Best Places to Stay in Bournemouth
Bournemouth has a great mix of areas that make for a perfect base during your visit. The town centre is bustling with plenty of restaurants and bars to keep you entertained. Over in Westbourne, you'll find lovely independent shops and the charming chines, which are magical wooded gorges that lead down to the beach. If you head further west, there's Sandbanks, known for its impressive mansions, a yacht club, and a stunning Blue Flag beach. Just a stone's throw away, in Poole, you'll discover a lovely Georgian old town and the biggest natural harbour in Europe. East of Bournemouth itself, Boscombe features its own pier and a popular weekly market, while Christchurch offers beautiful architecture and proximity to the Hengistbury Head nature reserve, a nature lover's dream.
Where to Stay Near the Popular Attractions
Bournemouth is quite compact, so if you stay in the town centre, particularly between East Cliff and West Cliff, you'll be right near all the main attractions. Don't miss the intriguing Russell-Cotes Museum, which showcases a fascinating collection of art and memorabilia in a stunning late-Victorian building. While you’re in central Bournemouth, make sure to check out the Lower, Central, and Upper Gardens. They’re lovely, with stunning floral displays, a bandstand, an aviary, tennis courts, and even a mini golf course. You can stroll along the pedestrian pathways that weave through the gardens, providing a pleasant traffic-free experience.
Where to Stay with Your Family in Bournemouth
Families will find plenty to love around Bournemouth Pier. This cherished Victorian attraction has loads of activities to keep the kids entertained, such as an all-weather indoor climbing centre and the excitement of the world’s first pier-to-shore zip line. Plus, the sandy beach is right on your doorstep, perfect for splashing about in the sea and burning off some energy. Right at the entrance to the pier is the Oceanarium, where the whole family can enjoy viewing sharks, penguins, otters, and more. For a great family-friendly option, consider staying at the Hermitage Hotel, which offers family rooms in a fantastic location.
Where to Find Cheap Hotels in Bournemouth
You’ll find hotels in Bournemouth to suit every budget, even in the vibrant town centre. For instance, the highly rated Grove Hotel offers great value, starting at around €47 per night for a double room. It's just a short walk from East Beach and the Russell-Cotes Museum, plus it has excellent accessibility features. If you're arriving by train, you'll love the convenience of the Amarillo guesthouse, with doubles starting at €69. It’s only a hop away from the station and perfectly positioned between Bournemouth's two piers, and they offer a lovely complimentary continental breakfast or a cooked breakfast for a small extra charge. If you're after the reliability of a chain hotel, the ibis Styles is a solid choice, complete with seaside-inspired decor and an on-site bar and restaurant.