Things to Do In Bournemouth

Situated on the stunning coast of Dorset, Bournemouth is a fun and atmospheric seaside town that sits amid unique scenery. Famous for its alluring micro-climate, it’s hard to feel dissatisfied when in Bournemouth. Its annual calendar bursts with many interesting events and exciting activities guaranteed to catch the attention of its bustling visitors.

Home to one of our coffee houses, as a leading coffee shop franchise in the UK, Esquires Coffee has created an essential guide to help those who may be unfamiliar with this beautiful English coastal town.

Why are coffee shops so popular

Social Distancing During COVID-19

With so many activities and events in Bournemouth arranged for 2020, COVID-19 has caused many to re-schedule or adapt to stay in line with the Government guidelines concerning social distancing. For any of the activities, events or festivals mentioned in our blog, you must check procedures and availability online to avoid disappointment.

A wave breaking in a clean sea

Make the Most of the Beach!

Let’s start with one of Bournemouth’s main attractions, its glorious seven-mile beachfront! Bournemouth is inundated with stunning, award-winning sandy beaches, ideal for walking and exploring, or simply grabbing a coffee and reading a book while absorbing the gorgeous surroundings. For some relaxing drink inspiration, take a look at our top caffeine-free drinks to order in a coffee shop!

Bournemouth’s main beaches consist of some unique locations, including Alum Chine beach, Durley Chine beach, Fisherman’s Wall and Southbourne beach. All the beaches named have also received Blue Flag awards for their cleanliness; another enticing reason to visit!

There are also plenty of dog-friendly beach locations which you can check out, should you visit with your furry companion.

A pier in Bournemouth

Have Fun at the Pier

If you want to finish off your day at the beach feeling uplifted, Bournemouth Pier is sure to put a smile on your face. It is an energetic location with plenty of fun activities for visitors to enjoy including a zip wire which transports you from the pier to the beach!

Constructed in the middle of the 19th-century, the pier is a well-loved attraction which offers plenty of additional and exciting activities, including the Rock Reef adventure centre and the traditional amusement arcade; as you can tell, a lot is packed into this pier!

The most enticing aspect of the pier is the breath-taking views it showcases. Have a camera or phone with you to snap the panoramic view of the Isle of Weight and the awe-inspiring Purbeck Hills.

The Pier Swim

Those who enjoy swimming or would like to test themselves in the name of charity may be interested in the biggest charity swim in Europe, which happens here each year between the Boscombe and Bournemouth piers.

Live Music and Festivals

Bournemouth hosts a variety of live events and music throughout the year. With its very own O2 Academy, live gigs and acts are never too far away. Furthermore, it is a hub for festivals, ranging from the Bourne Free Pride festival to their annual Christmas parade, to their annual airshow and the yearly Arts by the Sea festival.

There is always something going on in this thriving coastal town, confirming that Bournemouth really is the dynamic hub that many visitors claim it to be!

Stroll In Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens

On the way to Bournemouth’s stunning coastline, you may want to take your time when passing Lower Gardens. Situated five minutes from the beach, pier and main shopping centre, it is a little piece of paradise which is well worth the visit.

Absorb the beautiful floral displays and gardens and make sure to take with you a snack and a drink for a little picnic. The rock garden is a glorious haven within the gardens themselves, and its magic is magnified in knowing it was created in the 1930s.

With Bournemouth keen to delight its visitors and locals, it is also a little centre for activities such as its mini-golf course, an aviary and the Pine Walk bandstand. In the summer, you can expect to see a fantastic art exhibition. In the Winter, the area thrives with the Christmas Tree Wonderland where the garden is beautifully decorated with lovely festive trees and provides fun, seasonal activities.

A surfer in the sea at in Bournemouth

Challenge Yourself!

Do you want a bit more from your visit to Bournemouth? Why not challenge yourself and try a new watersport or go one step further and try a competition!

Bournemouth has a variety of land and water-based sites which lend themselves to sports, making it the perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The beach has plenty of surf centres where you can invest in a surf lesson and learn to surf. The Cyclexperience encourages visitors to explore the Dorset coast on a bicycle.

It is also the setting for many marathons or triathlon events if you feel like feeling triumphant! Bournemouth has activities to suit all interests and abilities, so explore the options and take your pick!

A cup of coffee on a table

Where Can You Find Us?

Once you have tried the wide range of sporting and leisure activities, don’t forget to visit us for a nice brunch, a coffee pick-me-up, a freshly made juice or a delicious slice of cake! Situated in the Burlington Arcade, Esquires Coffee can’t wait to see you when you are in the area!

What do you look forward to doing when in Bournemouth? Why not let us know on our social media channels; we would love to hear from you!