Top 10 places to watch Bournemouth Air Festival

Whether you want an incredible eye-level aircraft view, a beachfront location with planes overhead or perhaps a more relaxed time away from the crowds, there are plenty of perfect places to watch the Air Festival’s aviation action.

If the weather forecasts sunny days and balmy temperatures you can be sure the Air Festival will be busy with families, aircraft enthusiasts and people simply after a fantastic day out – so if you want to be among the excitement be sure to get your spot nice and early. 

1. Obviously one of the most convenient places is the beach area near Pier Approach - don’t forget your windbreak and deckchairs available to hire. You can reach the beach by taking a stroll through the resort's Grade II-listed Lower Gardens and iconic zig zag slopes, which run down the cliffs.

2. Bournemouth’s historic Pier is another great spot for watching incredible aircraft and is just a moments’walk from the beach.

3. The display line stretches from Bournemouth Pier to just beyond Boscombe Pier and at the heart of this is another ideal location, the central flight line - midway between the two piers. Just bear in mind that, for the best views of one of this year's star attractions - Gravity Industries Jet Suit Team, you will need to make sure you stay between Bournemouth Pier and the central flight line.

4. Also between the piers, you’ll find the official Air Festival Hospitality Marquee. This is the perfect place to treat family, friends or business associates to a super special first-class day out. Book tickets online at bournemouthair.co.uk.

5. What makes the Air Festival site different to others is the choice of vantage points and the overcliff area offers spectacular eye-level views. It’s busy but it's the perfect spot to capture images and enjoy the array of clifftop entertainment.

6. Should you fancy watching the planes away from the hustle and bustle of main festival site you can still see the action from a more relaxed location. Boscombe Beach is perfect, with ample amenities.

7. Although not in the official event air space, you can still see and hear aircraft and display teams from the beaches and clifftops at Southbourne.

8. To the west side of  Bournemouth Pier is another quieter and more idyllic location - the tropical gardens and beaches at Alum Chine. 

9. If you're wanting beachfront views but the luxury of your own space, why not hire a beach hut along the seafront or perhaps book one of the exclusive Beach Lodges?

10. Finally, if you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Bournemouth Town Centre, head west to the beaches at Poole where you can still catch the flying action.

With so much choice, you might prefer to be at home and hear what’s going on from the comfort of your armchair or deckchair. If so, then simply tune into the Air Festival commentary on 87.7FM.

Whatever your idea of the perfect festival location, we’ve got it covered – beachfront fun, clifftop vistas, central flight line experiences, relaxed alternatives, beach hut hire or simply tuning into the radio. We look forward to welcoming you to the another fantastic Air Festival this summer 30^th August – 2^nd September!