Things to do in Bournemouth

Activities, attractions and tours

A historical castle with ruins on a grassy hill, a pathway leading up to it, and a clear sky.
A beach with white cliffs and a sunset.
A crowded beach with people sunbathing and relaxing. In the background, there are historic buildings with red brick facades and white trim.
A coastal landscape with cliffs, turquoise waters, and a small building on a hill.
A pier with a restaurant named "JACKTAILS AT" and a beach with people walking and children playing.

Things to do

Poole Harbour and Islands Circular Cruise

Poole Harbour and Islands Circular Cruise

HK$153
per adult
Poole Harbour and Islands Circular Cruise
Poole Harbour Lights Cruise

Poole Harbour Lights Cruise

HK$169
per adult
Poole Harbour Lights Cruise
From Bournemouth: Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door Trip

Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth

HK$412
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour from Bournemouth
Picture 5 for Activity Poole: Harbour Lights Cruise

Poole: Harbour Lights Cruise

HK$169
per adult
Poole: Harbour Lights Cruise
Poole Fish & Chips Evening Cruise

Poole Fish & Chips Lunchtime or Evening Cruise

HK$301
per adult
Poole Fish & Chips Lunchtime or Evening Cruise
Picture 2 for Activity Studland Bay, Dorset: Paddleboarding Lesson

Studland Bay, Dorset: Paddleboarding Lesson

HK$634
per adult
Studland Bay, Dorset: Paddleboarding Lesson
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Top places to visit

1. 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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A row of beach huts along a seaside promenade with a cyclist in the distance.

2. 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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A building with a blue awning and the 'BIC' logo.

3. Bournemouth Pier

Bournemouth Pier is a hub of adventure activities on a scenic wharf overlooking the sea. It has numerous cafés, restaurants and an activity center with thrilling rides.
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A pier with a restaurant named "JACKTAILS AT" and a beach with people walking and children playing.

4. Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre

The Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre has all the features you would expect from a traditional performance venue that dates back to the early 20th century. Expect red velvet chairs, splendid high ceilings and lots of gold detailing when you come to see a show here.
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5. Bournemouth University

Though founded only recently in 1992, Bournemouth University is quickly becoming one of the U.K.’s liveliest universities, drawing students to the seashore and the classroom. It is an outgrowth of the Bournemouth Municipal College, which was founded in the early 20th century to prepare students for degrees from the University of London. The university received its charter in the early 1990s along with a flurry of institutions nicknamed the “new universities.” Feel like a student amid its modern buildings and welcoming community.
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A modern building with a sign reading "Arts University."

6. 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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A blue sign with "O2 Academy Bournemouth" written on it.

7. Oceanarium

The Oceanarium is a chance to see and interact with remarkable marine life in large tanks. It stands out from most typical aquariums with its interactive elements, allowing you to meet and play with the animals. Try to identify the more than 150 species of fish, from sharks and stingrays to clownfish and pufferfish.
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What to do in Bournemouth

Stay near popular Bournemouth attractions

A row of beach huts along a seaside promenade with a cyclist in the distance.

Bournemouth Beach

9.2/10 (2,317 reviews)
Seven miles of golden sand await along one of the UK's most beloved coastal destinations. Stroll the historic pier, enjoy water activities, or time your visit for the spectacular Bournemouth Air Festival in August.
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Where to stay in Bournemouth

Find the best Bournemouth areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Bournemouth
Learn more about Bournemouth
A building labeled 'Pavilion' surrounded by a garden with a stream and various plants.

Bournemouth City Centre

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

Aerial view of houses on a sandbank in Southbourne, Bournemouth, UK

Southbourne

If you're spending some time in Southbourne, Southbourne Beach and Boscombe Beach are top sights worth seeing.

A wooden boardwalk with a canopy structure and evenly spaced street lamps.
Photo by Andrew Mathewson
Open Photo by Andrew Mathewson

Boscombe

Boscombe is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like O2 Academy Bournemouth and Boscombe Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Bournemouth.

A row of colorful beach huts with numbers on doors, set against a backdrop of trees and a clear sky.

Westbourne

Notable for its beaches, restaurants and spas, Westbourne is a sought-after destination for many travellers visiting Bournemouth. If you want to see some sights in the area, check out Durley Chine Beach or Alum Chine Beach.

A sandy beach with people sunbathing and swimming.
Photo by Ian Youngson
Open Photo by Ian Youngson

West Cliff

While visiting West Cliff, you might make a stop by sights like Durley Chine Beach and Bournemouth Beach.

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 neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from the city centre of Bournemouth is Bournemouth City Centre and Boscombe is 3 kilometres 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 holidaying 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 neighbourhoods, 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.

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