Bournemouth

100 GREAT THINGS TO DO AND SEA 2010/11

Bournemouth Bournemouth Air Festival Castles & Stately Homes

Cathedrals & Churches Coast & Countryside Cultural Heritage

Energy Factor Family Fun Gardens

Museums Trips & Tours Aquarium, Farms

& Wildlife Parks

Tel 0845 051 1700

www.bournemouth.co.uk
4
 Bournemouth
Welcome to
Bournemouth
Situated on the sunny South Coast
of England, Bournemouth is a year
round holiday and short break
haven. Soak up the atmosphere and
experience the unrivalled attractions
of an award-winning Victorian town
nestled in amongst some stunning
scenery and breathtaking sights.
Bournemouth has consistently won
awards for the quality, safety and
cleanliness of its golden, sandy
beaches. The sheltered Bay offers
beautiful vistas and on a clear day
you can easily see the Needles on
the Isle of Wight and Old Harry’s
Rocks over in the Purbecks.
Combined with beautiful parks and
gardens, and with “100 great things
to do and sea” in and around the
area, Bournemouth ensures you
are truly spoilt for choice!
Bournemouth is home to quality
Disclaimer: Details correct at time of press. Please note details are subject to change and we
advise you to check all details when finalising any arrangements. Bournemouth Tourism cannot
be responsible for any errors, omissions or changes.
attractions, beautiful beaches, live
entertainment, chic boutiques and
high street shopping, gourmet
dining, history, heritage, culture
and watersports so there’s plenty
to keep everyone entertained.
Bournemouth’s wealth of
attractions include the ‘Oceanarium’
- a chance to discover what lives in
the depths of the world’s oceans,
the ‘All Fired Up’ Ceramics Café
where you can paint your chosen
souvenir, the Russell-Cotes Art
Gallery & Museum and the
Bournemouth tethered balloon ride
in the Lower Gardens. In the
evening you can enjoy one of the
many shows, concerts or plays.
Don’t miss the event of the
summer - the Bournemouth Air
Festival (19 - 22 August 2010) - a
spectacular, FREE, four-day family
event with a feast of daring air
displays, awesome on-the-ground
action and superb evening
entertainment. For more information
visit www.bournemouth.co.uk
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 Bournemouth’s
Highlights 2010
Pinewalk Art Exhibition
22 May - 5 September
This open air art exhibition is in the
Lower Gardens, by the aviary next
to Westover Road.

Mela Festival
13 June
Kings Park, Bournemouth.
Multicultural festival.

Bourne Free
9 - 11 July
Bournemouth Pride Festival

Kid’s Family Fun Festival

August Dates TBC*
Summer entertainment for children.

Bournemouth Carnival Week

2 - 8 August

Flowers by Candlelight
4, 11, 18, 25 August
Help continue a Victorian tradition
by lighting some of the hundreds
of coloured candles in displays
throughout the gardens.
Please note all events and dates
Bournemouth Air Festival are subject to change. Please
19 - 22 August check our website
A four day spectacular and www.bournemouth.co.uk or call
admission is free. With up to four us on 0845 051 1700 for details
hours of dazzling airborne action and a full events listing.
over the sea every day. *TBC provisional dates, please check before
making arrangements.

Harley Davidson Rally

25 September TBC*

Littledown Fireworks
6 November

Christmas Markets
18 November until Christmas
Visit Bournemouth Square to find
festive atmosphere. The aroma of
Gluhwein fills the air and a range of
festive food fayre is available.

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5
 Castles and Palace House, Beaulieu

Stately Homes
Bournemouth and the surrounding
areas are steeped in history - from
Athelhampton House, Lulworth
Castle, Longleat House and
Beaulieu Palace House. You don’t
have to travel far to indulge your
curiosity - magnificent stately
homes, majestic castles and
remarkable ruins await, offering an
exhilarating look at a bygone era.
The magnificent 17th century
Lulworth Castle, set against a
backdrop of extensive parkland is a
spectacle in itself. Explore the
fascinating history through various
information displays and exhibitions
and don’t forget to climb the Tower
for spectacular views. The castle
offers a packed programme of events
throughout the year including the
Athelhampton Great Hall
lively summer jousting shows.

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 Athelhampton House
Athelhampton House is another site
to behold, with stunning interiors,
antique furnishings, paintings and
porcelain. The extensive gardens,
with their ham stone courts, water
features and creative planting are
delightful throughout the seasons.
The river walk takes you through a
natural habitat along the banks of
the River Piddle and the historic
dovecote with its white doves
occupying the side lawn.
Formerly the 13th Century Great
Gatehouse of Beaulieu Abbey,
Palace House is set in glorious
gardens and grounds. Today the
house is a mixture of Victorian and
medieval Gothic with 18th century
fortification styles.
Longleat House is home to the 7th
Marquess of Bath, set within 900
acres of magnificent ‘Capability’
Brown landscaped parkland with a
further 8000 acres of woodland,
lakes and farmland.
Arundells
Lulworth Castle
Visit the house and garden at
Arundells, in The Close at Salisbury,
which was Sir Edward Heath's
home for the last 20 years of his life.
Enjoy the experience of seeing his
home and its contents as they were
when he was living there, and
discover more about the former
Prime Minister. The house is
surrounded by a beautiful two-acre
walled garden stretching down to
the River Avon.
Don’t forget to visit the Russell -
Cotes Art Gallery & Museum in
Bournemouth. A unique cliff-top
historic house, museum and gallery
offering something for all the family.
No car? No problem! You can still
explore some of these fascinating
places by public transport or by an
escorted tour. Simply contact the
Bournemouth Tourist Information
Centre for more details on 0845
051 1700 or visit
www.bournemouth.co.uk
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
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 Cathedrals
and Churches
Though famed for its beaches and
vibrancy, in contrast, Bournemouth
and its surrounding areas are home
to churches and cathedrals of
fascinating cultural, historical and
national significance.
Bournemouth’s most famous literary
Salisbury Cathedral
association is with the Shelley family.
Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein
and wife of the romantic poet Percy
Bysshe Shelley, is buried in St
Peters Church graveyard, along with
- as legend has it - the heart of her
husband. The church contains fine wall
paintings, excellent stained glass and
holds recitals and concerts throughout
the year. Nearby is stunning St
Stephen’s Church where Prince Oscar
II of Norway was married in 1888.
Salisbury Cathedral is perhaps Sarum College
Britain’s finest medieval cathedral.
It offers a warm welcome to the
250,000+ who visit each year to
marvel at the peace and beauty of
the 750 year old building and admire
Britain’s tallest spire. The finest
original copy of the 1215 Magna
Carta is on permanent display to
visitors in the Chapter House and
the magnificent new font and water
sculpture by William Pye now stands
proudly in the centre of the Nave.
Within Salisbury Close is Sarum
College an ecumenical study and St. Peters Church
research centre offering courses,
conferences and public events.
Visit their bookshop, Salisbury's
most established independent
Christian and theological bookshop.
In addition, visit the magnificent
11th Century Christchurch Priory
famous for its Miraculous Beam,
Beaulieu Abbey (founded in 1204
by Cistercian monks) and The
Minster in the market town of
Wimborne which contains the only
Beaulieu Abbey
royal brass in England.

