Top 10 things to do in Bournemouth

1. The beach (obviously)

Seven miles of sand from Hengistbury Head to Sandbanks. Southbourne's stretch — ten minutes from school — is the quiet, local one. Bournemouth's central beach has the buzz, the pier and the deckchairs.

2. Hengistbury Head

Our favourite walk: a nature reserve headland with views across to the Isle of Wight, a land train, and the photogenic beach huts of Mudeford Spit.

3. The Lower Gardens

Victorian gardens running from the town centre to the pier — follow the River Bourne, catch a band on the bandstand, and watch the balloon rise.

4. Bournemouth Pier

Arcade, zip line over the sea, and the best sunset photo spot in town.

5. The Jurassic Coast

A UNESCO World Heritage coastline starts just west of us — Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are postcard England and a regular school excursion.

6. Fisherman's Walk

Southbourne's own Green Flag park, just off the high street: ornamental pond, wildlife, and a clifftop finish with sweeping beach views.

7. Christchurch

A historic riverside town one stop away — priory, quay, and boat trips to Mudeford.

8. The New Forest

Wild ponies, ancient woodland and chocolate-box villages, around 30 minutes away.

9. Southbourne high street

Award-winning eateries, independent cafés and boutique shops — your new local.

10. Watersports

Surf lessons, paddleboarding and kayaking — Bournemouth's water is friendlier than you think (in summer, anyway).