Bournemouth’s Christmas Lights Trail

Are the kids bursting with excitement? Bournemouth's Christmas lights trail has grown 40% bigger this year and this free family activity is the perfect way to soak up some festive magic before the big day.

If you’re looking for something festive to do with the kids as they break up from school this week, Bournemouth Town Centre have an even bigger Christmas light display, and it’s perfect for a family wander before the big day.

Bournemouth Town Centre BID has extended its Christmas lighting programme across several areas of the town, adding new sparkle to Old Christchurch Road, the Triangle and Commercial Road, Beale Place, Westover Road and Horseshoe Common.

This year, there’s a 40% increase in street-light installations, meaning more festive streets to explore, more magical corners to discover, and plenty of photo opportunities for excited little ones.

What’s New This Year?

Old Christchurch Road
New festive lighting has been installed using the recently fitted catenary wires, delivered in partnership with BCP Council. This whole stretch now feels brighter and more atmospheric, great for an early evening stroll with hot chocolates in hand.

Photo Point at The Triangle & Beale Place
Families can snap a Christmas keepsake at the dedicated photo spot, a lovely way to mark the start of the school holidays.

Westover Road
Christmas trees and sparkling lights line the street, giving it that classic festive feeling.

Horseshoe Common
Hanging illuminated decorations and natural lit Christmas trees turn this green space into a cosy winter stop-off.

A Community Funded Christmas

This is the third year the Bournemouth Town Centre BID has fully funded and delivered the Christmas lighting scheme, after council funding was withdrawn. Their goal is to create a welcoming, festive atmosphere across all areas of the town centre.

Paul Lennard, Director of Bournemouth Town Centre BID and Store Manager of Primark, said:

“Christmas remains an important time for the town centre. By extending lighting into more locations, we aim to create a consistent festive environment and improve the overall visitor experience across Bournemouth town centre.”

Perfect for a Pre-Christmas Family Outing

Whether you want to burn off some after-school excitement, or enjoy a walk to soak up that Christmas magic, the new lighting trail is a lovely, free activity for all ages.

You can wander at your own pace, stop for photos, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the glow of Bournemouth at its most enchanting.

Further information about Bournemouth Town Centre BID’s projects can be found at www.towncentrebid.co.uk.