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9

Poole Harbour
Photo courtesy of Sue Sieger
Coast and
Countryside
Stay in Bournemouth and discover
and explore the surrounding
coastline and countryside.
The breathtaking Dorset coastline
offers everything from picturesque
harbours and long sandy beaches to
striking cliff-top formations, hidden
coves and rock pools. At 185 million
years old, the Jurassic Coast is
England’s only natural World
Heritage Site formed of Jurassic,
Triassic and Cretaceous rocks.
To the east of Bournemouth is
Christchurch, a picturesque,
town with stone cobbled streets
and a delightful quay, offering
spectacular walks, fishing and
bird watching. To the west of
Bournemouth lies Poole - famed
for its watersports and beaches.
Beaulieu - Photo Courtesy of
New Forest District Council
10
Old Harry Rocks
It’s also home to Poole Harbour,
the world’s second largest natural
harbour after Sydney.
For a more bespoke ‘off the
beaten track’ feel why not
immerse yourself in rural Dorset?
Unearth and explore hidden gems
like ancient woodlands, open
heathland, historic market towns
and quaint villages.
The ancient New Forest is
England’s newest National Park
and is only a 30 minute drive from
Bournemouth. The New Forest is a
walkers dream with beautiful open
spaces, forest glades and tranquil
footpaths which remain largely
unchanged from the days when
William the Conqueror used it as
his Royal Playground from 1079.
For more information about
booking a personal or organised
tour see page 35 under our Trips
and Tours section.
Milton Abbas
 Cultural Heritage
A five day event attracting over
200,000 visitors, the Great Dorset
Steam Fair is now widely recognised
as the National Heritage Show. The
show covers over 600 acres with
exhibits including steam engines,
hundreds of craft stalls, heavy horse
displays and a funfair- a fabulous day
out for the whole family and there is The Great Dorset Steam Fair
always something new to see!
This year Bournemouth Seafront Bournemouth Air Festival
will host the Bournemouth Air
Festival (19 - 22 August 2010) - a
not to be missed four day
spectacular with awesome aerial
displays, superb on-the-ground
action and magical evening
entertainment. Admission is FREE!
For full details of festivals and events
in the area contact the Bournemouth
Tourist Office on 0845 051 1700 or
visit www.bournemouth.co.uk

The GreaT DorSeT 1st to 5th

STeam FaIr SepTember
2010
The National Heritage Show Nr. Blandford, Dorset

If you are looking for an

excellent fun and action
packed day out for all the
family, you’ll love the
Great Dorset Steam Fair.
From small beginnings this
annual event has become one of
the favoured places for those
interested in how people lived, being one of Europe’s largest
worked and played in bygone outdoor event locations and is
years and it is now widely regularly attended by over
recognised as “THE” National 200,000 visitors from both the
Heritage Show as well as being UK and abroad.
regarded as the leading show of
its type in the world. The Visit this colourful show once
spectacle covers an enormous and you’ll be hooked for life.
showground, at over 600 acres You must go!

TElEpHoNE: (01258) 860361 www.gdsf.co.uk

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 Energy Factor Salisbury Racecourse

Thrills, spills and chills – there’s

action and adventure for everyone
in and around Bournemouth and
the surrounding areas. There’s
outdoor exhilaration aplenty
including watersports, karting,
cycling, coasteering, high-wire
adventure and dancing, or if it’s a
more traditional affair you’re after
why not make use of the many
bowling greens, beautiful golf
Land & Wave Ltd
courses or beach games?
The 420 metre outdoor circuit
allows you to race on the 200cc Biz
Karts round the twists and turns of
the Matchams Outdoor Karting
Circuit. Long straights, fast corners
and tight hairpin bends ensure a
great day out. For the younger
driver (as well as adults) you can
race on the purpose built 100 metre
track with Formula ‘K’ Karts.

