Looking for the perfect Bournemouth weekend break? With golden beaches, beautiful coastal walks, vibrant attractions and plenty of places to eat and drink, Bournemouth is an ideal destination for a relaxing 48-hour escape.
From enjoying the fresh sea air on Bournemouth Beach to exploring the town's gardens and discovering the local food scene, there is plenty to fit into two days. And when it is time to slow down, a stay at The Queens Hotel & Spa Bournemouth gives you the perfect base for your coastal getaway, complete with a spa, restaurant and bar.
If you are planning a weekend in Bournemouth, here is how to make the most of 48 hours by the sea.
Day One: Arrive and Explore Bournemouth's Coastline - Check In at The Queens Hotel & Spa
Start your Bournemouth weekend break by checking into The Queens Hotel & Spa, ideally located on East Cliff and just a short stroll from the seafront. With 109 ensuite rooms and suites, the hotel offers a comfortable base for exploring Bournemouth. Some rooms also feature balconies, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a little extra fresh sea air from the comfort of your own room.
Once you have settled in, it is time to head out and explore.
The hotel's East Cliff location puts you within easy reach of Bournemouth's famous coastline, making it simple to spend your first afternoon discovering the beach, pier and surrounding attractions.
Head Down to Bournemouth Beach
No trip to Bournemouth would be complete without visiting Bournemouth Beach. Famous for its golden sands and beautiful coastal views, Bournemouth Beach is one of the UK's most popular seaside destinations. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, find a spot on the sand or simply enjoy the views across Poole Bay.
For first-time visitors, Bournemouth Pier is another must-see. Stretching out into the sea, the pier is one of the town's most recognisable landmarks and provides fantastic views back towards the coastline.
If you have time, take a longer walk along the seafront and discover some of the other beaches nearby. Boscombe Beach is just along the coast and offers its own pier, sandy shoreline and a lively seaside atmosphere.
For a quieter coastal experience, consider heading towards Southbourne or Fisherman's Walk, where you can enjoy more of the beautiful Dorset coastline away from the busiest parts of the town centre.
Spend the Afternoon Exploring Bournemouth Gardens
After some time by the sea, make your way towards Bournemouth Gardens. The Lower Gardens are particularly close to the town centre and provide a peaceful green space between the seafront and the shops. Wander through the landscaped gardens, take a break on one of the benches or enjoy a leisurely walk towards the town centre.
Bournemouth Gardens stretch through the heart of the town and are a lovely place to slow down after a busy morning at the beach. If you are looking for things to do in Bournemouth that do not involve spending the entire day on the sand, the gardens offer an easy way to experience another side of the town.
You can also continue your walk towards the town centre, where you will find independent shops, cafés, restaurants and plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee or an afternoon treat.
Discover Bournemouth's Culture and History
If you have time during your first afternoon, make a visit to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum.
Set within a historic seaside villa overlooking the coast, the museum is home to an impressive collection of art and objects. Its location also makes it a great addition to a Bournemouth itinerary, particularly if you want to mix sightseeing with your seaside adventures.
The museum is situated close to the seafront, so it is easy to combine a visit with a coastal walk. For those interested in history, architecture and art, it provides an interesting change of pace from Bournemouth's beaches and outdoor attractions.
Enjoy Dinner at The Queens Restaurant
After a full afternoon exploring Bournemouth, head back to The Queens Hotel & Spa for dinner at The Queens Restaurant. The restaurant serves dinner daily, with a menu celebrating local produce and offering a selection of dishes to suit different tastes.
Staying at a hotel with an on-site restaurant means you can finish your first day without having to travel far after exploring the town.
After dinner, head to the hotel's bar for a drink and unwind after your first day by the coast.
The Queens Bar offers an extensive drinks selection, including beers, spirits, wines, cocktails, mocktails, tea and coffee. It is a relaxed place to round off your evening before heading upstairs for a comfortable night's sleep.
