Bournemouth has four platforms. Platform 1 is rarely used these days since the Southern service to London Victoria via Gatwick Airport now only goes as far as Southampton. Platfrom 2 and 3 are the main platfroms used. Platform 4 is at the down end of Platform 3 and is rarely used. However there are some sidings in the middle of therunning lines, which are used by terminating Class 442 and Virgin Voyagers. These together with Class 450's are the main classes seen here. There is the odd service using a Class 444. A couple of frieght services a weekday uses mainly 66's but the odd 59 and 60 thrown in. No ticket barriers here but regular ticket checks. However staff here is friendly and used to spotters.

Bournemouth is a major stop on the Waterloo to Weymouth route and consists of two through platforms and one bay platform, covered by a spectacularly restored overall roof. The station formally boasted two through lines, but these were latterly lifted and plants now occupy the area. 'Southern Railway' services (formally 'South Central') come as far as Bournemouth and use the bay platform. Local South West Trains services are formed of a variety of the 1960's ex-Southern Region slam-door stock, although these are now being retired and replaced by modern equivalents. Long distance trains from the capital come in the form of Class 442 'Wessex Electric' units, whilst Virgin cross country services are now formed by Class 220/221 'Voyager' DEMUs, although HST 125 sets occasionally appear. Car park space is available and bikes can be parked on platform 3. Automatic ticket barriers have not been enforced at this main line station.