More than four million visit Bournemouth and Poole's Christmas lights

BCP Council estimate more than 4.4 million people have attended this year’s Christmas Tree Wonderland in Bournemouth and the new Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival between November 18 and December 4. 

Christmas Tree Wonderland features a variety of light installations including numerous replica Christmas trees from around the world.

Christmas lights in Poole (Image: Richard Crease)

New for 2022 is the stunning blue and yellow Kyiv tree which has received very positive and supportive reviews, according to the council. 

Read more: Poole residents divided on Christmas tree in Falkland Square

Meanwhile in Poole, nautical-themed lights shine bright in the skyline as well as a five-metre tall ship, a walk through bauble and some festive Christmas trees with maritime-themed decorations and Christmas choirs.

The footfall figure is based on a new method of tracking footfall through Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole based on the movement of smart devices rather than just at fixed points in a very limited area. 

Christmas lights in Bournemouth (Image: Richard Crease)

Jon Weaver, head of destination and events at BCP Council, said: “Our Christmas offering this year is bigger than ever before, with two light trails that weave through each town as well as the Yuletide Festival in Christchurch, organised and funded by Christchurch BID.   

“These events are free to visit and as our footfall data shows, they bring residents and visitors from far and wide to our area, enjoying everything that is on offer.   

“Both festivals help to support our local economy and maintain and raise the profile of the three towns at a really important time of the year.”