Bournemouth

One of the rising stars of the south coast for the gay scene Bournemouth was for some time seen as just a seaside town. However its popularity rose in the past decade as house prices rose and TV programmes followed the rising club scene.

Bournemouth remains one of the most tranquil destinations in the UK with a mixture of prehistoric lanscaping and modern architectural design. Surfers clambour to the sea, sun worshippers trek the miles of beaches, families enjoy the parks and piers.

Bournemouth's annual pride event, Bourne Free Pride Festival, has run successfully for 5 years and has grown to a full, three day event in 2008. The event is made up of the main parade, free entertainment in the Lower Gardens, a ticketed Street Party in the evening and a new Jazz Night. The official website is www.bournefree.co.uk 

The gay scene is set in its own village known locally as Bournemouth Triangle. It hosts three late bars/clubs and three pubs with entertainment nearly 7 nights a week. The gay community has a central point of reference with the locally run Gay Bournemouth website.

Bournemouth still suffers from a high-degree of homophobia with some of the most right-wing Christian organisations based in the area, but the gay scene has gone from strength to strength.

There is plenty to do and while not on the beach or shopping you could be taking drives in the country-side or visiting the local neighbouring town of Poole.