Jane's Midlife Journey

Each spring, distinguished gentlemen (and gentlewomen) don their finest apparel to ride their motorbikes in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. This global event takes place at over a thousand locations across the world, with one of the largest global rallies here in Bournemouth. Worldwide, last year saw over 100,000 riders take part across around 1000 cities. In total, the organisation has raised $60 million for a men’s health charity.

Locally, over a thousand motorbikes registered to take to the streets of the conurbation with a mass ride from Poole to Christchurch via Bournemouth seafront, with the goal of raising £100,000 (and, of course, have fun doing it).

How to get to the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride

If you want to take part, details can be found on the website. For spectators, the exact route is published in advance. The route varies slightly from year to year. In 2025, it started on Poole Quay, then headed, via Westbourne to Bournemouth. After a short break by Bournemouth Pier, it continued along the cliff top to Boscombe. Then, through Southbourne, before heading for Destination Triumph in Christchurch.

Times

The event takes place on a Sunday in May. In 2025, the date was Sunday 18th May, with timings as follows:

• 10 am – depart Poole Quay
• 11.15 – arrive Bournemouth Pier
• 12 am – depart Bournemouth Pier
• 1 pm – arrive Destination Triumph Christchurch

The 2026 date is yet to be announced.

Timings are published in advance, although these are, of course, just a rough guideline. In reality, these times ca slip somewhat. Plus, the riders do take rather a long time to pass through. In Southbourne, for example, there was a fairly constant stream for around 25 minutes. So find a spot, relax and enjoy the spectacle.

Price

Spectating is free. Entrants are expected to raise money for the organisation’s charity. If you wish to sponsor a rider or make a donation, this can be done via the website.

Details

Any spot along the route will provide you with a great view of the passing bikers, smiling and waving as they ride past dressed in their finest gear. Moustaches not obligatory, but highly recommended! If you want to see more of a convoy, choose a spot near the beginning at Poole Quay or after the break at Bournemouth Pier. To get a closer look at the bikes, head for the start or the finish or Bournemouth Pier where the bikers regroup and take a break for around 45 minutes.

Between Boscombe and Southbourne, if you’re quick, you can manage to see the riders twice as they ride along the coast road, then return along the parallel road through Southbourne before hitting the A338 and heading for the ultimate destination, Destination Triumph for a post event party.

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride for Children

Children can enjoy watching all the bikes and some of the outfits on display as well as waving at the riders and their passengers as they pass by. They may even spot the odd dog…

• Updated: May 2025

I hope you found this information useful. For more inspiration on things to do in and around Bournemouth, check out my 101 Things to do in Bournemouth here.