A Magical Christmas in Bournemouth

‘Tis almost the season for tinsel, turkey and trees and if you’re trying to decide what to do this year, then Bournemouth has the answer! From 19 November you can visit Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland and experience a magical extravaganza of lights, entertainment, food and not forgetting the odd festive tipple or two… 

Christmas Tree Wonderland is a free (yes, you read that right!) extravaganza that weaves through Bournemouth town centre and beyond taking in the sights of over 100 festive themed illuminations from a giant 60-foot walk-through feature tree (GREAT for Insta shots!) to shining polar bears, a walk-through Christmas bauble, a cascading waterfall and there’s even a new Santa lighting up the area! The whole family will enjoy wandering the trail and marvelling at the many different light installations that you pass by. In fact, you’ll stop to take so many photographs that you’ll never be able to print them all out!  

In addition to the trail, there’s an Alpine Village with Christmas Markets where you can buy that all important present, or just peruse the products on offer and quietly add them to your growing Christmas list. Don’t forget to try the tempting food on offer from one of the many stalls. In 2019 I enjoyed bratwursts, churros, loaded crepes and a luxury hot chocolate (not all in one night, obviously, ahem…) 

My particular favourite is the Alpine Bar, which in previous years has served warm mulled wine out of a festive boot – great for a get-together with friends where everyone can quite literally fill their boots! Or for something more romantic, why not book yourself a private bauble next to the Alpine Bar? It’s not your standard bar table, that’s for sure. 

Challenge family and friends to some Christmas competition among twinkling lights with beautiful views at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf at Pier Approach and take a ride on the carousel overlooking the sea. 

The more adventurous amongst us can get on the ice and skate around on the open-air Skate ice rink in the Lower Gardens while the rest of us watch the various Bambi on ice impressions! Or you can enjoy dinner and drinks in one of the many fabulous restaurants and bars nearby, just don’t forget to book in advance! 

Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland really does have something for everyone, but don’t just take my word for it, come down from the 19 November 2021 – 2 January 2022 and experience it for yourself. 

Visit christmastreewonderland.co.uk for more information.