Things To Do in Bournemouth at Christmas 2026

EXPLORE BOURNEMOUTH CHRISTMAS MARKET

Dates: 12th November - 31st December 2026

One of the highlights of Christmas in Bournemouth is the return of the Bournemouth Christmas Markets.

Located in Bournemouth Square, the market brings a traditional Alpine atmosphere to the town centre, with wooden chalets offering Christmas gifts, seasonal treats and festive foods. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a little Christmas shopping, browse handmade gifts or simply soak up the festive atmosphere with friends and family.  

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Visitors can also stop by the Alpine Lodge for a warm drink after exploring the stalls. For more information, visit the official Bournemouth Christmas Guide.

DISCOVER BOURNEMOUTH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AND FESTIVE TRAIL

Dates: 12th November 2026 - 3rd January 2027

No Christmas visit to Bournemouth would be complete without experiencing the town’s spectacular festive lights.

This year, Festive Trail transforms Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens into an illuminated winter attraction, with sparkling displays and seasonal installations leading towards the seafront.

Families can explore the Christmas Tree Maze, enjoy Santa’s Express and discover a variety of festive attractions along the way. The trail is free to explore, although selected experiences require tickets.

Whether you’re visiting with children or enjoying a winter evening with your partner, it’s a lovely way to experience Bournemouth during the festive season.

Find out more about the Bournemouth Festive Trail.

GO ICE SKATING IN BOURNEMOUTH

SKATE Bournemouth returns to the Lower Gardens, offering visitors the chance to enjoy outdoor ice skating surrounded by festive lights.

It's a great activity for families, couples and groups of friends, whether you're an experienced skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time.

After your session, head to the rink-side Moguls Bar to warm up and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

For those who prefer indoor skating, the Cool Coast Ice Rink at Bournemouth International Centre also opens on 28th November 2026.

ENJOY CHRISTMAS SHOWS AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES

There's plenty of festive entertainment in Bournemouth for families looking to make special Christmas memories.

The Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre welcomes Aladdin from 5th December 2026 to 3rd January 2027, bringing traditional pantomime fun to the festive season.

Younger visitors can also enjoy seasonal experiences, including Story time with Santa and Breakfast with Santa on Bournemouth Pier.

For something a little different, Glow Golf in the Lower Gardens offers illuminated mini golf from 12th November to 24th December.

With so many Christmas activities taking place across Bournemouth, there's something to keep the whole family entertained.

Explore the latest Christmas events in Bournemouth.

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THINGS TO DO IN POOLE DURING CHRISTMAS

Just a short journey from Bournemouth, Poole offers even more opportunities to enjoy the festive season.

EXPERIENCE ILLUMINATE POOLE

Dates: 20th November 2026 - 3rd January 2027

Taking place at Upton Country Park, Illuminate Poole is a magical winter light trail featuring spectacular illuminated installations throughout the grounds.

The outdoor trail takes approximately 60-80 minutes to explore, making it a lovely evening activity for families, couples and friends.

Visitors can also enjoy seasonal food, hot drinks, and marshmallow-tossing during their visit.

Tickets must be booked in advance.

Discover more at Illuminate Poole.

EXPLORE POOLE QUAY AND THE OLD TOWN

Poole’s historic Old Town and picturesque Quay are also worth exploring during a Christmas visit.

Take a stroll along the waterfront, browse the independent shops or stop for a warming drink at one of the local cafes.

The town has previously hosted a festive light trail through its shopping streets and down towards Poole Quay. Visitors can check the official Poole tourism website for the latest details of this year’s celebration.

ENJOY CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AND A WINTER WALK BY THE SEA  

Beyond the Christmas markets and festive events, Bournemouth is a lovely destination for a winter getaway.

Spend an afternoon exploring the town centre shops, discovering independent boutiques in Westbourne or enjoying a leisurely walk along Bournemouth’s beautiful coastline.

A peaceful stroll along the beach or Bournemouth Pier offers a refreshing change from the busy festive celebrations.

With Christmas shopping, coastal scenery and seasonal entertainment all within easy reach, Bournemouth makes a wonderful destination for a festive short break.

WHERE TO STAY IN BOURNEMOUTH AT CHRISTMAS

With so much to see and do, why not turn your Christmas visit into a relaxing getaway?

Located in the heart of Bournemouth, Hotel Collingwood provides a welcoming place to stay while exploring the town's festive attractions.

Whether you’re planning a short break before Christmas or looking to celebrate the festive season by the coast, the hotel offers a selection of Christmas stays and packages.

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CHRISTMAS IN BOURNEMOUTH

Planning a festive escape before Christmas?

Make the most of the festive season with Hotel Collingwood’s three-night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast staycation, available Sunday to Thursday from 21st November to 22nd December 2026.

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With festive attractions, Christmas markets and sparkling lights nearby, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore Bournemouth before returning to the comfort of the hotel.

FESTIVE BREAKS AND CHRISTMAS PACKAGES

For those looking to spend Christmas away, Hotel Collingwood also offers dedicated Christmas break packages that bring together festive dining, seasonal entertainment, and a relaxing hotel stay.

TWIXMAS BREAKS

Looking for a peaceful escape between Christmas and New Year?

Hotel Collingwood's Twixmas packages offer an opportunity to unwind after the Christmas celebrations and enjoy a relaxing break on the Dorset coast.

Explore the full range of Christmas and New Year breaks at Hotel Collingwood.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CHRISTMAS IN BOURNEMOUTH

When does Bournemouth Christmas Market start in 2026
Bournemouth Christmas Market opens on 12th November 2026 and runs until 31st December 2026.

Is Bournemouth's Christmas festive trail free?
Yes, Bournemouth's Festive Trail is free to explore. However, some attractions and experiences along the route require tickets.

What can families do in Bournemouth at Christmas?
Families can enjoy the Christmas Market, Festive Trail, ice skating, Santa experiences, illuminated mini golf and festive pantomime performances.

Are there Christmas activities in Poole?
Yes. Visitors can enjoy Illuminate Poole at Upton Country Park, explore the historic waterfront and discover seasonal events throughout the town.

Is Bournemouth worth visiting at Christmas?
Absolutely. With Christmas markets, festive lights, seasonal entertainment, coastal walks and plenty of places to eat and stay, Bournemouth is a wonderful destination for a Christmas day trip or festive break.

PLAN YOUR CHRISTMAS GETAWAY TO BOURNEMOUTH

From sparkling Christmas lights and festive markets to family activities and winter walks by the sea, there's plenty to enjoy in Bournemouth and Poole this Christmas.

Whether you're visiting for the day or staying a little longer, make the most of the festive season with a memorable trip to the Dorset coast.

Discover Hotel Collingwood's Christmas breaks and packages and start planning your festive getaway.