Bournemouth International Film Festival

Bournemouth

Book Bournemouth International Film Festival tickets & celebrate independent film on the South Coast

Bournemouth International Film Festival returns for 2026 with two packed days of cinema, industry insight and creative inspiration. Bringing together filmmakers, writers, industry professionals and film lovers, BIFF shines a spotlight on the future of independent film whilst celebrating storytelling from across the UK and around the world.

  • Enjoy two full days of screenings, industry talks and creative events
  • Watch UK and international feature films, short films, documentaries and animation
  • Meet filmmakers and hear behind-the-scenes stories during Q&As
  • Take part in industry panels, workshops and creative discussions
  • Network with filmmakers, writers and industry professionals
  • Celebrate the festival finale at the BIFF Black Tie Awards Night
  • Experience Bournemouth's biggest celebration of independent cinema

Bournemouth International Film Festival 2026

  • Dates: 9th - 10th October 2026
  • Venue: Hilton Bournemouth, Bournemouth
  • Theme: Social Realism - Real Stories. Real Cinema.
  • Features: Film screenings, workshops, networking, panels and awards
  • Screenings: UK and international features, shorts, documentaries and animation
  • Awards: BIFF Black Tie Awards Night & After Party

Independent films, screenings, industry talks, networking & awards - all under one roof!

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned industry professional or simply someone who loves discovering great cinema, BIFF 2026 offers an inspiring programme designed to celebrate creativity and storytelling.

The festival's 2026 theme, Social Realism - Real Stories. Real Cinema., explores lived experiences, communities, identity and belonging through powerful filmmaking from around the world.

Across the weekend, visitors can move between screenings, workshops, networking sessions and panel discussions featuring industry professionals from film, television, screenwriting, sound, production and education.

  • Film Screenings: Discover powerful independent cinema from the UK and around the world
  • Industry Panels: Hear from leading professionals across film and television
  • Creative Workshops: Learn new skills and insights from experienced creatives
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with filmmakers, writers and industry experts
  • Screenwriting Competitions: Celebrate emerging writing talent
  • Black Tie Awards Night: Recognise exceptional achievements in independent filmmaking
  • Community Driven: Supporting first-time filmmakers and underrepresented voices

Book Bournemouth International Film Festival tickets today and be part of a growing celebration of cinema, creativity and independent storytelling in Bournemouth. Tickets delivered instantly via email.

Location

Hilton Bournemouth

Terrace Rd,
Bournemouth,
Dorset,
BH2 5EL
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How to find us

Hilton Bournemouth is located on Terrace Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5EL.

  • By car: Use BH2 5EL for sat nav directions. Hilton Bournemouth is located in Bournemouth town centre, close to the Bournemouth International Centre and seafront.
  • By train: Bournemouth Railway Station is approximately 1 mile from Hilton Bournemouth. From the station, visitors can take a short taxi journey or local bus into the town centre.
  • By bus: Numerous local and regional bus routes stop in Bournemouth town centre, within walking distance of Hilton Bournemouth.
  • By foot: Hilton Bournemouth is a short walk from Bournemouth Pier, Bournemouth Gardens and the town centre shopping district.
Facilities
  • Festival screenings
  • Industry panels
  • Creative workshops
  • Live discussions
  • Networking opportunities
More Info
Is Bournemouth International Film Festival wheelchair accessible?

Bournemouth International Film Festival is based at Hilton Bournemouth which is a wheelchair accessible venue. 

What age is Bournemouth International Film Festival suitable for?

All Bournemouth International Film Festival screenings are suitable for ages 16 and above. The Black Tie Awards Night is strictly for guests aged 18 and above.

Is there food and drink at Bournemouth International Film Festival?

Yes. Hilton Bournemouth offers food and drink facilities throughout the festival. 

What films are shown at Bournemouth International Film Festival?

The festival showcases UK and international feature films, short films, documentaries and animation.

Does Bournemouth International Film Festival include industry talks and workshops?

Yes. Bournemouth International Film Festival includes industry panels, creative workshops, networking opportunities and live discussions alongside film screenings.

What is the Bournemouth International Film Festival Black Tie Awards Night?

The Black Tie Awards Night is the festival's Saturday night finale, celebrating achievements in filmmaking, screenwriting and creative storytelling. Entry is restricted to guests aged 18 and over.

What do Bournemouth International Film Festival tickets include?

Ticket inclusions depend on the ticket type purchased. Festival tickets can include film screenings, industry panels, workshops, networking events and access to the Black Tie Awards Night depending on your package.

Are these the cheapest tickets for Bournemouth International Film Festival?

Yes, we guarantee price match or better. If you can find them cheaper, we want to match it so please get in touch here.

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