Charminster is a suburb of Bournemouth, between Springbourne and Winton.  The area is ideal for people wanting to stay around the city but not always in the centre and it is a great location to explore the Bournemouth area.  Here are some of the top things to see and do around Charminster and Bournemouth during a visit to the area.

Bournemouth Pier

Bournemouth Pier receives around half a million visitors every year and has the classic amusements arcade at the entrance, kids’ rides’ and shops along with cafes on its length.  The current pier dates from 1861 and has had a few problems with the weather that led to a major refurbishment just twenty years later.  It was also partially destroyed (on purpose) by Royal Engineers in 1940 as part of the war precautions but was rebuilt in the 1950s.

Bournemouth Beach

If you want to spend a little time on the beach during your visit, the nearest beach area to Charminster is the main Bournemouth Beach.  This is ideal to combine with a visit to the Pier as it stretches out from it.  The beach is known for great sand and there is a Cliff Lift that operates at certain times of the year to get a different view of the beach area.

The Lower Gardens

If you are taking a trip into the centre of Bournemouth, then the Lower Gardens is one of a set of three gardens located in the city centre, just a short distance from the main shopping area.  Not only are the Lower Gardens brilliant to visit at any time of the year but they top the list because they also have their own aviary filled with beautiful birds to see.

The Isle of Purbeck

For a day trip, catching the boat to the Isle of Purbeck is a great idea.  You get the see the famous Jurassic Coast, one of the best places in the country to see the remains of the country’s dinosaurs.  This was once the top fossil hunting location but is now protected, however, you might still spot the odd ammonite.  The boat rides often include a stop at Corfe Castle as well.

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum

For some culture during your stay, check out the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, which also contains the Henry Irving Museum for theatre fans.  Originally built as a present for Annie Russell-Coates, it is now owned by the city and has an impressive collection of artefacts and art to check out.

Places to eat in Charminster

Being close to the city centre, there are lots of places to eat around Charminster.  But if you are looking for a classic British restaurant offering local, home cooked food, then Bates Restaurant is the answer.  The restaurant is popular with people staying in the area as well as residents from the local villages of Ensbury Park, West Howe, Winton, Moordown, Mayrick Park, Queens Park and Muscliff, Throop.  So if you love traditional British dining, this is the place to go.