Looking for museums in Bournemouth to visit? From local history to art and cultural collections, Bournemouth is home to a variety of interesting museums waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re searching for a rainy day activity, a family-friendly attraction, or somewhere different to visit in Bournemouth, the town’s museums offer plenty of insight into Bournemouth’s rich heritage and history.
Also check out the museums to visit in Dorchester
Russell Cotes Museum And Gallery
East Cliff promenade, Bournemouth, BH1 3AA
The Russell Cotes Museum in Bournemouth began its life in 1901 when Merton Russel-Cotes gave his wife a stunning cliff top house overlooking the sea. During their time they filled the mansion with objects from their travels, including some great British art.
There are four galleries in the museum as well as the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of the upper floor of the house. The museum is open between Tuesday and Sunday each week between 10am and 5pm. Admission prices do apply, however no pre-booking is required.
During your visit you can also pay a visit to the cafe to enjoy light lunches, tea, coffee, cake and afternoon tea.
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Merritown Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6BA
If you enjoy planes, and history, you’ll love the Bournemouth Aviation Museum. Visitors are encouraged to sit in the cockpit and see how it may have felt back in time. If you’re visiting the museum, there’s plenty of free parking on site, and there’s no need to pre book your visit.
Exhibits at the museum include a Boeing 747, Chichester-Miles Leopard, a Gloster Meteor NF14 and plenty more.
The museum is open all year round apart from Christmas Day, and is also located opposite Bournemouth airport. Why not admire the planes taking off and landing at the same time.
Bournemouth Natural Science Museum
39 Christchurch Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, BH1 3NS
The Bournemouth Natural Science Museum has had its home since 1919. Over the years there have been many donations from society members. If you’re wishing to visit the museum, the collections are open to the public on most Tuesdays between 10am and 4pm.
Across the museum, there are also plenty of other activities happening. One of these is the Young Explorers group which meets on the second Saturday of each month
Red House Museum And Gardens
Quay Road, Christchurch, BH23 1BU
This Bournemouth museum was once a Georgian workhouse which now displays the story of Christchurch from the Ice Age to modern times. There are more than 50,000 photographs on display as well as gardens with views across to Christchurch Priory.
There are plenty of activities for the children including dressing-up costumes, as well as quizzes and spotter trails.