Today I thought I’d share one of my favourite days out that I do pretty regularly with my 4-year-old. I’m super lucky to have him all to myself once a week on Wednesdays, and I like to think we get up to some pretty good adventures!
If you’re staying in Bournemouth with kids, especially around Westbourne, this is such an easy and fun day trip that ticks all the boxes.
Starting in Westbourne
We usually start the day in Westbourne, getting the bags packed with all the essentials plenty of snacks (obviously), drinks, spare clothes and coats… because let’s be honest, you never quite know what the weather’s going to do down here.
Then we hop on the Dorset Breezer bus and, if it’s looking even slightly sunny, we head straight for the top deck always a winner with kids.
The journey over to Christchurch Dorset takes about 40 minutes, and it’s a really easy, stress-free way to travel without worrying about parking.
First Stop: Coffee & a Wander
We usually hop off at Saxon Square and head straight for a coffee (or a babyccino!) and a teacake at the Lounge great spot with loads of choice and very kid-friendly.
Once we’re fuelled up, we have a little wander over to the Red House Museum. It’s one of those places that’s small but actually really lovely with kids. There’s a beautiful walled garden outside, often with dinosaur figures dotted around which my little one loves, and inside there’s a mix of local history, including finds from Hengistbury Head and bits about the old airfield.
It’s not huge, but that’s kind of the point perfect for a quick explore without anyone getting bored.
Splash Park & River Walks
From there, we head over to the Quomps splash park, which is right by the river. In the summer, it’s such a great spot to let the kids run off some energy while you grab an ice cream and watch the boats drift past.
After that, we usually take a slow wander along the river towards the Town Quay. It’s one of those really simple but lovely walks, and there’s always something going on boats, paddleboarders, people crabbing… keeps little ones entertained the whole way.
Lunch, Ducks & Quay Life
By this point, hunger usually kicks in. If we haven’t packed lunch, we’ll pop into the Old Mill Tea Rooms nothing fancy, but decent food and reasonably priced.
The main event though… feeding the ducks.
We grab some duck food and head down to the quay, where there are always ducks and swans waiting. There’s also the occasional sighting of the famous floating wooden hippopotamus, which somehow makes it even more exciting!
Optional Adventure: Boat Trip to Hengistbury Head
If we’re feeling a bit more adventurous, this is where the day can level up.
From the quay, you can hop on one of the little boats that cruise over to Hengistbury Head or Mudeford Quay. It’s a short trip, but for kids it feels like a proper adventure.
Hengistbury Head is one of my favourite spots near Bournemouth. It’s a bit quieter because it’s harder to get to, and you’ve got the choice of the calm harbour on one side or the open beach and dunes on the other, with views out towards the Isle of Wight.
Definitely bring a bucket and spade if you’re heading over and if you get the chance, grab a drink at the beach café and just take it all in. It’s such a peaceful spot.
Heading Home
By this point, everyone’s usually a bit windswept and pretty knackered, so it’s time to head back.
The boats run until around 6pm in the summer, so just keep an eye on the time missing the last one turns it into a much longer journey home!
Once you’re back at the quay, it’s a short walk to the bus stop and an easy ride back to Westbourne.
Final Thoughts
All in all, it’s such an easy, well-rounded day out and one of the best day trips from Bournemouth with kids. You’ve got a bit of everything travel, food, play, nature and a little adventure without needing loads of planning.
If you’re staying locally, especially in Westbourne, it’s definitely one to add to the list.
Why Westbourne?
If you’re planning a family trip and want a base that’s close to all of this, take a look at our family-friendly apartments in Westbourne. It makes days like this super easy without the hassle of driving everywhere.
Staying in Bournemouth with kids?
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