Sun, Sea, Sand and Study
What more could you ask for? Throw in a rich mix of green spaces to explore, retail therapy, activity and leisure pursuits, as well as plenty of entertainment and you have something to inspire you around every corner.
Bournemouth has a long history as a coastal resort, but there’s also a much more vibrant side to this seaside town. A hot-bed for wellbeing and wellness, digital and technology, and outdoor and leisure interests means this is the perfect place to live while you study.
The coast with the most
Bournemouth is certainly the coast with the most, with seven miles of award-winning Blue Flag beaches and breath-taking sea views. This perfect setting means you can really live the coastal lifestyle while you study. With sun, sea and sand, Bournemouth is truly a wonderful home away from home.
But Bournemouth’s benefits don’t just stop at its amazing picture-postcard beauty. There’s also a rich mix of green spaces to explore, a bustling centre for retail therapy, leisure pursuits around every corner, and plenty of entertainment to maximise your student life.
There’s always plenty going on in Bournemouth, as it frequently plays host to festivals, live music and events. From the iconic Bournemouth Air Festival, to the Bournemouth Bay Run, to Friday night fireworks in summer, and the Arts by the Sea Festival; there really is something for everyone. If you’re looking for culture and a vibrant arts scene, then look no further. Take in the unusual and intriguing with Bournemouth Emerging Arts Festival (BEAF) which combines performance art, film and exhibition from new and established artists making a name for themselves in Dorset. Or, visit the stunning and historical Russell-Cotes Museum, a hidden gem of Bournemouth and swing by the Oceanarium to feed the penguins.
Entertainment options
Bournemouth town centre offers an array of entertainment options. Kick back on comfy recliner chairs at BH2 Odeon Cinema, or enjoy some beats and sounds at the cocktail and whiskey lounge, Smokin’ Aces.
From big name stars at Bournemouth International Centre, to touring musicals and comedy at Bournemouth Pavilion, to high-end dance shows at Pavilion Dance South West – you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to great nights out.
Keep your health and fitness in check, with long walks through the gardens, yoga on the beach, or taking your workout routine out the gym and making use of the outdoor training stations on the promenade. If you’re up for something a bit more intense, there’s rock-climbing and a zip-wire at the end of Bournemouth Pier.
Once you’ve worked up a sweat, refuel with exquisite cuisine from around the world. From Italian to Chinese, Mandarin to Caribbean your taste buds will be thankful. Book a table at Turtle Bay where you can get two for one on amazing cocktails. If you’re feeling a little more fancy, check out NEO that offers amazing views of the pier from its glass rotunda. For that authentic Italian vibe, head to El Murrino (we recommend the lasagne).
With three universities in Bournemouth, you can be sure the nightlife packs a punch. Students have a variety of choice when hitting the tiles; from just a casual drink to a party night out, our bars and clubs have you covered.
Discover more
Discover more about Dorset and some of the amazing locations right on HSU’s door step.
Much like Southbourne, and Boscombe, Christchurch is just a stone’s throw away from Bournemouth, discover the timeless allure of Christchurch, where medieval history meets modern-day elegance.
News
Discover and read all the latest news, press releases and happenings here at Health Sciences University.
Nils Theuninck is a third-year Master of Chiropractic student at Health Sciences University with an impressive background in elite sailing. He has competed internationally as part of the Swiss National Sailing Team and has earned several podium finishes at major events. Most recently, Nils sailed with Alinghi Red Bull Racing in their challenge for the 37th America’s Cup. His dedication to both sport and chiropractic has been recognised with a 2025 International Sports Chiropractic Federation (FICS) Student Scholarship. We spoke to him about his sailing journey, how this influenced his decision to study chiropractic, and his goals for the future.
The National Student Survey (NSS) is now open and will close on 30 April 2026. If you’re a final‑year undergraduate, this is your chance to tell us about your experience of studying at HSU.
Our campuses in Bournemouth and London will be closed from 6pm Wednesday 24th December 2025, and will re-open at on Monday 5th January 2026.
An innovation developed through HSU’s Centre for Osteopathic Research and Leadership (CORaL) has been selected by the World Health Organization as one of just 21 projects worldwide to feature at the WHO Global Summit.
Advance HE has published a new report that explores the merger which brought together AECC University College in Bournemouth and the University College of Osteopathy in London to create Health Sciences University (HSU).
This month, Claire Nadaf, Head of Engagement and Partnerships, and Sarah Herbert, Chief Nursing Officer at University Hospitals Dorset and Visiting Professor at HSU, embarked on a nursing delegation to China.
