Bournemouth's Best 3-Day Beach Getaway

Experience the ultimate seaside escape in Bournemouth, UK.

03 May 2023

A trip to Bournemouth, United Kingdom as a tourist promises to be a spectacular experience with beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and exciting events. Visitors can bask in the sun at the stunning beaches, explore the historic landmarks, and immerse themselves in the vibrant nightlife. Additionally, they can indulge in the local cuisine, shop at the bustling markets, and enjoy a relaxing walk in the picturesque gardens and parks.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach Bums and Boutiques

  • Check-in at Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel and marvel at the panoramic sea views from your room.
  • Kick off the day with breakfast at The Kitchen, a hipster brunch spot with an extensive menu and vegan options.
  • Start your shopping spree at The Arcade, a Victorian covered shopping mall where you'll find independent boutiques and art galleries.
  • Stroll down the pier to enjoy stunning sea views and hit the golden sands of Bournemouth beach where you can sunbathe or go for a swim.
  • For lunch, stop by WestBeach, a seafood restaurant with a terrace overlooking the beach.
  • In the afternoon, walk along the cliff-top promenade to explore the beautiful Lower Gardens, which feature a treasure trove of tropical plants and flowerbeds.
Day 2

Culture Vultures and Coastal Hikes

  • Fuel up with breakfast at Frieda's Tea Room, an award-winning tearoom with vintage decor and delicious homemade cakes.
  • Immerse yourself in art at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, a stunning Victorian villa packed with a fantastic collection of art and sculptures from around the world.
  • For lunch, try Rick Stein's restaurant, The Fish Place, for some of the freshest fish and chips you'll ever taste.
  • Hike along The Jurassic Coast, a 95-mile stretch of coastline with incredible views and ancient rock formations.
  • If you still have energy, head to the New Forest National Park for a bike ride or horseback trek.
  • Dinner at Arbor, a Michelin-starred restaurant with an impressive wine list and delightful menu.
Day 3

Hidden Gems and Seaside Sunsets

  • Get caffeinated with a coffee and croissant at Boscanova, a quirky cafe that serves fair-trade coffee and homemade sandwiches.
  • Discover the charming Boscombe neighborhood, with its independent shops, street art murals, and art deco cinema.
  • For lunch, visit The Larder House, a stylish bistro that offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
  • After lunch, take the funicular or walk up to the Alum Chine tropical gardens, a hidden oasis with exotic plants and colorful flowers.
  • Head back to the beach for a seaside sunset, with the sky turning shades of red, pink, and purple as the sun slips below the horizon.
  • Finish your stay in style with dinner at Arbor Restaurant again, indulging in their award-winning menu.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bournemouth by plane is to fly into Bournemouth Airport, which is only 4 miles from the city center. There are several daily flights from major UK airports such as London Heathrow, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

Car

The best way to get to Bournemouth by car is to take the M3 and then the M27 towards Bournemouth. The journey takes approximately 2 hours from London and there are plenty of parking options in and around the city center.

Train

The best way to get to Bournemouth by train is to take a direct train from London Waterloo station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and there are several trains per hour to choose from. Bournemouth train station is located in the city center.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no direct boat services to Bournemouth. The nearest port is Portsmouth, where you can take a train or bus to Bournemouth. Alternatively, you can take a ferry to Southampton and then take the train to Bournemouth.

Bus

The best way to get to Bournemouth by bus is to take a coach from London Victoria Coach Station. National Express and Megabus both offer services to Bournemouth with several departures daily. The journey takes approximately 2.5 - 3 hours depending on traffic.

Destination

Bournemouth

Looking for a seaside getaway that's more charming than the Kardashian family tree? Look no further than Bournemouth! With its golden sands, Victorian architecture, and endless opportunities for fish and chips, this town is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life (and maybe even get a mild sunburn).

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Discover Bournemouth's Best in 2 Days

Bournemouth is a coastal town located in southern England that attracts tourists for its picturesque beaches, beautiful gardens, and Victorian architecture. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the Lower Gardens, take a dip in the sea at the popular Sandbanks beach, or explore local landmarks such as the Bournemouth Pier and the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum. With a vibrant nightlife, delicious restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities, Bournemouth is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful seaside getaway.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Bournemouth

Discover the beauty of Bournemouth on a romantic getaway. Take a stroll along the sandy beach, dine in cozy restaurants and indulge in beachfront cocktails. Enjoy stunning sunsets and scenic coastal walks for unforgettable memories of your time in the UK.

Sun, Sea, and Adventure: The Ultimate Bournemouth Day Trip

A family-friendly trip to Bournemouth, United Kingdom offers plenty of fun activities for all ages. Enjoy the golden sandy beaches and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the English Channel. Explore the famous Bournemouth Pier, visit the Oceanarium, or take a stroll in the beautiful Lower Gardens.

Explore Bournemouth: A 5-Day Itinerary on a Budget

Bournemouth is a picturesque seaside town in the south of England that has plenty to offer for budget-conscious travelers. Budget-friendly accommodations can be found in the town center and surrounding suburbs, with many offering stunning sea views. Visitors can enjoy miles of beautiful sandy beaches, coastal walks, and free attractions such as the Bournemouth Pier and Gardens.