Bournemouth is Dorset’s most popular coastal town, and remains a favourite resort with visitors of all ages. Bournemouth’s rolling sandy beaches, palm-lined walks and bubbly nightlife attract young people, families and the retired to get away from it all by the sea. Bournemouth has been renowned as an ideal location for rest and recuperation since the 1800s, and many travelled each year to benefit from its seawater and pine air.
Visitors to Bournemouth can still take a stroll to the beach along ‘Invalid’s Walk’, which is sheltered by a long row of palm trees and was planted by Lewis Tregonwell – who founded Bournemouth as a settlement. Bournemouth is home to more than 2000 acres of gardens and parks, so there is always a new path to stroll or garden to admire during your stay.
Bournemouth History
Bournemouth remained undeveloped until 1802, and in 1812 Bournemouth’s first residents - Lewis Tregonwell and his wife – purchased land for their new home. Tregonwell is depicted in a statue which stands close to Bournemouth seafront.
By 1900 the railway had well and truly arrived and Bournemouth’s population swelled as it became easier to reach. This period also saw it become a favourite destination with literary names and figures – and it appears in many novels. In 1856, The Bournemouth Improvement Act was approved by parliament and the town went on to develop in the areas of lighting, paving and drainage. Bournemouth avoided much damage during World War 2, although the post-war period caused a slump in the town’s tourist trade.
Nearby Christchurch, although smaller, has its own fascinating heritage. With its 11th century church, Saxon mill and Medieval bridge – there is plenty of history to explore during a holiday in Christchurch. Evidence of Bronze Age burial mounds shows that Christchurch saw settlers long before its neighbouring city, and many of its sites and attractions offer the chance to discover its varied past.
Bournemouth & Christchurch Beaches
No matter what type of holiday visitors are seeking in Bournemouth, most will agree that its seven miles of golden beach are close to perfect! Bournemouth regularly wins awards in recognition of its clean, family-friendly beaches and they really do offer something for everyone. Bournemouth Beach currently holds four Blue Flags and two Quality Coast Awards.
One of the best things about the length of Bournemouth’s Beach is that each separate area offers something new to do! Whether beach-goers prefer to relax on the sand, stroll and take in the views or try their hand at water sports – there is a section of Bournemouth Beach that is ideal for it. Bournemouth’s seas have some of the UK’s warmest temperatures and they have won many awards for their levels of cleanliness. As if this wasn’t enough, Bournemouth Beach has over two hundred and fifty beach huts for hire, making a colourful view along its coast!
Bournemouth & Christchurch Pubs and Restaurants
Bournemouth and Christchurch have a wide range of restaurants to choose from, including the Bistro on the Beach, Chef Hong Kong and Chez Fred fish and chips. The Crooked Beam restaurant is one of the oldest in Christchurch, and Farthings restaurant in Bournemouth has 2 AA rosettes to its name. For a meal with breathtaking sea views, the Highcliff restaurant‘s stunning cliff-top location is perfect for special occasions.
As a University City and fashionable holiday resort – Bournemouth is a fashionable and memorable night out for young people! The city centre is brimming with nightclubs and bars and although lively after nightfall – retains its friendly atmosphere.
Dog-Friendly Bournemouth Accommodation
Blue Chip Holidays offer dog-friendly Bournemouth accommodation so there is no reason your pet can’t join you on your break! There are several dog-friendly Bournemouth beaches so owners can combine a stroll along the coast with a seaside treat for their pet. Although dogs aren’t allowed on the main beach, there are several designated exercise areas for between May and September. Dogs must be kept on their leads on the promenade during the summer months.
Bournemouth & Christchurch Family Attractions
Aside from its miles of award-winning beach and bustling city centre, Bournemouth delivers plenty of family attractions for all weathers. Bournemouth has three inspiring Victorian gardens, the Lower, Upper and Central Gardens. These Grade II listed gardens are an easy walk from the seafront and will dazzle visitors with their award-winning blooms and walks. Meyrick Park in Bournemouth hosts all kinds of sporting activities and includes an 18-hole golf course and a bowling green.
For those days when it’s drier indoors, family attractions in Bournemouth include Snowtrax dry ski slope in Christchurch, The Bournemouth Aquarium, Adventure Wonderland in Christchurch, Bournemouth Indoor Paintball, the Museum of Electricity in Christchurch, Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and the Museum in Bournemouth. A trip up in the Bournemouth Balloon is a must, and is a fun way to see the surrounding views by day or a romantic experience by night when it is illuminated.
Discover Dorset Tours include a Jurassic Coast trip, for those with an interest in the historic coastline of the county. Or why not visit the Red House museum and gardens in Christchurch? This Georgian building was built in 1764 as a workhouse and is home to some historic findings and beautiful traditional English gardens. Lastly, don’t miss a ride on the land train which runs between Bournemouth and Boscombe.
Bournemouth & Christchurch Events and Entertainment
Bournemouth and Christchurch play host to a wide range of unique events, particularly throughout the summer months – and many of them are free. Christchurch’s RNLI Fun Day takes place on 1st August. Also, the Christchurch Regatta – including fireworks and the carnival – will take place on 14th and 15th August. For an extra special treat, the Bournemouth Air Festival 2010 will be held between 19th-22nd August and is free of charge. The 20-24th and 27-31st August will see the Bournemouth Shakespeare Players perform their open-air production of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ at Priory House, in Christchurch.
Bournemouth & Christchurch Travel
Conveniently located on the South Coast, Bournemouth is well connected by road. The M3 and M27 connect Bournemouth and Christchurch to London and the South East, and the M40 and A34 link it to the Midlands for convenient access. Christchurch and Southampton are connected by the A35.
Bournemouth Airport is also easy to reach from the town. Visitors to Bournemouth can also reach it via the National Express, and nearby ports of Poole, Southampton and Portsmouth. Bournemouth has two railway stations, and the main one operates regular services to and from London Waterloo – with many journey times just over an hour and a half. Christchurch is served by most of the same services. The town is also connected to North by direct services, and many destinations via connections.