Bournemouth has been ranked the worst UK city break in a Which? survey, scoring just 55 per cent out of 24 cities, but one travel writer is pushing back against the result.
The study asked more than 3,000 people about their UK city breaks over the last two years. York topped the list as the best city break with 84 per cent, followed by Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Belfast. Bournemouth finished at the bottom, despite receiving four stars for its accommodation options, with an average hotel price of around £87.
Low Scores for Food and Culture
Bournemouth scored just two stars for its food and drink offerings, cultural sights, shopping, accessibility, lack of crowds, parking, prettiness, and value for money. While the writer acknowledges it may not be the most beautiful seaside town, she highlights its scenic areas and family-friendly attractions.
She recommends visiting outside peak season to avoid crowds, noting that the seven miles of golden coast offer two distinct areas. Near the town centre, visitors find the lively seaside hub around the Ferris wheel and Bournemouth Pier, with climbing walls, funfair amusements, mega slides, ice cream kiosks, and gift shops, plus the Pavilion Theatre, Oceanarium, and Art @ West Beach.
A Quieter Side and Sandbanks
The quieter side, along Alum Chine Beach, features colourful beach huts lining the promenade, ideal for walks. Further afield, the beachfront Harvester offers budget-friendly meals with coastal views.
The highlight, according to the writer, is walking from Bournemouth to Sandbanks Beach, lined with million-pound beachfront mansions and nicknamed 'Millionaires' Row' due to high-profile celebrities who own or holiday there.
Away from the beaches, the town has a high street with department stores, familiar brands, restaurant chains, and cafés. Around 2,000 acres of gardens and parks are woven throughout, some winding down to the coast, with crazy golf courses, tennis courts, and picnic spots. The writer concludes that for a fun-packed weekend escape with seaside charm and award-winning beaches, Bournemouth is a strong choice.
