Bournemouth is a vibrant coastal town with a wide variety of neighbourhoods to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful community or a lively and bustling area, Bournemouth has got you covered. That’s why it’s featured in out best South West Towns.
Best Places to visit Bournemouth
We’ve pulled together the best places in Bournemouth to visit for taking in the local scene:
Bournemouth Pier
The iconic Bournemouth Pier offers picturesque views and thrilling activities. At the end of the pier you’ll find an amusement arcade, plenty of places to eat and drink, and stunning views over Bournemouth Bay and the Isle of Wight. Walk to the very end of the pier for the best views, and remember to take shots of the beautiful scenery.
Lower Gardens
The Lower Gardens provide a tranquil escape with surprise art installations.You can wander through the themed gardens like the Japanese Garden (pagoda included).
And don’t miss the Rose Garden with over 3,000 roses in bloom. Keep an eye out for the many species of squirrels that call the Lower Gardens home as you explore this lovely green space in the heart of Bournemouth.
Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve
Hengistbury Head has great scenic trails and picturesque wildlife like skylarks, butterflies, and rare heathland birds in their natural habitat.
Make sure to visit the visitor center to learn about the history of this nature reserve, which was an important area for trade and travel during the Stone Age.
Beaches and Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is a picturesque semi-circular bay surrounded by cliffs on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset.
It is around 45 mins drive from Bournemouth. But once you take the walk down to the sparkling blue waters of the cove it can be incredibly relaxing and fulfilling. By the cove lies unique rock formations that have been sculpted over many years by the sea.
Make sure to sample fresh seafood, like crab and lobster, from the kiosks along the cove and explore the fossil hunting spots around the beach. We recommend the Boat Shed Cafe.
Best Overall Neighbourhoods in Bournemouth
Let's dive into some of the popular neighborhoods that make this town a place to call home.
Westbourne
Westbourne is often considered one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Bournemouth. With its charming Victorian architecture and independent boutiques, it exudes an artsy and bohemian vibe.
The neighborhood also boasts an array of trendy cafes and restaurants where you can savor delicious meals while enjoying the laid back vibe. Westbourne is perfect for those who appreciate quaint streets, character and meeting people who love to explore local art galleries.
Southburne
If you're seeking a family-friendly neighborhood, look no further than Southbourne. Situated just east of Bournemouth town center, Southbourne offers a relaxed atmosphere coupled with stunning coastal views.
This area is renowned for its superb schools, making it an ideal choice for families with children of all ages. Additionally, Southbourne also has a fantastic sandy beach where families can enjoy picnics or take leisurely walks along the shore.
Boscombe
For those who crave the buzz of city life combined with picturesque seaside charm, Boscombe is definitely worth considering. This up and coming neighborhood has undergone a significant regeneration in recent years, attracting young professionals and artists alike.
And like many places in Bournemouth, Boscombe also has a beach!
Winton
If living close to nature appeals to you, then Winton may just be your dream neighborhood. Nestled between Bournemouth town center and Wimborne Road (a hub for student life), Winton offers the best of both worlds: proximity to urban amenities and lush green spaces like Queen's Park where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Queens Park also has a full 18 hole golf course to explore. Perfect as a weekend hobby!
Most Expensive Neighbourhoods in Bournemouth
When it comes to finding a place to live, it's not just about the beauty and charm of the area, but also about affordability. In Bournemouth, there are some neighborhoods that stand out for their high property prices.
If you're looking for a luxurious lifestyle and don't mind splurging a little, then these upscale neighborhoods might be right up your alley.
Branksome Park
One of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Bournemouth is Branksome Park.
Nestled between Poole and Bournemouth, this residential area boasts stunning architecture and lush green spaces. Homes in Branksome Park are known for their elegance and grandeur, with many properties offering panoramic views of the coastline.
This neighborhood attracts affluent residents who appreciate the finer things in life and enjoy living close to both nature and amenities.
Canford Cliffs
Another exclusive neighborhood is Canford Cliffs.
This area is renowned for its picturesque location along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel. With its proximity to Sandbanks Beach, considered one of the finest beaches on the South Coast, Canford Cliffs is highly sought after by those who crave a beachfront lifestyle.
Talbot Woods
If you prefer living closer to Bournemouth town center while still indulging in luxury living, Talbot Woods might be worth considering.
This residential suburb is known for its tree-lined streets and large Victorian-era houses. The properties here often feature extensive grounds with well-manicured gardens that add an air of exclusivity to the neighborhood.
