Bournemouth offers a wide range of entertainment options, from large concert venues and theatres to lively pubs and nightclubs. Visitors can enjoy live music, comedy, cinema, dance, and family-friendly attractions throughout the year. This page covers the main entertainment venues and activities across Bournemouth and nearby Poole, helping you plan your visit.
Major Concert Venues in Bournemouth
The Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is the town’s largest event venue. It hosts international music acts, conferences, exhibitions, and large-scale shows. It is located in the town centre, with panoramic views of the coastline. The BIC regularly features pop concerts and major touring productions. It attracts big names from across the music industry as well as large-scale comedy tours and family shows. Its flexible arena and auditorium spaces allow it to accommodate everything from intimate gigs to full arena concerts.
Close to Bournemouth, in Boscombe village, the O2 Academy Bournemouth is a key live music venue housed in a Grade II-listed former theatre. It hosts a variety of events including concerts by well-known artists, comedy shows, club nights, and sporting events. The venue is praised for its excellent acoustics and historic atmosphere. This makes it a favourite among both performers and audiences. The O2 Academy also supports emerging local talent with regular open mic nights and showcases. This contributes to Bournemouth’s vibrant music scene.
Both venues offer a diverse programme, so checking their schedules in advance ensures you don’t miss headline events during your stay. Whether you prefer rock, pop, electronic music, or comedy, these venues provide a broad spectrum of entertainment options. For more on live music, see our guide to the Things to Do in Bournemouth.
Theatre and Dance Performances
Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, an Art Deco building dating from the 1920s, stages West End musicals, opera, ballet, and seasonal pantomimes. It retains much of its original elegance and is situated on the seafront near the town centre. The theatre offers stunning views alongside world-class performances. Its programme often includes touring productions of popular musicals, classical concerts, and special events like Christmas pantomimes that are perfect for families.
Pavilion Dance South West, based at the Pavilion Theatre, presents contemporary dance performances, live screenings, and exhibitions. It also runs over 40 weekly dance and wellbeing classes for all ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced dancers. This makes it a hub for dance enthusiasts and those looking to try something new. The classes offer everything from ballet and jazz to yoga and pilates.
For those interested in smaller-scale theatre, the Palace Court Theatre in Bournemouth town centre offers a programme of drama and community productions. This venue is known for its intimate atmosphere and focus on local talent. It provides a platform for new playwrights and actors. Nearby, the Regent Centre in Christchurch serves as a multi-purpose venue with theatre, cinema, concerts, and art exhibitions. It caters to a wide range of cultural tastes and events.
Cinemas and Family Leisure Complexes
Bournemouth’s Odeon cinema at BH2 shopping centre features 10 screens with the latest blockbuster films. It is a popular choice for family outings and evenings. The cinema is surrounded by restaurants, providing options for pre- or post-film dining. These range from casual eateries to more formal dining experiences. The Odeon regularly hosts special screenings and events, including film festivals and children’s movie mornings.
For all-weather family entertainment, Tower Park in Poole is a short drive from Bournemouth. It includes a Vue multiplex cinema, Hollywood Bowl ten-pin bowling, Buzz Bingo, Lemur Landings soft play, and Splashdown Waterpark. Tower Park also hosts a variety of restaurants, making it a comprehensive destination for a day or evening out. This makes it ideal for families looking to combine dining, entertainment, and activities in one location, whatever the weather.
Comedy and Live Music Nights
Bournemouth has a lively comedy scene with performances by top UK comedians at venues such as the O2 Academy and Pavilion Theatre. These venues regularly feature touring comedians as well as local acts. They offer a mix of stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. Additionally, local pubs and clubs regularly host stand-up and open mic nights. This supports emerging talent and provides a friendly atmosphere for comedy lovers.
Live music thrives in the town’s coastal villages and central pubs, where new bands and solo artists perform regularly. Venues such as Chaplin’s & The Cellar Bar combine live music with food and drinks in a relaxed setting. These smaller venues are perfect for discovering new music genres and enjoying intimate performances. The vibrant pub music scene also includes genres from acoustic folk to indie rock and jazz. This ensures there is something for every musical taste.
Casinos, Nightclubs and Late-Night Entertainment
The town centre features several casinos, including the Grosvenor Casino and Genting Casinos. They offer table games, slot machines, and live sports entertainment. These casinos provide a lively atmosphere for those looking to try their luck or enjoy a night out with friends. Many also offer bars and dining options, making them a full evening destination.
Nightclubs such as The Old Fire Station and Sound Circus provide a range of music styles from electronic and house to rock and alternative. These venues often host themed nights, guest DJs, and live band performances. They cater to diverse crowds. Bars and clubs along the seafront and in the town centre serve cocktails and host DJ nights. Many venues offer sea views. Cameo is a notable multi-room club with VIP booths and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. It is popular for its energetic atmosphere and late-night parties.
For a different kind of evening, Boom Battle Bar on the seafront offers games including axe throwing, augmented reality darts, and shuffleboard. It is suitable for groups and social gatherings. This venue provides a fun and interactive alternative to traditional nightlife. It is ideal for celebrations and casual nights out.
Outdoor and Seasonal Entertainment
Bournemouth’s entertainment calendar includes festivals, fairs, and sporting events throughout the year. Sandpolo at Sandbanks in nearby Poole is an annual beach polo championship. It attracts large crowds with its fast-paced format and lively atmosphere. This event combines sport with seaside fun, drawing visitors from across the region.
The town also hosts seasonal events such as Firework Fridays on Bournemouth Pier. Spectacular fireworks displays light up the night sky. The Bournemouth Air Festival features free flying displays from military and civilian aircraft. These events are highlights of the year and offer memorable experiences for all ages.
For family-friendly days out, Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park near Poole offers indoor and outdoor play areas, animal encounters, and tractor rides. This farm park is a favourite for younger children and families looking for a hands-on experience with animals and nature. The PierView Room in Boscombe provides a private hire venue with sea views for social or professional events. It combines a stunning location with versatile facilities.
Getting the Most from Your Visit
Bournemouth’s entertainment venues are mostly concentrated in the town centre, Boscombe, and Poole. There are good public transport and parking options. The O2 Academy and Pavilion Theatre are within walking distance of Bournemouth station. This makes them easily accessible for visitors arriving by train. Tower Park and Sandbanks are accessible by bus or car, with ample parking available.
Tickets for concerts, theatre, and comedy shows vary widely, from around £10 for smaller gigs to £50 or more for major acts. Cinemas and family attractions have standard pricing, with discounts often available for children and seniors. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular events and festivals.
For up-to-date event listings and festival information, the What’s On page is the best resource. It offers comprehensive details on upcoming shows, concerts, and special events across Bournemouth and Poole.
Accommodation Near Entertainment Venues
Bournemouth offers a wide range of accommodation to suit visitors attending entertainment events. Options include hotels, guest houses, and self-catering apartments along the seafront and in the town centre. Flexiestays provides serviced apartments on the West Cliff, close to many venues. They offer comfortable and convenient stays for visitors.
For longer stays or family visits, caravan and holiday parks are available along the Dorset coast and countryside nearby. These provide a more relaxed, self-catering option with easy access to the coast and countryside. Detailed accommodation options can be found on the Where to Stay page. This helps you find the perfect base for your entertainment-filled visit.
For further exploration of Bournemouth’s attractions and activities, see the Things to Do section. For dining options after your entertainment, visit Food & Drink. If you want to explore Bournemouth’s famous sandy shores alongside your entertainment plans, the Beaches page offers detailed guides to the seven miles of coastline.