Get set for summer on the south coast

The largest natural harbour in Europe, the world’s first pier to shore zipline and cool seafront dining – it’s time to pack for the south coast! 

Known for its laid-back vibe by day and vibrant buzz after dark, Bournemouth has long been a draw for a fun escape but add in Poole’s stunning quay and harbour and historic Christchurch’s Priory and old town, and this three-centre resort is frankly unbeatable. 

Check in to a hotel conveniently close to all the action. The family-run Marsham Court Hotel is a four-star with knock-out sea views, 95 rooms, outdoor pool heated May to September, just a five minute walk to Bournemouth’s centre and beaches.  

As one of the most accessible hotels in the UK, it offers five bespoke guestrooms and wide range of adapted facilities including I-swim Pool Hoist and extensive menu for dietary requirements. 

Its secure bike store is free, so hire a bike and explore the area, better still, bring your pup and check out the dog-friendly local beaches.  Find a late minute deal, book direct and you’ll have free parking so grab yourself a summer bargain! 

Perched on the clifftop opposite the hotel sits an opulent Victorian villa, once home to globe-trotters Annie and Merton Russell-Cotes and now the Russell-Cotes Museum, it’s a dream for art-lovers, adorned with lavish interiors, eclectic collections and impressive art exhibitions. 

This summer the Art & Advocacy exhibition runs to 5 October celebrating the talents of May Morris, younger daughter of celebrated Arts & Craft designer William Morris. If you’re a fan of his botanical prints, you won’t be disappointed with his daughter’s wallpapers and embroidery.   

Kids in tow? Alongside May Morris’ works there’s a children’s exhibition focusing on Morris’ animals, plants and nature with a host of free activities including a trail around the house as well as family-friendly safaris on Tuesdays, craft workshops on Wednesdays, a chance to get hands-on with exhibits on Thursdays plus safari trails at the weekend. 

A series of free ‘relaxed sketching’ workshops run during the summer both within the museum and in the attractive gardens with artists on hand for tips. Check the website for dates.  

Make the most of a sunny day drinking in the sea views and a cup of tea from the café terrace, splurge on an afternoon tea with fizz or relax with a light lunch, every purchase helps support the museum. 

Cool seafront dining, open-air theatre and cruises up the amazing Jurassic Coast– choose your vibe and do it your way. 

For a faster pace, head down to Bournemouth Pier for RockReef and PierZip. PierZip is the world’s first pier-to-shore zip line propelling riders 250 metres over the waves and triggering an unforgettable adrenaline-rush. RockReef is right next door, a brilliant all-weather indoor attraction with all-age family appeal. Scale its Clip ‘n’ Climb walls and high ropes to the vertical drop slide and subterranean caves. Get ready for action - this landmark attraction transforms a traditional seaside holiday into a high-energy, unforgettable adventure. 

After all that excitement, reward yourself with a table at Key West Bar & Restaurant. Situated at the very end of Bournemouth Pier, it offers unrivalled panoramic sea views across the bay, floor-to-ceiling windows ensure spectacular vistas whatever the weather. Go for classic fish ‘n’ chips, tangy King Prawns or a simple salad, whether it’s a casual lunch or romantic sunset cocktails, this venue captures seaside cool. 

To the west of Christchurch you’ll find Highcliffe Castle, arguably the most important surviving house of Romantic and Picturesque architecture. This opulent castle was the dream of Lord Stuart de Rothesay, built between 1831 and 1836.  Restored after two fires, this romantic Grade 1 listed building has a fascinating history, at one time rented by the wild-living Harry Selfridge, once owner of the London department store. 

With views across Highcliffe Beach and beyond, the castle is well worth a visit and there’s a host of summer events, including Theatre Thursdays - bring a picnic, blankets and chairs for performances of Alice Through the Looking Glass and Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

During the school summer holidays, the Wellbeing Challenge features an outdoor trail, indoor activities and indoor crafts for kids of all ages. There’s also a line-up of entertainment on Pop-up Sundays, stroll the grounds and enjoy live music, vintage cars, local creatives and delicious food from The Castle Pantry. Recently opened, The Pantry’s unique location is fast becoming a draw with locals and visitors alike for its locally sourced and sustainable food.

There’s little better than strolling around Poole Quay in the sun. 

Lined with Victorian pubs, it’s easy to while away the hours watching gleaming superyachts and pleasure boats navigate the Harbour. The Old Town is a maze of rich Merchant Houses and smuggling history. 

No visit to Poole is complete without getting out on the water and Coastal Cruises sits right on Poole Quay. With a range of sightseeing cruises starting from just £14, book online and take your pick of a 70-minute Harbour & Islands cruise, a stunning sail up the Jurassic Coast or head to Victorian Swanage for a relaxed day of lunch and shopping. 

With long evenings and the sun shining, what could be better than a Friday night BBQ Evening Cruise around Poole Harbour? Savour freshly grilled bbq and salads and enjoy the onboard bar for a relaxing hour and a half. 

Alternatively, book the Sea Train Adventure, hop onboard from Poole Quay to Swanage then steam up to dreamy Corfe Castle on Swanage Railway before sailing back from Swanage. 

With fun onboard commentary, fully stocked bar and icons like Brownsea Island, Studland Bay, Old Harry Rocks and, not least, the 185-million year old Jurassic Coast to glide past, life’s always better on a boat.