Alum Chine
Heading towards Lulworth Cove Road from Poole Road will take you into Alum Chine — another appealing upscale neighborhood in Bournemouth. Situated between Branksome Dene Chine Beach and Alum Chine Beach, this area offers a blend of natural beauty and sophistication.
Many homes here have been designed with contemporary architectural styles that maximize views across the coastline.
Meyrick Park
Ultimately, Meyrick Park is a neighborhood that combines elegance with convenience.
Located near Bournemouth town center and adjacent to the beautiful Meyrick Park Golf Course, this area offers a mix of period properties and modern apartments. With its proximity to amenities such as shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities, Meyrick Park is a popular choice for those seeking an affluent lifestyle in a central location.
Restaurants in Bournemouth
Moose Kitchen
Moose Kitchen is a Canadian restaurant and offers unique dining experience with authentic Canadian flavors and freshly made food.
The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with awesome rock tunes and the best cocktails and food. Moose Kitchen has a small restaurant with a big reputation, and it’s not one to be missed.
It's their mission to delight each customer’s senses in every way possible, making every person feel as comfortable as they can. Top favourites are Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich and the Signature Burger.
Education in Bournemouth
Education in Bournemouth offers a wide range of opportunities for both children and adults alike. The city is home to several reputable primary and secondary schools, as well as a number of further education institutions.
Schools
Schools like Talbot Primary School and St. Peter's Catholic Primary School have garnered praise for their dedicated staff and nurturing learning environments. These schools prioritize academic achievement while also encouraging creativity and personal growth among their students.
When it comes to secondary education, Bournemouth provides a variety of options that cater to diverse interests and aspirations. The renowned Bourne Academy offers a well-rounded curriculum, empowering students with a breadth of knowledge across subjects ranging from sciences to humanities.
If your child leans more towards the arts, the LeAF Studio provides specialized programs in performing arts, media, and design – perfect for those with creative inclinations. For those seeking further education opportunities or looking to enhance their skills in specific areas, Bournemouth offers excellent colleges and institutions.
Arts University
The Arts University Bournemouth is highly regarded internationally for its courses in art, design, media production, and performance. This esteemed institution nurtures the talents of aspiring artists by providing them with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
Bournemouth University
Bournemouth University stands tall as one of the leading higher educational institutions in the region. The uni has an extensive range of courses spanning various disciplines including business studies, computer science, psychology. It also attracts students from all over the world who seek academic excellence alongside vibrant campus life.
Main employers in Bournemouth
When it comes to finding a place to settle down, one important factor to consider is the job market. After all, a thriving job market can greatly contribute to the overall quality of life in a city.
JP Morgan
Bournemouth has a stable financial services base. One of the largest employers in Bournemouth is JP Morgan.
With its office situated in the heart of the town, JP Morgan offers a range of career opportunities for finance professionals and IT specialists alike. The company's presence brings stability and economic growth to Bournemouth, attracting talented individuals from various backgrounds.
Their Bournemouth centre has over 4000 employees and plays a crucial role in the operations of the bank.
LV
Another major employer in Bournemouth is LV (short for Liverpool Victoria) one of the UK's leading insurance companies. This company has been operating for over 175 years and has a strong presence in Bournemouth.
With its modern office building overlooking the picturesque coastline, LV= General Insurance offers diverse roles spanning across customer service, claims handling, underwriting and more.
Bournemouth University
Bournemouth University is also an important employer in the area.
The university attracts students from all over the world and boasts an excellent reputation for its courses in fields like media production, business studies, and tourism management. As an employee at Bournemouth University, you may find yourself working alongside esteemed academics or contributing to groundbreaking research projects.
Westbourne Arcade and Hotel Miramar
In addition to these larger employers, Bournemouth has a thriving hospitality industry that provides numerous employment opportunities. With its beautiful beaches and bustling town center filled with restaurants and hotels catering to tourists from around the world; it's no wonder that this industry plays such a significant role here.
From waiting and cooking positions at trendy cafes along Westbourne Arcade to managerial roles at luxury beachfront resorts like Hotel Miramar - there are opportunities aplenty if you have a passion for hospitality.
Sunseeker International
Another main employer in Bournemouth is Sunseeker International - renowned worldwide for their luxury yachts built right here on the shores of Poole Harbour, just a short drive from Bournemouth.
