UPDATED TOUR
The much-loved resort of Bournemouth is a great base for touring the south coast and this tour showcases much of the best there – it’s all on our doorstep. Highlights include the scenic seaside by boat and train, the lavish family home of Kingston Lacy and the delightful ornamental gardens of Compton Acres.
Bournemouth & Spectacular Art 2026
Bournemouth
Compton Acres Japanese Garden
Corfe Castle & Swanage Railway Andrew PM Wright
Kingston Lacey © National Trust Images Steve Haywood www.nationaltrust.org.uk
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Poole Harbour & Swanage Steam Railway
This morning, it’s seaside all the way as we make our way to Poole Harbour to embark on a boat cruise down the Jurassic coast, to the Victorian pier and beautiful traditional seaside resort of Swanage. We spend time here before embarking on a scenic journey on the award-winning Swanage Steam Railway, before returning by train to Swanage and sailing back to Poole.
Day 3 Bournemouth
Today, we have free time at our hotel or we can explore more of Bournemouth with its
generous sweep of sandy beach, finding somewhere for a relaxing lunch.
Day 4 Kingston Lacy & Compton Acres
This morning, we head to Kingston Lacy, a lavish family home re-imagined as a Venetian Palace in the Dorset countryside. There’s plenty to see, from spectacular artworks to beautiful landscapes. Kingston Lacy is filled with dynamic history and over the years the family built, altered, embellished and rebuilt their house. The house is now a miniature ‘national gallery’ for the Southwest and includes William Bankes collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts, the largest private collection in the UK. In the afternoon we head to Poole and visit the delightful ornamental gardens of Compton Acres. With over 10 acres of themed gardens set out in a circular route, there is much to admire, and our guided tour will introduce us to many of the magnificent shrubs and plants. A step free route is available. We have time to wander at leisure, perhaps visit the café, plant centre or shop before returning to our hotel.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Poole Harbour & Swanage Steam Railway
This morning, it’s seaside all the way as we make our way to Poole Harbour to embark on a boat cruise down the Jurassic coast, to the Victorian pier and beautiful traditional seaside resort of Swanage. We spend time here before embarking on a scenic journey on the award-winning Swanage Steam Railway, before returning by train to Swanage and sailing back to Poole.
Day 3 Bournemouth
Today, we have free time at our hotel or we can explore more of Bournemouth with its
generous sweep of sandy beach, finding somewhere for a relaxing lunch.
Day 4 Kingston Lacy & Compton Acres
This morning, we head to Kingston Lacy, a lavish family home re-imagined as a Venetian Palace in the Dorset countryside. There’s plenty to see, from spectacular artworks to beautiful landscapes. Kingston Lacy is filled with dynamic history and over the years the family built, altered, embellished and rebuilt their house. The house is now a miniature ‘national gallery’ for the Southwest and includes William Bankes collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts, the largest private collection in the UK. In the afternoon we head to Poole and visit the delightful ornamental gardens of Compton Acres. With over 10 acres of themed gardens set out in a circular route, there is much to admire, and our guided tour will introduce us to many of the magnificent shrubs and plants. A step free route is available. We have time to wander at leisure, perhaps visit the café, plant centre or shop before returning to our hotel.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Marsham Court Hotel
Bournemouth, Dorset
In a wonderful location, the family-run Marsham Court Hotel offers stunning views over Bournemouth Bay, and a great blend of seaside ambience and contemporary feel. Bournemouth seafront and town centre are within a 5-10 minute walk. Recently renovated, the spacious bedrooms all have a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities, whilst the restaurant, bar and lounge are a welcome refuge from any winter weather.
• Lift • Bar • Restaurant • Tea/coffee in room • Swimming pool (May-Sep) • Coach parking is on-site & free of charge
The Riviera Hotel
Bournemouth, Dorset
Located in a quiet street just a short walk from the beach, the Riviera Hotel is positioned in a tranquil cliff top location with beautiful sea views. All 67 comfortable bedrooms are equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The informal restaurant has lovely sea views and the bar is open plan with a dance/entertainment area. There is also a “sun trap” rear terrace and garden area with plenty of seating for groups. Leisure
facilities include an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gym and relaxation room.
• Lift • Bar • Restaurant • Tea/coffee in room • Leisure facilities • Coach parking is on-site & free of charge
Marsham Court Hotel
Bournemouth, Dorset
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £443pp
No Single Supplement (max 4 incl driver)
Inclusions
• Return boat cruise Poole Harbour – Swanage
• Swanage Steam Railway return journey Swanage – Corfe
• Entrance to Kingston Lacy
• Compton Acres entrance and guided garden tour
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
The Riviera Hotel
Bournemouth, Dorset
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £311pp
No Single Supplement (max 6 incl driver)
Inclusions
• Return boat cruise Poole Harbour – Swanage
• Swanage Steam Railway return journey Swanage – Corfe
• Entrance to Kingston Lacy
• Compton Acres entrance and guided garden tour
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
Call to tailor this tour 01732 879191
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