Tel: 07851 730000

MATCHAMS LEISURE PARK,
HURN ROAD, NEAR RINGWOOD
BH24 2BT

Race on our 200cc Biz karts round the twists and turns of the fantastic
Matchams Karting Circuit, long straights, fast corners and tight hairpin bends,
at Matchams Karting we have it all.
Our 420 metre, outdoor karting circuit in Bournemouth is the ideal venue for:
Stag and Hen parties • Birthday Parties • Corporate Functions • Open Events
Or just a great day out with friends.

www.matchamskarting.co.uk
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 SAliSBURy RAcEcoURSE
(only 55 minutes from Bournemouth)
2010 race DayS
Sun 2 May, Thurs 13 May, Thurs 20 May (Evening), Tues 8 June, Sun 13 June,
Wed 23 June, Sun 27 June, Sat 10 July (‘ladies Evening’ followed by Girls Allowed,
the excellent Girls Aloud tribute band), Sat 24 July (Evening Racing followed by Killer
Queen, the outstanding Queen tribute band), Wed 11 & Thurs 12 Aug (‘Salisbury
Splendour’ - featuring the two big races of the year), Fri 20 Aug (Evening Racing
followed by the brilliant Melissa Totten as Madonna), Thurs 2 Sept, Wed 29 Sept and
Mon 11 oct (Free Admission Raceday).

admission £18, £11 or £6

book tickets early by visiting www.salisburyracecourse.co.uk
and get 10% off admission prices!
accompanied children aged under 16 are Free
children’s entertainment at weekends, evenings & all august race meetings
Giant TV screen opposite Grandstand on all racedays
Salisbury racecourse, Netherhampton, Salisbury, Wiltshire Sp2 8pN
please call 01722 326461 or visit www.salisburyracecourse.co.uk
for more details including advanced booking rates and opening times

If you fancy a flutter, head to Park, an uplifting philosophy of

picturesque Salisbury Racecourse
and get ready to cheer on your
favourite with the family! Rival Ascot
at ‘Ladies Evening’ (10 July 2010) or
join the fun of ‘Salisbury Splendour’
featuring the two big races of the
year (11 & 12 August 2010). Race
days are scheduled from early May
through until early October.
Take to the trees with Go Ape!
Situated at Moors Valley Country
swapping “I can’t” for “I can”
means a truly unique experience
of daunting rope bridges, Tarzan
swings and zip slides. Crawl, climb
and slide at the award-winning
high-wire forest adventure course,
set high up in the tree tops above
the forest floor!
Learn to Surf… Surf Steps,
Bournemouth Surf School is
situated on Bournemouth beach,

Matchams Karting

Go Ape!

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 Superhawk Marine
500m from Boscombe pier and is
the only level 1-4 British Surfing
Association (BSA) Approved Surf
School based on the South Coast.
They offer a selection of different
courses to suit all levels and
requirements.
Why not try the truly original Jet
Ski Safari? Don a Jet Ski for a
guided tour of Poole Harbour, the
second largest natural harbour in
the world. The safari exudes
14
Surf Steps
exclusivity and explores places
that would otherwise be
unreachable by foot. The
spectacular Jurassic coastline from
Bournemouth to Swanage is just
one of the breathtaking sites you’ll
have the chance to take in.
Land & Wave is a provider of
alternative education, adventurous
activities and outdoor services.
From rock-climbing, coasteering
and high ropes to kayaking and
 LEARN TO SURF
0800 043 7873
www.bournemouthsurfschool.co.uk
canoeing, mountain biking
experiences and much more
spread through a variety of
fantastic locations in Dorset.
Indulge in the rare combination
of exhilaration and relaxation on
board a luxurious high
performance Sunseeker. Based in
Poole Harbour, Superhawk Marine
Charters is within easy reach of
popular locations and will take you
on a variety of bespoke itineraries
for an unrivalled luxury experience.
Bournemouth beach is ideal for
relaxing with a book, building a
sandcastle and paddling in the
sea, but if you’re feeling a little more
adventurous, Bournemouth’s coastline
is bursting with heart-pounding,
adrenaline pumping watersports!
The Bournemouth and Poole
coastline offers over 25 watersports
from surfing, stand up paddle-
boarding, canoeing, kite-surfing,
Jet Ski Safaris
15
sea-kayaking, wind-surfing, cruises
and fishing. For more information
visit: www.coastwiththemost.com
This website has information on
the various watersports as well as
useful events and information on
sea conditions.
Bournemouth is famous for its
bowling greens and golf courses.
The bowling greens in and around
Bournemouth are set in beautiful
surroundings some with cliff top
views and others amongst garden
parkland. With many golfers keen
to play a variety of courses for the
experience and challenge,
Bournemouth offers a fantastic
choice, complemented with great
locations, character and scenery.
For full details and information
on sporting events and activities
in the area contact the TIC on
0845 051 1700 or visit
www.bournemouth.co.uk

ADVENTURE, EXPLORE, ENJOY

Land and Wave offer:

Climbing • Coasteering • High Ropes
Kayaking & Canoeing • Mountain biking
and much more
Tel: 01202 460 440 / 07958 666 372

www.landandwave.co.uk

Tailored jetski, yacht and rib charter

Jetski hire with a difference
Film and photography services
RYA Jetski and Powerboat training
Jetski and wakeboard packages
Corporate events

www.jetskisafaris.co.uk
07803 620 650
POOLE DORSET

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 Family Fun
Bournemouth is great for family fun -
whether it’s the seaside, adventure,
entertainment, countryside or
culture, it’s a great resort to stay and
discover the surrounding area jam-
packed with fantastic days out.
Bournemouth has seven miles of
glorious sandy beaches and with
four European Blue Flags, a Wimborne Minster Model Town
Quality Coast Award and a Green
Tourism Business Scheme Award, Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway
it’s no wonder the environmental
agency ENCAMS voted it the Best
Beach in the UK.
Visit the Bournemouth Seafront
Information Office (based on
Undercliff Drive) for all your
questions about deckchairs,
sunbeds, beach hut hire and
anything else you may think of.
Why not hire one of Bournemouth's
1400 lovely beach huts. They are

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 Eastleigh Lakeside
Steam Railway
Lakeside Country Park
Wide Lane Eastleigh SO50 5PE

Runs every Saturday & Sunday throughout

the year and daily mid July to mid Sept
plus all school holidays 10am - 4.30pm
(4pm winter months)
Tel: 023 8061 2020 www.steamtrain.co.uk
available for hire all year round, on Gardens. The family friendly beach
a daily or weekly basis. For a really area also has a pirate-themed
chic option, book one of the children’s playground. You can
designer beach pods opposite the also head east to Boscombe and
new artificial surf reef at Boscombe. visit the gardens which feature a
For further details telephone, kids water play area, crazy golf
Bournemouth Seafront Information course and a café.
Centre on 01202 451781.
Don’t forget to take a stroll along
At Bournemouth Pier you can Bournemouth Pier, which boasts its
catch the land train and head west own theatre, café, boat rides and
towards award-winning Alum history trail - not forgetting the
Chine, home to beautiful Tropical fantastic views.

