When choosing hotels in Bournemouth, the most important thing to consider is how to find a balance between the relaxing pace of the classic Bournemouth experience, whilst also being close enough to the town centre to experience the cafes and the bohemian nightlife that have sprung up in recent years. There are a number of great hotels in Bournemouth town centre, but the trick is choosing one that gets you close to the action without actually hearing the action when you want some peace and quiet. We’ve selected five hotels that we think achieve this balance, offering a quiet space to relax whilst also being close enough to turn a corner and find a beach or a bar, a restaurant or one of Bournemouth’s many other attractions.
1. The Ramada Encore Hotel Bournemouth
The Ramada Encore Hotel is less than a mile from the beaches and shops and only five minutes from the main bus station. The Bournemouth Eye and the Oceanarium are within walking distance, as are the stunning Bournemouth Gardens. It is a relatively new hotel in Bournemouth, (finished in 2006) and as such is more up to date and better equipped than most other Bournemouth hotels. From free high speed Wi-fi to satellite TV, and with a modern décor and contemporary rooms, as well as offering free parking and free buffet, this three star hotel offers good value and excellent amenities and is a wonderful way to experience Bournemouth.
2. The Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth
The Hermitage Hotel is right in the heart of the action. With stunning views out to sea from the vast majority of rooms, (views that take in the pier, the bay and even the Isle of Wight) there is perhaps no better location in the whole of Bournemouth. As such it is only the briefest of walks to the beach, the Oceanarium, the Pavilion Theatre or any of the other attractions. Throw in Wi-Fi and TV in every room, as well as twenty-four hour room service and we think you’ve got the perfect three star hotel to experience both the calm tranquillity of Bournemouth during the day and the restaurants and bars at night.
3. The Russel Court Hotel Bournemouth
The Russel Court Hotel is well placed for the beaches, theatres, shops, casinos and even the ice rink. Only half a mile from the town centre and a brief walk from the beach, this old family-oriented hotel offers a wonderful atmosphere with a number of rooms for entertaining, from the bar and the Crystal Ballroom to the fine dining restaurant. They also serve up a fabulous full English breakfast (with a delicious veggie option!) This centrally located hotel offers excellent value for money.
4. The Britannia Roundhouse Hotel Bournemouth
For those of you looking for something a bit more interesting there is the Britannia Roundhouse Hotel, famous for its circular building. It is centrally located and only a short walk to the beach, the shops or the bus and train stations. Though close to all the attractions it is tucked away in the more respectable and famous East Cliff area of town and offers a quiet ambience and comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. With beautiful rooms and a number of entertaining options, from the Wave Restaurant to the Wave Café Bar and Terrace (overlooking the Landsdowne) to the Circles Bar and Lounge, this is a popular and respected Bournemouth hotel.
5. The Cumberland Hotel Bournemouth
The Cumberland Hotel is one of the classic Bournemouth hotels. Like the Britannia Roundhouse it is located in the famous East Cliff area of town, offering peace and quiet whilst still being close to nearby beaches, gardens and bohemian nightlife. Built in 1927 (and remodelled in 2007) this is the archetypal art deco hotel, which, whilst offering all the amenities and conveniences of modern hotels, still gives a taste of the grandeur of earlier times. The views over the bay are spectacular and the black oak and mirrors of its Mirabelle Restaurant provide the perfect backdrop to dine on sumptuous global cuisine, all made with local produce. From its lounge bars and cocktails to its pools and art deco, the Cumberland offers the quintessential Bournemouth experience, and is one of our favourites.