Bustling Bournemouth, the ultimate seaside resort!

It’s one of the most popular places in the Great Scenic Journeys collection, nestled on the south coast, in deepest Dorset, straddling the delightful New Forest.

Bournemouth is a vibrant seaside town that seamlessly blends historic charm with a modern vibe. It benefits from a wonderfully picturesque feel and stunning coastline that stretches for miles, characterized by golden sandy beaches and scenic cliffs. Bournemouth is more than just a summer destination; it offers an abundance of experiences throughout the year, each season bringing its own unique charm and has been a magnet for holidaymakers over many decades – it has a bygone feel but also contrastingly progressive!

This magnificent, quintessentially English seaside resort is accessible in style and comfort by rail on CrossCountry, with hourly services from Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford, Reading, through Basingstoke and Southampton. There’s also seamless connections with other CrossCountry services from Scotland and the Midlands too. Meanwhile, the journey between Southampton and Bournemouth penetrating the heart of the New Forest is a particular treat!

Bournemouth is also a crossroads for some fab Great Scenic Journeys bus services, including the open top Purbeck Breezer 50 which mounts a ferry and finds its way to Swanage as well as the 70 Beach Breezer between Rockley Park, Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch. The 50 starts from outside Bournemouth railway station, making it an easy connection from one Great Scenic Journey to another, whilst the 70, as well as the 50, also stop in the centre of Bournemouth.

In autumn, Bournemouth transforms into a canvas of rich, earthy hues as the leaves turn to shades of gold and auburn. The cooler weather creates a perfect backdrop for exploring the town’s myriad attractions without the summer crowds.

The Bournemouth Gardens, a sprawling collection of beautifully landscaped parks, come alive with autumnal colours. A leisurely walk through these gardens reveals an array of mature trees and ornamental flowerbeds, making it a serene spot for a reflective stroll or a picnic. The Lower Gardens, in particular, offer a peaceful retreat with their gently flowing streams and lush greenery. It also hosts events and featuring a mini-golf course. The nearby Bournemouth Square provides a lively spot surrounded by greenery. The town also boasts the tranquil Meyrick Park, a large expanse with woodland trails, a golf course, and open fields, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

Bournemouth’s cultural scene also takes centre stage during late Summer and Autumn. The town’s iconic Pavilion Theatre, located in the heart of the town, hosts a range of performances that cater for diverse tastes. From dramatic plays to musical concerts, the theatre’s autumn schedule is packed with events that showcase both local talent and internationally renowned acts. Similarly, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra often performs at the Lighthouse, a prominent arts centre in the town, presenting a rich repertoire that spans classical to contemporary music.

Sports fans will find Bournemouth to be a haven for both watching and participating in various activities. The town is renowned for its beach-related sports, including volleyball and surfing. During autumn, when the waves are more consistent, surfers from across the country flock to Bournemouth’s shores to catch some of the best swells.

For those who prefer land-based activities, the town offers numerous parks and outdoor spaces ideal for running, cycling, or even playing a casual game of football. For joggers and those who just enjoy a leisurely stroll, the Golden Mile is the renowned walk along the Promenade from Bournemouth to Boscombe Pier, past lovely beachside cafe’s, restaurants and bars, overlooking the sandy bay. Walking beyond Boscombe towards Christchurch is a joy too, as the vibe feels more remote and serene – it’s a real pleasure!

Bournemouth’s sporting prowess extends beyond recreational activities. The town is home to AFC Bournemouth, a football club with a rich history and a passionate following. The club’s vitality and success have brought national attention, with the team competing in the Premier League and consistently performing well – they are still viewed affectionately as ‘underdogs’ (the stadium has the smallest capacity in the top flight, for instance), but are more than holding their own and are now very well established at this level!

The town’s maritime history is a fascinating aspect of its heritage. Bournemouth’s growth as a resort began in the 19th century, when it was discovered for its therapeutic climate and sandy beaches. The arrival of the railway in the 1870s marked a turning point, bringing an influx of visitors and establishing Bournemouth as a premier destination. The Victorian architecture scattered throughout the town, including elegant hotels and grand seaside villas, serves as a reminder of this golden era. Historical landmarks such as the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum provide a glimpse into the town’s past. Housed in a stunning Victorian villa, the museum showcases an eclectic collection of art and artifacts amassed by local benefactor Merton Russell-Cotes, reflecting both his personal tastes and the broader cultural trends of his time.

Bournemouth Pier, a historic landmark since 1856, is a vibrant attraction offering stunning coastal views. Originally a simple jetty, it evolved into a grand Victorian structure by 1880. Visitors can enjoy the Rock Reef indoor adventure park, featuring climbing walls, a high-line aerial obstacle course, and the exhilarating PierZip, the world’s first pier-to-shore zip line. The pier also offers fishing, strolling, and panoramic photography opportunities. Nearby, the Oceanarium provides marine exploration, whilst on the entrance to the Pier is a giant Ferris Wheel offering spectacular views of the town and coast!

In more recent history, Bournemouth has maintained its reputation as a hub of creativity and culture. The town is known for its vibrant arts scene, which includes numerous galleries and studios. The Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival, held annually in October, celebrates this creative spirit with a dynamic mix of performances, installations, and workshops that highlight both local and international artists. The festival transforms the town into an open-air gallery, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage with art in innovative and accessible ways. The nightlife is also buzzing too, with many chic bars and nightclubs, including a thriving LBGBT+ scene situated in the eclectic Triangle area of the town.

One cannot discuss Bournemouth without mentioning its connection to notable individuals who have left their mark on the town. The celebrated author J.R.R. Tolkien, best known for his epic fantasy novels “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings,” spent a significant portion of his life in Bournemouth. His time in the town, particularly during his later years, is often cited as a period of personal reflection and creative productivity. His presence adds an air of literary prestige to Bournemouth, as fans of Tolkien’s work may be intrigued by the connection between the town and one of fantasy literature’s greatest figures.

Another luminary associated with Bournemouth is the renowned comedian and actor Sir Tony Robinson. Known for his role as Baldrick in the popular television series “Blackadder,” Robinson has also been a prominent advocate for historical and archaeological education. His involvement in local projects and his contributions to public understanding of history have further enriched Bournemouth’s cultural landscape.

For those seeking a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, Bournemouth is a town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the historical intricacies of its Victorian past, enjoying the vibrant arts and entertainment scene, or participating in the myriad sports and recreational activities available, Bournemouth provides a rich tapestry of experiences that make it a compelling destination year-round. As autumn settles in, the town’s charm becomes even more pronounced, offering visitors and locals alike a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty and vitality of this enchanting seaside locale. It’s less crowded and has an almost ‘winding down’ feel and a slightly slower pace, whilst the auburn, golden leaves from the tree-lined streets and of course its multitude of parks creates a really compelling ambience!

So, for a seaside, scenic sojourn, like no other, then be sure to venture on CrossCountry to Bournemouth and whether its culture, sport, surfing or some classic coastal japery and fun on the Pier, then this really is the place to be. It’s also the gateway to the charm and stunning beauty of Dorset, as well as the New Forest with morebus and its fantastic open top buses. To plan your adventure check out…..

CrossCountry | Buy Cheap Train Tickets and Find Train Fares (crosscountrytrains.co.uk)