Bournemouth Christmas Kids Trail
The Bournemouth Christmas kids trail turns a walk around the market and the Lower Gardens into an engaging puzzle hunt for children. Kids receive a Christmas booklet filled with puzzles, jokes and scavenger hunts, alongside a trail map. They follow the clues and collect secret letters spread across the Christmas market, the Festive Trail and the ice rink area. Once complete, the booklet can be handed in for a chance to win a prize before the festive season ends. The trail is organised by Alpine Christmas Markets and runs from Thursday 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. For the latest details, visit the Kids Trail page.
What Is in the Bournemouth Christmas Kids Trail Booklet?
Contents of the Booklet
The Christmas kids trail booklet is designed to keep children entertained with a variety of festive activities. It includes:
- Puzzles to solve that challenge observation and problem-solving skills
- Jokes to bring festive cheer and laughter
- Scavenger hunts that encourage exploration of the market and gardens
- A detailed map of the trail to guide children to the different clue locations
The map is especially useful on the day, showing where to find clues across Bournemouth Square and the Lower Gardens. This helps children follow the trail efficiently without wandering off.
Where Are the Clues and Secret Letters?
Clues and secret letters are spread across three main areas:
- The Christmas market in Bournemouth Square
- The Festive Trail in the Lower Gardens
- The area around the SKATE Bournemouth ice rink
This layout encourages families to explore the heart of Bournemouth’s festive celebrations while keeping children actively engaged.
The festive nutcracker figure adds a cheerful touch to the Christmas market atmosphere in Bournemouth.
Where to Collect and Submit the Kids Trail Booklet
Collection Points for the Booklet
The organisers list five convenient locations where families can pick up the Christmas kids trail booklet:
- The Alpine Lodge in the market at Bournemouth Square
- Santa's Workshop in the Lower Gardens beside Santa's Express
- The Christmas Tree Maze
- Glow Golf, the festive mini golf attraction
- The SKATE Bournemouth ice rink
If you have booked a session at any of the maze, golf, rink or Santa’s Workshop, collecting the booklet there is the easiest option. Otherwise, the Alpine Lodge near the top of the Square is a central point to pick one up. The trail page does not specify if there is a cost for the booklet, so it is advisable to ask when collecting.
How to Hand in the Completed Booklet
Once children have completed the trail, there are three ways to submit their answers for the prize draw:
- Hand in the booklet at Santa’s Workshop
- Hand in the booklet at the Alpine Lodge
- Submit answers online via the organisers’ website
The organisers mention that one family wins a prize at the end of the season. However, details about the prize, closing date, or how the winner is notified are not provided on the trail page. It is recommended to check the website before the trail closes on 3 January 2027. Keeping a photo of the completed booklet is wise if handing in a paper copy.
How Long Does the Bournemouth Christmas Kids Trail Take?
The organisers do not specify a set duration for completing the trail. The walk runs from Bournemouth Square down through the Lower Gardens, which is a short distance end to end. However, children stopping to solve every clue, enjoy a ride or have a hot chocolate can easily spend an afternoon on the trail. Splitting the trail across two visits is also a good option for families wanting a more relaxed pace.
The festive lights in Bournemouth create a magical atmosphere for families enjoying the Christmas kids trail.
Fitting the Kids Trail into a Family Day Out
Other Family-Friendly Festive Activities
The Christmas kids trail booklet complements many other attractions and events designed for children and families during the festive season in Bournemouth:
- Christmas Characters: On weekends, fairies, elves and Elsa roam the Square and Lower Gardens from 11am to 1pm and again from 2pm to 4pm. See Christmas characters in Bournemouth.
- Santa’s Workshop: Booked sessions with Santa are available, and the workshop is also a collection and submission point for the trail booklet. Details at Story Time with Santa.
- Rides: Santa’s Express train and the Big Wheel run along the trail and do not require pre-booking. More at Santa’s Express and the Big Wheel.
For more family activities throughout the year, see the Bournemouth Guide’s pages on Christmas Tree Wonderland, Bournemouth with kids and the family activities guide.
Practical Tips for Enjoying the Bournemouth Christmas Kids Trail
Weather and Accessibility
The entire trail takes place outdoors and continues in most weather conditions. It is sensible to bring:
- A pen or pencil to complete the booklet
- Something to lean on while writing, such as a clipboard or hardback book
- A plastic wallet or folder if rain is forecast
The Christmas market operates cashless, accepting card and contactless payments only. Accessible toilets are available on site and nearby, and many outdoor areas have accessible routes, making the trail suitable for families with mobility needs.
Staying Nearby for the Trail
Flexiestays offers a range of hotels on the West Cliff, approximately a ten-minute walk from Bournemouth Square and the Lower Gardens. This location is ideal for families wanting to split the trail over two days or enjoy the festive atmosphere in the evenings. Self check-in options provide flexibility for late returns after a day on the trail. Booking direct via flexiestays.com often offers better rates than larger platforms.
Summary
The Bournemouth Christmas kids trail is a delightful way for families to enjoy the festive season, combining a puzzle hunt with the magic of the Christmas market and gardens. With a booklet full of activities, multiple collection points, and a prize draw, it offers an engaging experience for children of all ages. Alongside other festive events and attractions, the trail helps make Bournemouth a top destination for family Christmas outings.
For official information and updates, check the Alpine Christmas Markets Kids Trail page and explore more festive family fun in our Things to Do section.
FAQs about the Bournemouth Christmas Kids Trail
How do I get the Bournemouth Christmas kids trail booklet?
You can collect the booklet from the Alpine Lodge in Bournemouth Square, Santa’s Workshop in the Lower Gardens, the Christmas Tree Maze, Glow Golf or the SKATE Bournemouth ice rink.
Is there a cost for the kids trail booklet?
The organisers do not specify a cost, so it is best to ask at the collection point.
Can I submit the completed booklet online?
Yes, you can hand in the booklet at Santa’s Workshop or the Alpine Lodge, or submit your answers online through the organisers’ website.
How long does the trail take to complete?
The trail walk is short but can take an afternoon with stops for clues, rides and refreshments. It can also be split across two visits.
Is the trail suitable for children with mobility needs?
Yes, many areas have accessible routes and nearby accessible toilets. The trail is designed to be family-friendly and inclusive.
Explore more festive events and family activities in Bournemouth on our What’s On and Bournemouth with Kids pages.
For official local information about Bournemouth and Dorset, visit BCP Council and Visit Dorset.