How to make the most of our trails
These trails have been designed as self-led trails. Most trails are perfect for a day out with the trail routes taking from 1-2 hours and featuring around 10 points of interest, leaving time for lunch or other activities at each location.
All you need is a link to the trail or a print copy of the trail (where available) and a curious mind! We have marked the sites featured on each trail on our digital map but we recommend you have a print or download of the trail map. Most trails are circular.
Please be aware that our Writers’ Trail follows a different format and is designed to be completed over a longer period of time. For this trail, we recommend you visit and spend time at one site of interest, focusing time on one writer and the interactive writing prompt provided. This is because the sites are spread across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and take time to travel between.
Make the most of your visit to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole by exploring as much as you can.
Our trails are designed to help you discover the hidden histories and cultural points of interest around the area but there’s so much more to do while you’re here.
We have 15 miles of award-winning seafront, beautiful parks and gardens, and fascinating visitor attractions to make sure you are not short of things to do.
Getting Around
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are connected by bus and train transport links.
By train
Christchurch, Pokesdown, Bournemouth, Branksome, Parkstone and Poole all have train stations on the South Western Railway network.
By bus
All of our trails are accessible by bus. You can take advantage of dayrider tickets if you are looking to use multiple bus journeys throughout the day.
By bike and e-scooter
There are multiple bike racks across BCP where you can lock your bike up while you explore.
Beryl bikes have a range of Bays across the area where you can rent a bike or e-scooter. Download the Beryl app to get started.
There are seasonal restrictions to cycling on the seafront promenade are in place, so check these before you set out.
By car
There are lots of car parks around the BCP area. It might be a little tricky to park along the seafront and in town centres during peak seasons or while key events are happening so we recommend checking a couple of options or parking a little further out to guarantee a space if you’re able to do so.
There are plenty of disabled parking bays available around BCP and in BCP car parks.
Route details and Access information
Each of our trails has accessibility information included and have been designed with access in mind. In some cases, routes may encounter steps or challenging terrain.
Where possible an alternative route has been provided. Most trail routes include or are nearby to public toilets and/or cafés.
Discover More
As well as our cultural trails, we have a range of unique sites in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole that shouldn’t be missed.
Find out more about Hengistbury Head’s wildlife, archaeology, history and geology through interactive displays, chats with helpful volunteers, and a visit to their very own Roundhouse!
Take a trip back to the 1800s by visiting this characterful Grade I listed house. From dazzling stainedglass windows to impressive Romantic and Picturesque architecture, there’s so much to take in. Don’t forget to visit their art gallery and formal gardens. You can even wander down to Highcliffe beach if you have time!
As well as shows, live performances and film screenings, Lighthouse has its own gallery space, which sees a range of quality professional and community arts exhibitions.
Packed full of incredible historical artefacts and information about Poole’s long history, as well as an art gallery, Poole Museum is a must-visit when in the area. It sits next to Scaplen’s Court, a fifteenth century Grade I listed house with a thriving herb and physic garden.
Positioned next to Christchurch Priory, this former Georgian workhouse is a delight to discover. With archaeological exhibits on the nearby Saxon burial site, historical displays, tranquil gardens and its own art gallery, The Red House Museum and Gardens offers the perfect day out or stop-in while you explore the Christchurch Cultural Trail.
Not only does this unique Victorian house boast breath-taking views across Bournemouth’s coastline, it’s full of eclectic items and artworks collected by Merton Russell-Cotes throughout his life and travels, as well as a wonderfully curated art gallery. The perfect stop for tea and cake halfway around the Bournemouth Cultural Trail.
Enjoy a moment of calm as you explore 160 acres of park and woodland, bird-enthusiasts dream shoreline, and stunning formal gardens - all centred around the Grade II* listed Georgian Mansion House!