Southern England Tourist Information

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Wiltshire is a county of contrasts and diversity, with rolling countryside, busy market towns, stunning botanical gardens and a plethora of stately homes.

Brimming with attractions and historical sites, the most famous of which is probably the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge steeped in myth and legend. Visitors to the area also flock to Salisbury Cathedral, where pilgrims have congregated for over seven hundred and fifty years to worship and climb Britain 's tallest spire. The Magna Carta is housed here and it is reputed that there are 365 (the number of days in a year) windows and 8760 (the number of hours in a year) marble pillars.

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Explore Hampshire

The county of Hampshire offers many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, its un-spoilt beaches, quant villages, ancient forests and imposing castles and unsurpassed countryside. Activities such as walking, cycling, horse riding and water-sports attract many visitors each year. With attractions galore you can take a thrill ride at Paultons Park, or encounter the wild at the Marwell Zoological Park.

A visit to Hampshire wouldn't be complete without a visit to the New Forest National Park, with its ancient woodlands and free grazing deer and ponies.

 
Explore Southampton

Southampton has a unique mix of heritage and culture, with stunning architecture spanning centuries. The Old Town is truly captivating with its medieval walls and inspiring town gate. The Titanic began its fateful journey from Southampton on 10th April 1912 and the tragedy is covered in detail at Southampton's Maritime museum. Southampton is now hailed as the 'Cruise Capital' of the UK and its peaceful waterfront is home to some of the finest cruise lines

Explore Bournemouth

Bournemouth Bournemouth is renowned for its seven miles of beautiful golden beaches with its cosmopolitan town centre, variety of attractions, entertainment venues and fabulous restaurants there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Bournemouth was the first beach resort to introduce a kids safety scheme called LV=KIDZONE. Parents can pick up a free colour coded wristband for their children from any beach office, and should they then become separated on the beach they can quickly be reunited.

Things to do in Bournemouth

• Visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum - an eclectic mix of treasures from around the world including famous paintings and gems collected by the Russell-Cotes family.
• Do the Pier to Pier walk. Start at either Bournemouth or Boscombe Pier and finish at the other. Enjoy the scenic stroll along the promenade and treat yourself to coffee and cake at one of the many cafes, restaurants or hotels at either end.
• Whatever the season, enjoy an expert-guided walk through Bournemouth's many parks and gardens. Learn about flowers, insects, birds and animals that inhabit the diverse countryside.
• Enjoy high tea; the ultimate British tradition! Enjoy tea, sandwiches and cake at one of our many hotels, cafes and restaurants.
• Hire a beach hut, another great British tradition. Did you know Bournemouth invented the beach hut back in 1908 and still rents out the oldest in the world? Get comfy and settle into your beach hut for a day or longer. Take your pick of seven miles of award-winning beach.
• Get in the water! The sea off Bournemouth beach is perfect for early morning swimming, surf lessons and body boarding.
• Why not head to one of Bournemouth’s many parks and gardens with 10 Green Flags for horticultural excellence you will be dazzled by the beautiful aromas and colours on displays.
• Take trip to Boscombe Open Air Market every Thursday and Saturday (9am – 5pm) for fresh produce, clothing, jewellery, plants, flowers and furnishings.
• If you enjoy retail therapy then Bournemouth’s impressive array of shops, from boutique chic to department stores, will keep you busy.

Events

Next year Bournemouth seafront will again host the Bournemouth Air Festival 19-22 August 2010 – a not-to-be-missed four-day spectacular and entry is FREE! Each day will feature up to four hours of dazzling airborne action over the sea, interactive displays, ground demonstrations and plenty of great ‘Night Air’ evening entertainment in the award-winning Lower Gardens.

Entertainment

If you fancy taking in the Bournemouth nightlife then check out one of the top touring shows at the BIC or Pavilion Theatres – from West End productions to beautiful ballets and live music there’s a calendar of entertainment! Or if you fancy relaxing in style try out one of the many cocktail bars, entertainment bars and restaurants, nightclubs and wine bars; there are plenty to choose from.

Food and Drink... So much choice

Gastronomic Bournemouth will tantalise all taste buds – meals at one of the many restaurants offering tastes from around the world including:

• Mexican
• Mediterranean
• Greek
• French
• Chinese
• Indian

For more ideas request our free Bournemouth brochure now or visit www.bournemouth.co.uk or visit the Tourist Information Centre in Westover Road.  Tel: 0845 051 1700.