Things to do in Bournemouth

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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

Bournemouth Attractions

If you're looking for things to do in Bournemouth, get set to be busy. This vibrant city knows how to entertain. Whatever you're into, you'll be amazed by the variety of tourist attractions to dive into here. Keep reading to discover some of the best of them.

Find out what makes Bournemouth tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Check out our top {9 fun activities in Bournemouth fun activities in Bournemouth}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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Bournemouth must see attractions

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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Bournemouth Beach

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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Bournemouth International Centre

3. 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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Pavilion Theatre and gardens, Bournemouth, Dorset; Shutterstock ID 290396516; purchase_order: Comps; job: ; client: ; other:

4. 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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Bournemouth Pier featuring a beach

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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Bournemouth_BournemouthUniversity_6092111_010

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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O2 Academy Bournemouth

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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Oceanarium showing marine life as well as a couple

What to do in Bournemouth

Free Things to Do in Bournemouth

They say the best things in life are free. Make sure you explore the following around Bournemouth:

Coastal Activity Park - Make this place one of your first ports of call for a bit of fun during your getaway.

The Square - This happening spot is a popular rendezvous point for locals and tourists alike.

Bournemouth Pier - Widely recognized among local residents, this place is worth checking out.

St. Peter's Church - Spend some time in meditation or prayer at this revered place of worship.

Bournemouth Beach - Inhale the sea air and watch the waves lapping at the shore at this gorgeous coastal spot.

Coastal Activity Park - If you take pleasure in pottering about the garden, this attraction will excite your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Bournemouth with Kids

There's fun for all the family no matter where you wander in Bournemouth. Here are some family friendly experiences to do together that are certain to make your trip unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Bournemouth? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Bournemouth

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 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 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 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
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
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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
Stormy Boscombe pier

Boscombe Pier

Boscombe Pier is just one of the places to see in Boscombe, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches or experience its entertainment choices.

Boscombe Pier

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Bournemouth

Bournemouth City Centre

Bournemouth City Centre

4/5(51 area reviews)

From scenic gardens and wildlife centers to the grave of Frankenstein's creator, live music venues and a vibrant nightlife scene, the attractions are varied in the heart of this city.

Bournemouth City Centre
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.

West Cliff
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Bournemouth

Photo "Ferndown" by Jonathan Billinger (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Jonathan Billinger (CC BY-SA)

Ferndown

Bournemouth featuring a coastal town

Christchurch

Photo by David Thompson

Wimborne

Brownsea Castle showing heritage architecture

Poole

Bournemouth

Boscombe

Hengistbury Head which includes heritage elements, a park and heritage architecture

Hengistbury Head

Photo "Hurn" by Mike Smith (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Mike Smith (CC BY-SA)

Hurn

Photo "Longham" by Mike Faherty (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Mike Faherty (CC BY-SA)

Longham

Frequently asked questions

Is Bournemouth worth visiting?
Providing a mix of watersports and walking trails, there are plenty of things to do in Bournemouth. While you're here, check out Bournemouth Beach, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Bournemouth?
Once you've visited key attractions like Bournemouth Beach and Southbourne Beach, spend the rest of your day enjoying the retail and food options in Bournemouth.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bournemouth?
Bournemouth Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Bournemouth and should feature high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Bournemouth?
You can easily tour popular sights like Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth International Centre and Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre with a three-day escape to Bournemouth. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Southampton.
Is Bournemouth a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to see and do in Bournemouth. Several top attractions, like Bournemouth Beach and Bournemouth International Centre, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Bournemouth's neighborhoods, Bournemouth City Centre is 0.2 miles away from downtown, while Boscombe is 2 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Bournemouth with kids?
If you're searching for sights and tours for all ages, we've got some excellent ideas for what to do in Bournemouth with kids.

What to do in Bournemouth for adults?
Museum of Design in Plastics is one of the top things to do in Bournemouth. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, Bournemouth Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in Bournemouth.

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