The town has marked its own place in the history books as the birthplace of the portable radio which was invented by Guglielmo Marconi and as the site of the first powered flight in the UK which took place in 1910.
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Getting about in Bournemouth
As you might expect from a town that has a large number of visitors every year, Bournemouth has an excellent public transport system with plenty of different options when it comes to getting around.
Bournemouth Railway Station (BH8 8HX) provides direct connections to London (a 2-hour journey) and other more local destinations and many major cities. This is a step free category A station with level access to platforms via different entrances, and there is also a ramp. There is an induction loop and also 24/7 staff assistance for any passengers who may need a little help.
There are a number of local bus services operating in the area, including More Bus and Yellow Buses. They offer frequent and accessible travel with free travel during off-peak hours for those with the relevant travel pass.
For those who require assistance getting to medical appointments in the local area Age UK Bournemouth, Poole & East Dorset (700 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth, BH9 2EG) offer a community transport service. There is also a shopmobility service which operates from Sainsburys in Castlepoint Shopping Centre (BH9 9XA).
Destinations
Kingston Lacy (BH21 4EA) is a National Trust property. This country house and extensive gardens is the perfect place for exploring. Whilst the house itself is not fully wheelchair accessible, and stairs may be an issue for those with mobility issues, the grounds have gravel paths and mobility scooters are available to hire. The property offers induction loops, braille guides and virtual tours making it as accessible as possible. There is also a lovely tearoom on site selling a range of hot drinks and light snacks.
Highcliffe Castle (BH23 4LE) a picturesque Grade I listed building with scenic views of the coast that is the perfect location for a day out. The castle has accessibility ramps and lift platforms to help navigate many of the issues posed by older buildings. They also have wheelchairs that can be used by guests. Many of the paths in the grounds are even and gravelled to assist with accessibility.
The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum (W Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth BH1 3AA) is a stunning art collection housed in a Victorian villa. This is a historic building so does have some accessibility issues, but the team of staff and volunteers are on hand to find solutions that will allow guests to make the most of their visit.
Cinemas and theatres
The ODEON in Bournemouth (BH2 5DD) is a modern cinema with multiple screens. They have screenings suitable for those with sight or hearing issues, and guide dogs are welcome in the cinema. Free companion tickets are available for those holding a Cinema Exhibitors’ Association (CEA) Card.
The Regent, Christchurch (51 High St, Christchurch BH23 1AS) is a beautiful historic Art Deco cinema and theatre. They offer a range of screenings and performances with something for everyone. They offer a range of more accessible performances for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. On occasion they also offer BSL signed performances.
Other activities
Community centres are a hub of any community and offer activities that are suitable for older residents as well as a warm place to meet friends. There are a good number of such centres in Bournemouth including those run by Age UK, BPED, and the Sutton Road Day Centre (BH9 1RN) which has weekly “lets connect” services offering a hot meal for those over 60, social interaction and plenty of activities to keep the brain active.
Coffee shops and cafes
Sometimes just meeting up with friends for a cup of tea, or coffee, can be a great way of getting out of the house. Bournemouth has plenty of cafes and coffee shops that will fit the bill perfectly.
For the ultimate café style experience, the Ventana Grand Café set within The Cumberland Hotel (27 E Overcliff Dr, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 3AF) offers a real treat when it comes to afternoon tea or morning coffee. This stylish café with superb views of the sea is well worth a visit for a special occasion.
For a quintessentially British tea experience, the shabby chic Frieda’s tearooms (7 Stafford Rd, Bournemouth BH1 1JH) is the place to visit. This award-winning tearoom offers everything from traditional breakfasts to indulgent afternoon teas, and the menu includes lots of light bites as well.
