Bournemouth, Dorset Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
The beautiful Dorset coast is dotted by several thriving, busy traditional seaside resorts, hugely popular with families. Bournemouth attracts a young crowd of partying holidaymakers looking to live it up in the (hopefully) sunny surrounds and is a lively cosmopolitan town on a stunning stretch of coastline.
Who goes there?
A young vibrant crowd keep the buzz alive throughout the year, drawn to Bournemouth by its wealth of shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Families also flock here in the summer months to make the most of the Blue Flag beach.
Where in the world?
Bournemouth is situated on the south coast of England in the county of Dorset, and is a large and very popular coastal resort. The large coastal towns of Southampton and Portsmouth sit along the coast to the east, both of which are main transport hubs for cruising and are within easy driving distance. Southampton International Airport (SOU) is the largest airport in the region and is approximately 50km (31 miles) away.
When to go?
The climate is temperate with warm summers and cool wet winters. The hottest months of the year, and the best time for hitting the beach, are from June to September, with temperatures reaching an average high of 26°C (78°F) in August. However, English summers are often unreliable and rainfall can be frequent throughout the year, so always remember to pack a jumper in case skies become overcast.
Beach
Bournemouth has a beautiful Blue Flag 11km (7 mile) stretch of broad golden sands, which are lapped by sparkling seas and have won awards for cleanliness and safety, including the impressive Quality Coast Award.
Beyond the beach
Christchurch, 17km (11 miles) east along the coast, is more tranquil than Bournemouth, and has a spectacular 11th-century priory, with fantastic views from its 36m (120ft) tower. Those with a head for heights can soar on the Bournemouth Eye; a tethered helium balloon that rises above the town to give an amazing view of the staggering Jurassic Coastline and beyond.
Family fun
There are plenty of water sports on offer in Bournemouth and in the surrounding areas, which are ideal for keeping families entertained. There are opportunities on all the local beaches to take courses in windsurfing and kite-boarding or rent canoes, jet skies and sailing dingies. Horse riding is another option at nearby Studland Stables (
www.studlandstables.com). For a taste of traditional seaside family fun head to Pier Approach and take a whirl on the beautiful Victorian Carousel.
Retail therapy
With everything from big name department stores to quirky boutiques and weekly markets, Bournemouth has plenty of options to keep the most hardened shopper happy. The elegant district of Westbourne is situated on the outskirts of town and has been nicknamed 'The Village' due to its quaint charm. Shoppers will discover alluring designer boutiques, beauty stores and cafes. To pick up a quirky gift or two head to the area of Boscombe for its charming antique stores and weekly open air markets. Those looking for a hit of high street names should head to the Castlepoint & Castlemore shopping centres.
A night on the town
For a raucous night out Bournemouth has it all. In recent years it has become a firm favourite with hen and stag parties, with all the baggage that goes with such popularity, and is a trashy but lively scene, with loads of pubs, bars and clubs - the UK's answer to the Costa del Sol. Clubs such as the
Opera House (
www.operahouse.co.uk) regularly feature big names such as Carl Cox or 2 Many DJs, as well as comedians such as Paul Merton.
Eating out
Bournemouth prides itself on its vast choice of restaurants, pubs, cafes and bistros, serving up everything from Mexican and Lebanese to Italian and the seaside staple of fish and chips.
Westbeach restaurant (
www.west-beach.co.uk) is set on the seafront and serves up delicious locally caught seafood in stunning surroundings. Those in the know have started heading to the small village of Charminster, which offers great dining options in a quiet location.
Getting around
Bournemouth town centre is manageable on foot. Visitors can take National Express buses to/from London, or catch the train. There are even ferries between here and Cherbourg (France).
Splashing out
Head down the coast to Poole and stay at the new
Hotel du Vin (
www.hotelduvin.com), set in the 18th-century Mansion House. Rooms are large and lush, with soft and gleaming white linen and the furniture is in keeping with the characterful old mansion in which it is set. Breakfasts are generous and you can dine and wine taste in the brasserie.
Flying in
Southampton International Airport (SOU).
