Bournemouth Beach Tops TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards
21st February 2018
Bournemouth has not only been named the best UK beach in the annual TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards but is 5th in Europe and 14th in the world ranking above beaches in locations world famous for their miles of golden sands and crystal clear waters, including the Seychelles, Australia, Turkey and Sicily.
Bournemouth’s seven mile stretch of sandy beach has something to offer everyone with its traditional seaside attractions, famous beach huts for hire, watersports and stunning views of the Isle of Wight and the Purbecks. The bay also boasts its own micro-climate, giving it some of the warmest sea temperatures in the UK.
According to Chris Saunders, Head of Operations in Tourism Services, this accolade is the result of many factors coming together, not least the commitment of the indefatigable Seafront Team. He says: “The beaches are raked and cleaned daily to the highest standard, experienced rangers are present year-round to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors, including the operation of the LV= KidZone and the regular land trains, while RNLI life guards are stationed at regular intervals along the beach.
“Furthermore, Bournemouth Seafront is benefitting from a series of far reaching improvements, including the upgrading and landscaping of Pier Approach and a slick, modernised Tourist Information Centre.”
Unlike many coastal destinations in the UK, Bournemouth’s appeal isn’t restricted to the summer months. Bournemouth welcomes over 6 million visitors every year on top of which it is renowned for events and festivals which use and showcase the town’s extraordinary beaches to their maximum potential.
Jon Weaver, Head of Resort Marketing and Events: “We are immensely proud of the annual Bournemouth Air and Arts by the Sea Festivals while the Bay Run and Marathon weekends help to encourage healthy coastal lifestyles. Bournemouth’s beaches are perfect for dog walking, cycling, surfing, running, playing football and volleyball all year round. We are of course also delighted that our friends and neighbours in Weymouth and Hengistbury Head have been included in Trip Advisor’s ranking.”
Councillor Pat Oakley, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Leisure and Arts in Bournemouth, said: “We’re delighted and honoured to top the TripAdvisor list! We’re especially thrilled with our international ranking. As the UK’s Best Seaside Town, we’re immensely proud to offer world class beaches on British shores without the need to travel abroad. We have four Blue Flags and two Seaside Awards which reflect our commitment to maintaining high standards across our beaches.
“I’d also like to thank Bournemouth’s residents for their part in the protection and promotion of our award-winning seafront. The beaches are a precious and special part of the area’s natural environment and constant vigilance is required to ensure their protection.
“This accolade couldn’t have come at a better time – we’re now working jointly with our colleagues in neighbouring Poole and combined we are able to offer a total of ten miles of sandy beaches.”
Combined, Bournemouth and nearby Poole offers 10 miles of soft golden sand and the two resorts have come together in 2018 to form a destination powerhouse. Featuring eight Blue Flag beaches, Europe’s largest natural harbour and known as the ‘coast with the most’, this stretch of the South Coast attracts outdoorsy adventurers and thrill seekers looking to surf, sail and cycle.
