eat at one of the vegan cafés or seek out Vietnamese, Turkish, Tunisian or Lebanese flavours. Bournemouth's restaurants, cafes and takeaways offer dishes from around the world and cater for all tastes and budgets.
A place to stay in Bournemouth
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. The gardens are home to a number of attractions including the art exhibition at Pine Walk, a bird aviary, a bandstand hosting music events, 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 in Bournemouth
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 the unique Victorian arcades where you’ll discover an eclectic mix of boutiques, jewellers and independent retailers.
Bournemouth's events and festivals
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, you'll find an event to suit you during your visit. You can cheer on the runners or even take part in the Bournemouth Bay Run or watch the aerial acrobatics at the Bournemouth Air Festival,
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.