Adventure Wonderland Poole Pottery

18
 All Fired Up

Splashdown

Bournemouth is home to an array For a full programme of events

of superb attractions and a and festivals in the area visit
crammed calendar of activities, www.bournemouth.co.uk or call
including this year’s Bournemouth 0845 051 1700.
Air Festival. Taking place 19 - 22
Should you be looking for live
August 2010 across Bournemouth
entertainment, the Regent Centre
seafront, it is a four-day-feast of
in Christchurch, the Pier Theatre,
fantastic FREE entertainment in
Pavilion Theatre and Bournemouth
the air, on the ground and in the
International Centre (BIC) also
evening. The festival will also
feature fantastic entertainment,
feature three incredible
concerts, comedy shows and
appearances by the world-famous
special events all year round.
Red Arrows.

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2010 Highlights include:
Regent Centre - Christchurch
25 June: Pocket Opera - Studio
Theatre
28 - 31 July: Mack and Mabel
29 September - 1 October: Blood
Brothers: the Play
Pavilion Theatre - Bournemouth
20 July - 14 August: Joseph & the
Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
17 August - 18 August: The Gruffalo
22 September - 9 October:
20
The Sound of Music
BIC - Bournemouth
3 July: Britain’s Got Talent
14 - 17 July: Strictly Come Dancing
- the Professionals
6 November: A Question of
Sport Live
Pier Theatre - Bournemouth
18 July: Spanish Fiesta
7, 14, 21 August: Abba Forever
16 August: The Elvis Legacy
Moors Valley Railway
 Snowtrax
Join in the fun at Wimborne Minster’s
Model Town, set within beautiful
award-winning gardens. Hundreds
of meticulously crafted buildings
create a magical Model Town.
Check out the Wendy playhouses,
the putting green and the new
‘Thomas & Friends’ model railway.
You can even meet Christopher
Awdry (author of Thomas the Tank
Engine). Please visit their website
for dates and details.
Corfe Castle Model Village
Climb aboard Eastleigh Lakeside
Steam Railway to Monks Brook
Halt and have a picnic at the lakes
or enjoy the children’s playground.
Special events throughout the year
include “Day Out With Thomas”
“Summer Steam Gala” and Santa
Specials’ in December. Please
check their website for details.
Poole Pottery’s history in the town
dates back almost 140 years and
has long been recognised as a
21
centre of excellence for the most
skilled craftsmen and artisans.
Watch the Master Potter or design
and decorate you own
personalised piece of pottery.
Don’t forget to visit their shop
which houses the largest selection
of Poole Pottery.
Fun whatever the weather,
Adventure Wonderland has over
30 rides and attractions. Family
favourites include Animal Cuddle
Kids Family Fun Festival
22
Corner, Turbo Teacups, The
Ghastly Galleon, and much more…
Don’t forget to visit the indoor
Aztec adventure centre, Wild
Thing! Throughout 2010 there are
guest appearances and attractions
to the park including Peppa Pig,
Postman Pat and Dora the Explorer.
For a day with a difference visit All
Fired Up Ceramics Café in the
heart of Bournemouth town
centre. All Fired Up offers a wide
Bournemouth Air Festival
 Bournemouth
Beach Hut

Bournemouth’s Upper Gardens

selection of ceramics just waiting
to be hand-painted. Their
ceramics café is the perfect place
for friends to meet, for families to
enjoy time together and for
everyone to be creative.
For wicked water fun head to
Splashdown Water Park at Tower
Park and enjoy over one kilometre
of flumes, slides and tyre rides!
Get ready for Red River Roller, The
Spacebowl, Tennessee Twister or
for more calm then chaos enjoy
the Relaxation Zone.
It’s all aboard the steam train at
Moors Valley Country Park. This one
mile trip runs alongside the lake and
is complete with two stations and
four tunnels. There’s also children’s
play areas, a railway shop and
station buffet. There are a number of
special events throughout the year
such as summer galas, model
railways weekends and Christmas

MOORS VALLEY
RAILWAY
Take a ride on the Great Little Railway at Moors Valley
Country Park. A mile in length, the journey takes you
through two stations, over a bridge, through four tunnels,
past two signal boxes & alongside the lake.
OPENING TIMES - 10.45am - 5.00pm:
Every weekend throughout the year, daily from Spring
Bank Holiday to mid September,
and all school holidays.
Moors Valley Railway, Moors Valley Country Park, Horton
Road, Ashley Heath, Nr Ringwood, Hants, BH24 2ET
Tel: 01425 471415 www.moorsvalleyrailway.co.uk
ENJOYMENT FOR ALL THE FAMILY

THE REGENT CENTRE

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH 01202 499199
FAMily FUN All yEAR RoUND
FilMS, coNcERTS, THEATRE
& cHilDREN’S SHoWS
SEE PROGRAMME OR CALL BOX OFFICE.
www.regentcentre.co.uk
FREE PARKING AT REAR AFTER 7.00PM

