With seven glorious miles of idyllic coastline, one Dorset resort is so easy on the eye, it looks just as stunning as any you would find in the Balearics. Bournemouth is packed full of sandy beaches and glorious gardens, paired with a lively atmosphere and plenty of attractions. A great place to visit all year round, this resort has a buzzing nightlife scene with some of the best pubs, bars and clubs to be found along the south coast.
The Dorset town comes into its own during the summer months, with longer days meaning more time to explore the beach. The town also plays host to some fabulous festivals and free events including the Bournemouth Air Festival, BEAF Arts Festival in summer, Arts by the Sea in autumn and Christmas Tree Wonderland in the winter. Visitors come to breathe in the crisp sea air while enjoying a stroll along the promenade from Bournemouth Pier to Boscombe Pier.
Just a short stroll from the beach and stretching more than a mile towards the town centre lies the Grade-II listed Victorian gardens. An iconic part of the town since the 1860s, the gardens are home to a number of attractions including the art exhibition at Pine Walk, an aviary, the bandstand, an ornamental rockery and mini golf. For garden lovers looking for some peace and quiet, the central and upper gardens offer a quiet haven with a Gothic-style water tower, tree trail walk and pretty red bridges dotted over the Bourne stream.
The gardens host a variety of events throughout the year. The coas.