Bournemouth Lower Gardens
Lower Gardens
Victorian gardens running from the town centre down to the seafront, with the River Bourne flowing through them. Hot-air balloon rides and candlelit evenings in summer.
The Lower Gardens are part of Bournemouth's central gardens. They follow the River Bourne from the town centre square down to the pier. Built in the late 19th century, they are among England's earliest public gardens and are listed as Grade II historic parks and gardens. Flower beds, lawns, small bridges, and a bandstand are arranged throughout. In summer there are brass band concerts, crazy golf, and café kiosks. The Bournemouth Balloon, a tethered hot-air balloon that operates when weather permits, rises to about 150 meters for views over the bay, and it requires a separate ticket. On some summer evenings, the century-old Candlelight Festival is held, when thousands of glass lanterns are hung in the trees. You can continue north through the Central Gardens and the Upper Gardens. Admission is free.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- St Peter's Church, Bournemouth
- Oceanarium Bournemouth
- Bournemouth Beach & Pier
- Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
- Alum Chine
- Boscombe Pier
- Compton Acres
- Sandbanks Beach