Things to Do in Bournemouth with Kids
By Editorial Team · Last updated 15/08/2026
Bournemouth offers a fantastic seaside escape for families, and we’ve carefully considered what activities will best suit your little ones. There's a huge range of experiences available, from historical explorations to scenic walks along the coast – let’s look at how you can make the most of your trip.
When it comes to family outings, certain tour categories naturally lend themselves better than others. The Walking Tours are undoubtedly one of the most accessible options for families. There are ten different tours on offer, ranging in price from £5 to £90, and several of these would be perfect for keeping children entertained. A gentle stroll along the promenade, taking in the sea air and building sandcastles on the beach, is a classic family activity that appeals to all ages. The higher-priced tours, like “Journey Through Winchester’s Past: Private Tour” (currently rated 4.9/5), are likely best suited for older children who can appreciate a more detailed historical narrative – though even younger children could enjoy a shorter segment of the tour if planned carefully. The variety of walking routes means you can choose one that matches your family's pace and interests, whether it’s a coastal ramble or an exploration through local parks.
Boat trips represent another excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together. While we don't have specific boat trip categories listed with associated tour counts and prices, the general concept of exploring the coastline by sea is consistently appealing to children. The cost of these experiences can vary considerably – expect to find options within the £5-£90 range depending on length and included activities. A short harbour cruise could be a delightful way to spot local wildlife and enjoy the fresh air, while longer trips might offer opportunities for fishing or exploring secluded coves.
For families looking for something a little more active, there are numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures. Bournemouth boasts beautiful parks and gardens that provide ample space for running around, playing games, and enjoying picnics. While we don’t have dedicated ‘activity tours’, simply spending an afternoon in one of these green spaces is a fantastic way to keep the kids entertained. The price point here would be minimal – essentially just the cost of your picnic supplies!
Now, let's consider some tour categories that might not be as ideally suited for younger children. Tours focused on nightlife or pub experiences, for example, generally wouldn’t be a good fit for families travelling with young kids. These tend to have evening timings and an atmosphere geared towards adults. Similarly, tours involving potentially complex historical narratives – particularly those requiring sustained attention – may challenge the patience of smaller children. The “Journey Through Winchester's Past: Private Tour” demonstrates this well; while highly rated, its focus on a specific historical period might not hold the interest of younger visitors for the entirety of the tour duration.
We do have information regarding Walking Tours, which remain our most versatile option. The range in pricing – from £5 to £90 – means you can tailor your spend to suit your family’s preferences and the length of time you want to dedicate to exploring. A shorter, more affordable walking tour would be perfect for a quick introduction to the town, while a slightly longer or more detailed one could provide a deeper understanding of Bournemouth's history and culture.
To plan a truly memorable family day out in Bournemouth, we recommend starting with a visit to the beach – it’s the obvious choice for a reason! Allow plenty of time for building sandcastles, paddling in the sea (weather permitting!), and enjoying an ice cream. Following this, consider exploring one of the local parks or gardens. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the greenery, and let the kids run around and burn off some energy. If you’re looking for something a little different, choose one of our Walking Tours – there's bound to be one that captures your family's interest. Finally, factor in some time for souvenir shopping or simply relaxing by the harbour. With a bit of planning, you can create a fantastic day out that everyone will enjoy, fitting within the generally £5-£90 price range for various activities. Remember to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly – layers are always a good idea!