Discover what’s on in Southbourne this week, including live music, pub quizzes, workshops, family activities, food and drink offers and regular entertainment. Our weekly guide brings together events and things to do across Southbourne, Tuckton and the surrounding area, making it easier to plan the week ahead.
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Friday 23rd October 2026 - Thursday 29th October 2026
Find out what's on in Southbourne this week with our guide to live music, DJs, quiz nights and weekly entertainment.
Time: During drinks service hours
Location: The Commodore, Southbourne Overcliffe Drive, Bournemouth BH6 3TD
Start the weekend with Fizz Friday at The Commodore, the Greene King pub and hotel overlooking Southbourne Beach.
Every Friday, visitors can order a bottle of Reluna Prosecco or Reluna Prosecco Rosé to share. The offer cannot be combined with other promotions.
The pub serves traditional dishes including burgers, steaks, pies and Sunday roasts, alongside smaller sharing plates. It also has a beer garden, parking and dog-friendly facilities.
Good to know: Friday opening hours are listed as 8am to 11pm, with food served until 9pm. No booking is required for the offer, although tables can be reserved in advance.
Contact: 01202 423 150.
Time: 2pm-4pm
Location: The Conker Distillery, Unit 2, 163 Stourvale Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 5HQ
Discover how Dorset's first craft distillery produces its locally made spirits with a two-hour guided tour of Conker Spirit Distillery.
Visitors can meet the team, learn how the Dorset gins and Conker Coffee Liqueurs are handcrafted, and finish with a guided tasting of the distillery's award-winning spirits.
Conker also produces Bowser Leaf, a 0% alternative for visitors who are not drinking alcohol.
The distillery is approximately 15 minutes' walk from Southbourne High Street and Pokesdown station.
Good to know: Advance booking is required through the distillery's tours page. The minimum age has not been confirmed. Dogs are not permitted inside, except assistance dogs.
Time: From 6pm
Location: The Larder House, 4 Southbourne Grove, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3QZ
Enjoy cocktails and small plates at The Library Bar at The Larder House, which opens on Friday and Saturday evenings according to a recent venue Instagram post.
Founded by James Fowler, who was named World Class UK Bartender of the Year in 2014, The Larder House is known for its unusual back-bar spirits, cocktails, charcuterie and cheeses.
The venue also has a wood-fired oven and offers a relaxed setting for drinks or dinner on Southbourne Grove.
Good to know: Booking is recommended. The Library Bar's opening hours are not published on the main website, so confirm arrangements directly before visiting.
Contact: 01202 424 687.
Time: 6.30pm–8.30pm
Location: The Dancing Jug, 2 Southbourne Grove, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 3RP
Martin Marv Rice performs an acoustic set at The Dancing Jug on Friday evening, billed as Acoustic Bangers.
The early-evening performance makes it an option for visitors looking to enjoy live music alongside dinner or cocktails.
The Dancing Jug serves dishes including fresh Cornish mussels and loaded burgers, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.
Good to know: The performance was announced through the venue's social media but does not appear on its events page. No ticket requirement is mentioned. Booking a table is strongly recommended.
Contact: 01202 270075 or southbourne@dancingjug.co.uk.
Time: Junior training 6pm-7.15pm; club and match play 7.15pm–10.30pm
Location: Tuckton Social Club, 222 Tuckton Road, Bournemouth BH6 3AA
Whether you're an experienced player or completely new to chess, Southbourne Chess Club offers a friendly weekly session.
Junior training includes individual coaching, friendly games, puzzles and endgame activities. The main club session follows from 7.15pm, welcoming beginners, novices and experienced players.
The club also fields four teams in the Bournemouth and District Chess League and runs seasonal tournaments.
Good to know: Your first week is free, and juniors must be accompanied by a parent. The club has not confirmed whether its usual sessions continue during half term, so check before attending. No booking is normally required.
Contact: John Harris, 01202 427523.
Time: From 9pm
Location: Brewhouse & Kitchen, 147 Parkwood Road, Bournemouth BH5 2BW
Head to Brewhouse & Kitchen Southbourne for its regular Friday evening live music session.
The neighbourhood microbrewery features local performers each Friday, alongside a selection of craft beers brewed on site.
The venue also serves pub meals and offers a garden with a firepit.