Day Two: Beach, Brunch and a Little Spa Time
One of the best ways to start your morning is with a walk along the coast. With The Queens Hotel & Spa positioned on East Cliff, you are ideally placed to enjoy the fresh sea air before the town gets busier.
Take a walk towards Bournemouth Beach and along the promenade, or explore further towards Boscombe.
Boscombe Beach is another excellent option for your Bournemouth itinerary. Its wide sandy beach and historic pier make it a popular destination, while the surrounding area has plenty of cafés and places to stop for refreshments.
If you prefer a quieter walk, explore the coastline towards Southbourne. Its wide sands and more relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to take in the scenery and enjoy a slower start to your second day.
Make Time for the Queens Spa
A Bournemouth weekend break does not have to be all about sightseeing. After exploring the coastline, set aside some time to relax at the Queens Spa.
The hotel's spa and leisure facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and relaxation lounge. There is also an extensive treatment menu, with options including massages and facials using ishga organic seaweed skincare products.
Spa facilities are available daily from 8am until 8pm, with treatments available from 10am until 6pm.
Taking a few hours to unwind at the spa can be the perfect way to round off a busy weekend in Bournemouth. Spend some time in the pool, relax in the jacuzzi or book a treatment and enjoy some well-deserved downtime.
For visitors planning a Bournemouth spa break, having the spa within your hotel means you can combine sightseeing and relaxation without having to travel between locations.
Enjoy a Relaxed Afternoon in Bournemouth
After your spa experience, take some time to enjoy Bournemouth at your own pace. You could explore the town centre, browse the shops or return to the beach for one final stroll along the sand.
Another option is to head towards Alum Chine, one of the area's popular coastal spots. With its sandy beach, promenade and surrounding greenery, it provides another opportunity to enjoy the Dorset coast.
If you still have energy for sightseeing, consider exploring more of Bournemouth's attractions or simply find a sunny spot to enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by.
Sometimes the best part of a weekend away is having nowhere you urgently need to be.
Finish Your Bournemouth Weekend With Dinner and Drinks
Before your 48 hours in Bournemouth comes to an end, make the most of your final evening at The Queens Hotel & Spa. Head back to The Queens Restaurant for dinner and enjoy a relaxed meal without having to leave the hotel.
Afterwards, settle into the bar for a final drink. The Queens Bar stays open into the evening, making it an easy place to enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine or another drink before heading back to your room.
For an extra special stay, you can also enjoy some time in the hotel's garden and make the most of the coastal atmosphere before your weekend comes to an end.
Why Choose The Queens Hotel & Spa for a Bournemouth Weekend Break?
Location is everything when planning a short break, and The Queens Hotel & Spa makes it easy to experience the best of Bournemouth.
The hotel is situated on East Cliff, close to the town's famous beaches and within easy reach of Bournemouth's attractions, shops, restaurants and gardens.
But it is more than just a convenient place to stay; with comfortable accommodation, an on-site spa and leisure facilities, The Queens Restaurant and a welcoming bar, you have everything you need for a relaxing coastal escape under one roof.
Whether your ideal weekend involves long walks beside the sea, exploring Bournemouth's attractions, relaxing by the pool or enjoying a delicious dinner and drinks, you can create an itinerary that suits you.
Book Your 48-Hour Bournemouth Escape
Ready to plan your next Bournemouth weekend break?
From golden beaches and scenic coastal walks to beautiful gardens, fascinating attractions and plenty of places to eat and drink, Bournemouth is the perfect destination for a 48-hour getaway.
Make The Queens Hotel & Spa your base and enjoy the best of the Dorset coast from a comfortable East Cliff location. With the beach nearby, an on-site restaurant and bar, and the relaxing Queens Spa waiting for you after a day of exploring, everything you need for a memorable Bournemouth stay is right here.
Book your stay at The Queens Hotel & Spa Bournemouth and start planning your perfect coastal escape.