Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council says hundreds of thousands of people visited the area over the Spring bank holiday and start of half-term.

The warm weather, busy beaches and major events including Bournemouth 7s, Christchurch Food Festival and the Purbeck Guitar Festival helped attract large crowds.

Councillor Richard Herrett praised council staff, volunteers, Dorset Police and the RNLI for helping visitors enjoy the area safely.

Despite most visitors using official car parks, nearly 3,000 parking fines were issued over the weekend for illegal and irresponsible parking.

The council says the latest figures strengthen its calls for tougher powers to increase parking fines.

During the weekend, 64 lost children or vulnerable adults were reunited with their families through joint work involving RNLI lifeguards and council seafront teams.

BCP says its beaches remain among the UK’s most popular destinations, with six Blue Flag beaches awarded for 2026.