Visit Bournemouth City Centre for a wealth of things to see and do away from the town’s emblematic beach. Tour a collection of attractive parks and gardens and enjoy up-close encounters with curious aquatic creatures. Admire architectural gems, attend concerts by big-name acts and hop between the town’s bars and nightclubs.

The Square public plaza marks the heart of Bournemouth City Centre. It features a marine-inspired mosaic floor pattern, has a traditional carousel and hosts events such as the Bournemouth Christmas Market. A short walk from here is the Gothic Revival-style St. Peter’s Church, which took over 20 years to build. Gaze up at the 200-feet (62-meter) tall spire and see the burial vault of Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein.

Pathways lead from The Square into the Victorian-style Bournemouth Lower Gardens. Admire colorful flowerbeds, watch a concert at the bandstand and play miniature golf. Stroll amid the Pine Walk, once called Invalids’ Walk because the aroma of the trees was thought to help chest diseases. At Bournemouth Aviary you can observe parrots, pheasants, weavers and other species.

On the waterfront, Bournemouth Pier has climbing walls, a video arcade and zipline in addition to beach views, bars and restaurants. Discover the ecosystem and spot crocodiles, penguins, sharks and turtles at the Oceanarium. Art lovers can browse a collection of Victorian paintings and sculptures at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.

Find out what’s going on at the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre. This art deco venue has hosted ballets, comedies, musical and operas since 1929. Year-round live entertainment for all ages takes place at Bournemouth International Centre. Head to Old Christchurch Road and The Triangle for cocktail bars, pubs, clubs and dining options.

Bournemouth City Centre is easy to reach by catching buses to The Square. The town’s train station is about a 20-minute walk away. Visit the Bournemouth Tourist Information Centre on Pier Approach to pick up town maps and brochures.