The Bournemouth 7s Festival returned to Chapel Gate in Christchurch over the May Bank Holiday weekend, from May 22 to May 24, 2026. This massive event, which has been running for two decades, brought together around 30,000 people for a unique mix of competitive sports and a massive music festival. The strictly over-18s event required valid photographic ID for all attendees, maintaining its signature energetic and mature atmosphere across the weekend.
Every week we pick 🏆 the 5 best 🏆 things to do in Bournemouth and send them to your inbox. Just one weekly email, no spam.
By submitting your email, you accept our Privacy Policy
During the day, the focus was on the pitches and courts. Over 400 teams and 5,000 athletes competed in more than 1,500 matches. The sports lineup was incredibly diverse, featuring rugby 7s, netball, dodgeball, hockey, volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, and fitness games. Attendees didn't need to be part of a sports team to enjoy the festival, as the entertainment options were just as extensive. The site featured 12 themed music arenas hosting over 100 live artists and DJs, including the popular Bingo Lingo experience in the Big Top, alongside foam parties, a silent disco, a funfair, and various street food stalls.
For those staying on-site, the festival offered a large camping and glamping area with pre-erected bell tents. Ticket options ranged from standard day and weekend passes starting at £45, up to VIP and V.VIP packages that granted access to private lounges, exclusive bars, and elevated viewing platforms. To help attendees navigate the busy schedule, the official B7s 2026 mobile app provided live sport fixtures, results, lineup times, and an interactive map of the festival grounds.
Getting to and from Chapel Gate was straightforward thanks to organized transport links. A free shuttle bus service ran regularly between the festival site, Bournemouth Town Centre, and the main railway station. For those arriving by train, Bournemouth Railway Station on Holdenhurst Road connects directly to London Waterloo and other major cities. Local travel was supported by MoreBus routes and official taxi partners, including PRC Streamline Taxis (01202 37 37 37) and Priority Cars Taxis (01202 555 666), ensuring smooth travel throughout the bank holiday weekend.
Published Date
12 July 2026
