Things to do in Boscombe

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Bournemouth
O2 Academy Bournemouth
O2 Academy Bournemouth
O2 Academy Bournemouth
Photo by John Scale
Photo by John Scale

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Boscombe must see attractions

1. Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour is a large natural bay with several small islands in the southern part of the city. It has an intriguing history, with its shores having been inhabited for thousands of years. A boat from the Iron Age was discovered here. Watch the lifting of Poole Bridge, built in 1927 and spanning the waterway between the harbor and Holes Bay.
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Poole Harbour featuring a river or creek and heritage architecture

2. Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach is one of England’s most popular and attractive sandy areas. For decades, locals and travelers have been relaxing under umbrellas against the roar of the English Channel’s waves. Discover the varying parts of the beach during your vacation, from the more active central bays to the spacious havens a little farther out from the city.
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Bournemouth Beach

3. Corfe Castle

Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Corfe Castle was once a sturdy stone fort. Although only ruins remain, the crumbling castle atop a scenic green hill, is now one of Britain’s most-visited historic structures. Walk where kings and knights once walked as you explore the quaint alleyways, steps and tumbledown walls.
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Corfe Castle showing tranquil scenes, a ruin and heritage elements

4. Bournemouth International Centre

The Bournemouth International Centre, or the BIC, is a large events space and conference center that hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. Come here to take in everything from wrestling to stand-up comedy shows, from food and drinks festivals to musicals. And of course, if you are visiting Bournemouth for a conference or business event, there is a good chance it will be held here in the BIC.
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Bournemouth International Centre

5. O2 Academy Bournemouth

The O2 Academy Bournemouth is one of the leading performance venues in the city. It has a focus on live music but also hosts other kinds of events. Come here in the evening to take in a show in beautiful surroundings, in the grand main space of a historic Grade II-listed building.
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O2 Academy Bournemouth

What to do in Boscombe

Discover the most popular places to visit in Boscombe

Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach

4.5/5(50 reviews)

Stroll along miles of England’s southern coast and stop at the fun parks and activity centers along the way.

Bournemouth Beach
Bournemouth International Centre

Bournemouth International Centre

4.5/5(12 reviews)

Go to a performance, conference, exhibition or other event at this large venue, which sits on the beautiful coast of Bournemouth.

Bournemouth International Centre
Bournemouth Pier which includes a sandy beach

Bournemouth Pier

4.5/5(8 reviews)

Zipline from a tall tower on the pier over the waves of the sea and down to the beach from this pier’s exhilarating activity center.

Bournemouth Pier
Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre

Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Treat yourself to a night of early 20th-century-style grandeur at this opulent and historic theater, where you can see everything from dramas to concerts.

Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre
Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University

4/5(5 reviews)

Best known for its media programs that have trained Oscar winners, one of the U.K.’s “new universities” straddles Bournemouth with two campuses.

Bournemouth University
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Southbourne Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Southbourne Beach during your trip to Bournemouth? Wander the beautiful beaches and picturesque gardens in this family-friendly area.

Southbourne Beach
O2 Academy Bournemouth

O2 Academy Bournemouth

4/5(4 reviews)

Spend an evening watching a big-name music act or attend a club night or sports event at this live performance venue, housed in a historic building.

O2 Academy Bournemouth
Oceanarium which includes marine life as well as a small group of people

Oceanarium

4/5(1 review)

Face fearsome sharks, feed the giant turtles and explore the tanks full of colorful animals you never knew existed.

Oceanarium
Stormy Boscombe pier

Boscombe Pier

Find out about the history of Boscombe when you take a trip to Boscombe Pier. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Boscombe Pier

Popular day trips from Boscombe

Bournemouth featuring tranquil scenes, hiking or walking and building ruins

Bournemouth

Frequently asked questions

Is Boscombe worth visiting?
Boscombe has a unique mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into history, nature or traditional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Boscombe?
After you've checked off leading attractions like Bournemouth Beach, spend some time discovering the shopping and food scene in Boscombe.
What is the top tourist attraction in Boscombe?
Bournemouth Beach is rated the top tourist attraction near Boscombe, so don't leave without experiencing it.
Is three days enough to stay in Boscombe?
Three days in Boscombe is plenty of time to tour the nearby highlights. Many travelers love Bournemouth Beach and Bournemouth International Centre, so why not check them out while you're in the area?
Is Boscombe a walkable neighborhood?
That really depends on what you'd like to see in and around Boscombe. Several sights, like Bournemouth Beach and Bournemouth International Centre are reachable on foot. How about checking out some other nearby neighborhoods? Bournemouth City Centre is 3 kilometers from Boscombe, while West Cliff is 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Boscombe with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Boscombe with kids.

What to do in Boscombe for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Boscombe, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Museum of Design in Plastics.
Are there free things to do in Boscombe?
You won't have to go out of your way to find free things to do in Boscombe. Simply ask a local tour guide and they'll point you toward attractions you can enjoy for nothing. An excellent free option for your itinerary is Bournemouth Beach.