23
Santa Specials. Please visit their
website for full details.
A must-visit for theatre lovers is
the art deco Regent Centre in
Christchurch. It is one of the finest
examples of an early 1930’s
cinema to survive in Britain. Its
450 seats are regularly filled with
events from the latest film
releases, to big bands, ballet and
celebrity show stars. The Regent
Centre is also the home venue for
many local amateur companies
who regularly stage productions at
the Cinema.
Tower Park in Poole, offers a
variety of year-round activities.
With a 10 screen multiplex cinema,
bingo, bowling, water park and
children’s activity centre you’re
never short of something to do.
Impressive selections of restaurants and see the friendly staff at
are on hand to pander to your
eating needs.
Bournemouth Beach
24
Visit Corfe Castle Model Village and
see what the castle and village
would have looked like before its
destruction by Cromwell’s troops in
1646. Set in an acre of landscaped
gardens, enjoy the Giant Games for
all the family, the Wildlife Garden,
enchanted fairy garden and the life
size Civil War soldiers, guarding the
castle!
Snowtrax located at Hurn, a short
distance from Bournemouth town
centre, offers the family a chance
to try skiing and snowboarding.
From novices to advanced
enthusiasts, their slopes are suited
for everyone - not forgetting ski-
bobbing, ringos and a great Alpine
Adventure Park.
Visiting Bournemouth for the day,
weekend, or longer stay?... Come
Bournemouth Tourist Information
Centre (TIC) for all their local
knowledge and advice - to make
Surf’s up - Bournemouth
 Land Train - Bournemouth

your visit a truly unforgettable one! way to organise an unforgettable

The TIC has information on
accommodation, places to visit,
activities, entertainment, events
and a range of souvenirs. See
page 34 for full details.
Book your ‘fun’ ahead of your
trip... Book your day trip and
holiday activities in advance in one
place - via Bournemouth Tourism’s
Activity Booking Centre (ABC).
ABC offers you a simple one stop
holiday jam packed with exciting
experiences for all the family.
Full details see page 41,
call 0845 051 1700 or visit
www.bournemouth.co.uk for
further details and click on the
Activity Booking Centre.
Bournemouth and the surrounding
area has it all.. you won’t be stuck
for ideas, just stuck for time to fit
everything in!

come and See... corfe castle and the village

in miniature as it was before its
destruction by cromwell’s troops in 1646
Also... old English landscaped gardens. Wildlife garden
The Square, Corfe Castle catch a glimpse of a fairy in the Enchanted Garden
Working stocks and pillories
life sized civil War soldiers
A selection of giant games for the whole family
The courtyard Tea Room
licensed
open all year round, call for opening times
School holidays: 7 days a week,
April to october: 6 days a week, closed Fridays
November to March: Weekends
public car park in West Street
Tel: 01929 481234 for further details
More than just a Model Village
www.corfecastlemodelvillage.co.uk

25
 Gardens Exbury Gardens

Whilst in Bournemouth take the

time to embrace the wonderful
natural environment. Experience
the stunning gardens, rolling hills,
countryside and surrounding
natural attractions of the Dorset,
New Forest & Hampshire area.
Situated in the heart of
Bournemouth are the award-
winning Grade II Listed Upper,
Central and Lower Gardens. The
beauty of the gardens in
Bournemouth are that they are
adjacent to the sea, so you can
wander off the beach into the
gardens creating a very
Mediterranean atmosphere. With
a Chelsea Flower Show Gold
Medal under their belts, the
gardeners work year round to
create beautiful floral beddings,
ornamental flower pedestals, and
Upper Gardens, Bournemouth

Furzebrook
THE BLUE POOL Wareham BH20 5AR
Tel: 01929 551408 www.bluepooluk.com

CELEBRATE OUR 75th ANNIVERSARY WITH US

A unique and tranquil beauty spot in the midst of the Purbeck Hills famous for its pool
of ever changing colours. An ideal family retreat with children’s Squirrel Hunt and
small play area. Tea House for coffee, light lunches and delicious cream teas.
Museum, gift shops and plant centre. Dogs on leads are
welcome. Some facilities for the less able.
Grounds open 9.30am. Daily March to
end November. Closing Times will vary
Tea House and Shops 10am daily
Easter to end October. Closing times will vary.
Free parking. Signposted off the A351,
south of Wareham.

26
pristine acre upon acre of Victorian
Gardens. A visit to the gardens
will inspire you to start a year-
round riot of colour and scent
sensation in your own garden!
Alum Chine boasts award -
winning tropical gardens
overlooking the Bay, and
Boscombe Chine Gardens are a
perfect place to visit. You can
enjoy a walk along the coastline to
these gardens or take the land
train from Bournemouth Pier.
Set amongst 25 acres of splendour
near Wareham is the fascinating
Blue Pool. This tranquil beauty spot
is an enchanting oasis of peace
where sandy paths interlaced with
heath woodland lead to stunning
views of the Purbeck Hills. There
are benches all around the pool at
strategic points, for people to just
sit and rest, or to contemplate the
ever-changing colour of the water in
the pool.
Compton Acres
Exbury Gardens, located in the
New Forest is a spectacular 200-
acre woodland garden famed for
the Rothschild Collection of
rhododendrons, azaleas and
camellias. Explore by foot, take a
chauffeur buggy tour or enjoy a
20-minute trip on the scenic steam
railway. Feeling inspired? Don’t
forget a visit to their Plant Centre,
to add to your own display.
Compton Acres invites you to take
a journey around 10 acres of
themed gardens and experience -
a one stop tour of the world!
These privately owned themed
gardens include the beautiful
Italian, Japanese and Heather
Gardens, the Wooded Valley and
Wildlife Walk. As well as its
beautiful gardens, there are
exciting shopping opportunities,
restaurants and regular events.
The Blue Pool
27
 Museums
Whether you are after a piece of
tradition, a step back in time or a
touch of contemporary, they all
come together in an array of
marvellous museums offering
hands on displays and interactive
exhibitions where all the family will
discover, learn and explore!
Come and see one of the most Tank Museum
fascinating and unique museums,
the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Museum. A free attraction
comprising of an historic house,
art galleries and museum, a
licensed café, the Russell-Cotes
Shop and a children’s area. It’s an
ideal place for learning, exploring
and socialising.
Events and exhibitions at the
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery include:
21 May - 31 October
Local Ceramics Show

There’s NOSTALGIA, NOVELTY and FUN for all

ages at Britain’s premier Electricity Museum.
All set in a genuine Edwardian power station.
• Plenty for everyone to see and do
• Friendly museum guides give regular hands-on
demonstrations using working models
• Ideal support for schools science curriculum
• Full historic display of electricity supply
• Dozens of early domestic appliances
• Everything from a grapefruit to a generator is
electric - including YOURSELF!

