Entertainment in Bournemouth

All the big names in music include Bournemouth in their tour lineups – the live music scene is always jam-packed. With the town’s huge concert halls and a range of intimate venues for every taste, it’s never quiet!

The O2 Academy Bournemouth building has long been a popular spot for a great night out, housed in a Grade II listed building which has been welcoming revellers since it was opened as a theatre in 1875. Seventies superstar names who performed in this spot include David Bowie, Led Zeppelin and Thin Lizzy. Throughout history, these walls have echoed with music, as it developed from a theatre to a music hall, then nightclub (with the UK’s first karaoke bar) and now the O2 Academy. Regular events include great live music nights, as well as the dance music events that it’s become renowned for.

The International Centre also has a jam-packed schedule of events, with the biggest names in music all putting on concerts there. Check out our dedicated guide to Bournemouth International Centre for more. Or if it’s an intimate setting that you’re after, try the frequent live music nights at Chaplin's & The Cellar Bar on Christchurch Road. This kooky bar hosts a creative combo of bands and talent, from soul to jazz and open mic to musicians. You’ll never get bored sampling their Charlie Chaplin-inspired cocktails or hanging around in the magical garden filled to the brim with flowers and fairy lights. They also offer fresh food with seasonal local produce – so head down early to grab a bite to eat before filling your night with music and laughs.

A lengthy schedule of music, dance, drama and plenty more will keep you entertained if you’re looking for theatrics. For the ultimate handbook of theatres in Bournemouth, use our dedicated guide to make the most of your stay.

There are plenty of haunts to visit if you’re looking to laugh the night away in Bournemouth. Weekly Saturday night comedy is on offer at Jaggers Comedy Club Bournemouth, held at the huge Cameo club right in the town centre. Once the stand-up has put you in a good mood, you’ll be partying the night away on the club’s dancefloors till 3am. Comedy nights are held March to October – and you’ll need to book!

The Coastal Comedy Club offers an amazing laugh-per-penny ratio for their great value comedy nights with a variety of acts. Enjoy fresh content from three different comics, held once a month and just an eight-minute walk from our East Cliff hotel. There are also plenty of opportunities for a good giggle if you visit one of Bournemouth’s many theatres – famous comedy stars often visit the Pavilion Theatre and International Centre. Regular nights are also run by LOL Comedy Club, also at The Pavilion Theatre. They have a great track record of booking up-and-coming comedy talents, such as Jason Manford, Sarah Millican and John Bishop before they hit the big time.

Football fans won’t want to miss a trip to Vitality Stadium. It’s here that A.F.C. Bournemouth has risen through the ranks of English football, earning their current spot in the Premier League. Under the management of Eddie Howe, the club rose from League Two to reach this position for the first time in the 2015–2016 season. You’re likely to see a few red and black scarves around town when The Cherries’ supporters are out in full force.

Bournemouth Rugby Club is a rugby union side who have been going strong since 1893, currently competing in the National League 3 South West since they were pipped from League 2 in 2014. Their home is at Bournemouth Sports Club – right by the airport – where they host the world’s largest sport and music festival Bournemouth 7s. Your team can compete all day in sports such as rugby, netball and hockey, then party all night with over 40 live acts and DJs.