Bournemouth is a borough in Dorset, southern England, on the English Channel. Bournemouth has a mild climate and is a popular year-round resort. It is also a major retirement and convention center. The seaside resort community, set in valleys sheltered by cliffs, is noted for its fine sandy beach and numerous parks. Located inland are residential areas and some small-scale industries. Bournemouth was founded in 1810 and grew rapidly as a resort after it was reached by railroad in 1870.