Top Tips for Budget Travel in Bournemouth

Bournemouth Backpackers Hostel is a great place for travelers looking for a clean, friendly, and affordable place to stay. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the friendly hosts and can enjoy spacious and clean rooms, with sinks and enough plug sockets for phones and other electronics. The hostel also offers two convenient shower rooms on the first floor, as well as a well-equipped kitchen and storage facilities. Located close to the station, town, and beach, this hostel provides travelers with the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. Guests can enjoy a peaceful stay during the week, and a lively atmosphere on the weekends. With its great value, cleanliness, and friendly atmosphere, Bournemouth Backpackers Hostel is the perfect place for travelers looking for a memorable experience.

Bournemouth Pier is a beautiful destination for a day out, with stunning views out to sea and plenty of places to sit and relax. The pier is well maintained and accessible for a small entry fee of £1.50. There are a variety of shops, cafes and winter gardens to explore, and fishing is even allowed in the evening. Jet skiers often frequent the area, so be aware if you plan to go fishing. The beach is popular during the summer months, and is a great spot for families to enjoy the sea and watch the lifeguards on duty. First-timers will love the chance to dip their toes in the sea and experience the joy of the British coast.

Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre is a beautiful headland and beach with stunning views and a great atmosphere. It is completely dog friendly and perfect for the whole family, with both pushchair and car access. There are two car parks with pay and display, and nearby toilets and a cafe. There are also plenty of walks for people of all abilities. The visitor centre provides lots of information and the cafe is a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air. With its gorgeous beach and headlands, its an ideal place to explore and have fun.

Hengistbury Head Beach is a stunning beach with soft golden sand and breathtaking views of the Isle of Wight. Its a great place for a peaceful beach day or a good walk, with lots of greenery and walking trails. The beach is clean and usually quiet, making it perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. The nearby car park is reasonably priced and there are several cafes, bars and restaurants nearby. With the steep descent into the sea, its a great spot for swimming during the summer months, but be aware of the potential for rips.

Bournemouth Beach is a stunning coastal beach that is perfect for a day out with the whole family. The beach is well maintained and offers plenty of activities, such as pier rides, BBQ stands, and free electric BBQ stands. The sand is soft and the water is cold and clear. There is plenty of space to sit down and relax, and hardly any dogs. The nearby shops, restaurants, and ice cream shops make it the perfect spot for a day out. Parking can be a bit hectic, but there are plenty of alternative parking options, such as opposite the beach or street parking. The beach also offers free chairs and beach accessories, such as kids toys and umbrellas. For those looking for a sandy beach near London, this is the perfect spot to visit with the family and enjoy the stunning views, clear waters, and great atmosphere.

The Bournemouth Observation Wheel is a great way to experience the stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area. With tickets starting at only £8 for adults and £6 for children, its an affordable way to get a 360-degree view of the beach. The friendly staff are great with children, making it a fun experience for all ages. The wheel takes you around three times, with stops when people get on, and you can even purchase professional photos to capture the moment. Whether its a bright sunny day or a full blue moon night, its an amazing experience that you wont forget!

Bournemouth Lower Gardens Park is a tranquil haven amidst the vibrant town and serene beach. Its meandering pathways are lined with lush flower beds, and a bridge over a gentle stream creates a symphony of colors. The iconic birdcage is a vintage charm, perfect for photos and quiet moments. This park offers a versatile experience, ideal for solo contemplation, romantic walks, or family picnics. Thoughtfully placed benches invite relaxation, while its beachside location adds to its allure. This captivating blend of natures beauty and historic charm is a testament to Bournemouths commitment to creating stunning public spaces. Whether youre a local in need of serenity or a traveler exploring, this park offers an enchanting escape that lingers in your memory.

Boscombe Pier is a beautiful Victorian promenade stretching out to sea, with full-length sheltered seating and musical instrument installations along its length. Its free to enter and open year-round, with fishing permitted all year. The beach is clean and peaceful and is a great place to go for a jog or take your dog for a walk. Parking is available for £16 for the whole day and there are plenty of toilets and showers. The bar and sun beds can be rented out, making it a great spot for a day out. The atmosphere is tranquil and peaceful, making it a perfect place to relax and take in the stunning views.

Boscombe Chine Gardens is a beautiful Victorian garden with a picturesque atmosphere. It is a Green Flag award-winning garden and a local nature reserve, and offers a variety of activities for all ages. Stroll through the formal flower beds or enjoy the large grassy areas for recreation, mini golf, and a water-themed playground. The Clock House Cafe overlooks it all and the Squirrel Cafe and mini golf is a great spot to get a cup of tea or a game of crazy golf. The garden also extends to the seafront, making it a perfect 15-minute walk to the beach and pier. With its peaceful atmosphere and variety of activities, Boscombe Chine Gardens is a great place to relax and have fun with family and friends.

Science Zone UK is a great place for kids and teens of all ages to explore and learn about science. It offers a range of activities, such as sensory rooms, dinosaurs, themed workshops, and coding ninjas sessions. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the environment is relaxed and fun. Kids are sure to enjoy the interactive toys, fossils, and bubble lights in the sensory rooms, while teens can benefit from the coding ninjas sessions to expand their coding skills. Science Zone UK is a great place for kids and teens to learn and have fun in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

Bournemouth Upper Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful green space in the middle of the city. It is well maintained and full of a variety of flowers and vegetation, making it a perfect spot for an outdoor stroll or a run. There is a wide, flat grassy area for family picnics and the air is filled with the scents of the greenery. The park is never busy and provides a quiet spot to admire the flora, read a book, or take in the stunning autumn leaf colours. Despite the high parking charges, it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with family.

