Published on Wednesday 31 January 2024
Winter wildlife, creative crafts and tantalising trails are just some of the exciting things taking place across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole this February half term.
And with 15 miles of coastline to enjoy for free, why not plan your week now.
Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said:
“There’s so much going on across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole during the February half term, you’re spoilt for choice.
“Half term activities across our three towns cater for a range of budgets, and we’re lucky to live in a beautiful part of the south coast with sandy beaches which everyone can enjoy for free, even in the colder months!
“I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy what’s on offer. Having fun doesn’t have to be costly, and I hope everyone has a great time during this week.”
With activities and adventures to entertain and delight all ages running at different times during the first school break of the new year, take a look at our handy guide and make the most out of your week.
Bournemouth
Immerse yourself in art at the Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum while the little ones take on an exciting trail through this historic house, unlocking hidden treasures along the way from 10-18 February.
Enjoy a stroll through the Lower Gardens, stopping at the Hedgehog Park Café to enjoy a warming hot chocolate, then tire everyone out with a visit to Rock Reef at the end of Bournemouth Pier, challenging family to see who can climb the highest.
Glide on the ice at the Cool Coast Ice Rink in the Bournemouth International Centre, although try to be more balanced than Bambi!
Kids can get creative at selected parks across Bournemouth and beyond throughout the week with the Parks Foundation. Make a mini bee home or create a nest bundle to hang in your garden for the birds.
Take a trip to the archaeologically renowned Hengistbury Head. Pop into their Visitor Centre for a little bit of history, then take a scenic walk over the headland and onto the renowned Mudeford Spit.
Christchurch
Families will love the half price admission to Highcliffe Castle on Valentines Day, where little ones can take part in an interactive stained glass activity, and fairy tale activities running from 11 – 15 February.
Stanpit Marsh Visitor Centre is running children’s wildlife crafting sessions on Monday 12 February from 10-11am and 11-12.30pm.
Book your children in for a day at the holiday club at 2Riversmeet Leisure Complex where they can enjoy a bumper day of activities that may involve trampolining, swimming, dodgeball, football and more, while you enjoy a more sedate day enjoying Christchurch Quay and one of the many eateries that Christchurch is renowned for.
A magical world of bubbles awaits you at the Red House Museum on 15 February, where you’ll learn bubble tricks, play games and have fun in this immersive workshop.
Poole
Visit Upton Country Park on 14 February and enjoy a winter wildlife adventure day with experts on hand to guide you, join in with minibeast hunting, bird counts, crafts and more.
From 10-18 February, solve some riddles that will lead you to activities hidden around the park – the perfect day out with your four-legged friends!
Venture to Poole Park and challenge your family to a round of crazy golf, visit the adventure playground if you’ve got extra energy after, then enjoy a cooling ice cream from one of the eateries around the park – it’s never too cold for ice cream!
Hop on a City Cruises boat and enjoy breathtaking views of Brownsea Island, Sandbanks, Studland Bay and more as you cruise around the harbour, before enjoying a family meal at one of the many eateries positioned along Poole Quay and Old Town – or indulge in the English tradition of fish and chips wrapped in newspaper print as you bat away the hungry seagulls...
With so much going on over the February half term you’re spoilt for choice. To find more activities and events that are taking place during this week, visit BCP Council’s tourism webpages:
- What’s happening in Bournemouth
- What’s happening in Christchurch
- What’s happening in Poole
-Ends-
Editor’s Notes:
There is a cost involved for some of these activities and advance booking may be required. Please visit respective webpages via the hyperlinks for further details and dates the activities are running.
Availability is limited for some events, with tickets sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Please visit the respective webpages via the hyperlinks for further details.