Bournemouth in winter — Christmas Tree Wonderland and cosy coastal escapes

Most people picture Bournemouth in summer — cones on the pier, the Air Festival, beach days. But there is a quieter, more magical season that we love just as much: winter. CHRISTMAS TREE WONDERLAND From mid-November right through to the new year, Bournemouth Gardens transform into one of the UK''s most beautiful Christmas trails — hundreds of illuminated trees, an alpine market on the Square, ice skating, and a giant tree at the heart of it all. It is free to walk through (donations welcomed) and it is loveliest after dark with a hot chocolate in hand. The hotel is a gentle ten-minute stroll away. THE LIGHTHOUSE AND THE PAVILION Winter is the best season for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at the Lighthouse in Poole, and for the Pavilion Theatre''s pantomime — a Bournemouth tradition that always sells out. WINTER BEACH WALKS The beach is at its most beautiful in January. Bundle up, walk from Bournemouth Pier east to Boscombe (and back via a hot drink at Urban Reef), or west up onto the cliffs for a sunset that lasts an hour. BACK AT THE HOTEL The cocoa is on. We''ve got a log-lit lounge, a glass of cava on arrival, and Chef Kayleigh''s themed Dining Evenings running through the cosy season. Romantic Breaks, Chocolate Lovers'' Weekends and Festive Stays are all bookable — pop us a line at office@thechocolateboxhotel.com if you''d like us to put something special together. NEW YEAR On New Year''s Eve, fireworks light up the bay over Bournemouth Pier. We''ll save you a glass.