Is Bournemouth Expensive? The Average Travel Costs

When planning a trip to Bournemouth, the cost of travel is an important factor to evaluate. While some expenses like dining and activities can add up, savvy travelers can find ways to manage their budget effectively. From affordable public transportation to a range of accommodation options, there are opportunities to experience the best of Bournemouth without breaking the bank. Let’s dive deeper into the typical travel costs and explore strategies to make the most of your visit.

Key Points

• Accommodation costs in Bournemouth range from £145 to £245 per week for student housing, with university-managed options around £163 per week.
• Transportation expenses include a £4.50 Dayrider adult ticket and a £65 monthly adult pass, with limited multi-operator pass availability.
• Dining costs vary, with mid-range restaurants charging £10-£20 per meal and affordable casual dining options like Pho Bournemouth and Dilli Haat Westbourne.
• Admission fees for popular attractions like the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum and Bournemouth Oceanarium typically range from £10 to £20.
• Overall budgeting for a trip to Bournemouth should consider factors like accommodation, transportation, food, and seasonal cost variations, with estimated weekly costs of £150-£250.

Accommodation Costs in Bournemouth

When considering accommodation options in Bournemouth, you’ll find a range of student housing choices with weekly rent prices varying from £145 to £245. For example, Bailey Point offers purpose-built en-suite rooms starting at £145 per week, while Belaton House provides premium student housing from £155 per week. At the higher end, Mercury House features high-end studio options from £210 per week, and St. Peter’s Hall has central location options from £242 per week. University-managed housing like Corfe House costs £163.19 per week, and Dorchester House has a £250 deposit plus installments. The weekly rent prices at 17a Christchurch Road start from £175. Expect standard advance payments, installment dates, and potential guarantor requirements across most properties. Bournemouth is considered a relatively expensive city when it comes to accommodation costs].

Transportation Expenses in Bournemouth

Transportation costs are a significant consideration for students in Bournemouth. The city offers a range of bus services with varying ticket options.

A Dayrider adult ticket costs £4.50, while a 7-day pass is £17. For longer-term travel, a 30-day adult pass is £65, with a child equivalent at £61.50. A 30-day ticket for m1/m2 is available for £65.00.

Multitrip 10 bundles are available for £30, offering savings. Single fares are expected to reach £3 nationally by late 2025, with local ranges from £3 to £4.80. Bournemouth is considered one of the top holiday destinations in England to explore.

Child and railcard discounts provide further savings, though zone-based restrictions apply. Online purchases are recommended for transparency, while alternative cost-saving measures, such as multi-operator passes, are currently limited.

Food and Dining Costs in Bournemouth

Along With transportation costs, students in Bournemouth must also consider the varied food and dining options the city has to offer.

Bournemouth offers a diverse range of cuisines, from Asian to European, with restaurants located primarily along Christchurch Road and Southbourne Grove. Prices vary, with mid-range options like The Coconut Tree and Street Corner Bar costing £10-£20 per meal. The Coconut Tree is one of the top-rated restaurants in Bournemouth with a 4.8/5 rating and 1,325 reviews. Fine dining establishments, such as Ivy Bournemouth and Côte Brasserie, provide more expensive experiences. For those on a budget, casual and affordable options like Pho Bournemouth and Dilli Haat Westbourne offer delicious meals. Many restaurants also cater to special dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Activities and Attractions Pricing

Bournemouth offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors, each with its own pricing structure. Many of the area’s natural assets, like Bournemouth Beach, are free to access.

Other notable sights, such as the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum and Bournemouth Oceanarium, typically cost £10-20 and $20.62 for general admission, respectively. Bournemouth’s vibrant cultural scene also includes the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum.

Guided tours and specialized experiences, like the Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door Mini-Coach Tour ($50.82) and the Full Day Jurassic Coast Mini-Coach Tour ($71.67), provide in-depth exploration at higher price points.

Visitors can also take advantage of pass options, like the Bournemouth Tour App’s 1-Day Pass ($19.55), to access multiple activities and attractions.

Budgeting for a Trip to Bournemouth

When planning a trip to Bournemouth, it’s important to evaluate the various costs associated with accommodation, transportation, and living expenses.

University halls range from £155-£236/week, while private student accommodations average £165-£250/week. Managed student halls cost around £166/week, and shared houses drop to £97/week. The cost of student accommodations in Bournemouth can vary significantly depending on the type of housing.

University halls range £155-£236/week, private accommodations average £165-£250/week, managed halls £166/week, and shared houses £97/week.

Transportation expenses include £295-£308 annual bus passes, with weekly travel costing £20-£40. Visiting London is typically more expensive than visiting Bournemouth.

For food and groceries, expect to spend £5-£8 per supermarket meal, £10-£15 for budget restaurants, and £40-£60 per person for weekly groceries.

Plus, be aware of seasonal cost variations, tourist taxes, and other hidden or emergency expenses that may impact your budget.

Final Words

While Bournemouth may seem pricey at first glance, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options if you look closely. With affordable public transport and a range of dining choices, you can easily tailor your trip to suit your financial needs. Coincidentally, the town’s natural beauty and varied attractions make it a worthwhile destination, regardless of your spending power.