Planning a romantic getaway with your other half? From glorious coastal walks to the famous Bournemouth Pier, couples can do plenty of things in Bournemouth. With a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities, this bustling seaside town can be enjoyed all year round, so why not plan your trip today?
Bournemouth is easily accessible via the South Western Railway network. With its station located in the heart of the town, travelling here by public transport simply makes sense. Read on to discover our guide to the best romantic things to do in Bournemouth.
Is there anything more romantic than walking hand-in-hand across a sandy beach with the person you love? With the sound of the waves lapping in the background and the feel of sand between your toes, enjoy an evening stroll along Bournemouth beaches and admire the beautiful coastal view.
There are five beaches in Bournemouth, so if you’re up for the walk, why not check them all out? Bournemouth is one of the safest beaches in the UK, and if you fancy a dip, the best time to swim is between 10:00 and 18:00 when the lifeguards are watching.
How to get there: The beach is a 22-minute walk from Bournemouth station, or you can catch the bus from right outside the train station. Hop on the number 6 towards Bournemouth, ride for just seven minutes and get off at Bournemouth Pier.
Famed for its vibrant explosion of colourful plant life, Lower Gardens is undoubtedly one of the most attractive parks in Bournemouth. Breathe in the floral fragrances as you crunch through pine leaves and admire all the park's natural beauty. There are plenty of events throughout the year, from August’s Candlelight Nights event to the pop-up ice rink that arrives in time for winter.
How to get there: The number 4 bus towards Bournemouth stops right outside Bournemouth station. Ride for seven minutes until you reach Bournemouth Pier, then the gardens are just a minute’s walk away.
Charming and retro, Bournemouth Pier is as nostalgic as it is exciting. Challenge your other half to compete on the arcade machines inside the Pier Amusements Family Entertainment Centre. Or simply stroll to the end of the pier to admire the views stretching to the Isle of Wight. A zipline can whizz you back to the shore if you're feeling brave!
How to get there: Many buses head from Bournemouth station to the pier, including the numbers 4, 5a, 6, M1 and 13. You can expect your journey to take ten minutes tops!
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum East, Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth BH1 3AA
With its stunning exterior and romantic history, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is an ideal place to visit as a couple. The beachfront building was gifted by Merton Russell-Cotes to his wife Annie in 1901. It’s a treasure trove of unique collectables that the pair picked up during their worldwide travels.
How to get there: Walking to the gallery will take just 19 minutes from Bournemouth station, or you can catch the number m1 or 17 bus, getting off at the top of Bath Hill.
Step into an underwater world at Bournemouth’s Oceanarium, where you can spot various sea creatures, from jellyfish and stingrays to sharks and even penguins. Aquariums are an excellent rainy-day activity, so get this one scheduled into your itinerary if you’re heading to Bournemouth in the colder winter months.
How to get there: From Bournemouth station, catch one of the 4, 5a, 6, M1 and 13 buses to Bournemouth Pier.
Mini golf is a fun and easy date night idea, and with two uniquely themed nine-hole courses to choose from, Mr Mulligans is a great place to visit. Once you’ve finished your round, the loser can buy the first round of drinks at the on-site bar and restaurant, where the cocktails are 2 for £12 between certain hours. You can also get epic deals on pizza, wings and nachos when you pre-book food online.
If you’re still feeling competitive, you’ll also find Electro-Darts, pool tables, ping pong and a shooting gallery at Mr Mulligans – plenty to keep you both entertained.
How to get there: It’s a 22-minute walk from Bournemouth to Mulligans, or you can take an eight-minute bus ride on the number 5a to Exeter Road.
Oceana Day Spa, 32 E Overcliff Dr, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 3AQ
Rated as the best spa in Bournemouth, Oceana Day Spa is a wonderful place to relax and unwind together after a fun-filled weekend. Choose from a long list of spa treatments, including facials, body massages and nail treatments. Then head to the Lounge Bar and sip on a glass of bubbly as you soak in the fantastic sea views.
How to get there: It takes only 17 minutes to walk to Oceana Day Spa from Bournemouth station. Busses take around the same time, a good option if you don’t feel like walking.
Start the day with a delicious bite to eat at Café Boscanova, where you can find sweet and savoury options. Their menu is full of mouth-watering eats, from avocado and toast to cocoa and espresso granola, so you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy. Washed down with a cup of coffee and one of the café’s freshly squeezed fruit juices, it’s a great start to any day in Bournemouth.
Price: ££
How to get there: From Bournemouth station, hop on the number 2 bus towards Bearwood and get off at Ashley Road.
Known for its eccentric décor and trademark cosy environment, each Cosy Club venue comes with its own unique charm and character. The vibrant lunch menu is just as colourful as its décor! Choose from Spanish chicken and chorizo, avocado and white bean hummus bowls and crispy duck salad, to name a few. Located right in the town centre, Cosy Club is already in the heart of the action, meaning you won’t need to go far to satisfy your appetite.
Price: ££ - £££
How to get there: You can get from Bournemouth station to Cosy Club in 18 minutes on foot, or take the M1 bus towards Poole and get off at Westover Road.
Nestled in Bournemouth Gardens, The Urban Garden is an oasis of plant life that seems miles away from the bustling town. Colourful fairy lights are strung up throughout the outdoor area, making this attractive restaurant the ideal spot to visit in the evening. Enjoy a pizza cooked in the restaurant’s own wood-fired pizza oven, and relax while enjoying a cocktail or two on the outdoor terrace.
Price: ££ - £££
How to get there: The quickest way to get to The Urban Garden from Bournemouth station is by bus. Get on any of the buses towards Bournemouth Pier, then it’s just a four-minute walk from there.
Best places to stay for couples in Bournemouth
Best Western Plus The Connaught Hotel and Spa – Boasting a pool and jacuzzi, sauna, spa, fitness centre and beach access, Bournemouth’s Best Western Plus The Connaught Hotel and Spa is everything you’d expect from a luxury getaway. Located just ten minutes from the town centre and a half-hour walk from the train station, you’re in the best location for whatever activities you plan. Even better, you can enjoy 10% off lowest B&B rates with SWR Rewards.
Travelodge Bournemouth – If you’re looking to do Bournemouth on a budget, you can’t beat a Travelodge. Located in a bustling area with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, Travelodge Bournemouth is just a 14-minute walk away from the train station.
The Ravensbourne Hotel – With its cute garden and café serving up a delicious Full English, this cosy hotel feels like a home away from home. Away from the noise and crowds of the town centre, The Ravensbourne Hotel is located in a peaceful residential area. A bus stop is just a five-minute walk away, and Bournemouth train station is half an hour away on foot.
Now you’ve planned your romantic weekend in Bournemouth, it’s time to book your journey. Explore our flexible range of ticket types to find the right one for your trip. Make the most of cheap train tickets to Bournemouth by going off-peak, and those with a Railcard or Two Together Railcard could save even more.
