Bournemouth is reputed to be the South's premier resort and tourist destination. It is located on the south coast of England, bordered by Christchurch to the east and Poole to the west and overlooks Poole Bay. It is situated about 100 miles south-west of London. Prior to the 1974 local government reform, Bournemouth was part of Hampshire. Despite much local opposition, it was subsequently ceeded to Dorset. The town became an Independent Unitary Authority on 1st of April 1997.
