Bournemouth is roughly two hours by train from London, with services running from London Waterloo, and there are good road links too. That makes it an easy destination for a short break, so you can be on the sand by lunchtime.

Two or three nights is ideal for a Bournemouth short break. That gives you time for a lazy beach day, a coastal walk, an evening in the town's restaurants and a morning browsing the independent shops before heading home.

Highlights include the pier, the seafront gardens and the long sandy beaches, all within easy walking distance of the town centre. You can also walk out to Hengistbury Head, explore the restaurant scene, or take a boat trip across to Poole Harbour.

Basing yourself near the seafront or town centre keeps the pier, gardens and beaches within an easy walk. Options range from seafront hotels and stylish apartments to cosy guesthouses, so pick a base that suits your budget and plans.

The independent shops of Westbourne and Boscombe are popular for browsing, while Hengistbury Head offers a scenic coastal walk. If you have a third day, a boat trip to Poole Harbour is a relaxed way to see more of the Dorset coast.