Printed brochures and digital guides provide essential information about Bournemouth’s attractions, accommodation, dining, and events. They serve as reliable resources for visitors planning their trip or exploring the town during their stay. This page outlines where to find these materials, what they typically include, and how to use them effectively.
The sections below cover the main types of brochures and guides available, where to collect them in Bournemouth, how to access digital versions, and advice on selecting the right materials for your visit.
Types of Brochures and Guides Available in Bournemouth
Bournemouth offers a range of brochures and guides tailored to different interests and needs. These include official visitor guides, maps, event listings, and specialised booklets on attractions or neighbourhoods.
The Bournemouth Guide, produced locally, provides comprehensive information on things to do, places to eat, and accommodation options. It is available in print at tourist information centres and hotels, and also online. The official Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council visitor guide includes details on public transport, parking, and local services.
Specialist guides focus on particular themes such as the seven miles of sandy beaches, family-friendly activities, or the town’s gardens and parks. These often include maps and suggested itineraries. Seasonal brochures highlight events and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Visitor Information Centres and Tourist Offices
Physical copies of brochures and guides are primarily available at Bournemouth’s main tourist information centres. The principal centre is located on the seafront at the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, open daily with staff providing advice and free maps. Additional points include the Bournemouth Train Station and some hotels, where leaflets are displayed for self-service.
These centres stock a wide selection of printed materials, including:
- Official town and regional guides
- Maps of Bournemouth and surrounding areas
- Event brochures with listings for theatre, music, and festivals
- Guides to local attractions such as the Oceanarium and Russell-Cotes Art Gallery
- Public transport timetables and parking information
Digital Brochures and Online Guides
Many brochures are available in digital format for download or viewing on smartphones and tablets. The official BCP Council website hosts PDFs of visitor guides, beach safety information, and event calendars. The Bournemouth Guide’s website offers detailed online guides and interactive maps covering neighbourhoods, attractions, and dining.
Digital guides often include hyperlinks to booking sites and up-to-date event details, making them convenient for planning and last-minute changes. They can be accessed before arrival or used on the move to navigate the town.
Some third-party travel apps and websites also feature Bournemouth guides, but official sources provide the most accurate and current information.
Where to Collect Brochures and Guides in Bournemouth
Printed brochures are distributed across several key locations to ensure easy access for visitors. The main points to pick up materials include:
- Bournemouth Pavilion Tourist Information Centre: On the seafront, near the pier, open daily from 9am to 5pm.
- Bournemouth Train Station: Leaflet racks in the main concourse, available during station opening hours.
- Major Hotels: Many hotels provide guest information packs including local guides and maps.
- Visitor Centres in Nearby Towns: Christchurch and Poole visitor centres also stock Bournemouth guides for those exploring the wider area.
Local libraries and some cafes may carry brochures, but the selection is more limited. Brochures are replenished regularly during peak tourist seasons to maintain availability.
Accessibility and Languages
Some brochures are available in multiple languages, including French, German, and Spanish, to cater to international visitors. Large print versions and guides with accessible formats can be requested at the main tourist information centre.
What Information Brochures and Guides Include
Bournemouth brochures and guides cover a wide range of topics to assist visitors throughout their stay. Common contents include:
- Maps: Detailed street maps, beach locations, and transport routes.
- Attractions: Descriptions and opening times of key sites like Bournemouth Pier, the Oceanarium, and gardens.
- Events: Calendars of festivals, theatre performances, live music, and seasonal activities.
- Accommodation: Listings of hotels, guest houses, and serviced apartments with contact details.
- Food and Drink: Recommendations for restaurants, pubs, cafes, and bars across the town.
- Transport: Information on buses, trains, parking zones, and taxi services.
- Safety and Services: Beach safety advice, lifeguard cover, emergency contacts, and tourist assistance points.
Guides often include suggested walking routes and itineraries for families, couples, or solo travellers. Some brochures focus on specific interests such as wildlife watching, historical tours, or shopping districts.
How to Use Brochures and Guides Effectively in Bournemouth
To make the most of brochures and guides, it is advisable to collect them early in your visit or download digital versions in advance. Combining printed maps with online resources helps with navigation and discovering lesser-known attractions.
Planning your itinerary around events listed in seasonal guides ensures you catch festivals or special activities. Checking opening times and ticket information in advance can save time and avoid disappointment.
When exploring the beaches, consult the beach safety brochures for up-to-date information on lifeguard hours and water conditions. The BCP Council website also provides live updates on beach status.
For accommodation, guides list a range of options including hotels and serviced apartments. Flexiestays offers several aparthotels and apartments on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, detailed in the accommodation section of this site.
Combining Guides with Other Resources
Brochures complement other visitor information such as the interactive map on this site and detailed neighbourhood guides. For current events and news, the What’s On and Bournemouth News sections provide real-time updates.
Using a combination of printed and digital materials allows visitors to adapt plans according to weather, transport changes, or new opportunities discovered locally.
Costs and Availability of Brochures and Guides
Most official brochures and guides are available free of charge at tourist information centres and public venues. Some specialised booklets or event programmes may have a nominal fee, typically £1 to £3, to cover printing costs.
Digital guides and PDFs are generally free to download from official websites. Some commercial publications or third-party guides may require purchase.
Brochures are produced and distributed year-round, with increased quantities during spring and summer months when visitor numbers peak. Availability may be limited in winter, but digital versions remain accessible.
Who Benefits Most from Brochures and Guides in Bournemouth
Brochures and guides are valuable for all visitors, from first-timers to repeat travellers. They are particularly useful for:
- Families: Guides highlight child-friendly attractions, playgrounds, and safe beach areas.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Maps and trail guides support walking, cycling, and coastal exploration.
- Event-goers: Calendars and festival brochures help plan attendance at concerts, theatre, and seasonal fairs.
- International Visitors: Multilingual guides and transport information ease navigation and cultural orientation.
- Independent Travellers: Self-guided tours and detailed maps encourage exploration without a tour group.
Local residents also use brochures to discover new activities and stay informed about community events.
For a full overview of things to do in Bournemouth, including detailed guides on beaches and attractions, visit the Things to Do section. For accommodation options, including serviced apartments, see the Where to Stay page.