Entertainment

Bournemouth is a vibrant, bustling resort with plenty to see and do, whether you’re staying overnight or visiting for the day. From international concert venues and theatres to live music nights and clubs, there are hundreds of places where you can be wowed with all types of entertainment.

Concert Venues

At the heart of the resort is the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). It’s one of the South’s largest venues and attracts pop acts, conferences, exhibitions, and huge audiences.

Just nearby in the vibrant coastal village of Boscombe is one of the region's premier live entertainment destinations, the O2 Academy Bournemouth. This spectacular venue is based in a charming Grade II-listed building - formerly the historic Grand Theatre. Boasting magnificent acoustics and a beautiful backdrop for live performances, the O2 Academy regularly hosts some of the biggest names in the music industry. Whether you're looking for international music icons, side-splitting comedy, sporting events, or epic club nights, it is an absolute must-visit for live entertainment fans. Be sure to check out their latest line-up to catch an unforgettable show during your stay!

Theatre & Dance

Bournemouth’s Art Deco Pavilion Theatre captures the elegance and splendour of the 1920s. You can catch West End shows, opera, ballet, and pantomime throughout the year.

It’s also home to Pavilion Dance South West, which presents performances, live screenings, exhibitions, and more than 40 classes every week.

Cinemas & Leisure Complexes

Our state-of-the-art 10-screen Odeon cinema sits at the centre of the resort, surrounded by restaurants, making it perfect for a family treat or date night.  

If you are looking for all-weather family fun, the nearby Tower Park Entertainment Complex in Poole is a must-visit destination. Just a short drive from Bournemouth, it is packed with things to do, including a multiplex Vue cinema, Hollywood Bowl, Buzz Bingo, and Lemur Landings soft play. It is also home to the thrilling Splashdown Waterpark! Surrounded by a fantastic variety of big-name restaurants, it is the ultimate spot for an action-packed day out or an evening of competitive family fun.

Comedy & Live Music

It’s a laugh a minute in Bournemouth! We get some of the biggest names in British comedy at our international venues, and there’s a great local scene. There are stand-up and open mic nights at many of our pubs and clubs. It doesn’t stop with jokers; Bournemouth is a hotbed for new and young talent. Many venues, especially the local pubs in our coastal villages, showcase emerging bands and musicians.

Casinos & Nightclubs

Bournemouth comes alive at night, with modern bars and clubs in the heart of the resort. You can sip on cocktails as the sun goes down, dance into the early hours of the morning, or even try your luck in one of our casinos. These venues are surrounded by restaurants and takeaways, so you can make a night of it with a group of friends. You’re also never far from a sea view, which will make your visit even more memorable.

For full information on events and festivals, visit our What's On page.

Looking for accommodation in Bournemouth… a perfect place to stay by the sea

Bournemouth is well known for its great variety of hotels, guest houses, B&Bs, and self-catering options situated along our stunning coastline. You’ll find luxury international hotel groups, national chains, beautiful boutique hotels, independent and family friendly-hotels and guest houses, budget-friendly hotels, a great choice of self-catering options, and caravan and camping parks along our neighbouring coastline and countryside.