17,000 people 'journeyed down the rabbit hole' for Bournemouth’s Metropole Market

Thousands from across the county came to Lansdowne on Bank Holiday Weekend for the Bournemouth Metropole Market’s 2018 debut to enjoy a day of family fun. Funded by Bournemouth Town Centre Business Improvement District, the market featured ‘Alice in Wonderland’ inspired outfits, entertainment, a tea party and a Yarn Bomb, which contributed to the event’s authenticity. The entertainment ranged from talented local musicians – including the hugely popular Lewis Jordan Brown Trio – to nationally-renowned stilt walkers, Beetlejuice Circus; crowd favourites, Street Comedy; and local theatrical artists, Pantheatrix.

An extensive number of stalls filled Holdenhurst Road, with international food specialities, delicious sweet treats and refreshing drinks. The range of stalls also included arts and crafts, clothing, accessories plus unique and alternative decorations and trinkets. The ‘Alice in Wonderland’-themed celebration enabled market-goers to enjoy Lansdowne’s street party from 11am until sunset.

Paul Kinvig, chief operating officer, Bournemouth Town Centre BID, said, “Metropole Market’s debut has been spectacular. A truly fantastic event both for the community and for local businesses. Congratulations to the organisers and the team for working so hard in the sizzling sun to deliver an unforgettable day for all attendees. This is just the first in a series of wonderful events still to come.”

Lyn Turnbull, co-organiser of the Metropole Market and co-owner of Mexigo Burrito Bar, said, “The ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed celebration has been a fantastic success. We’ve received a great amount of positive feedback from visitors who joined us out in the sunshine for the first market of 2018. We hope many will join us next month for our New Orleans Jazz Festival market!”

This will be held on 24 June and will feature jamming jazz bands and stirring entertainment, as well as food to reflect famous Louisiana cuisine, in addition to the regular foodie offering. Metropole Market will continue its series of markets on the last Sunday of each month in June, July, September, and October with a break in August.