Opening Times: Open Monday to Thursday 12 noon to

4.30pm from Easter to the end of September. During local
school holidays, including half term, also open Fridays.

Free parking on site for Museum visitors.

Admission Prices: Free entry during normal opening hours.

Tel: 01202 480467 Fax: 01202 480468

Website: www.scottish-southern.co.uk/museum
THE OLD POWER STATION, BARGATES, CHRISTCHURCH, DORSET BH23 1QE

28
29
 Fleet Air Arm Museum of Electricity

21 May - 31 October 2010 out what life is like for a tank

Views of Bournemouth crewman and get closer to the
action with the explosive Tank
16 December 2010, 7-9.30pm
Action Days. Don’t miss Tankfest
A Victorian Christmas
2010 taking place 26-27 June.
The Tank Museum brings the story
Set in the New Forest, Beaulieu is
of tanks and tank crew to life,
home to the world famous
supported by the world’s best
National Motor Museum, Palace
collection of tanks and boasting
House, home of the Montagu
action packed live displays during
family, and historic Beaulieu Abbey.
school holidays. Explore the
Be amazed at the collection of 250
trenches of World War One, find
vehicles from the 1800’s to the

30
31

Dorset Teddy Bear Museum
present day. Visit the Motor
Collection, Jack Tuckers 1930’s
garage, and the Ducati Exhibition.
Join in the rides and drives
including Wheels - a space age
pod ride, and the mile long
Monorail. Visit Beaulieu’s
International Autojumble 11-12
September 2010 - the largest
outdoor sale of motoring this side
of the Atlantic!
There’s nostalgia, novelty and fun
for all the family at Britain’s premier
Museum of Electricity in
Christchurch. Friendly museum
guides give regular hands-on
demonstrations using working
models. Set in a genuine
Edwardian power station, housing
hundreds of fascinating electric
displays - it’s where everything’s
electric from trams to grapefruit!
The Fleet Air Arm Museum is
home to Europe’s largest
collection of Naval aircraft, this is
Dinosaur Museum
32
The National
Motor Museum
where museum meets theatre! See
Harriers, helicopters, try the
award-winning Aircraft Carrier
Experience, or climb aboard the
first British-built Concorde
prototype. To celebrate the 100th
anniversary of aviation in the Royal
Navy the Museum have
transformed one of their exhibition
halls to house a major new
exhibition. Don’t miss Yeovilton Air
Day on 10 July 2010.
Children will love Dorchester’s four
great Museums. Visit Ancient
Egypt at the internationally
renowned Tutankhamun Exhibition
and experience the recreation of
Tutankhamun’s tomb and
treasures. Around the corner visit
Ancient China’s 8th Wonder of the
Ancient World, the incredible
Terracotta Warriors Museum. Part
of any Jurassic Coast experience,
is the award-winning Dinosaur
Museum, which combines fossils,
The Red House Museum
 The Red House Museum & Gardens
A charming Georgian building filled with
a rich variety of displays and objects
all with a local theme
Local History • Archaeology • Special Displays
Regular Workshops and Activities • Temporary exhibitions
Costume Gallery • Historic Roses & Herbaceous Borders
Herb Garden • Gift Shop • Coffee Shop • Local Resource Room
Free Admission
Opening Times: Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm • Sunday 2pm to 5pm
Monday closed except on Bank Holidays • Last admission 4:30pm
Quay Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1BU
Tel: 01202 482860 • www.hants.gov.uk/redhouse

skeletons and life-sized dinosaur Salisbury & South Wiltshire

reconstructions with multimedia
hands-on displays. But should
you prefer cuddlier history visit the
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum; from
the earliest teddies to today’s
favourites and people-sized
Edward Bears, they are all waiting
to greet you!
The Red House Museum in
Christchurch is a charming
Georgian building. Built as a
workhouse in 1764, now filled with
a rich variety of displays and
objects which reflect the social
and natural history of the area, its
geology and archaeology. The
beautiful and well tendered garden
includes historic roses and a
walled herb garden. Visit their
website for a list of events and
workshops throughout the year.
For an insight into Salisbury’s past,
visit the Cathedral Close, home to
two fascinating museums.
Museum is located in the King’s
House, a Grade 1 listed building,
the history of which stretches back
to the 13th Century. Salisbury and
South Wiltshire Museum is famed
for its outstanding archaeology
collections, with displays of the
history of Salisbury, ceramics,
costume and regular temporary
exhibitions.
The Rifles (Berkshire & Wiltshire)
Museum tells the story of the
County’s infantry regiments of
Berkshire and Wiltshire - find out
about a soldier’s life over the past
250 years and discover the
fascinating stories behind the
medals. Visitors can enjoy the
beautiful riverside garden with
views of the famous water-
meadows and Salisbury Cathedral.
With so much to discover,
experience, see and do - where
do you start?!!

The Rifles (Berkshire & Wiltshire) Museum Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum

33
 Tourist
Information Centre

Welcomes You! i
Accommodation booking service
Attractions & local event information
Eating Out guide
Coach & theatre tickets
Publications & souvenirs
Group information service
Activity Booking Centre
Tel: 0845 051 1700
Minicom: 01202 454800 Fax: 01202 454799
Website: www.bournemouth.co.uk
Email: info@bournemouth.gov.uk
Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU

34
 Trips and Tours Discover Dorset Tours

Bournemouth lies in the heart of

Dorset on the South Coast with an
expanse of heritage coast and
countryside to explore.
If you are keen to discover areas
both locally and further a field,
Discover Dorset offers day tours to
a wealth of places, Tours include:
The New Forest, Dorset Villages,
Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, the
Jurassic Coast, Stonehenge,
Brownsea Island Ferries
Salisbury, Isle of Wight and Bath.
All tours have been carefully
designed to give personal service
by friendly, knowledgeable local
guides… don’t forget your camera!
Brownsea Island Ferries are Poole's
famous yellow boats that offer the
perfect day out for all. Cruises
depart from Poole Quay and
Sandbanks. Visit Brownsea Island
from Poole or Sandbanks, the least
expensive crossing is from
Sandbanks which, incidentally, is the
original route taken by Lord Baden
Powell in 1907 on a yellow boat!
Other cruises with Brownsea Island
Ferries include a cruise up the River
Frome to Wareham, The Jurassic
Cruise - an adventure cruise along
our Heritage Coastline and a trip to
Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight.
For more information on Trips and
Tours contact the Tourist Information
Centre on 0845 051 1700.