With a reputation for craftsmanship and excellence, Sunseeker offers a range of roles in boat building, engineering, design, sales, and more. Imagine being part of the team responsible for creating these floating masterpieces as you enjoy breathtaking views of Lulworth Cove during your lunch break!
Events in Bournemouth
One of the many reasons why Bournemouth is such a vibrant and exciting place to live is because of the plethora of events that take place throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there's always something happening in this coastal town.
Arts by the Sea Festival
Let's start with the Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival, a delightful event that showcases the best of contemporary arts and culture. Held annually in September, this festival transforms the town into an artistic wonderland with installations, performances, and exhibitions taking place all around.
You can immerse yourself in thought-provoking art installations, enjoy captivating theater performances, or simply soak up the creative atmosphere that fills every corner of Bournemouth during this time.
Food and Drink Festival
For all you food lovers out there, make sure not to miss out on the Bournemouth Food and Drink Festival.
Held every June in various locations across the town, this festival brings together local food producers, culinary experts, and passionate foodies alike. You'll have a chance to sample mouthwatering dishes from various cuisines while enjoying live cooking demonstrations from renowned chefs.
It's a gastronomic adventure that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Lulworth Cove Music Festival
If you're in search of some musical bliss under open skies, then look no further than one of Bournemouth's most celebrated events - The Lulworth Cove Music Festival.
This annual outdoor music festival takes place at stunning Lulworth Castle just a short drive away from Bournemouth. With world-class artists performing across multiple stages against a backdrop of beautiful countryside scenery and lulworth cove nearby, it's an experience unlike any other.
Wheels Festival
For those who appreciate vintage charm and classic cars, don't miss out on the Wheels Festival held along Bournemouth's picturesque seafront every summer (normally in May). This three-day extravaganza showcases an impressive array of vintage vehicles alongside thrilling motocross displays and jaw-dropping stunt shows.
It's a true celebration of all things automotive that will leave car enthusiasts grinning from ear to ear.
Air Festival
Finally, Bournemouth Air Festival is an event that simply cannot be missed.
Over four days in August, the skies above the town come alive with spectacular aerobatic displays from world-class pilots. As you watch in awe as planes twist and turn through the air, you can also indulge in various ground-based activities including live music, street entertainment, and a plethora of food stalls.
It's an event that truly captures the essence of Bournemouth's vibrant seaside culture. Bournemouth is a town that knows how to have a good time, and its events calendar stands as a testament to that fact.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or a food lover, a music aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the thrill of watching skilled pilots take flight, there's something for everyone in this charming coastal town. So mark your calendar and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of Bournemouth's lively events scene.
Transport in Bournemouth
Transport in Bournemouth is well-connected and efficient, making it a convenient city for residents and visitors alike.
Car
If you have a car, getting around Bournemouth is relatively easy.
The city has a good network of roads that connect different neighborhoods and surrounding areas. However, do keep in mind that traffic can get quite busy during peak hours, especially in popular areas like the town center or near the beachfront.
Local Bus Service
But don't worry – with a little patience and some pre-planning, you'll be able to navigate a journey withoiut a car. Public transportation in Bournemouth can also be very convenient.
The local bus service covers a wide area and provides frequent routes to all major parts of the city. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out for some shopping at Castlepoint Shopping Park, you'll find buses running regularly throughout the day.
Cyclists and Pedestrian Lanes
Bournemouth also offers excellent options for cyclists and pedestrians with its extensive network of cycle paths and footpaths. If you enjoy exploring outdoors while reducing your carbon footprint simultaneously, grab your bike or put on your walking shoes!
You can easily reach various destinations within the city while enjoying beautiful scenery along the way. (but certainly not least!).
Conclusion
Nestled along the coastline, Bournemouth offers an enticing blend of natural beauty and vibrant living. From iconic beaches like Sandbanks and Old Harry Rocks to the serene Lulworth Cove, the town boasts a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Diverse neighborhoods cater to varied lifestyles, from bustling city centers to peaceful suburbs, complemented by top-tier educational institutions.
Bournemouth's appeal extends to its thriving job market spanning tourism, finance, and technology, ensuring abundant opportunities without lengthy commutes. The town's year-round festivities, from beachfront festivals to winter markets, infuse excitement into its fabric. More than a residence, Bournemouth embodies a lifestyle – where urban vibrancy meets serene tranquility, inviting you to experience its captivating charm.