BOSCOMBE promises a weekend full of fun and festive activities in the style of the Victorians.

The Sovereign Shopping Centre opens from 11am-3.30pm today for Victorian arts and crafts, Christmas science, an activity trail and a Victorian walkabout act in the form of Mr Pheobus.

Mr Phoebus and his Unique Penny Farthing experience proved a big hit earlier this year when he visited the Southbourne Shake and Stir event and this weekend both adults and children can learn what it would have been like riding high up on the bicycle complete with a top hat for some photo opportunities.

But the fun doesn't stop at the Sovereign Shopping Centre.

The Royal Arcade welcomed award-winning saxophonist Claire Manners as well as Nobody's Business - a duo of acoustic guitar and harmonica players - yesterday.

There will be free arts, crafts and entertainment with The Science Zone today.

And the regular Boscombe market will be selling all manner of festive gifts in the run up to Christmas. There will be children's rides and family activities in the precinct every Sunday until next weekend (DEC 18).