Things to do in Bournemouth

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Bournemouth Travel Guide

Bournemouth featuring tranquil scenes, hiking or walking and building ruins

Durdle Door showing a pebble beach, a sunset and rocky coastline

Weymouth Beach showing a beach as well as a large group of people

Durdle Door which includes a bay or harbor and rocky coastline

Bournemouth Pier showing general coastal views and a sandy beach as well as a small group of people

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What to do in Bournemouth

Discover the most popular places to visit in Bournemouth

Bournemouth Beach

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

Bournemouth International Centre

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

Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre

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 Pier

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 University

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

O2 Academy Bournemouth

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.

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.

Oceanarium

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

Bournemouth Lower Gardens

Take in the alluring scents and bright colors of the wide range of flowers in this Victorian park with scenic paths and woods.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Bournemouth

Bournemouth City Centre

4/5(51 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Bournemouth City Centre. Make a stop by Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum or Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre while you're exploring the area.

Looking out towards Sandbanks from the Beach at Bournmouth

West Cliff

If you're spending some time in West Cliff, Bournemouth Beach and Alum Chine Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Popular day trips from Bournemouth

Christchurch

Wimborne

Brownsea Castle showing heritage architecture

Poole

Boscombe

Hengistbury Head

Hurn

Longham

Frequently asked questions

Is Bournemouth worth visiting?

Providing a blend of watersports and walking trails, there's no shortage of things to do in Bournemouth. While you're here, check out Bournemouth Beach, a major attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Bournemouth?

Bournemouth Beach and Southbourne Beach are two excellent places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Bournemouth while you're here too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Bournemouth?

Bournemouth Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Bournemouth and should be high on every must-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Bournemouth?

Three days will give you enough time to tick off many city attractions, such as Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth International Centre and Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre. The average stay in Bournemouth is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Southampton isn't far away.

Is Bournemouth a walkable city?

Some leading sights in Bournemouth, such as Bournemouth Beach and Bournemouth International Centre, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometers from the city center of Bournemouth is Bournemouth City Centre and Boscombe is 3 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Bournemouth with kids?

Planning what to do in Bournemouth with kids has never been easier. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or toddlers, there are lots of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Bournemouth for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Bournemouth, with experiences for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Museum of Design in Plastics.

Are there free things to do in Bournemouth?

From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Bournemouth. If you're looking for inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Bournemouth Beach is a must for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing adventures.