Good to know: The performer for 23 October has not been confirmed. The bar is open until 1am on Fridays, with food available until 10pm. No ticket requirement is mentioned.
Contact: 01202 055 209.
Time: Daytime; exact boat hire hours not confirmed
Location: Tuckton Tea Gardens, River Stour, Tuckton, Bournemouth
With October drawing to a close, this is one of the final opportunities of the season to hire a self-drive motorboat on the River Stour.
Operated by Bournemouth Boating, the boats allow visitors to explore the river at their own pace without needing to book in advance.
Tuckton Tea Gardens also serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and takeaway drinks.
Good to know: Self-drive boats operate seven days a week from April to October, weather permitting. Boats do not run in wet weather. The tea gardens list weekend opening hours of 9am–5.30pm, but boat hire hours have not been confirmed.
Contact: 01202 429 119 or bookings@bournemouthboating.co.uk.
Time: 8am
Location: Sobo Beach, Southbourne Coast Road, Bournemouth BH6 4BE
Start Saturday morning with Wellness By The Sea's Meditation Club & Coffee, a guided beach meditation session using silent disco headphones.
Each session explores a different meditation technique, with approximately 30–45 minutes of guided practice followed by coffee, conversation and a live Q&A.
Beginners are welcome, and no previous meditation experience is necessary.
Good to know: Advance booking is required through Eventbrite. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel and a blanket. Arrive at least 10 minutes early. The session moves indoors to Sobo Beach Cafe if it rains. There are no refunds.
Time: 4pm-10pm
Location: The Conker Distillery, Unit 2, 163 Stourvale Road, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 5HQ
Spend Saturday evening at Conker Spirit Distillery's Tap Room, where visitors can enjoy cocktails made with the distillery's own spirits.
The tap room also offers local ale and street food, with Doughbox Pizza named on Conker's website.
Non-alcoholic options are available, including Conker's Bowser Leaf 0% spirit.
Good to know: Entry is free, and no booking is required for individual visitors. Groups can reserve a table. The website does not confirm whether children are welcome, so check with the distillery before bringing them.
Time: 5.30pm kick-off
Location: The Cranleigh, 1 Clingan Road, Bournemouth BH6 5PY
Watch Chelsea v Spurs on the big screens at The Cranleigh, which shows live football and other sports through Sky Sports and TNT Sports.
The family-friendly Greene King pub offers traditional meals, drinks, a beer garden and parking.
Good to know: Saturday opening is listed as 11am–midnight. Tables can be reserved online by selecting the fixture. Reservations are held for three hours, with no deposit required. The pub advises that it cannot guarantee every match will be shown.
Contact: 01202 421 530.
Time: 9pm-2am
Location: Makla & The Fez Lounge, 217 Seabourne Road, Bournemouth BH5 2HL
History of Garage returns to The Fez Lounge for its second event after the first night sold out.
Organised by Sam EB, the evening features old-school garage, vocal 2-step, classics, bassline and nu skool.
The announced line-up includes Mike 'Ruff Cutt' Lloyd, MC Crunchie performing a birthday set, and Sam EB b2b DJ Pencil, with another act listed as 'ID'.
The venue has a capacity of around 100, and organisers expect strong demand.
Good to know: Advance tickets are strongly recommended through Eventbrite. The ticket page does not state an age restriction. Tickets are non-refundable.
Time: 12pm-4pm; last sitting at 3pm
Location: The Wight Bear Ale House, 65 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3QU
Two Southbourne independents come together for a special Sunday brunch at The Wight Bear Ale House.
Food is prepared by Bakehouse24, while DJ Rachel Craddock provides the music.
The Wight Bear is a micropub known for its craft cask and keg beer, wine, spirits and community events.
Good to know: Tickets are available through the venue's TicketSource page. The pub's regular website hours list Sunday opening from 4pm rather than midday, so confirm the brunch start time directly with the venue.
Contact: 01202 433 733 or hello@thewightbear.co.uk.
Time: 1pm-5pm
Location: Address not confirmed
Syd's Slaps advertises Sunday roasts with a choice of chicken, beef or a vegetarian option.
According to its Instagram, roasts are served every Sunday from 1pm until 5pm.
The venue has also announced that it will be closed on Mondays until 2027, but this does not affect its Sunday roast service.
