Bournemouth has been a favoured destination for families for over 150 years, offering a blend of award-winning sandy beaches, lush green spaces, and attractions designed with children in mind. The town is particularly accessible for families, featuring pushchair-friendly paths and facilities that cater to all ages, from toddlers taking their first steps to teenagers seeking independent exploration. A long weekend of 3 to 4 days is generally sufficient to enjoy the beach, key attractions, and relaxed exploring, while a week allows for day trips to surrounding areas. The following guide details the best free activities available in Bournemouth for families, based on verified information.
Beach and Coastal Activities
The primary draw for families visiting Bournemouth is the coastline. The main beach features soft golden sand that stretches for miles, providing an ideal setting for building sandcastles, playing beach cricket, and paddling in the sea. The water is generally calm, though supervision of children around water is always required. During the peak season (May to September), lifeguards are present on the main beaches, and the gentle slope of the shore makes it safe for paddling.
Beyond the main sands, there are several specific coastal spots that offer free entertainment:
- Bournemouth Pier: Walking along Bournemouth Pier is a free activity that offers views of the coastline and the bustling beach atmosphere.
- Boscombe Pier: This pier offers more than just a stroll. It features a bouldering area and an outside gym, allowing energetic children to explore and burn off energy while parents enjoy the seaside breeze. It is recommended to wear comfortable sneakers for the bouldering and to bring water and snacks.
- Hengistbury Head: Located slightly outside the immediate town centre, Hengistbury Head is a dramatic headland and nature reserve. It offers expansive views, riverbank scenery, and trails suitable for all ages. It is dog-friendly and family-friendly. Visitors can enjoy long walks, spot wading birds, and explore the landscape. While entry is free, parking charges may apply. It is advisable to choose a calm day for easier walking and to wear sturdy shoes. For those short on time, a short loop walk provides the best views.
- Coastal Walks: The Bournemouth Coast Path is a 20-mile public path that is entirely free to enjoy. A popular route is the walk west toward Sandbanks, which offers breathtaking views across Poole Bay. For those feeling energetic, the walk can be extended to Swanage.
Parks and Gardens
Bournemouth is home to extensive garden areas that are open to the public free of charge. These green spaces provide a break from the sand and offer opportunities for picnics, strolls, and play.
- Central Gardens: This area includes a playground suitable for children. The gardens feature open lawns where children can wander and families can relax. The blend of open space and shaded walkways makes it ideal for a late morning stroll or an active afternoon.
- The Three Main Gardens: The town features three main gardens—Upper, Central, and Lower—which are all open to the public year-round without charge.
- Alum Chine Tropical Gardens: This location offers lush greenery and notably features a pirate-themed play park, which is a highlight for younger children looking for adventure.
- Poole Quay and Baiter Park: Located nearby, these areas offer free waterfront views and picnic spots.
Cultural and Indoor Attractions
While many free activities are outdoors, there are cultural options that do not require an admission fee.
- Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum: Entry to the museum is free. It is a fascinating venue for families interested in art and history. Additionally, the Russell-Cotes outdoor terrace café is accessible without paying admission to the gallery itself. Visitors can enjoy sweeping sea views from the terrace, making it a relaxing pause between activities. It serves as a free photo spot with the sea as a backdrop.
- Aviary: While not a standalone attraction, the aviary located near the garden areas is a pleasant, free addition to a visit, allowing children to spot birds.
Seasonal Events and Other Free Activities
Bournemouth hosts various seasonal events that are free to attend.
- Bournemouth Air Festival: During the summer, this festival becomes a free, family-friendly spectacle.
- Seasonal Events: Other free outdoor events include fireworks and free outdoor concerts.
- Poole Quay: Offers free waterfront views and is a good spot for a picnic.
Practical Tips for Families
To make the most of a visit to Bournemouth, families should consider the following practical advice:
- Packing for the Beach: When planning a beach day, essential items include sun cream, spare clothes, towels, buckets and spades, snacks, drinks, and a first aid kit. Warm layers are also recommended as coastal weather can change quickly.
- Accessibility: Bournemouth is noted for its accessibility. There are no "nightmare pushchair wrestling" situations, and paths are generally pushchair-friendly.
- Facilities: The town is well-equipped for families, with friendly welcomes and attention to detail. Ice cream kiosks are available in the garden areas.
- Age Suitability: Bournemouth suits all age groups. Toddlers enjoy the beach and gentle attractions; school-age children (6-12) benefit from adventure activities and hands-on experiences; and teenagers enjoy water sports and independent exploration.
- Itinerary Planning: A mix of free activities and optional paid experiences can be used to build a perfect itinerary. Packing a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or by the sea helps manage costs. The Bournemouth Travel Guide can assist in discovering hotels and day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bournemouth gardens free to visit? Yes, all three main gardens (Upper, Central, and Lower) are open to the public year-round without charge.
Is Hengistbury Head free to enter? Absolutely. The trails, beach, and nature reserve are completely free, with optional low-cost extras like the land train (parking charges may apply).
Can you walk the Bournemouth Coast Path for free? Yes. The 20-mile path is public and entirely free to enjoy.
Is Bournemouth beach safe for young children? Yes, main beaches have lifeguards during peak season (May-September), with gentle slopes perfect for paddling. However, supervision is always necessary around water.
What are the best free things to do with kids in Bournemouth? The beach, Central Gardens playground, all garden areas, Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, and walking Bournemouth Pier are completely free. Hengistbury Head walks cost nothing too (parking charges apply).
What should I pack for a Bournemouth beach day with kids? Sun cream, spare clothes, towels, buckets and spades, snacks, drinks, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget entertainment for car journeys and warm layers, as coastal weather changes quickly.
Are Bournemouth attractions open year-round? Most major attractions operate year-round with reduced winter hours. Beach activities are seasonal, but there is plenty of indoor fun during colder months.
What age kids work best for Bournemouth activities? Bournemouth suits all ages brilliantly! Toddlers love the beach and gentler attractions, school-age kids (6-12) get the most from adventure activities and hands-on museums, while teenagers enjoy water sports and more independent exploration.
Conclusion
Bournemouth offers a comprehensive range of free activities suitable for families with children of all ages. The town’s assets include its expansive sandy beaches, extensive parklands, and cultural venues like the Russell-Cotes Museum. Specific highlights such as the pirate-themed play park at Alum Chine, the bouldering at Boscombe Pier, and the nature trails at Hengistbury Head provide varied experiences without cost. Seasonal events like the Air Festival add to the appeal. With proper planning, such as packing picnics and checking opening times, families can enjoy a cost-effective holiday in this coastal town.