Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland turns the Lower Gardens into a festive trail between the town centre and the seafront, from 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Entry to the trail is free for the whole family.
The centrepiece is a maze of 300 illuminated Christmas trees. Along the route you will also find Christmas-themed mini golf, an ice rink billed as the UK’s longest, Santa’s Workshop with bookable Story Time sessions, the Santa’s Express train and a big wheel with views over the gardens and the town. The Bournemouth Christmas Market, with more than 40 traders, sells gifts, festive food and seasonal drinks from traditional chalets, and the Alpine Lodge bar serves mulled wine and beer. Market stalls close on 31 December, a few days before the trail ends.
Visitor information
Dates: 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.
Cost: The festive trail is free to enter. Tickets are needed only for selected attractions, including ice skating, Glow Golf, Story Time with Santa and Alpine Lodge booths, and booking ahead is recommended.
Getting there: The trail runs through the Lower Gardens (BH2 5AY), between Bournemouth town centre and the seafront.
Family friendly: Yes. The trail is built around families, with a Kids Trail, Santa’s Workshop and the Santa’s Express train.
Where to stay
The trail runs from the town centre to the seafront, so a Bournemouth base puts it on your doorstep. Browse places to stay near Bournemouth or read about Bournemouth before you go.