Bournemouth Walking Tours provide an unforgettable experience that will take you through the streets of Bournemouth and its fascinating history. Led by knowledgeable and engaging guide, Penny, these two-hour tours will give you a unique insight into the area’s culture, architecture, and dark past. The booking process is straightforward and the customer service is excellent, ensuring that all visitors have a great experience. The tours are great value for money and will leave you with a wealth of knowledge about the area. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Bournemouth and its surroundings.

The Bournemouth Tourist Information Centre is a great place to visit for tourists looking to explore the beautiful seaside town. The centre is conveniently located on the seafront and offers a wide range of souvenirs, leaflets and other products. Customers can expect a friendly and helpful atmosphere from the staff, who will be more than happy to give advice and tips on the best places to visit. Plus, the centre is close to the beach and other attractions, making it a great starting point for a day of exploring.

Olive Cafe is a local gem close to Bournemouth sea-front that offers excellent quality food and outstanding customer service. The staff are welcoming, polite and attentive, making sure all customers feel catered for. Prices are very reasonable for the portions and quality, with options such as eggs royale for £8.95. The cafe is spacious and offers some outdoor seating, and it is always busy yet the staff handle it with ease. With its delicious food served with a smile and pleasant atmosphere, Olive Cafe is highly recommended for breakfast and beyond.

Casa GourMex is a hidden gem in Bournemouth, offering delicious Mexican cuisine in a friendly and inviting atmosphere. With over 100 customer reviews and 5 stars, its no wonder why this place is so popular. Enjoy tacos with pork and enchiladas with chicken, each with customizable spiciness levels. The homemade drinks are a unique addition, with hibiscus and tamarind tea being a fan favorite. The Cuban sandwiches are also a must-try, with slow-cooked pork, ham, and cheese. Friendly service and amazing food make Casa GourMex a must-visit destination when visiting Bournemouth.

Tapas Plus is a hidden gem in Bournemouth Town Centre, offering an authentic Spanish tapas bar experience. The restaurant has been family run for ages, with the proprietors, two sons as chef and front of house, and the grand daughter as a waitress. The atmosphere is rustic and unpretentious, with the conservatory overlooking the gardens. The food is homemade and the tapas plates are amazing, with options such as patatas bravas, chorizo in cider and breaded cheese in marmalade. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and the prices are very reasonable. The sangria is freshly made and delicious. The restaurant is great for large groups and nothing is too much trouble. Tapas Plus is the perfect place for a traditional Spanish experience.

The English Rose Cafe is a great little cafe in the heart of Boscombe, offering an amazing breakfast and traditional English menu. The atmosphere is one of a traditional English cafe, with a friendly and welcoming staff. Prices are very attractive, and the food is delicious. The roast beef is the best tasting roasts in Bournemouth, and the omelette is fluffy, gooey and delicious. People watching is also a great experience, and a visit to the English Rose Cafe is highly recommended.

SimSim is an authentic Middle Eastern restaurant located in Bournemouth that offers a truly unique dining experience. From the moment you walk in, you will be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the owner and treated to a refreshing lemon-mint smoothie. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, from the flavorful Mussakhan wrap to the lahm baajeen with cheese Manaaesh. The falafel is also a must-try, with its crispy exterior and fluffy interior bursting with delightful spices.

What sets SimSim apart is the cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff and inviting ambiance create a sense of comfort and familiarity, making it the perfect place to take your family and enjoy a delicious meal. To top it off, the restaurant also offers complimentary desert bites when you pay the bill.

Smokin Aces – Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge is a vibrant and lively bar with friendly staff and a great selection of cocktails, spirits, and drinks on tap. The downstairs seating area provides a spacious atmosphere and the bar is filled with like-minded people out to have a good time. The bar staff, manager, and security are all welcoming and accommodating, making it a great place for all age groups. Live music and talented mixologists add to the atmosphere, creating a memorable experience for visitors. With delicious drinks and a fun atmosphere, its the perfect place for a night out.

Level8IGHT The Sky Bar is a luxurious and modern sky bar located on the 8th floor of the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth. It offers stunning views of the town center and the beach, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening or an afternoon tea with friends. The decor is comfortable and beautifully done, and the bar is lit up at night for a special atmosphere. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the cocktail menu is extensive and creative. The food is excellent, with handmade cakes and other treats that are sure to please. The experience is made even more special by the attentive service and the beautiful views.

Bar So is a popular cocktail bar in Bournemouth renowned for its perfect cocktails and lively atmosphere. It offers great deals like 2-4-1, as well as delicious Asian food provided by the restaurant next door. The music by the DJs is also praised, giving the club an atmosphere reminiscent of London clubs. However, customers have reported unprofessional and abusive behaviour from the bouncers and have advised to avoid the place.

Chaplins & The Cellar Bar is a great quirky pub in Boscombe town centre with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. Outside, there is a beer garden and the cellar is just as interesting, hosting bands and singer songwriters. Inside, the decor is full of Charlie Chaplin themed art and the food is freshly cooked and delicious. With an award winning restaurant, Modern Times, and a wide selection of beers, Chaplins & The Cellar Bar is an inviting and unique place to visit. Whether youre after a tasty meal, a few drinks, or a night of live music, this is the perfect spot for a memorable experience.

Key West Bar & Grill is a special place, offering a stunning view and a unique atmosphere. With attentive and accommodating staff, beautiful decor, and delicious food and drinks, this is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. Customers have praised the service and food, and have enjoyed watching the airshow from the pier. Highly recommended.