Small friendly tours with door to door pick up

from your Hotel, Guest House or Language School

DAY TOURS
Jurassic Coast • Durdle Door
Stonehenge • Sailsbury • New Forest
Bath • Oxford • London
Isle of Wight • Portsmouth • Brighton

book at the bournemouth tourist

information Centre or online at
www.discoverdorset.co.uk
tel: 01202 557007 email: info@discoverdorset.co.uk

35
 Oceanarium
Aquarium, Farms
& Wildlife Parks
Whether you are fascinated by
farm life and wild animals or
spellbound by sea creatures or
local conservation, there are plenty
of animal attractions to amaze you
and your family.
Visit the New Forest Wildlife Park
and enjoy their large collection of
European and exotic wildlife. A stroll
The New Forest Wildlife Park
around the woodland pathways
gives you the opportunity to see
otters, owls, deer, pine martins and
Scottish Wildcats. Visit the animal
glasshouse and check on the
badger, foxes and polecats in the
Night Barn.
Sea More at the Oceanarium …
from stunning sharks, rare green
sea turtles and colourful clown fish
to menacing piranhas, venomous

36
37
lionfish and the weirdly wonderful
octopus - they are all waiting to be
discovered! Watch the water come
alive with daily feeding sessions,
accompanied by a fun yet
educational tour.
Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park &
Rescue Centre located in Verwood
offers a unique mix of educational
fun for all ages. Listen and learn
from the interesting daily shows
and hands on activities with the
Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park
& Rescue Centre
38
friendly farm animals. Enjoy the
free wagon and tractor trailer rides.
Libertys Owl, Raptor and Reptile
Centre is home to an amazing
collection of birds of prey, including
eagles, owls and vultures. They
also house a number of reptiles
and other creepy crawlies.
Observe these birds of prey and
reptiles at close hand, through
various spectacular displays held
throughout the day.
Liberty’s Owl, Raptor & Reptile Centre
 Longleat Safari Park
Longleat as featured on BBC Animal
Park offers a wealth of exciting
attractions and events. Get close to
the animals in the Safari Park where
you can see how you measure up
to a giraffe, watch out for the zebras
crossing, wander amongst the
wallabies in Wallaby Wood and be
enthralled by the majestic lions,
tigers, rhino and more..!
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park is
specifically designed for children 8
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park
years and under, offering a full day
out, of play and hands on animal
events at this award-winning
children’s farm. Enjoy the indoor
soft playzone, mini tractors and
playgrounds, bouncy castle and
real cow milking demo.
Stay in Bournemouth and explore
the Jurassic Coastline an area
extremely rich in natural history
and geology. The Jurassic
Coastline cliffs have healthy
39
seabird populations including
Guillemots, Razorbills, Fulmars and
resident Peregrine Falcons. There
are also some great vantage
points for spotting the pods of
dolphins in the waters along the
Dorset coast.
Other rare species to be seen
around Dorset include the Dartford
Warbler, Hobby, Woodlark & the
Duke of Burgundy Fritillary Butterfly.
Explore the New Forest National
40
Park - a royal playground for
William the Conqueror. It remains
largely unchanged with miles and
miles of unspoilt ancient
landscape, wild ponies and deer,
disused railways and leafy lanes.
Bournemouth and the surrounding
area is bursting with nature,
chock-a-block with wildlife and
crammed full of creatures with so
much “to do and sea”, ensure you
don’t miss out.
 Bournemouth’s

Activity
Booking Centre

Your one-stop shop

for activity bookings
Take the strain out of your holiday planning and pre-book a
wide range of unmissable activities prior to arrival in resort.

for further information

Visit www.bournemouth.co.uk
Call 0845 051 1700 to speak to an advisor
Or call into the Tourist Information Centre
You can pick several activities via one easy action,
then all you have to do is enjoy your visit!

Bournemouth Tourist Information Centre

Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU

41
 Tel: 0845 051 1700

Wookey Hole Caves

A37
A39 SHEPTON
M5 MALLET A361
Abbey Ruins
Glastonbury Tor East Somerset
A39 Rural Life Museum Railway
GLASTONBURY A361
TER
Stourhead Gardens
A37 Stourton House Garden
A361

Cadbury Castle
Fleet Air Arm A357
Museum A30
Sandford Orcas
Barrington Court A37 Manor
Garden

A303 YEOVIL Sherborne Sturminster

Castle Newton Mill
ILMINSTER

A30

A37
Forde Abbey Minterne Gardens
A3066
Cerne Abbas Giant
CERNE ABBAS
Mapperton House The Smith’s Arms
(smallest pub in England) Athelhampton House
and Gardens and Gardens
BRIDPORT Wolfeton House
Thomas
LYME REGIS A35 DORCHESTER Hardy's
Aquarium Cottage
Kingston
Dinosaurland Fossil Museum Jur Maurward
The Cobb a ss Abbotsbury Swannery
ic C Children’s Farm Park
oa Sub Tropical Gardens
st
(W
or A354 Mill House
ld
He Cider Museum
Bridport Museum rit
Palmer’s Brewery Tours ag
eS
ite WEYMOUTH
)
Bennett’s Water Gardens
Brewers Quay
Deep Sea Adventure
Nothe Forte
Weymouth SEALIFE Park Portland Bill Lighthouse
Portland Castle

