Get involved! Low-cost activities in the local area during summer

Many students stay in Bournemouth during the summer months, so you won't be alone if you're staying local this year. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy everything Bournemouth has to offer, from its sunny beaches to community events. There are many low-cost activities and places to visit, so be sure to check them out. 

We have also shared what university services are available during the summer break (Friday 26 June – Monday 21 September 2026) on our website. Please refer to this if you plan on visiting campus during the break or need support. 

Summer evening fireworks and entertainment

Many nearby towns arrange fireworks, music and evening entertainment throughout August. The fireworks are free to attend and run throughout the week - a great excuse to go for a walk and enjoy the brighter evenings alone or with friends. 

  • Bournemouth beach – Fireworks run every Friday throughout August  
  • Poole Quay – Enjoy free live music, entertainment and fireworks every Thursday night (30 July to 27 August)  
  • Wareham – A short train or bus journey from Bournemouth, Wareham offers free music, entertainment and fireworks on Wednesdays throughout late July to early September. 

Explore Dorset

The summer is the best time of year to explore Dorset and the Jurassic Coast. BU student, Hannah, shares her suggestions of where to visit for a day trip and how to get there including The New Forest, Old Harry's Rocks, Durdle Door and more.

Take memorable pictures on the Bournemouth and Poole Selfie Wall Trail between Sandbanks and Southbourne.

Explore the town by walking the Bournemouth Gardens Tree Trail (pdf 2.64mb). It takes approximately two hours and identifies 12 types of trees, including Redwood, Cypress and Palm.

Visit the free visitor centre at Hengistbury Head to learn about their nearby nesting barn owls and enjoy a walk by the sea.

Free and low-cost festivals and community events

There are many low cost events and festivals planned closer to Bournemouth, which may be of interest to you:

Market shopping

Explore the range of stalls or treat yourself to something at one of the many recurring markets that run in the local area. The markets are a good excuse to visit somewhere new, or to explore closer to home.

Stay healthy 

You can sign up for the SportBU Summer Blast membership offer - for only £55, students can join SportBU for three months and use their facilities as often as you like.

If you have kids to entertain this summer, SportBU run a series of Kids' Holiday Clubs which are available for children aged 5-14 years old that are packed full of different activities, sports and games. There is also a 10% discount for BU staff and students, when you use your @bournemouth.ac.uk email address when booking. Find out more about how to benefit from this on the BU website. 

Join the regular Parkrun every Saturday in King’s Park and Park Yoga every Sunday in parks around Bournemouth.