Things to Do in Bournemouth & Surroundings: Beaches, History, Nature & Adventure

Bournemouth, Dorset's premier seaside resort, offers 7 miles of golden sand and a vibrant hinterland.

In Town

• Beach & Pier – Sun, swim, promenade, amusement arcade.
• Bournemouth Gardens – Victorian pleasure grounds, fountains, bandstand.
• Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum – Eclectic global collection in a cliff-top villa.
• Oceanarium – Sharks, rays, turtles, penguins.

Short Trips

• Poole Harbour – Boat tours, Brownsea Island (red squirrels).
• Corfe Castle – Dramatic ruins atop a Purbeck hill.
• Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door – Jurassic Coast icons.
• Swanage – Heritage steam railway, colorful beach huts.

Active & Cultural

• Hike/cycle the South West Coast Path.
• Sail, kayak, paddleboard from multiple launch points.
• Festivals: Air Festival (Aug), Food & Drink, Arts by the Sea.
• Shopping: Westover Rd, BH2 centre, independent boutiques.

Two days covers highlights; a week lets you soak the coast.