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Where to Watch Bournemouth Air Show

Summer 2026 is here, and if you are familiar with Bournemouth then you know that this means the Bournemouth Air Show is coming! The Bournemouth Air Festival each year takes over the beach and pier approach for 3 days and is a favourite amongst Dorset locals and tourists alike.

In your preparations for attending the Bournemouth Air Show, keep in mind that the beach is not your only option - Bournemouth is rife with stunning Al Fresco bars and restaurants to give you a unique and comfortable viewing experience.

Coastal Cruises Poole Ltd

Coastal Cruises Poole Ltd

About: Enjoy the ultimate Air Show viewing experience, witness the show from the water! Coastal Cruises Poole Ltd sail all around the Jurassic Coast and offer the perfect way to witness one of Bournemouth's greatest events, but without the chaos of the crowds.

Event: Hop on board Coastal Cruises Poole Ltd' Jurassic Adventurer Cruise - where you can enjoy a full day of exploring the Jurassic Coast this Summer! Time it just right that you catch the Air Show throughout your journey, whilst also being able to enjoy some time exploring all that Dorset has to offer. This is especially perfect for those holidaying in Bournemouth specifically for the Air Show - make the most of your stay. Find out more.

Bookings: Click here.

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Elevate Brasserie

Elevate Brasserie

About: Elevate Brasserie in Bournemouth is a dream spot for Al Fresco dining, looking right over Bournemouth Beach! An ideal spot to set yourself up to enjoy the Air Show from a more relaxed and quiet environment. Indulge in delicious cuisine, sip on refreshing drinks, and watch as  RAF Red Arrows, the Utimate Warbirds and more soar through the skies.

Location: Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH

Telephone: 01202 055800

Bookings: Here.

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The Urban Garden

About: Nestled away in the Bournemouth Lower Gardens, The Urban Garden have plenty of ourdoor seating for you to enjoy The Air Show. Being in the Lower Gardens, you are just far away enough from the beach to be out of the choas, but still having a great view. 

Location: Exeter Cres, Bournemouth BH2 5AY

Telephone: 01202 286787

Bookings: Here.

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Key West Restaurant Client Image

Key West

About: Situated at the end of Bournmeouth's Pier, claim your seats right in the hustle and bustle of The Air Show.

Event: Key West will be hosting for all 3 days of the Bournemouth Air Show, from 20th August to 23rd August.

Location: Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA

Telephone: 01202 237902

Booking: Here.

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Bournemouth Wheel

Bournemouth Observation Wheel

About: Fancy adding a little bit of extra fun to your Air Show experience? Give the family a memorable day out and watch the red arrows from the famous Bournemouth Observation Wheel! 

Location: Pier Approach, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA

Prices:

  • Adult £10
  • Child £8
  • Family (2 adults 2 children) £30
  • XL Family (6 people) £48
Beaches

Beaches

About: If you're wanting a proper Bournemouth Air Show experience, then the beach is the classic option! Although Bournemouth Beach may not be an option unless you head down extra early, there are plenty of beachside spots across the Dorset coast where you can witness the show!

Locations

Hengistbury Head - If you want to be one of the first to witness the majority of the aircrafts take flight, then Hengistbury Head is the place to be. Most of the planes fly in from Bournemouth Airport, so they will soar over you on their way to Bournemouth! - And the perfect spot for a little picnic as you will have more space.

Purbeck, Ballard Down - A little further out, but Ballard Down is a favourite amongst photographers and those wanting a more relaxing Air Festival Weekend experience!

Boscombe and Southbourne - The beaches at Boscombe and at Southbourne aren't officially in the airspace but you will have a great view. Boscombe beach especially, due to its pier, may still be very busy, but will still afford you some more space than available in Bournemouth. 

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