Good to know: The venue's full address, menu details and booking arrangements have not been confirmed. Contact Syd's Slaps through Instagram before making a special trip.
Time: 2pm kick-off
Location: The Cranleigh, 1 Clingan Road, Bournemouth BH6 5PY
Cheer on the Cherries as AFC Bournemouth travel to Manchester United, with The Cranleigh showing the match on its big screens.
The pub offers live sport, traditional meals and Sunday roasts, making it an option for a relaxed afternoon watching football with family or friends.
Good to know: The pub lists Sunday opening hours of 11am–10.30pm, with food served until 9pm. Tables can be reserved online by selecting the fixture, although the pub cannot guarantee every match will be shown.
Contact: 01202 421 530.
Time: 4pm–5.45pm
Location: St Christopher's Church, Arnewood Road, Bournemouth BH6 5DW
Families can enjoy games, crafts, worship and a simple meal at Messy Church at St Christopher's.
The church hosts the family-friendly event on the fourth Sunday of each month, welcoming children, parents, grandparents and carers.
The activities offer a relaxed opportunity to spend time together and get creative during the first weekend of half term.
Good to know: The listing welcomes all ages. Booking requirements and costs have not been published, so contact the church directly to confirm.
Contact: 01202 418394.
Time: Evening; exact start time not confirmed
Location: The Dancing Jug, 2 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3RP
Finish the weekend with The Dancing Jug's weekly Sunday quiz.
Using the SpeedQuizzing format, teams answer questions through a free smartphone app instead of traditional answer sheets.
The winning team receives the prize pot, which the venue says it doubles on the night. Karaoke follows the quiz.
Good to know: Bring a charged smartphone. The venue is open from midday until 12.30am, but the exact quiz start time has not been published. Booking a table is recommended.
Contact: 01202 270075.
Time: 10am–12pm
Location: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, Broadway, Bournemouth BH6 4EW
Get creative this half term with a willow wand-making workshop at Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre.
The two-hour session invites children to use their imaginations while making something to take home.
Afterwards, families can explore the nature reserve or stop for refreshments at the visitor centre.
Good to know: Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Book a session through Eventbrite and pay when you arrive at the Visitor Centre. Paid parking is available. The listing does not confirm the minimum age or exactly what materials are included.
Contact: 01202 128444 or hengistburyhead@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
Time: 7pm; approximately 45 minutes
Location: Sobo Beach, Southbourne Coast Road, Bournemouth BH6 4BE
Relax beside the sea with Wellness By The Sea's Candlelit Yoga Nidra & Chai.
Yoga nidra is a guided meditation practised while lying down, designed to encourage deep rest without physical movement.
Participants listen through headphones while resting beneath the night sky, surrounded by candles and wrapped in blankets.
Afterwards, homemade dairy-free chai is served, with an opportunity to chat or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Good to know: Advance booking is essential. Bring warm clothing, a yoga mat or blanket, a sleeping bag, at least one hot water bottle and a mug for the chai. Arrive at least 10 minutes early. Wet weather may result in postponement or a venue change. There are no refunds.
Time: 7.15pm
Location: Hengistbury Head Outdoors, Hengistbury Head, Southbourne, Bournemouth
Start the week with an Evening Strength class led by Jess at Hengistbury Head Outdoors.
The community centre offers a range of fitness and wellbeing activities, including strength training, HIIT, yoga, Pilates and meditation.
It also has a cafe, toilets, parking and a separately operated Slomo wood-fired sauna and cold plunge.
Good to know: The 7.15pm time comes from the centre's autumn timetable. The session length, fitness level and half-term arrangements have not been confirmed. Classes are booked through the centre's online booking system.
Time: All day; opening hours not confirmed
Location: Run Ashore, Southbourne Cross Roads, Bournemouth
Enjoy a midweek drink at Run Ashore, which advertises a two-cocktail deal available all day, every day.
The coastal eatery and bar has featured drinks including a Paloma and French 75, alongside sourdough sandwiches, cakes and coffee.
The venue also promotes live music throughout October, including folk, classic rock covers and blues.
Good to know: The deal was advertised on Instagram, but its terms and current availability have not been reconfirmed since late September. The full address and Tuesday opening hours have not been verified. Contact the venue before visiting specifically for the promotion.
Contact: 01202 359475 or ahoy@runashore.uk.
