Look up to find a blue plaque that tells the story of Gervis Arcade, developed by builder Henry Joy in 1866. This arcade features two rows of shops with many original elements, including stained glass windows, intricate tiles beneath your feet, and fascinating architectural details above the shops. 

From Glen to Arcade

When you enter the Gervis Arcade you will find some fascinating Bournemouth history. It’s hard to believe that in 1853 this was the site of a pretty glen with a rustic bridge spanning a tumbling stream that ran down the hillside. The bridge led to cottages that were replaced in the 1870s by Bournemouth’s first town hall.

In 1866 the stream was piped underground to make way for two rows of fancy shops. Look up at the Old Christchurch Road end of the arcade to see a blue plaque that marks builder Henry Joy’s development.

The glazed roof was added in 1872. Originally the arcade was ridiculed by locals who nicknamed it “Joy’s Folly”.

Victorian charm

As you walk along the arcade, you'll notice details of the original Victorian shopping street. There are brass handles on the windows of Waterstones bookshop and brass panels on the old cigar shop “Offers” where you will also discover two little plaster cherubs peeping from tobacco leaves.

Charles Fox the Jewellers is the oldest shop still trading. Their business was established in 1876 and they opened their shop here in 1905. The central signage on their shop is original as are the stained glass windows at the rear of the premises. You can also see the clock made by Charles Fox above the Gervis Place entrance. 

Other shops in those early days included a Post Office, milliner, stationer, umbrella maker and an exotic fruit importer. Look down to see you are walking on original tiles for the length of the arcade.

How to get here

The postcode of this site is: BH1 2AF 

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