The region's official and newly independent Bournemouth & Poole Tourism gears up to celebrate its unique coastal communities, world-class attractions, and the hardworking people who make the destination so welcoming.

BOURNEMOUTH & POOLE, DORSET – 13 March 2026 – As English Tourism Week (13–22 March) kicks off today, Bournemouth & Poole Tourism is inviting residents, visitors, and businesses to celebrate the unmatched variety of the ‘Coast with the Most’. Embracing this year’s national theme, "Local Stories. National Growth," the industry-led destination organisation is shining a spotlight on the people, places, and rich history that make Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole the ultimate UK getaway.

Welcoming guests is at the heart of what we do on the Dorset coastline. Our local visitor economy is worth an incredible £1.3 billion, but behind that number are thousands of independent business owners and hospitality teams who work tirelessly to create unforgettable memories. English Tourism Week is the perfect moment to celebrate them—from the teams running our seafront hotels and artisan seafood restaurants to those at our award-winning family attractions, retail hubs, and cultural venues.

To bring these "Local Stories" to life, Bournemouth & Poole Tourism is showcasing how the region allows everyone to curate their perfect coastal escape. We know that a great holiday isn't just about where you go; it's about how you want to feel. Whether you are seeking high-energy thrills, restorative quiet, or a touch of premium luxury, you can find your ideal pace across all three of our unique towns:

• Bournemouth: While loved for its vibrant nightlife and the high-energy rush of the Pier zip-line, the town equally provides restorative experiences like relaxing wood-fired beach saunas, alongside premium sea-view hotels and fine dining.
• Poole: Showcasing Europe’s largest natural harbour, Poole balances high-octane watersports with the chance to completely disconnect alongside wild nature on Brownsea Island, complemented by spectacular seafood dining on the historic Quay.
• Christchurch: Renowned for its tranquil river walks and the historic 11th-century Priory, the town also caters to lively family crabbing and active paddleboarding at Mudeford Quay, alongside luxury spa days and high-end riverside dining.

Beyond the blue flag beaches, the region acts as a gateway to the wild. Visitors can step straight from the coast into the quiet majesty of the New Forest, the heathlands of Hengistbury Head, or the iconic Old Harry Rocks marking the start of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast—which notably celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

A Spokesperson for Bournemouth & Poole Tourism commented:

‍“Following our recent transition to a newly independent destination marketing organisation, this year’s English Tourism Week theme perfectly captures our ongoing mission. When people plan a getaway today, they are looking for a place that matches their mood, and our region provides an unparalleled variety of experiences to do just that. Whether you want the adrenaline rush of the open water, a quiet corner on a historic shore, or a premium coastal retreat, you'll find it here. Every time you book a stay, enjoy a meal, or buy a ticket, you are supporting local livelihoods and the passionate people who make our towns so welcoming. We are incredibly proud of the diverse experiences across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, and we encourage everyone to discover the brilliant local stories right on their doorstep.”

Throughout the week, Bournemouth & Poole Tourism is running a digital campaign encouraging businesses and locals alike to act as tourism ambassadors. Residents are invited to "be a tourist in their own town" by revisiting favourite museums, exploring independent shops, and sharing their experiences online. Simultaneously, businesses across the entire visitor economy are taking part in a region-wide social media drive, sharing behind-the-scenes stories to showcase the friendly faces behind the destination's world-class welcome.

Join the conversation and follow the week’s celebrations across social media using #EnglishTourismWeek26, #LoveBournemouth, #LovePoole and #LoveXchurch

To discover more local stories, read our latest English Tourism Week blog, or find out how your business can join the Bournemouth & Poole Tourism Partnership Scheme, visit www.bournemouth.co.uk.

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Notes to Editors:

• Bournemouth & Poole Tourism (Bournemouth & Poole Tourism Board Ltd) is the independent Destination Marketing Organisation (DMO) for Bournemouth and Poole. Owned by the Destination Management Board (DMB) and delivered in partnership with local agency Soul Motion, it is a commercially focused, industry-led organisation dedicated to driving growth and resilience in the region's visitor economy.
• The Destination Management Board (DMB) serves as the region's overarching Destination Management Organisation, providing strategic leadership and coordination for the entire Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole area.
• English Tourism Week is an annual celebration of the tourism industry, coordinated by VisitEngland, highlighting the sector's economic importance to local economies and promoting the innovation, quality, and range of products and services on offer to encourage more domestic breaks. businesses that would like to take part in English Tourism Week can download a free toolkit here: English Tourism Week | VisitBritain.org
• For media enquiries, further quotes, or high-res images of Bournemouth and Poole, please contact: pr@bptourism.co.uk.