Time: From 12pm; serving time not reconfirmed
Location: Beccafico, Tuckton, Bournemouth
Enjoy Pizza Tuesday at Beccafico, where the restaurant advertises a two-pizza deal every Tuesday.
Available for eating in or taking away, the offer is an easy option for families, friends or couples looking for a relaxed meal during half term.
Beccafico specialises in small plates inspired by Mediterranean tapas, pintxos and cicchetti, alongside homemade arancini and other dishes.
Good to know: Walk-ins and bookings are both welcome. The midday start time comes from an earlier check, and current serving hours and the full address have not been confirmed on the venue's website.
Time: 2.30pm–5pm
Location: Ludo Lounge, 34 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3RA
Join Southbourne Chess Club for its relaxed Tuesday afternoon session at Ludo Lounge.
The gathering welcomes players of all abilities, including complete beginners, with friendly games and the opportunity to improve your skills.
Juniors can attend with a parent, making it another possible activity for children during half term.
Good to know: The first week is free, and no booking is normally required. The club has not confirmed whether the session runs during half term. Ludo Lounge is open daily from 9am–11pm.
Contact: John Harris, 01202 427523.
Time: From 7pm
Location: The Grove Tavern, 27 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3QS
The Grove Tavern hosts its regular Tuesday night Rock and Roll Bingo.
The entertainment bar, also known as the Guinness Sports Bar, has a busy weekly programme including pub quizzes, live music and live sport.
Rock and Roll Bingo offers a lively alternative to a traditional pub night.
Good to know: The event is listed from 7pm, but the venue has not published full details of the format, prizes or booking arrangements.
Time: 8pm
Location: Brewhouse & Kitchen, 147 Parkwood Road, Bournemouth BH5 2BW
Put your knowledge to the test at The Big Smart Quiz, held every Tuesday at Brewhouse & Kitchen Southbourne.
The quiz is played using smartphones, with teams of up to six people and cash prizes available.
The pub also brews its own craft beer and serves a full menu, making it a relaxed setting for an evening with friends.
Good to know: Bring a charged smartphone. The bar is open until 11.30pm on Tuesdays, and the kitchen serves until 9.30pm. Online quiz reservations are available, although it is not confirmed whether booking is compulsory.
Contact: 01202 055 209.
Time: 10.30am-2pm
Location: Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, Broadway, Bournemouth BH6 4EW
Families can enjoy a Halloween Trail at Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, described as a spooky adventure with surprises around every corner.
Taking place during October half term, the trail combines Halloween fun with an opportunity to explore the surrounding nature reserve.
Visitors can also enjoy the visitor centre's refreshments and the nearby walking routes.
Good to know: Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Paid parking is available. The listing does not clarify whether visitors can arrive at any point during the advertised time window or whether dogs can participate. The event is also not shown on the visitor centre's own page, so confirm before travelling.
Booking: Reserve through Eventbrite. Refunds are available up to three days before the event.
Time: 2pm-3.30pm
Location: Tuckton Tea Gardens, River Stour, Tuckton, Bournemouth
Animal-loving children can get up close to some fascinating creatures at Tuckton Tea Gardens' Creature Encounters workshop with Zoolab.
The session includes opportunities to meet and hold small animals, including snakes and frogs, with expert guidance throughout.
Tickets also include a children's lunch and drink.
The riverside setting makes it an appealing outing for families, with refreshments and walks nearby.
Good to know: Places are limited, and the event is designed for children, although no specific age range is published. Advance booking is recommended.
Contact: 01202 429 119 to reserve.
Time: 6pm
Location: Hengistbury Head Outdoors, Hengistbury Head, Southbourne, Bournemouth
If you've been thinking about trying strength training, Introduction to Strength with Jess offers a beginner-focused session at Hengistbury Head Outdoors.
The community centre runs a varied programme of fitness, wellbeing and outdoor activities, with opportunities to try classes in strength, Pilates, yoga and more.
For newcomers, the Discovery Pass offers a choice of up to six classes over one month.
Good to know: The time and instructor come from the centre's autumn timetable, but the half-term timetable has not been confirmed. Booking is through the centre's online system.
Time: Evening; exact start time not confirmed
Location: The Spyglass & Kettle, 25–27 Stourwood Avenue, Bournemouth BH6 3PW
Enjoy a midweek quiz at The Spyglass & Kettle, which hosts a quizmaster-led pub quiz every Wednesday.