Please note - details are subject

to change and we advise you to
0 10 MILES check all details when finalising
any arrangements
9123 Map correct at time of press

42
 www.bournemouth.co.uk

WARMINSTER

Longleat House Stonehenge A303

& Safari Park A36
Cholderton Charlie’s A338
Farm Park
A350
Heale House
Gardens
Wilton Shopping Village Old Sarum A30
A303 Farmer Giles
Farmstead
Wilton House SALISBURY
A30
Salisbury Racecourse Arundells
Mompesson House
Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury and South Wiltshire
SHAFTESBURY Priest’s House Museum & Garden Sarum College
Gold Hill Minster Church with Chained Library The Rifles (Berkshire & Wilts
Walford Mill Craft Centre A36
Wimborne Minster’s Model Town Breamore House
Melbury Abbas Mill A338
Rockbourne
Larmer Tree Gardens A354 Roman Villa Paultons
A350 Branksome China
Chettle House Edmondsham
The Great Dorset Steam Fair Factory Tours
Knowlton Circles House Rufus Sto
(1 Sept 2010 - 5 Sept 2010) Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park A31
and Church
and Rescue Centre Furzey Gardens
A357 The Royal Signals
Museum Moors Valley Country Park Ringwood Town and
BLANDFORD Moors Valley Railway Country Experience New
FORUM The Blandford Go Ape!
Liberty’s Owl, Raptor &
Fashion Museum RINGWOOD & Reptile Centre
Avon Heath A35
Hall & Woodhouse Country Park
Milton Brewery Tours
Badbury Rings F O
Snowtrax
Abbey Kingston Lacy House
A354 A31 Matchams Karting Burle
WIMBORNE Knoll Gardens
Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Tree MINSTER √ Ridin
and Museum A350 Adventure Wonderland Cruises Sammy Mil
A338 Riverside Walks Motor Cycle
Farmer Palmer’s Courtyard Centre CHRISTCHURCH
A35 Farm Park BOURNEMOUTH Highcliffe
Clouds Hill POOLE Castle B
Ga
Toy Museum
Tank Monkey World Brownsea Hengistbury Head
Museum Island (archaeological site,
golf, land train & walks)
A352 Studland FERRY
A351 Beach
Durdle The Blue Pool Jurassic Coast
Door Corfe Castle (World Heritage Site) 7 Miles of Beac
Model Village AJP Tours
Fossil Forest SWANAGE All Fired Up Ce
Lulworth Castle and Park Swanage Railway Bournemouth B
Lulworth Cove Putlake
Adventure Farm Durlston Country Park Bournemouth In
Bournemouth P
Jurassic Coast Brownsea Island Ferries Ltd Bournemouth S
(World Heritage Site) Compton Acres Gardens Castlepoint Sho
Dinosaur Museum Castaway Charters Discover Dorse
Dorset County Museum Central Park Dorset Cruises
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum Eileen Soper’s Illustrated Worlds Front Bike Hire
The Keep Military Museum Jetski Safaris Golf Central
Maiden Castle Land & Wave Ltd Littledown Leis
Maumbury Rings Poole Pottery Mega Paintball
Mummies Exhibition Poole Speedway Oceanarium
Old Crown Court and Cells Splashdown Water Park Opera House
Roman Town House Superhawk Marine Luxury Charter Pavilion Theatr
Terracotta Warriors Tower Park Russell-Cotes A
Tutankhamun Exhibition Upton Country Park Sorted Surf Sch
Zorbing South UK Ltd Waterfront Museum Streetwise Safe

43
 100 great things to do and sea...

Finkley Down Farm Park

ANDOVER
Museum of the Iron Age
A303
The Hawk Conservancy
and Country Park
A31
A343
A33
ALTON
Museum of M3
Army Flying A30 A34 Jane Austen's
House
Great Hall & King Arthur’s Round Table
Royal Green Jackets Museum A31
The Gurkha Museum
Winchester Cathedral The A32
Wolvesey Palace Watercress Line
Mottisfont Abbey WINCHESTER
and Garden A272
e Museum A3090
Sir Harold
shire) Museum Hillier Gardens M3 Marwell PE
6 ROMSEY Romsey Abbey Wildlife
Broadlands A3
EASTLEIGH A32
Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway
s Park

M27 SOUTHAMPTON
A3(M)
ne Manor Farm Country Park
Longdown S.S. Shieldhall
Activity Farm Eling Southampton M27
Tide Mill Hall of Aviation
The New Forest HAVANT
Forest Museum Wildlife Park
& Visitor Centre A27 Portchester Castle
N E W National Motor Fort Nelson
O R E S T Museum,Calshot
Beaulieu
Castle
Fort Brockenhurst
PORTSMOUTH
GOSPORT
ey Villa A337 Exbury Gardens
Buckler's Hard Royal Marines
ng School Royal Navy Submarine Museum
Spinners Garden Museum
ller Museum of Naval Firepower
e Museum LYMINGTON
Osborne House Blue Reef Aquarium
Mary Rose Ship and Exhibition
raxton Hurst Castle Cruises H.M.S. Victory; H.M.S. Warrior;
ardens Hurst Castle Royal Naval Museum: Action Stations
Yarmouth Castle Carisbrooke Spinnaker Tower
Castle Ruins Castle
Christchurch Priory I S L E OF WIGHT Dinosaur Isle
Museum of Electricity
Place Mill
Red House Museum & Gardens
ches The Regent Centre
eramics Café
Balloon
nternational Centre (BIC)
Parks & Gardens
Surf School (Surf Steps) Approximate
opping Complex Distances from
Bournemouth
et Tours Town Centre

e 10 miles

20 miles
sure Centre
l 30 miles

40 miles
re & Pier Theatre 50 miles
Art Gallery & Museum
hool 60 miles
ety Centre

44
44