This great seaside town has a lot to offer with miles of sandy beaches, clifftops, two piers, shopping centres, theatres, gardens, new cinema complex, music venues and nightlife.

Bournemouth’s highlights include:

Seven miles of south-facing sandy beaches stretching from swanky Sandbanks in the west to historic Hengistbury Head in the east. Most are Blue Flag and there are land trains to give you a lift along the front. Enjoy clifftop walks and zigzag paths or wooded chines down to the beach, alternatively try the West Cliff Funicular Railway. Between 1 May and 30 September dogs must be kept on a lead on the promenades and paths, and may only be exercised in signposted areas – see details.

From Bournemouth Square, the Lower Gardens lead to the Pier Approach and beaches.

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is the collection of artworks, furniture and rare decorative pieces that a Victorian couple accumulated over many years travelling. These are now on display in what was their grand clifftop home.

The Oceanarium has a wide range of creatures from above and below the water.

Castlepoint Shopping Centre has a Sainsbury’s and Asda at either end, with national brands of clothes shops, homewares and book sellers in between. Parking is free.

Major venues include the Bournemouth International Centre, Pavilion Theatre and O2 Academy.