Things To Do
Experience a taste of the continent on the south coast of England. Nestled in a sheltered bay, Bournemouth’s seven miles of safe, sun-kissed beaches are perfect if you dream about long, lazy days by the sea.
Look beyond the award-winning golden sands and you’ll soon fall in love with the acres of beautiful gardens, top attractions, buzzing nightlife, breathtaking surrounding countryside and welcoming hospitality that attract both the young and young at heart.
Discover the mysteries of the deep at the Oceanarium or step back in time at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.
After a full day’s sightseeing, unwind in an alfresco coffee shop or stroll through the delightful tranquillity of over 2000 acres of Victorian parks and gardens. At night, the town shimmers with glittering entertainment and star-studded shows. Victorian arcades, modern boutiques, unique gift shops, antique treasure troves and high street stores all rub shoulders on the streets of Bournemouth. The Castlepoint complex to the north of the town completes this shoppers’ paradise, with many big names stores under one roof.
Bournemouth is wonderfully situated as a base for exploration.
To the west, the World Heritage Jurassic coast offers breathtaking cliff formations and rugged scenery that amply reward the efforts of an invigorating walk or cycle.
Similarly absorbing is the serene New Forest, where you can wander among grazing ponies and stop for a Dorset cream tea.
Inland, the chocolate box cottages dotted throughout picturesque villages are simply stunning and a world away from the bustle of everyday life.
Spectacular firework displays, heritage fairs, classic car rallies, children’s festivals – there’s a packed calendar of events waiting for you in Bournemouth.
Other event highlights include the Wimborne Folk Festival, Great Dorset Steam Fair and Bournemouth Live! Music Festival.
Bournemouth’s Top Attractions
The Bournemouth Eye
Experience amazing panoramic views of up to 20 miles on this tethered Balloon Flight above central Bournemouth.
url: www.bournemouthballoon.com
The BIC and Pavilion
Some of the South’s most prestigious venues for conferences, exhibitions, entertainment and events.
Website: www.bic.co.uk
The Dorset Belles
Take a glorious coastal and harbour cruise with regular scheduled services linking.
Website: www.dorsetcruises.co.uk
Compton Acres
Ten acres of beautiful gardens, exciting shopping opportunities, restaurants and more!
Website: www.comptonacres.co.uk
Bournemouth Oceanarium
Explore the secrets of the ocean in an adventure that will take you to some of the world’s most amazing waters.
Website: www.oceanarium.co.uk
The Russell-Cotes Gallery and Museum
Discover the Victorian Russell-Cotes Art gallery and Museum. An ideal place for learning, exploring and socialising.
Website: www.russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk
Discover Dorset Tours
Get out and experience the best of this beautiful area! Stonehenge, Salisbury & the New Forest.
Website: www.discoverdorset.co.uk
Bournemouth Surf Reef
Bournemouth Borough Council is proud to have built Europe’s first artificial surf reef at Boscombe, Bournemouth.
Website: www.bournemouthsurfreef.com
Bournemouth Air Festival
Awesome air displays, attractions and fantastic evening entertainment – Bournemouth is ready to welcome you to the UK’s biggest free aviation Festival!
Website: www.bournemouthair.co.uk
A hassle-free way to organise your bowls tour! 
