Patron generosity breathes new life into Bournemouth’s historic and cultural gem

News 9 July 2025

News Story

A two-week project to refresh Bournemouth Pavilion’s iconic exterior has completed, and it looks great!

Celebrating 95 years of cultural history last year, work was carried out to preserve the venue’s traditional heritage colours and charm.

The project was made possible thanks to the Pavilion’s Restoration Fund, which is supported by generous donations from patrons and community members. Contributions to the fund are invested directly into essential repair, investment, and maintenance projects to enhance and protect the venue’s future.

Owned by BCP Council and operated in partnership with local charity and social enterprise BH Live, Bournemouth Pavilion continues to play a vital role in the region’s cultural and economic life.

On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues shared;

“Bournemouth Pavilion is more than just a building; it’s a thriving part of Bournemouth’s cultural and historical landscape. Thanks to the generosity of our patrons, we’re proud to see the venue’s frontage restored to its full glory.”

Valued for its cultural, architectural, and historic importance, Bournemouth Pavilion welcomes thousands of visitors every week, bringing more footfall to businesses such as hotels, bars, and restaurants to boost the local economy and provide year-round culture.

The venue hosts a year-round diverse programme of events and entertainment such as musicals, opera, ballet, pantomime, comedy, dances and fashion shows. Gala dinners, banquets, receptions, fairs, corporate presentations, product launches, conferences and exhibitions also feature.

Events such as tea dances, free-to-attend open days, and community performances are held regularly to invite visitors to learn more about the venue’s importance to the BCP region.

The theatre is also home to the Compton Organ, one of the few remaining instruments of the 550 initially installed in churches, cinemas, theatres & concert halls between 1926 and 1939. Compton Organ shows are held throughout the year in partnership with the Pavilion Organ Fund to continue to raise funds for the organ’s maintenance and restoration.