Bournemouth occupies an enviable position on the South Coast to explore the surrounding areas.
Head to the east and you come across the New Forest National Park, an area of natural beauty covering over 200 square miles, known for its heathland, forest trails and native ponies.
Head to the west and you come across the incredible Jurassic Coast, England’s only natural UNESCO heritage site, which stretches just shy of 100 miles from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset.
Read on to discover more about these surrounding areas and hear from BU students too.
The New Forest National Park
The rugged terrain of the New Forest is perfect for mountain bikingThe New Forest National Park is just a short train hop away from Bournemouth and offers a huge variety of things to see and do.
If you are keen to keep active, there are lots of fantastic walking and cycle trails to discover. Plus there’s the New Forest Water Park (think Total Wipeout) and Spinnaker Sailing Club if you are a watersports pro or novice.
Some of its other gems include Beaulieu National Motor Museum (home to World of Top Gear), Hurst Castle (Henry VIII's fortress by the sea) and Paultons Park, for those thrill-seekers among you!
There is always lots to do in the New Forest but it really does become a hub of activity in the summer months. There are loads of diverse events taking place, ranging from the Lymington Seafood Festival and Hampshire Food Festival to the New Forest & Hampshire County Show (to name just a few).
BU student Hannah
on her favourite day trips near Bournemouth
The New Forest National Park is perfect for a nature walk through woodland, open moors and heathland. There are also many cattle who roam free including wild ponies, cows and sheep.
The Jurassic Coast
Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch, is one of the Jurassic Coast's most iconic landscapesThe incredible sights of the world famous Jurassic Coast are just a short distance away from Bournemouth, easily reached by either car, bus or train.
The Jurassic Coast really does need to be seen to believed. As one of the most popular destinations in the UK and with its history dating back an outstanding 185 million years, there is bound to be something which takes your fancy.
Whether its a coastal walk along the stunning clifftops, relaxing on the pebble beaches, hunting for fossils or visiting a museum, the Jurassic Coast offers plenty of opportunities to escape everyday life.
BU student Will
on day trips outside of Bournemouth
Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most loved natural landmarks. Not only is it popular with tourists, but also with film crews too, including Nanny McPhee and World of Z.
