Pictures of Bournemouth

About Bournemouth

Bournemouth has been a place of international acclaim since Edward VII brought his mistress Lillie Langtry here in 19th and 20th-centuries. The other major event in the making of the resort was the railway which reached here in 1890, hither-there-to, the town was mainly residential.

Seven miles of glorious golden sands, fringed by the bluest of seas lapping the shore, make Bournemouth a firm favourite for family holidays. The beach is backed by wide promenades, and tree-clad cliffs which are descended by zigzag paths. It is an attractive town, made more beautiful by huge floral displays and wonderful sub-tropical plants whose year round growth is encouraged by Bournemouth's mild climate. In summer, the town has an average of 7.7 hours of daily sunshine, thus it compares favourably with other European resorts, and draws sun-worshippers from all over England and beyond. It is also an idyllic place for enthusiastic builders of sand castles, the resort prides itself on how well it caters for children and is especially proud of its pioneering KidZone scheme. During the holiday season Bournemouth hosts a Summer Festival for Families, running for six weeks, the festival has activities and attractions to suit children of all ages and abilities. There is a Kids Free Entertainment tent, and beach GameZones offers a programme crammed with activities ensuring fun-filled days for every child. With a new Wacky Warehouse as well, children visiting Bournemouth are spoilt for choice! The festival offers plenty for adults to enjoy and admire. Friday opens up the weekend with a spectacular fire-work display and Flowers by candlelight makes a wonderland of the lower gardens that simply leaves you breathless at such a stunning transformation. The wonders of the deep are on display at Oceanarium and for some this is a safer bet than deep sea fishing! The festival caters for music lovers, groups from all over the world perform at Bournemouth's Music Makers festival where all musical tastes are provided for.

The town is fortunate to have retained its sedate air of exclusiveness. By day, its shops offer a fascinating display of merchandise which ranges from designer clothing, costly paintings and antiques to sea-side souvenirs. Whatever you want, you are sure to find it here. The fashionable new shopping square blends well with old Bournemouth, its mosaics and outstanding camera Obscura centrepiece, gives an atmosphere of chic usually reserved for continental towns. When night falls, another transformation takes place and Bournemouth throbs to the music of the night in theatres, night-clubs and pubs. Hotels too, offer dinner dances and cabaret style entertainment.

The splendid gardens and cliffs make a superb back-drop for the many international sea-sport events held throughout the summer of which the UKOBA Powerboating Grand Prix and Beach volleyball Grand Prix are just two. Sailing is popular, with the sea often looking as though it is a forest of colourful sails. Fishing trips and day trips to view the natural beauty of the coastline from the comfort of a boat can be arranged.

This is the home of the world famous Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, so visitors are assured of a rich diversity of cultural experiences, these include ample museums and heritage centres telling of the historical and cultural advancement of the town. The Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum shows a range of works of art that should not be missed.

Sadly, one of Bournemouth's most magical venues, scene of entertainment, tea-dances and glittering occasions is no more. The famous Winter Garden Theatre and Ballroom which opened its doors in 1875 is no longer. The opening of the Bournemouth International Centre finally brought about its demise but the new centre with its exceptional acoustics makes an attractive venue for many world famous stars, who always play to a packed house.

With so much to offer and given its wonderful south coast location bordered by the harbours of Christchurch and Poole, and the close proximity of the Isle of Wight and New Forest, it is not surprising to find Bournemouth is now one of England's premier tourist destinations - you should come, bring the family, you will not be disappointed.