Bournemouth Pier stands as a historic testament to the town’s Victorian-era origins as a seaside resort. While there has been a pier at Bournemouth since 1856, the structure that graces the shoreline today, stretching over 304 metres, was completed in the early 20th century. It remains the central focus of the beachfront, a grand and enduring symbol of traditional British coastal leisure. Today, the pier is all about action and great views. You can fuel up with a coffee and a pasty at the entrance before heading straight for the award-winning RockReef, an indoor adventure playground where you can tackle climbing walls or take a leap of faith. For the biggest rush, launch off the tower on the PierZip, the world's first pier-to-shore zip wire, soaring right over the waves. After all that, settle in at the Key West Bar & Restaurant at the pier's end. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with fantastic food, live music, and those unbeatable panoramic sea views.

Transformed from meadows into formal gardens in the 1860s, the Bournemouth Central Gardens are a true reflection of Victorian aesthetic ideals. Today, this verdant oasis at the town's core serves as a hub for all sorts of summertime pursuits.

Established as a Dominican friary in 1225, the Black Abbey has seen plagues, sieges, and upheaval. Restored and opened as a public place of worship in 1864, the friary boasts stunning stained glass windows and interesting interiors.

If souvenirs are what you are looking for, There are many shops closely spaced close to the port where you can buy jewellery, rum, cigars and other gifts. If you want to pick up some last-minute toiletries or snacks, there is a Ram's Super market at walking distance from the port.