Christmas in Bournemouth

Spending Christmas in the UK, and especially in a vibrant seaside town like Bournemouth, offers international students a chance to experience unique British holiday traditions. Here’s how to enjoy the festive season to the fullest and what you can look forward to in Bournemouth!

Festive Atmosphere in Bournemouth

During December, Bournemouth becomes a winter wonderland. The town centre is filled with Christmas lights, decorations, and the annual Christmas Market, where you can enjoy mulled wine, mince pies, and browse for gifts. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Wonderland, with its enchanting illuminated displays and themed Christmas trees from the town centre to the beach.

If you’re up for some winter fun, head to the outdoor ice rink in the Lower Gardens, where you can try ice skating by the sea—a classic British holiday experience.

British Christmas Traditions

Christmas Day and Boxing Day
In the UK, Christmas Day (25th December) is a time for family gatherings and traditional meals of roast turkey, vegetables, and Christmas pudding. Boxing Day (26th December) is often spent shopping, as many stores hold big sales, or watching football matches, a beloved British pastime.

Christmas Crackers
These are colourful paper tubes placed on the table during meals, containing a small gift, a joke, and a paper crown. Pulling a cracker with a friend and wearing the crown is a fun and uniquely British tradition.

Festive Foods
British holiday treats include mince pies, mulled wine, and Christmas cake. Many pubs and cafés in Bournemouth serve these seasonal foods, so take the chance to sample them, even if you’re not celebrating with family.

Bournemouth Christmas Dip
Every year, Bournemouth hosts a traditional “Christmas Day Dip,” where people (often in festive costumes!) brave the chilly sea and run into the water on Christmas morning for charity. It’s an exciting event to watch or even join if you’re feeling adventurous.

Christmas in Bournemouth as a Bayswater Student

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the holiday season. We will offer a variety of festive activities and trips throughout December, giving you the chance to explore new places (and magical Christmas markets!) and experience British holiday culture with other students. During the two-week Christmas break when the school will be closed (21st December - 6th January), the school will also offer plenty of optional activities and trips so you can keep socialising and enjoying the festive atmosphere in Bournemouth. Check the activities page and don't forget to sign up for the activities!

Tips for Christmas in Bournemouth

• Plan ahead: Public transport services will be limited on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day, so check schedules if you’re planning to travel.

• Dress warmly: Bournemouth may have mild weather compared to other parts of the UK, but it’s still winter, so dress in layers when exploring outdoor events.

• Join in on the traditions: Don’t miss out on trying British holiday treats, pulling a Christmas cracker, or watching the Christmas Day Dip at the beach!

Final Thoughts

Christmas in Bournemouth offers a warm, festive environment where you can experience British holiday traditions and create lasting memories. Whether this is your first winter in the UK or not, take advantage of the season’s unique charm, meet new friends, and embrace the holiday spirit in this lively coastal town.

Merry Christmas, and enjoy the season! 🎄