The Chines, Pines and views of Bournemouth and Branksome

This walk meets the Ramblers definition of leisurely, but note that it will still be 10 miles long and at a reasonably brisk pace (albeit with breaks). Therefore, you still need a reasonable level of walking fitness. Note the slightly later 10.15am start.

The walk tracks around the outer edge of Meyrick Park, then on through “festive” Bournemouth via Upper, Middle and then Lower Gardens, to the pier. We then ascend along West Cliff Promenade and generally follow the cliff tops until we reach the beach at Branksome Chine. We will head along the beach for a short distance and up the stairs to lunch at Pinecliff Gardens Lookout (thus avoiding 'dog central' down below at Branksome Chine).

After lunch, we will head up through Branksome Chine Gardens, then route around some of the quiet residential streets of Branksome, eventually ending up in Westbourne. From there, we will make our way north to Talbot Woods and then back to Meyrick Park and up the hill to our start point.

The nearest end-of-walk pub is the Pavilion Arms, a few minutes walk from our start point.

Apart from Meyrick Park and Branksome Chine Gardens, which can be slightly muddy in parts, generally the ground is pavement or firm track - so lighter walking boots, trail shoes or even trainers should be ok.  Please note there are some stairs on this walk. 

There is no toilet at the start, but there are toilets in lower gardens in Central Bournemouth, at Branksome Chine and at Westbourne.