Situated on England's south coast, Bournemouth is a classic seaside town which boasts 11 kilometres of sandy beaches, major concert venues and a host of bars and restaurants.
It's the perfect place to explore England's Jurassic Coast, whose cliffs tell the story of the past 180 million years. Renting your own Bournemouth holiday letting will enable you to get to the heart of the town and discover its surroundings as though you were local.
How to get to Bournemouth
The South Western Main Line connects Bournemouth with London, with frequent trains serving Southampton, Winchester and Basingstoke. Bournemouth is also well served by coach services, which link the town with London and other major cities.
Bournemouth Airport links to the Mediterranean and Western Europe, making a Bournemouth beach holiday a great option for visitors from the continent. Seasonal services fly further afield and the city has plenty of car hire companies and taxi firms enabling easy transport to Bournemouth holiday lettings.
What to eat in Bournemouth
One of the best things about staying in a Bournemouth holiday rental is that you can easily cook whatever you like at home. But if you choose to venture out, Bournemouth boasts some terrific seafood restaurants, with fresh fish landing on its shores seven days a week. Savour five star cuisine at the Crab on Exeter Road, or head to Westbourne's well loved Chez Fred for some good old fashioned fish and chips.
For something a bit different, Miri's restaurant on Bourne Avenue offers home-style Czech cuisine, while Ko Thai Tapas serves authentic Thai cuisine in Westbourne. But don't be afraid to be adventurous. From traditional Dorset cream teas to high class champagne breakfasts, Bournemouth offers a myriad of culinary experiences and almost every street is home to something exciting!
Beach weather in Bournemouth
The weather in Bournemouth can be changeable, although it experiences less rain than the national average. Expect summer temperatures of 12-20°C. Booking your own Bournemouth holiday rental will ensure that you have somewhere warm and comfortable to retreat to at the end of a long day.
What to do: Bournemouth's top attractions
Bournemouth enjoys some of Britain's warmest sea temperatures, and Bournemouth holiday rentals are the perfect option for a trip to the beach. Most Bournemouth holiday lettings are cloes to the sea. From festivals, shops and restaurants, to places to sunbathe, Bournemouth's coast offers something for everyone.
Head away from the sea and you'll come to Bournemouth's famed Victorian Gardens. For a tropical treat, the Tropical Gardens offer something a little different, while there are many beautiful trails in and around Bournemouth for walkers and cyclists to enjoy.
But if you're itching to spend some money, Bournemouth can help you there too! High street names sit alongside quirky, independent shops on the pedestrianised high street. Pokesdown's vintage quarter offers plenty of opportunities for a good rummage, while Westbourne's open air market stocks local products.
If you've got the travel bug and have a few extra days, head to the neighbouring counties of Somerset, Hampshire and Wiltshire to discover yet more exquisite coastline, beautiful countryside and traditional delicacies such as cheddar cheese, English wines and ciders, and artisan pastries.
Bournemouth's art and culture
Bournemouth's two iconic piers are within easy reach of most Bournemouth holiday lettings. But for a more detailed glimpse at the town's culture, head to the Russell-Cotes art gallery and museum, situated on the East Cliff Promenade. The museum holds an impressive collection of treasures from around the world and hosts regular exhibitions.
Bournemouth's very own symphony orchestra holds frequent performances throughout the city, and there are so many festivals and performances held throughout the town each month that it's hard to keep up. Arts Bournemouth is responsible for many of these activities, so be sure to check out what events they have on while you're staying in your Bournemouth holiday rental.
Bournemouth nightlife
There's no shortage of night time activities to explore from your Bournemouth holiday letting. The Old Fire Station is one of the town's best loved student venues. Hosting an eclectic mix of nights, from Brit pop to dance, this is the place for cheap beer and a friendly crowd.
For a more relaxed vibe, head to 1812 at the Royal Exeter Hotel for cocktails and some very grown-up live music. If you're up for a night of sweaty dancing, head to Halo which is arguably Bournemouth's best club.
For those who prefer the quiet life, why not order a takeaway and relax in your Bournemouth holiday rental? Or head to the Triangle for dinner, with its sophisticated collection of cafés and eateries.
Cultural delights in Bournemouth
Bournemouth Beach
The quaint Bournemouth Beach offers plenty of family-friendly activities, such as a climbing centre and a zip wire over the sea. Surrounded by stylish cafes, bars and souvenir kiosks, Bournemouth Beach is a great place to pass the day.
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Housed in a Grade II listed building at East Cliff, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the art-loving Victorian couple Merton and Annie Russell Cotes, and Bournemouth's history.
Lower Gardens
A short walk from the main pier, Lower Gardens engrosses visitors with floral displays, an interesting aviary and free bandstand entertainment.
Oceanarium
The Oceanarium invites visitors to watch sea creatures interact in their natural environment. Feed the turtles and soak in ocean views at the ambient café .
Bournemouth Pier
The entrance to the pier features a fun games arcade, as well as souvenir and ice cream shops. Enjoy a hot chocolate as the jet skiers race by.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical availability of vacation rentals in Bournemouth?
At the moment, there are 2,847 vacation homes from 21 different providers in Bournemouth.
What are the most popular vacation home amenities in Bournemouth?
When looking to book a vacation home in Bournemouth, the most requested amenities include Pets allowed, Internet, and Kitchen.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Bournemouth?
Yes, there are 696 pet-friendly vacation rentals in Bournemouth, with an average nightly price of $442.
What's the best month to visit Bournemouth?
The warmest time of year in Bournemouth is July and August, with the nightly price of a vacation home starting at $59.