Southbourne This Summer: New Openings, Family Offers and What You Need to Know

Summer's properly arrived in Southbourne, and there's never been a better time to spend a day on the Grove. Between exciting new openings, tables spilling out onto sunny pavements, and a high street that just keeps getting better, here's why Southbourne should be top of your list this summer.

Kids Eat (and Play) for Less This Summer

There's never been a better time to bring the little ones down to the Grove. Ten Tables Bistro is offering kids eat half price when accompanied by an adult, while Brewhouse & Kitchen will throw in a free kids' main with every full price adult main purchased. Over at Ludo Lounge, look out for the new kids' passport: collect 10 stickers over the summer for a chance to win freebies. Stourfield Tavern is doing kids eat for a quid (up to age 12) every Sunday from 12pm to 4pm, though you'll need to book online. And for something a little more creative, Reimagine is running children's workshops with Jasmine Wheeler Arts.

Looking to squeeze in some more reading this summer? The Library's Summer Reading Challenge is another great way to keep the kids entertained.

New Faces on the Grove

Southbourne's high street keeps evolving, and there's plenty to get excited about right now. Ten Tables has already opened its doors. Gordon's Yard is about to open, and we can't wait to see what it brings to the street. Keep an eye out too for The Bunkers, taking over the old Betfred unit, and Blend on the Grove, moving into what was Bennett's, two more reasons the high street is looking busier, and better, than ever.

Have Your Say on the Future of Our Coastline

Our seas are the foundation of so much that our coastal districts trade on, from Blue Flag beaches to the visitors who choose our stretch of coastline every summer. Now there's a chance to help shape how they're protected for years to come.

The South Coast Marine Recovery Project is a collaboration between the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts and the five South Coast Wildlife Trusts, including Dorset Wildlife Trust. Together they're developing a long-term plan for marine recovery across the whole South Coast, from Cornwall to Sussex, and right now they're gathering views from coastal communities and businesses to help decide where effort and funding are focused.

This is a real opportunity for the voice of our business community to be heard, especially when it comes to tourism and hospitality. It only takes a few minutes, responses are anonymous unless you choose to leave your details, and it's open until October 2026. Complete it with your contact details and you can also opt in to a prize draw for a £100 gift voucher.

If you'd like to learn more first, the project team is hosting free online talks on Thursday 6 August and Wednesday 26 August at 7pm. Full details at wildlifetrusts.org.

Business Support: SEEDL & SentrySIS

Peak season brings more footfall, longer hours, and more pressure on your team, so it's worth knowing what's already available to you through your BID levy.

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SentrySIS
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If you haven't already signed up, now's a great time to get started.