Planning a Trip to Bournemouth – Autumn Diaries

October is a weird time of year; I always find it just is there. Summer is over and this is often reminded by waking up in the dark, whilst Winter and Christmas seem ridiculously far off. Being a teacher, all I associate with October is the bliss of half-term. In 2019, Jack and I spent 48 hours in Weston-Super-Mare for our half-term trip. We transformed a regular getaway into a grand tour of Exmoor and the surrounding villages. We had inadvertently created a tradition and it got me thinking, where could I go this October, especially with the Covid situation. Then, Hotels.com got in touch with me to help ideas for planning a trip to Bournemouth and I just had to see what I could do. Scanning through their website (found here) there are currently loads of great value deals around, giving you more for less. Check out my guide to help you book your trip here.

Getting to Bournemouth

We are lucky enough to live near Reading and so getting to Bournemouth is easy. Driving down is always an option and I personally think that the route is simple.

However, if you are reading this, odds are that you don’t live in the Reading area too. I would 100% recommend getting a train down during off-peak months. Whilst it may be slightly more expensive than petrol, you cannot beat the ease of train travel. London Paddington has a really good service with a short change in Reading. Either way, planning a trip to Bournemouth should always include the transport that you prefer.

Bournemouth during Autumn

Bournemouth is one of those places synonymous with Summer. In October time however, this shouldn’t be an issue and you could expect a much quieter seaside experience. Of course, the beach is the biggest draw for tourists. During the autumnal months walking along the coastline, equipped with wellies and your faithful dog, can be a great way to spend even the most miserable of afternoon.

Naturally, the fish and chips (as well as a few ice creams…) come next, giving you all you need to leisurely pass a few hours. Hengistbury Head beach is another alternative to the often-busier Bournemouth one and could provide some much-needed solace. Planning a trip to Bournemouth should always include detailed research into the fish and chips…

It also is a site of special scientific interest, so there is something for those of you who enjoy discovering things. The visitor centre is still open (don’t forget a mask) and has a range of information ranging from the local birdlife to the earliest occupants of the land.

Things to See in Bournemouth

Being engaged to a marine biologist, a visit to a seaside town rarely does not involve a visit to a local fishy attraction, be that an aquarium or otherwise. In Bournemouth, there is the famous Oceanarium, which is equipped with aquatic animals from many biomes across the globe. They also have Inca Terns, which are one of the cutest (and funniest looking) birds I have ever seen.

If you wanted to immerse yourself in nature more, why not head to the Upper Gardens? Whilst again some might see it as a Summer activity, the gardens rotate their flowers in line with the season. An added benefit to this is that it is outside and so there are fewer restrictions in place. Just a few miles away is also the New Forest National Park, which is packed full of different wildlife. It is just a short car journey away from Bournemouth and gives you an excuse to leave the hustle and bustle behind.

Things to Do in Bournemouth

If you want to stay in the city, the first place to head to should be the pier. This nationally-famous landmark boasts exceptional arcades (which obviously are in line with the current government guidance) and wonderful views across the coastline. It also gives you an excuse to grab a warm treat, such as a donut or a hot dog, whilst you walk along its old wooden frame. Bournemouth also has great shopping facilities, such as Westbourne. Here, you will not only find shops, but also many cafes and restaurants. Just be sure to bring that mask!

As I sit here writing this post after a long day at work, I cannot wait to get exploring this famous seaside city. I actually think Autumn could be the perfect time to go; it’s a lovely break to look forward to.

This post was in collaboration with Hotels.com; all views are my own.