Greene King's quiz format typically includes general knowledge, sport, popular culture, history and music, with occasional wildcard rounds.
The pub overlooks Southbourne Beach and offers traditional meals, drinks and a beer garden.
Good to know: Tables are available from 5pm, although the exact quiz start time is not published. The pub is open until 11pm, with food served until 9pm. Entry costs have not been confirmed.
Contact: 01202 424 888.
Time: Not confirmed; book ahead
Location: Beccafico, Tuckton, Bournemouth
Finish the working week with Tapas Thursday at Beccafico, featuring an offer of three tapas with a beer or glass of wine.
The restaurant takes inspiration from Mediterranean small-plate dining, including tapas, pintxos and cicchetti.
The offer provides an opportunity to enjoy a selection of dishes in a relaxed setting.
Good to know: Reservations are required. Serving times, the full address and booking method have not been confirmed, so contact Beccafico through its website or social media before visiting.
Time: 2pm-5pm
Location: Tuckton Library, Wick Lane, Bournemouth BH6 4LF
Children who enjoy building and creating can head to Tuckton Library's Thursday Lego Club.
The council library lists a regular Lego session from 2pm to 5pm, and previous school holidays have included special drop-in Lego activities.
The library also provides books, audiobooks, free internet access, public WiFi and a jigsaw swap.
Earlier in the day, its last-Thursday coffee morning and talk is listed from 10.30am until midday.
Good to know: Thursday library opening hours are 9.30am–5pm. The age range, half-term arrangements and booking requirements for Lego Club have not been confirmed.
Contact: 01202 127 654 or tucktonlibrary@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
Time: Approximately 6.30pm–8.30pm
Location: Ludo Lounge, 34 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3RA
Ludo Lounge's monthly Open Mic Night takes place on the last Thursday of the month, hosted by Millie.
The early-evening event offers a relaxed setting for local performers and anyone who enjoys discovering new music.
Ludo Lounge serves food and drinks throughout the day, with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and children's menus available.
Good to know: The date and approximate times are based on the usual last-Thursday schedule and an earlier check. The event has not been reconfirmed through a current venue post. Performer registration and booking arrangements are also not stated.
Contact: 01202 430 699 or ludo@thelounges.co.uk.
Time: From 8pm
Location: The Spyglass & Kettle, 25–27 Stourwood Avenue, Bournemouth BH6 3PW
Local singers and musicians can enjoy an Open Mic Night hosted by Sammi Chislett at The Spyglass & Kettle.
The event has been advertised through the host's Instagram and shared by the pub.
The relaxed coastal pub also offers evening meals, drinks and views overlooking Southbourne Beach.
Good to know: The pub's website does not currently list the open mic, and no end time or performer sign-up details have been confirmed. Check directly before visiting.
Contact: 01202 424 888.
Time: Evening; tables available from 5pm
Location: The Commodore, Southbourne Overcliffe Drive, Bournemouth BH6 3TD
Gather a team for The Commodore's regular Thursday Pub Quiz.
The Greene King quiz format generally covers general knowledge, sport, music, history and popular culture, with occasional wildcard rounds.
The clifftop pub offers food and drinks alongside views across Southbourne Beach.
Good to know: Tables can be reserved from 5pm, although the exact quiz start time and entry details are not confirmed. The pub is open until 11pm, with food served until 9pm.
Contact: 01202 423 150.
Time: Evening; start time not confirmed
Location: The Larder House, 4 Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth BH6 3QZ
Round off the week with live music in The Library Bar at The Larder House.
The venue has confirmed its regular Thursday live music through Instagram, although the performer for this particular evening has not been announced.
Visitors can enjoy cocktails, unusual spirits, charcuterie and cheeses in the bar's intimate setting.
With open mic nights also planned at Ludo Lounge and The Spyglass & Kettle, Thursday offers several opportunities to enjoy live music around Southbourne.
Good to know: No performer or start time has been confirmed, and the event does not appear on the venue's website. Booking is advised.
Contact: 01202 424 687.
Image: Facebook
Check directly with the organiser or venue before travelling, particularly for workshops, ticketed performances and activities requiring advance registration.
Event details, opening hours and ticket availability can change at short notice.
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