Explore beyond the beach
Bournemouth’s neighbourhoods, the towns and villages around Poole Bay, and what the coast has to offer season by season.
Towns around the bay
Christchurch
A historic Dorset town east of Bournemouth where the Avon and Stour reach the sea: priory, quay, harbour and the famous Mudeford beach huts.
Poole
Just west of Bournemouth: a vast natural harbour, a historic quay and Old Town, and the golden sand of Sandbanks.
Salisbury
Discover Salisbury’s rich heritage, iconic cathedral, vibrant markets, green spaces and dining scene. Ideal for history lovers and countryside explorers.
Wimborne
Explore Wimborne, a charming Dorset market town known for its medieval architecture, lively markets, independent shops, riverside walks and welcoming community.
Dorchester
Dorchester, Dorset’s county town, offers rich history, charming shops, diverse dining and lovely green spaces. Discover key attractions and practical travel tip
Villages & neighbourhoods
Boscombe
The bohemian end of Bournemouth's seafront, just east of the centre: surf culture, street art, independent cafés and a restored Victorian pier.
Sandbanks
A narrow sand spit at the mouth of Poole Harbour: some of the most expensive real estate in Britain wrapped around a genuinely excellent Blue Flag beach.
Southbourne
A clifftop suburb with the feel of a village, an easy-going independent high street and a long beach that welcomes dogs.
Westbourne
A smart village quarter around a Victorian arcade: independent shops, delis and brunch spots on Bournemouth's western side.