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Places to visit and things to do in Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch.

Aug 17, 2024

15 min read

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  1. Bournemouth Pier


Bournemouth Pier is a historic pier located in the heart of Bournemouth, offering beautiful views of the coastline and a variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests.


Some of the things you can do here


- Take a leisurely walk along the pier and enjoy the sea views

- Fly across the pier on a 250-meter zip line, taking in breath taking views of the ocean and Bournemouth town and beach

- Enjoy peaceful fishing or book a fishing trip

- Spend time at the amusement arcades

- Taste the food at one of the many restaurants and cafes

- Attend one of the many events and festivals held throughout the year


For more information check out those links below :


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d3678664-Reviews-Bournemouth_Pier-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://thebournemouthpier.com/


https://www.visitbournemouth.com/attractions/bournemouth-pier


https://piers.org.uk/piers/bournemouth


2. Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens 


Lower Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Bournemouth, perfect for a relaxing stroll, picnic, or day out with family and friends no matter the time of the year.

 


Things to Do


- Play a round of crazy golf on the 18-hole course

- Visit the beautiful aviary, home to exotic bird species

- Attend a live music performance or check out the current events held regularly there

- Explore the outdoor art exhibitions, featuring works by local artists or listen to the street musicians

- Stroll through the gardens, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere

- Find a spot on the grass to enjoy a picnic

- Take a leisurely boat ride on the pond - not always available

-  Let the kids burn off energy at the play areas


For more information check out those links below :


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d1912399-Reviews-Lower_Gardens-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/bournemouth-lower-gardens-p2235263


https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/leisure-culture-and-local-heritage/find-a-park/bournemouth-gardens


https://www.dorsetguide.com/bournemouth-lower-gardens/


https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bournemouth-Lower-Gardens-Bournemouth-City-Centre.d6150280.Attraction


https://explorial.com/sights/bournemouth-lower-gardens/



3. Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum 


Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is a small, but unique museum located in the heart of Bournemouth, featuring a collection of art and artifacts from around the world. The museum was founded by Sir Merton Russell-Cotes and his wife Annie in 1907.

 


Things to Do


- Explore the museum's collections, including art, furniture, and artifacts from all over the world

- Take a guided tour of the museum and learn more about it

-  Check out the museum's temporary exhibitions, featuring works by local and international artists

- Attend one of the museum's events or workshops, including art classes, lectures, and family activities

- Relax in the beautiful garden and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the tea room


For more information check out those links below :


https://russellcotes.com/


https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/russell-cotes-art-gallery-and-museum-p137603


https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russell-Cotes_Art_Gallery_%26_Museum


https://artuk.org/visit/venues/russell-cotes-art-gallery-museum-3279


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d286490-Reviews-Russell_Cotes_Art_Gallery_Museum-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://whichmuseum.com/museum/russell-cotes-art-gallery-and-museum-bournemouth-3400






4. Oceanarium 


Oceanarium is an award-winning aquarium located on Bournemouth Beach, next to Bournemouth Pier, featuring a stunning collection of marine life from around the world.

 

Things to Do


- Discover the ocean's wonders through interactive displays and stunning exhibits, including, but not limited to:

    - Shark Encounter

    - Ray Bay

    - Penguin Beach

    - Tropical Waters

- Get up close and personal with the marine animals, including:

    - Shark and ray feeding demonstrations

    - Penguin talks and feeds

    - Sea turtle encounters

- Take a guided tour to learn more about the aquarium's operations and conservation efforts

- Attend one of the oceanarium's events or activities, including:

    - Shark Week

    - Octopus Week

    - Children's activities and trails


For more information check out those links below :


https://www.oceanarium.co.uk/


https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/oceanarium-the-bournemouth-aquarium-p126323


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d215011-Reviews-Oceanarium-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://www.dorsetguide.com/bournemouth-oceanarium/


https://www.pooletourism.com/things-to-do/oceanarium-the-bournemouth-aquarium-p2658333


https://www.visitbournemouth.com/attractions/oceanarium




5. Alum Chine Beach 


Alum Chine Beach is a popular beach in Bournemouth, known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

 

Things to Do


- Swimming and Sunbathing: Enjoy the beach's golden sand and crystal-clear waters

- Water Sports: Try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing with a local rental operator

- Beach Walks: Take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy the stunning views

- Alum Chine Tropical Gardens: Explore the beautiful tropical gardens, featuring exotic plants and flowers

- Children's Play Area: Let the kids burn off energy at the play area, with equipment for all ages


Links


https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/alum-chine-beach-p2287103


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d8528595-Reviews-Alum_Chine_Beach-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://www.visit-dorset.com/listing/alum-chine-beach/296598301/


https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/leisure-culture-and-local-heritage/beaches-and-quays/beaches-in-bournemouth/alum-chine


https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/south-west-england/dorset/alum-chine-bournemouth.htm


https://www.visitsoutheastengland.com/things-to-do/alum-chine-beach-p1970061


6. Bournemouth International Center 


Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is a popular conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue in Bournemouth, hosting a wide range of events throughout the year.

 

Things to Do


- Attend a Conference or Exhibition: Check out the BIC's calendar for upcoming conferences and exhibitions

- Watch a Show or Concert: Enjoy a performance or concert in the BIC's auditorium

- Dine at the BIC Restaurant: Savor modern British cuisine with stunning views of the bay

- Take a Guided Tour: Learn more about the BIC's history and architecture on a guided tour


 For more information check out those links below :


https://www.bic.co.uk/


https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bournemouth_International_Centre


https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/bournemouth-international-centre-p155773


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d1418594-Reviews-Bournemouth_International_Centre-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://www.visitengland.com/business/bournemouth-international-centre-bic



7. Bournemouth Natural Science Society 


Bournemouth Natural Science Society (BNSS) is a charity dedicated to promoting the study and appreciation of natural history, science, and the arts.

 


Things to Do


- Explore the society's museum, featuring exhibits on natural history, geology, and archaeology

- Join one of the society's lectures, workshops, or events on topics such as wildlife, conservation, and science

-Participate in a guided field trip to explore the local natural history and wildlife

-Join the society's conservation efforts and help protect local wildlife and habitats

- Research and learn from the society's extensive library and archives


For more information check out those links below :


https://bnss.org.uk/


https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/things-to-do/bournemouth-natural-science-society-and-museum-p2245563#:~:text=The%20Bournemouth%20Natural%20Science%20Society,the%20Natural%20Sciences%20and%20History.


https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186262-d6537478-Reviews-Bournemouth_Natural_Science_Society-Bournemouth_Dorset_England.html


https://www.dorsetmuseums.co.uk/bournemouth-natural-science-society


https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1165951&subid=0


https://archaeology.co.uk/join-in/local-societies/bournemouth-natural-science-society.htm



8. Hengistbury Head Visitor Center 


Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre is a great place to start your exploration of Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, a stunning area of coastline and heathland in Bournemouth.

 


Things to Do


-  Discover the unique wildlife and landscapes of Hengistbury Head