Bournemouth Upper Gardens — Attraction in England

I have loved the Pleasure Gardens since I was a child, back in the 1950s (!)... and it is even better managed now than it was then; it is a much more varied environment now, and can be enjoyed by folk of all ages. My personal recommendation is to try to have a Pooh Stix race down the Bourne Stream, from the little bridge across the road just below Coy Pond down to the grille across the stream in the Square, a short distance past the war memorial. We do it on 1st January...

Hidden gem walking from Bournemouth Pier through gardens . Follow path from War Memorial. Gentle flat walk , great if you have mobility requirements as very flat. Beautiful trees and gardens a real treat. If you can walk into wild gardens to Coy Pond then up into Westbourne for Bournemouth most vibrant community. Lots of great pubs cafes and restaurants not forgetting great fish and chips. Follow signs to the beach along beautiful Chines and stroll along Prom back...

Really wonderful gardens along the river Bourne as it wends it's way down to the sea. The shady side gave a welcome relief from the heat.

The gardens are a little busy at this time of year, but are kept to a high standard.

They are nowhere near as busy as the beach, a bit cooler and a lot more comfortable. I am surprised so many follow the norm and go to the beach rather than the gardens.

The aviary, artists market, bandstand and all the trimmings are icing...