Brilliant Bournemouth – the best things to do
Popular British seaside resort Bournemouth is a fascinating mix of Victorian architecture and history, spectacular coastal scenery and quirky British seaside resort. Here are five of the best things to do in Bournemouth. Bournemouth lies on England’s Dorset coast. The spectacular sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs make it one of the UK’s top attractions. While Bournemouth is a very social place offering a varied nightlife scene, it is also a great place to enjoy with children and there are several family-friendly hotels in Bournemouth.
Bournemouth Beach and Piers
Bournemouth boasts seven miles of sandy beaches, directly east of the magnificent, and almost 100-mile stretch of, Jurassic Coast. Town sits atop tall cliffs offering spectacular views over the beaches and piers. There is something so romantic about piers, don’t you think? There are great clifftop walks and lovely gardens to enjoy the view from too.
Bournemouth Eye
If the clifftop views are not magnificent enough the Bournemouth Eye can take you even higher. The hot air balloon look-alike ride soars to 500 feet above Bournemouth and passengers can enjoy views across town, the nearby coastline and often a fair way across the English Channel.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum
A unique art and architecture experience awaits those who visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum that is perched on top of a cliff. The art collection features exotic paintings and sculptures, and offers a window into another age when globetrotting Victorians collected beautiful things from all corners of the world. The Victorian décor of the building is impressive in itself before you even consider the art. There is a shop, café and a children’s area.
Bournemouth Opera House
Another atmospheric building in Bournemouth is the Opera House. It was built in 1895 and enjoyed significant popularity in the 1930s and 1940s as a music hall. It became known as the Opera House in 1997 and has since been taken over by O2. The building offers a spectacular backdrop to any show and marvellous acoustics.
Monkey World
I can’t help but want to support an organisation that makes an effort to help animals. Monkey World in Bournemouth is one such place. It is a primate sanctuary and ape rehabilitation centre that houses over 150 primates. You can make your own way around, listen to talks from keepers and take advantage of the picnic area. The money raised at the centre is put towards fighting illegal smuggling all over the world.
Have you been to Bournemouth? What did you most enjoy while you were there?
Photo credit: Robert Pittman