Top 10 things to do in Bournemouth

1. Bournemouth Beaches

2. Bournemouth Gardens

3. Corfe Castle Ruins

The gorgeous ruins of Corfe Castle stand high on a hill just outside Wareham. This medieval castle hosts various special events throughout the year including dramatic reenactments of historical sieges, falconry and archery displays and open-air theatre productions. The Corfe Castle Model Village allows visitors to step back to 1646 before Cromwell’s troops destroyed the castle during the Civil War. The nearby Corfe Castle Train Station is also popular among tourists interested in steam trains.

4. Highcliffe Castle

Constructed in the 1830s, Highcliffe Castle represents the pinnacle of Romantic and Picturesque style architecture. Tons of Medieval French masonry were shipped across the English Channel to complete this project. Castle visitors enjoy spectacular views across Christchurch Bay to the Isle of Wight. Spend hours exploring the grounds and beach or the nearby Steamer Point Nature Reserve. Seasonal events include open-air theatre productions, live music on the lawns and creative fairs.

5. The Oceanarium

Encounter hundreds of animals from all over the world at the Bournemouth Oceanarium. The world’s first virtual Interactive Dive Cage adds to the excitement of learning about aquatic life. See sharks, piranhas, lionfish, otters, penguins and more in this family-friendly year-round attraction. Don’t miss the section devoted to the Great Barrier Reef allowing you to observe fish, sea turtles and colourful coral from above and below the waterline in a unique underwater viewing tunnel.

6. Westbourne

Those looking to soak up local culture will enjoy a day trip to Westbourne, a charming village on the outskirts of Bournemouth. Vintage stores, boutiques and gift shops dot the village as well as pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants if you fancy a meal while shopping. No visit is complete without stopping by the Westbourne arcade, a cathedral-like Gothic shopping arcade. Shop local and support the many one-of-a-kind independent businesses in this popular shopping and food destination.

7. Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is a clifftop Victorian mansion filled with one-of-a-kind art, curios and furniture from around the world. It was a birthday gift from Merton Russell-Cotes to his beloved wife Annie in 1901. The couple was well-known for their love of travel and their eclectic collection. This unique art gallery and museum is also home to the Henry Irving Museum and a beautiful garden filled with marble and bronze sculptures, a Japanese garden with goldfish ponds and more.

8. Jurassic Coast Tours

Bournemouth is near the Purbecks, Weymouth, Poole, Swanage and other must-see spots along the Jurassic Coastline. Take a road trip or guided tour and view the ancient rock formations that have made this region famous for being among the most jaw-dropping areas of England. The coastline’s rocks date back to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Don’t miss Durdle Door, a spectacular natural limestone arch spanning over the sea, or the breathtaking Isle of Purbeck.

9. Compton Acres

Nestled between Lower Parkstone and Canford Cliffs are the beautiful gardens at Compton Acres. These award winning gardens are themed with an Italian Garden, Wooded Valley, Rock and Water Garden, Heather Garden and a Japanese Garden. All are ideal places to lose yourself in the beauty of nature. Each garden is immaculately kept with stunning sculptures to really bring the gardens to life.

10. The Tank Museum

History lovers will appreciate a visit to the Tank Museum where history comes to life in explosive displays of armoured vehicles. You don’t have to know a lot about tanks to have a good time as plenty of interactive games throughout the exhibits keep children of all ages entertained. Teens and adults in your party will enjoy riding around the arena in one of our tracked vehicle rides or seeing our tanks in action in the World of Tanks Gaming Zone. Witness some of the most iconic vehicles in UK history.