4 Things to do in Bournemouth

When people think of fashion they often think of London as the hotspot, but we’ve got one down in the South West too. If your idea of a holiday is to ‘shop till you drop’, then Bournemouth and its surrounding districts are the places to be.

Bournemouth is peppered with quirky, kitsch and unique fashion, and offers some of the best vintage items I have ever seen. You’ve just got to know where to look! Moreover, Bournemouth is one of the most picturesque towns in the UK. Year-round gardens (with benches to rest heavy bags on) and sandy white beaches make it a very pleasurable shopping destination.

1. Bournemouth: high street and lunch

Close to Bournemouth seafront, the town’s main shopping is centred around the Lower and Central Gardens and spreads on either side of the small Bourne river. It’s right here, among pretty Victorian arcades, that you’ll find high-street names such as Topshop, M&S and Zara. Plus a scattering of higher end shops like Cath Kidston and designer boutiques such as Roberta and Richmond Classics.

When you’re ready for a little bit of lunch, my favourite choice is The Crab. Situated near the seafront, it’s a place where you can sit and watch other shoppers go by while you feast on a seaside classic: fish and chips with a twist!

2. Boscombe: vintage

When you’ve explored Bournemouth Town, head east to Boscombe for an entirely different shopping experience. Here in Boscombe you’ll find a vibrant community network with a fascinating cultural history, a stunning beach, a historic pier and award-winning parks.

If you have an eye for one-off gems, then you’ll love the treasure trove that is the Bournemouth Vintage Emporium. Here you find lots of independent sellers that have come together under one roof to sell their vintage finds or creations. Must-visits include What Alice Found, Love From Hetty & Dave and Glad Rag Retro. There is so much to look at, you could easily find yourself losing track of time! My favourite stall is Love From Hetty & Dave for their perfectly handmade leather animal pumps. Pick up a pair for a treasured memory – and to get everyone asking where you got them when you get back home!

3. Pokesdown: retro

To round off an afternoon of vintage shopping, head down to the nearby vintage quarter on Christchurch Road in Pokesdown. You’ll be thrilled by the range of retro boutiques and can enjoy reminiscing over nostalgic items from the past. My favourite stop is Clobber, which is easily on-par with vintage shops in London, and is renowned on the South Coast.

If you want to be in the east of town, near Boscombe, enjoy a stay at the Travelodge Bournemouth Hotel. It’s just a short 20-minute walk away.

4. Westbourne: designers and high tea

If you fancy venturing further afield, head to the the suburb of Westbourne, west of Bournemouth. You’ll be impressed with the selection of designer clothes and interior design shops. Step back in time to an Aladdin’s Cave of boutiques, arcades, quirky gift shops, interior design shops – plus patisseries and restaurants galore.

Complete your vintage experience with a trip to my favourite afternoon tea spot, Dot’s Tea. From vintage linens and bunting to the pretty glass sugar bowls and mismatched bone china crockery, this little tea room is a nostalgic treat. Satisfy your sweet tooth with an array of homemade scones and cakes complemented by tea, smoothies and milkshakes. Stay at the Travelodge Bournemouth Seafront Hotel to be in the heart of Bournemouth Town and just a 20-minute walk from Westbourne.

Whatever your age group and whatever you’re searching for, you’ll find it here. And it’s safe to say that Bournemouth has enough shops to fill several days of retail therapy!