The Best Travel Guide to Bournemouth (UPDATED 2025) | ArrivalGuides.com

All Travel Guides

United Kingdom

Bournemouth

Provided by: ian woolcock/shutterstock

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Europe United Kingdom Bournemouth

Overview

Bournemouth The guide was updated: 2025-05-30

With 11 kilometres of sandy, white beaches, Bournemouth is one of the country’s premier resort towns. Located on the south coast of England, it offers visitors the best in water sports, yachting, beach life, nightlife and shopping. Bournemouth is renowned for its university, specialising in the fields of journalism, archaeology and health. Discover the beauty of this English city and join the countless cultural events such as the Bournemouth Air Festival or Bournemouth’s Arts by the Sea Festival.

Facts

Population:	194,360
Currency:	British Pounds, £1 = 100 pence
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police, Fire Brigade and Ambulance: 999 & 112 (International)
Newspapers:	Bournemouth Daily Echo: www.bournemouthecho.co.uk Dorset Echo: www.dorsetecho.co.uk The Guardian: www.theguardian.com/uk/bournemouth The Independent: www.independent.co.uk/topic/bournemouth
Website:	www.bournemouth.co.uk www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Opening hours:	Shops are normally open from Monday to Saturday between 9 am and 5:30 pm. Many larger stores are open later and frequently from 10 am to 4 pm on Sundays and other public holidays.
Tourist information:	The Tourist Information Centre Pier Approach, Bournemouth +44 1202 123800 info@bournemouth.gov.uk Open Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 9:30am–5pm

Read more

Section in Bournemouth

Sandy, white beaches and some of the best in water sports, Bournemouth is a resort that won't disappoint you. Whether you're into gastro pubs, beach life, or shopping, you'll find it all in Bournemouth!

Bournemouth Pier

Bournemouth Pier

There has been a pier at Bournemouth since 1856 and the pier that stands here today is over 304 metres long and is the central focus of the beachfront, a hub for seaside entertainment and a historic legacy of the Victorian era!

Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach

Bournemouth Beach is one of the top attractions in town. The long stretch of Blue Flag certified beach met by the gentle waters of Poole Bay offers some of Britain’s best sunbathing and swimming. If lounging on the beach isn't enough, consider spiking a volleyball in a friendly match on the sand.

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

The Russell-Cotes family gave the spectacular East Cliff Hall building and its contents to the town in 1922. Built on the cliff overlooking the bay, the museum houses the family’s vast and precious collection including statues, paintings and Victorian canvases from all over the world.

The Pavilion

The Pavilion

The Pavilion, originally constructed in 1929 as a concert hall, underwent renovation in 1934 and reemerged as a theatre. Adorned in Art Deco style and supported by pillars of local Portland stone, it continues to host regular entertainment. Take the opportunity to experience one of the many shows here during your visit.

Bournemouth International Centre

Bournemouth International Centre

Bournemouth International Centre, perched above the picturesque beach, stands as a premier hub for exhibitions and tours in Britain. It regularly welcomes the world's leading musicians and West End musical productions, all showcased within its expansive halls.

Bournemouth Oceanarium

Bournemouth Oceanarium

This expansive aquarium invites you on a voyage across the globe's oceans, alongside sharks, turtles, clownfish, and many other marine residents. Bournemouth Oceanarium features a replica of the Great Barrier Reef, an immersive walk-through underwater tunnel, and engaging feeding demonstrations.

Bournemouth Central Gardens

Bournemouth Central Gardens

Transformed from meadows into formal gardens in the 1860s, the Bournemouth Central Gardens are a true reflection of Victorian aesthetic ideals. Today, this verdant oasis at the town's core serves as a hub for all sorts of summertime pursuits.

Oceana Day Spa

Oceana Day Spa

Bournemouth, with its sandy beaches, is perfect for unwinding, and a visit to the delightful Oceana Day Spa naturally follows as the next step to shed the stress of daily life. Let the expert hands of dedicated professionals pamper you with a range of treatments including full body massages, pedicures, various facial treatments, as well as makeup and nail services.

St Peter's Church

St Peter's Church

St Peter's Church, a beautiful church located in the heart of Bournemouth, was designed by Victorian architect George Edmund Street. This church is one of Bournemouth's landmarks and has a 62-metre tower and gorgeous stained glass windows. What also makes this church special is that the author Mary Shelley, famous for her novel Frankenstein, is buried here with her family.

Camouflage Paintball

Camouflage Paintball

Gather friends and family for an unforgettable outing at Camouflage Paintball. With facilities among the most comprehensive in the UK and top-tier in Europe, this site ensures an ultimate paintball experience you simply can't miss.

Load more