Bournemouth Pier
Iconic Victorian pier offering amusement arcades, dining, and thrilling activities like zip-lining, set against Bournemouth's famous golden sands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bournemouth Pier
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Victorian pier offering amusement arcades, dining, and thrilling activities like zip-lining, set against Bournemouth's famous golden sands.
"A beautiful sandy beach and pier with the feeling of the Mediterranean to it."
🎯 Book RockReef in Advance
Popular attractions like RockReef can get busy. Booking online saves time and guarantees your spot!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the pier and beach. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
RockReef Activity Attraction
Bournemouth Pier
Indoor adventure with climbing walls, high ropes, and a unique pier-to-shore zip line for thrill-seekers.
Key West Bar & Grill
Bournemouth Pier
Enjoy food and drinks with stunning sea views from this popular pier-side restaurant.
Bournemouth Beach Sunrise
Bournemouth Beach
Witness breathtaking sunrises over the sea, offering a peaceful and picturesque start to the day.
Amusement Arcades
Bournemouth Pier
Classic seaside fun with a variety of games and attractions for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Pier Perks & Pricing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book RockReef in Advance
Popular attractions like RockReef can get busy. Booking online saves time and guarantees your spot!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the pier and beach. Comfortable footwear is a must!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
📸 Capture the Sunrise
The pier offers stunning sunrise views. Wake up early for a magical photo opportunity!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book RockReef in Advance
Popular attractions like RockReef can get busy. Booking online saves time and guarantees your spot!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the pier and beach. Comfortable footwear is a must!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
📸 Capture the Sunrise
The pier offers stunning sunrise views. Wake up early for a magical photo opportunity!
💰 Arcade Budget
Arcades can be tempting! Set a budget beforehand to avoid overspending.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bournemouth Pier and its adjacent beach are highly praised for their golden sands, family-friendly atmosphere, and range of activities. Visitors love the stunning sea views, the convenience of amenities, and the vibrant energy of the seaside location. Some find the pier's attractions limited for adults beyond specific activities, and the arcades can be pricey due to their popularity.
"Bournemouth Beach: The Perfect Spot for Family and Friends
Bournemouth Beach is an exceptional destination for those looking to enjoy quality time with family and friends. With its seven miles of golden sand and consistently high rankings among the UK's top beaches (even voted #1 in the UK by TripAdvisor in 2024), it offers ample space for relaxation and play.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable visit, including cafes, restaurants, kiosks, and readily available toilets with baby changing facilities. Lifeguard patrols are active from early April to late September, providing peace of mind. For added convenience, beach huts, deckchairs, sunbeds, windbreaks, and parasols are available for hire.
Beyond the sun and sand, Bournemouth Beach and its surrounding area offer a wealth of activities. The iconic Bournemouth Pier is a hub of entertainment, featuring:
* RockReef: An indoor activity attraction with climbing walls, high ropes, and the world's first pier-to-shore zip wire, offering a thrilling experience for all ages.
* Amusement Arcades: Classic seaside fun for all the family.
* Key West Bar & Grill: A popular spot for food and drink.
For those looking to explore further, the Bournemouth Land Train runs along the promenade, making it easy to travel between different sections of the beach, including to Boscombe Pier. The nearby Lower Gardens also offer a beautiful green oasis with mini-golf and tropical greenhouses.
Whether you're building sandcastles, taking a refreshing dip in the "warmest sea temperatures in the UK," or trying out watersports like paddleboarding or surfing, Bournemouth Beach provides a fantastic backdrop for memorable moments with loved ones. It's a place where relaxation meets excitement, ensuring a great time for everyone."
parth khundiwala
"The view was absolutely stunning — the sea, the fresh breeze, and the peaceful atmosphere made it such a relaxing experience. There’s something magical about being near the water. We really enjoyed our time there and would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the area. A perfect spot for a calm walk or just to take in the beauty of the coast!"
YoYo
"A beautiful sandy beach and pier with the feeling of the Mediterranean to it. Plenty of eating places and things to do. Excellent for evening walks and just for relaxing. I would highly recommend to visit during summer with the good weather and longer days. Ideal for families and for those who want to chill!"
S P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bournemouth Pier is easily accessible by car, with several car parks nearby. Public transport options include local buses that stop close to the pier. For a scenic approach, consider the Bournemouth Land Train that runs along the promenade.
Yes, there are multiple car parks available near Bournemouth Pier, including the Pier Approach car park. It's advisable to check real-time availability as they can get busy, especially during peak season.
