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Things to do inBournemouth

Visitor information for Bournemouth in Dorset

  • Bournemouth
  • Bournemouth
  • Bournemouth
  • Bournemouth

Bournemouth attracts millions of visitors of all ages each year. Seven miles of golden sand, a vibrant nightlife, first-class attractions, beautiful gardens and summer festivals promise something for everyone.

The beautiful sand and sheltered waters make Bournemouth a firm favourite for beach and activity holidays. Perfect not only for families, with its pioneering beach safety KidZone scheme and dog-free areas, Bournemouth also enjoys 18 – 25% more sunshine over the summer months than the national average.

Bournemouth's beautiful Parks and Gardens are real winners, both of national awards such as the coveted Green Flag, and for the millions of visitors each year who enjoy their splendour. Why not spend a lazy summer's afternoon listening to the band playing in the Pinewalk bandstands, just watching the world go by, or take a stroll to the sub-tropical and Italianate gardens a short distance away. Whatever you decide, you'll find the Victorian pleasure gardens are a real horticultural treat.

By day, the town is a shopper's paradise, a combination of high-street favourites and exclusive boutiques. The lively Square, with its mosaics and stylish Camera Obscura centrepiece, gives an atmosphere of continental chic, a perfect spot for people-watching over a cappuccino.

As the sun sets over the Victorian architecture, the nightlife in the vibrant and cosmopolitan town centre starts to hot up. With a reputation for top entertainment, Bournemouth caters for all tastes; West End blockbusters, hilarious comedians, classical concerts and plays to some of the hottest nightclubs in the country – it’s all here. Night owls will certainly be spoilt for choice.

And don’t forget to eat! With so many restaurants to choose from diners are spoilt for choice. Traditional British, Mediterranean, Asian and French cuisine are just some of the mouthwatering options.

Things to do in Bournemouth

Bournemouth Places of Interest

Places to Go

Find places to go and things to do in Bournemouth using the options below.

You can also explore all of the venues on our Bournemouth Map.

Bournemouth Events

20 Feb 2025 to 22 Feb 2025
Shrek The Musical
30 Nov 2024 to 23 Feb 2025
Cool Coast Ice Rink
23 March 2025
Bournemouth Bay Run

Latest Bournemouth Features

27 Jan 2025
Celebrate Valentine's Day in Dorset Durdle Adore! Love is in the air, everywhere I look around… Yes, Valentine’s Day is back and whether you love it or hate it, it’s time to show that special someone how much you care. But what if you’re not into the commercialised slush with the oversized card, doe-eyed teddy bear and terribly-written poem? Fear not, for we are at hand to tell you of the many wonderful alternative options available to you in Dorset. One option is to spend time ... Read more...
1 Jan 2025
What's New in Dorset If you’re one of those keen to try out the next big thing, then check out these leisure venues that have opened their doors here in Dorset over the past few months! Viking Village Last month we popped into Viking Village in Bridport, which launched only in the autumn and has hit the mark with all audiences! Expect Axe Throwing for the adults, beer pong, AR Darts, and Pool. Games for children include Cornhole; Nerf Gun Fun; kids’ Axe Throwing (no sharp blades) and more. ... Read more...
6 Nov 2024
Father Christmas Visits Dorset Whether you call him Santa Claus, Father Christmas, St Nicks or simply Santa, your little one will want to meet the real Santa in Dorset this year. Lucky for you, many of Dorset's businesses have arranged magical experiences and Santa's Grottos throughout Dorset for you and your family to do just that. Maybe you're looking for breakfast with Santa, a winter wonderland, a meet and greet Santa, or a SEN Santa visit. We are building up all the best local events, so ... Read more...
29 Sep 2024
Halloween Events in Dorset The October half-term is now synonymous with Halloween and the themed fun that takes place. If you’re out and about in Dorset, you’ll find many a Halloween event happening, so grab your broomsticks, sharpen those fangs, and prepare to have one hell of a good time! It's scary how much there is to choose from... Halloween Events Read more...
7 Nov 2023
Ice Skating in Dorset Christmas is nearly here and there’s a fun way to get you in the festive spirit — by ice skating in Dorset! Nothing beats wrapping up, getting your skates on and heading out to glide (or stumble) across the ice, before treating yourself to a delicious hot chocolate afterwards. Whether you’re a cling-to-the-side kind of skater or have a Torville and Dean style, ice skating is a fab activity for all and a great way to get together with friends and family to have ... Read more...

More articles available in the features section.

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