100 Things to do in (and around) Bournemouth 37 – Fisherman’s Walk Beach

Southbourne may only be small, with a population of around 19,000 people, but it boasts two Blue Flag Beaches. Along the coast from Southbourne Beach is Fisherman’s Walk Beach. It is the easiest beach to reach from Southbourne. It accessed from the cliff top via Fisherman’s Walk Zigzag. This connects to the main high street (Southbourne Grove) via Fisherman’s Walk, a pretty, tree lined linear park. Buster’s Beach Bus stops at the top of Fisherman’s Walk Zigzag. Buses No 1 and M2 stop at the end of Fisherman’s Walk. There is free roadside parking on the cliff top.

Cliff Railway

If mobility is an issue, or you just fancy a ride, you can travel the 39 metres from the cliff top to the prom and vice versa via the funicular railway. The railway was built in 1935 and costs £1.85 per journey, or £11.50 per week, with an annual pass costing £37 (contactless only). The lift operates between April and October from 10 am to 5 pm.

Lifeguards

There is an RNLI Lifeguard Station on Southbourne Beach, which is manned from 10 am until 6 pm between 9th July and 4th September.

Food and Drink

There is a kiosk on the beach selling snacks. This is the only catering beachside, however, there are a couple of good option at the top of Fisherman’s Walk.

Cafe Riva

This small cafe with plenty of outdoor seating sells some cooked food but is primarily a place where people meet up for coffee and cake. They have an extensive range of cake, which friends tell me is very good (I’ve not tried any myself, because all the cakes are in one display cabinet, which isn’t great if you have an allergy). Next to the cafe are a children’s play area and mini golf course.

The Commodore

Just across the road is The Commodore Pub. This has plenty of tables inside, plus a beer garden, all with great views across the bay. It offers a typical pub grub style menu and an extensive selection of drinks. I’m currently trying to work my way through the gin menu.

Other Facilities

There are public toilets, public barbecues and a kiosk selling beach goods on Fisherman’s Walk Beach.