“Family Christmas Getaway in Bournemouth” is a collaborative post.
Christmas is magical, isn’t it? But let’s be real—juggling the cooking, cleaning, and endless to-do lists at home can sometimes take the sparkle out of the season. That’s why this year, we decided to pack up the chaos and head to Bournemouth for a family Christmas getaway. Spoiler: it was the best decision ever. Here’s what we did, what we loved, and what I’d recommend if you’re considering a festive escape with your little ones.
Why Bournemouth?
I’ll admit, we debated over several places, but Bournemouth won because of its seaside charm and incredible lineup of Christmas events. There’s something about the fresh sea air and twinkling lights that makes you feel festive the moment you arrive. Plus, it’s just the right size—big enough for plenty of activities, but small enough that it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Perfect when you’re wrangling two excited kids who’ve already had too much hot chocolate.
Getting There and Settling In
We drove down, which meant we could load up the car with all the essentials (snacks, board games, and yes, the Elf on the Shelf). If you’re not driving, Bournemouth is well connected by train and coach, so no worries there.
We stayed at a luxury hotel that had decked its halls with all the festive trimmings—think garlands on every bannister, roaring fireplaces, and Christmas carols playing softly in the background. The kids were immediately handed gingerbread cookies at check-in. I mean, talk about starting on the right note.
Festive Attractions in Bournemouth
Christmas Tree Wonderland
This was hands-down our favourite. Imagine strolling through the Lower Gardens surrounded by sparkling Christmas trees, each uniquely decorated. There were interactive light installations, and the kids were obsessed with the talking trees (yes, talking trees!). The best part? It’s free, which is always a win.
Ice Skating in the Lower Gardens
I wasn’t sure how this would go—our youngest is still wobbly on skates—but the rink had these penguin-shaped skate aids that made it so much easier for her. It was lovely seeing the kids laugh (and fall) while we took turns gliding around the rink. And afterwards? Hot chocolate with marshmallows from the nearby kiosk. Bliss.
The Alpine Market and Lodge
This was a lovely mix of festive shopping and indulgent treats. The kids found adorable Christmas ornaments to take home, while my husband and I enjoyed mulled wine at the Alpine Lodge. There was live music in the evenings, which added a cheerful vibe.
Festive Fun at the Hotel
One of the reasons we opted for a luxury hotel was the extra effort they put into Christmas. It wasn’t just about having a comfortable room—it was about the festive experience.
Christmas Crafts
Every morning, the kids joined a craft session where they made ornaments and decorated cookies. Our youngest proudly hung her glitter-covered creation on the big Christmas tree in the lobby.
Santa’s Visit
Santa himself popped by on Christmas Eve, handing out little presents. The kids were starstruck (and, let’s be honest, so were we).
Family Movie Nights
Each evening, the hotel screened Christmas classics in a cosy lounge with blankets and popcorn. We all snuggled up to watch Home Alone—it felt like the perfect end to a festive day.
Seaside Walks and Fresh Air
Even in winter, Bournemouth’s beaches are stunning. We bundled up and took a stroll along the pier, watching the waves crash and breathing in the salty air. The kids loved collecting shells and trying (unsuccessfully) to skip stones. It was a welcome pause from the hustle and bustle of town.
Tips for a Smooth Christmas Getaway
- Book Early: Whether it’s your hotel, ice-skating tickets, or dinner reservations, Christmas in Bournemouth is popular. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
- Pack Layers: The seaside breeze can get chilly, but it’s also a perfect excuse to bring out those cute Christmas jumpers.
- Plan Activities: The town is packed with things to do, so a little planning goes a long way. But don’t overschedule—leave room for downtime.
- Use the Park and Ride: Parking in Bournemouth can be tricky during busy times, so the Park and Ride options are a lifesaver.
- Bring Snacks: This is parenting 101, but especially important when you’re exploring Christmas markets with kids. Avoid the meltdowns.
Why We’ll Be Back
Our Bournemouth Christmas getaway was everything we’d hoped for: magical moments, family bonding, and just the right amount of festive chaos. If you’re dreaming of a Christmas where someone else cooks the roast and you get to focus on making memories, I can’t recommend it enough.
So, what do you say? Will you trade the stress of hosting for the joy of a festive adventure? Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever done a Christmas getaway—or if Bournemouth might just make your list for next year!
