Summer is more than just a season; it's a state of mind. It's the feeling of cool sand between your toes as you stroll along the beach, the taste of an ice-cold drink on a hot afternoon, and the laughter that echoes through the air during late-night gatherings with friends. It's the sense of freedom that comes with shedding layers and embracing the warmth of the sun on your skin. We want to give you some fantastic ideas of what you could be looking forward to this season, welcome to our six weeks of summer!

Whether you want an incredible eye-level aircraft view, a beachfront location with planes overhead or perhaps a more relaxed time away from the crowds, there are plenty of perfect places to watch the Air Festival’s aviation action.

Every year, the Bournemouth Air Festival graces the skies with a breathtaking display of aerobatic skills, drawing spectators from all corners to witness this captivating event. As the iconic festival spans across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, we guide you through the best vantage points to experience the awe-inspiring aerial performances.

If the weather forecasts sunny days and balmy temperatures you can be sure the Air Festival will be busy with families, aircraft enthusiasts and people simply after a fantastic day out – so if you want to be among the excitement be sure to get your spot nice and early.

Bournemouth

One of the most convenient places is Bournemouth Beach - don’t forget your windbreak and deckchairs available to hire. You can reach the beach by taking a stroll through the resort's Grade II-listed Lower Gardens and iconic zig zag slopes, which run down the cliffs.

Bournemouth’s historic Pier is another great spot for watching incredible aircraft and is just a moments’ walk from the beach.

The display line stretches from Bournemouth Pier to just beyond Boscombe Pier and at the heart of this is another ideal location, the central flight line - midway between the two piers.

Between the piers, you’ll find the Official Air Festival Hospitality Marquee. This is the perfect place to treat family, friends or business associates to a super special first-class day out.

Should you fancy watching the planes away from the hustle and bustle of main festival site you can still see the action from a more relaxed location. Boscombe Beach is perfect, with ample amenities.

Christchurch

What makes the Air Festival site different to others is the choice of vantage points and the Overcliff area offers spectacular eye-level views. It’s busy but is the perfect spot to capture images and enjoy the array of clifftop entertainment, even as far as Hengistbury Head!

Although not in the official event air space, you can still see and hear aircraft in the distance, as well as display teams from the beaches and clifftops at Southbourne.

Poole

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Bournemouth Town Centre, head west to the beaches at Poole where you can still catch the flying action.

To the west side of Bournemouth Pier is an idyllic location - the tropical gardens and beaches at Alum Chine offer a quieter, relaxing location.

For a touch of luxury while watching the air festival, Sandbanks Peninsula offers an exquisite setting. The exclusive shores provide a sophisticated backdrop as the planes paint the sky with their colourful trails. Enjoy the festival from the comfort of your beach hut or a stylish waterfront venue.

With so much choice, you might prefer to be at home and hear what’s going on from the comfort of your armchair or deckchair. If so, then simply tune into the Air Festival commentary on Hot Radio listen online, on DAB or on the app.

Whether you're on the sandy beaches, clifftop viewpoints, or serene harboursides, each spot offers a unique perspective on the aerial performances. So, gather your loved ones, set up your chairs, and prepare to be captivated by the acrobatics and grace that make the Bournemouth Air Festival a cherished annual event in this coastal paradise.

We look forward to welcoming you to another fantastic Air Festival this summer 31st August – 3rd September!

Related

0 Comments

Comments

Comments are disabled for this post.