Rapid growth in Bournemouth has taken place (see History). In 1880, it had 17,000 people. The population was 60,000 by 1900 and had reached 150,000 by 1990. In the latest census, the town had a population of 163,441. Bournemouth is part of a built-up area known as the South East Dorset conurbation which includes Poole and Christchurch and has a combined population of 383,713, [1] the whole area being sufficiently populous to be one of the major retail and commercial centres in the south of England. Traditionally a large retirement town, Bournemouth (mostly the Northbourne, Southbourne and Tuckton areas of Bournemouth together with Wallisdown, and Talbot Village areas of Poole), now houses many students who attend Bournemouth University (the administrative area and main campus of which is in fact located in Poole). Since the 1990s there have been increasing calls for the town (together with Poole) to attain official city status, as per the example of Brighton & Hove, due to its sheer expanse and regional importance.

Bournemouth is a vibrant town with a comprehensive shopping centre and is famous for its award winning gardens, boasting 7 miles of golden beaches as well as many local attractions, explore the cultural treasures and beautiful landscapes, such as the New Forest, Swanage and Purbeck Hills, inland you can explore the many Dorset towns and villages all with their own history, customs and markets.