Dorset
41 minutes · Train

Southampton to Bournemouth

Through the enchanted New Forest and delightful Dorset to bustling Bournemouth with its seaside thrills, spills and splendid scenery!

41 minutes

Cross Country Trains Train

Starts Southampton Railway Station

Key info

Duration41 minutes

FrequencyHourly

TransportTrain, Cross Country Trains

StartsSouthampton Railway Station

Attractions9 places to visit ↓

About this journey

Through the enchanted New Forest and delightful Dorset to bustling Bournemouth with its seaside thrills, spills and splendid scenery!

Journey overview

This is a journey that is always captivating with the docks of Southampton providing fascination at one end, with a smattering of large vessels and small boats before the New Forest engulfs the route. Miles of beautiful gold birches and browned heath, enveloped by pretty and ancient trees and the occasional sighting of deer and ponies makes this a delightful, almost enchanted route.

The small town of Brockenhurst with its quaint independent shops and perfectly manicured gardens gives way to a series of pleasant towns close to the seaside with a range of architecture - old and new. Brockenhurst provides a link to Lymington Pier and the ferry to the Isle of Wight - another amazing adventure worth doing if you are staying longer.

Then, the denouement to the journey is in Bournemouth, a grand looking station with a traditional arch roof creating a real sense of occasion. It’s the gateway to the golden mile of sand beach, iconic Pier and fashionable, pulsating nightlife and classic English seaside town, coastal capers, as well as fantastic seafood beachside restaurants!

Fab day out

Begin your day with an early morning train from Southampton to Brockenhurst, a short 20-minute journey into the heart of the New Forest. Upon arrival, rent a bike from one of the local shops and explore the serene trails of the New Forest National Park. Pedal through ancient woodlands, spot wild ponies, and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Stop for a mid-morning coffee and pastry at The Buttery, a charming café in Brockenhurst village or enjoy lunch and a hearty welcome in The Huntsman pub, where the fare is traditional but hugely recommended!

After your morning adventure, catch a train for the 30-minute journey to Bournemouth. Head straight to the Bournemouth Pier, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and partake in activities like the RockReef indoor climbing centre and the PierZip, a thrilling zip line that stretches over the sea. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll along the sandy beaches or dip your toes in the sea.

For lunch, head to Urban Reef, a seafront restaurant offering fresh, locally sourced dishes with panoramic sea views. Afterward, visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, a fascinating clifftop villa filled with an eclectic collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

In the mid-afternoon, make your way to the Lower Gardens, a beautifully landscaped park leading from the town centre to the beach. Enjoy a leisurely walk, or perhaps a round of mini-golf. If you're visiting in summer, you might catch a performance at the Pine Walk Bandstand.