Absolutely! Bournemouth Pier is located at the end of the town center's main shopping street, making it a pleasant and easy walk through the gardens and onto the promenade.
Yes, boat trips along the coast are a popular activity departing from Bournemouth Pier, offering scenic views of the Jurassic Coast.
Bournemouth Pier is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with ramps available. However, it's always a good idea to check with specific attractions on the pier for any limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking on Bournemouth Pier itself is generally free. You only pay for specific attractions or activities located on the pier, such as RockReef or the amusement arcades.
Opening hours vary for different attractions on the pier. RockReef and the amusement arcades typically have extended hours, especially during summer. It's best to check the individual attraction websites for the most up-to-date information.
Prices for RockReef vary depending on the activities you choose. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and package deals.
Yes, Bournemouth Pier hosts various events throughout the year, including music performances and seasonal celebrations. Keep an eye on local listings and social media for announcements. 
Yes, beach huts, deckchairs, sunbeds, windbreaks, and parasols are available for hire near Bournemouth Beach and the pier, making your day more comfortable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bournemouth Pier offers a range of activities including RockReef (climbing, zip line), amusement arcades, dining at Key West Bar & Grill, and scenic views. Boat trips also depart from here.
Yes, Bournemouth Pier is very family-friendly with arcades, RockReef offering activities for various ages, and the adjacent beach perfect for sandcastles and paddling.
The pier offers panoramic views of Bournemouth Beach, the coastline, and the English Channel. Sunrises and sunsets from the pier are particularly spectacular.
Yes, Key West Bar & Grill is a popular dining option on the pier. There are also cafes and kiosks offering snacks and refreshments.
While not the primary surf spot, small waves can sometimes be found near Bournemouth Pier, especially during certain conditions. More consistent surf spots are a short distance away.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of the pier offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The view looking back towards the beach and town is also iconic.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset provide the most dramatic light. Golden hour is also excellent for capturing the pier and beach.
Drone usage is often restricted in busy public areas and near attractions. It's crucial to check local bylaws and regulations before flying a drone near Bournemouth Pier or the beach.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the pier stretching into the sea, close-ups of the arcade lights, candid shots of people enjoying the attractions, and stunning seascape photos.
The pier-to-shore zip line at RockReef offers a unique perspective for action shots if you're brave enough to try it or photograph others doing so!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a beach hut or deckchairs for a comfortable base for the day. The Bournemouth Land Train is also a fun and easy way for little ones to explore the promenade. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or utilize the numerous cafes and kiosks available for quick bites.
💰 Budget Travelers
While attractions like RockReef have a cost, you can still enjoy the amusement arcades with a small budget for games. Look out for free events or simply soak in the seaside ambiance. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) can also mean lower accommodation prices.
couples
+1Consider a boat trip for a different perspective of the coastline, or simply relax on the beach with a picnic. The pier's arcades can offer some lighthearted fun and friendly competition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring RockReef: Thrills on the Pier
Visitors often praise RockReef for its engaging activities and the unique location. The zip line, in particular, provides an unforgettable experience with incredible views as you soar from the pier towards the shore. It's a fantastic option for families and groups looking for active fun, especially on days when the weather might not be ideal for the beach. Booking in advance is highly recommended, as it can get quite busy.
Beyond the main attractions, RockReef also offers a virtual reality experience and other interactive elements, ensuring there's something to keep everyone entertained. The staff are generally noted for being friendly and helpful, contributing to a positive visitor experience.
Bournemouth Beach: More Than Just Sand
Beyond sunbathing and sandcastle building, the beach is a playground for watersports. You can try surfing, paddleboarding, or simply enjoy the gentle waves. For those who prefer to stay dry, the Bournemouth Land Train provides a convenient way to travel along the promenade, connecting different parts of the beach and even extending to Boscombe Pier.
The beach is well-serviced with amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and kiosks. You can also hire beach huts, deckchairs, and parasols for added comfort, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the seaside. The atmosphere is often described as lively and enjoyable, especially during the summer months.
Evening Vibes and Events
Throughout the year, Bournemouth Pier and the beach area host various events, from live music performances to seasonal festivals. 'After Dark' parties have been held at the pier, featuring DJs and a vibrant nightlife scene, indicating the pier's versatility beyond daytime activities.
+1Summer evenings are particularly popular, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the night vibes along the promenade. The combination of the illuminated pier, the sound of the waves, and the buzz of activity makes for a memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit