Hotels in Bournemouth

Coastal Serenity: Unveil the Allure of Bournemouth’s Beaches and Gardens

Bournemouth, a gem on England's southern coast, beckons with its stunning beaches and vibrant seafront. With seven miles of golden sands, Bournemouth Beach offers breathtaking sea views, perfect for sunbathing or beach sports. Stroll along the iconic Bournemouth Pier, where you can indulge in seaside treats or enjoy thrilling amusements. The lush gardens, like the Lower Gardens, provide a serene escape, while the nearby coral reefs invite snorkeling adventures. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Bournemouth’s unique blend of nature, culture, and coastal charm makes it an unforgettable destination for all travelers. For the best hotel rates in Bournemouth, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Bournemouth

Some of the best places to stay in Bournemouth are Bournemouth City Centre, West Cliff and Parkstone. Bournemouth is a fantastic destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and stunning gardens. Bournemouth City Centre offers easy access to shops and restaurants, making it ideal for first-time visitors. West Cliff boasts breathtaking coastal views and luxurious accommodations, including spa options. Parkstone provides a more residential feel, perfect for those seeking tranquility. General hotel accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly options to upscale hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers. Here are some of the best hotels in Bournemouth that our travelers love:

1. Bournemouth City CentreOpens in a new window: Bournemouth City Centre is a vibrant area perfect for families and business travelers alike. With attractions like the Bournemouth International Centre for events, the stunning Bournemouth Beach, and scenic Poole Harbour, it caters to a variety of interests. For accommodation, consider Cedar House Boutique B&BOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star bed and breakfast that offers an upscale experience. Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa - an Iconic Luxury HotelOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, boasting family-friendly amenities and a golf theme, ideal for both leisure and business. Lastly, Balincourt Guest HouseOpens in a new window is a guesthouse option that combines luxury with a central location, making it a great base for exploring the area.
2. West CliffOpens in a new window: West Cliff is an outdoor lover's paradise, featuring breathtaking beach access and a plethora of adventure opportunities. It's close to the Bournemouth International Centre and offers a lively beach atmosphere. The Durley Dean HotelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that provides direct beach access and facilities for business travelers. For a cozier stay, Grovefield ManorOpens in a new window is a guesthouse with dining options and nearby recreational activities. If you’re traveling with pets, The CanfordOpens in a new window is a welcoming inn that accommodates furry friends, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
3. ParkstoneOpens in a new window: Parkstone is a serene area known for its beautiful harbor views and proximity to Bournemouth's attractions. With a focus on outdoor activities, it’s perfect for families and adventure seekers. Harbour Heights HotelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel equipped for business needs and family amenities, making it a versatile choice. The Merchant HouseOpens in a new window, a charming bed and breakfast, offers adventurous activities like birdwatching and snorkeling nearby. Lastly, Shah of Persia, Poole by Marston's InnsOpens in a new window, an inviting inn, features a cozy atmosphere with dining options and entertainment facilities, ensuring a relaxing stay in this picturesque locale.

What to do in Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a stunning coastal destination perfect for a three-day getaway, featuring beautiful sandy beaches and lush gardens. Visitors can enjoy activities like surfing, swimming, and diving in the vibrant sea. With a relaxed atmosphere and scenic landscapes, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Bournemouth:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbors in the world, where you can soak in the stunning views and watch the boats go by. Following that, take a leisurely stroll through Baiter Park, enjoying the beautiful green spaces and waterfront scenery. Next, make your way to the iconic Lighthouse, Poole's Centre for the Arts, where you can catch a performance or simply admire the architectural design. Wrap up your day by visiting local galleries and exhibitions, immersing yourself in the vibrant art scene that Poole has to offer.
• Day 2: Start your day at the renowned Sandbanks Beach, famous for its golden sands and clear waters—perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim. Afterward, head to Shell Bay Beach, where you can take in stunning views of the coastline and enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore. Your day continues with a visit to Brownsea Castle, a historic site nestled on an island in Poole Harbour, where you can explore the castle grounds and learn about its intriguing history.
• Day 3: Kick off with a trip to New Forest National Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature with its beautiful trails and wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely hike or bike ride through the park's picturesque landscapes. Afterward, visit Wimborne Minster, an impressive medieval church known for its stunning architecture and fascinating history. Conclude your day at Poole Quay, a vibrant waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful views as the sun sets over the harbor.

5 tips to find a great Bournemouth hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Bournemouth is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates tend to be lower. If you're an international traveler, it's wise to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure better prices. For a budget-friendly trip, consider staying at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city's highlights, including its stunning beach and picturesque gardens. This way, you can experience great value for money while exploring this charming destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute hotel deals in Bournemouth? You could find attractive discounts by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. These areas often feature reduced rates for accommodations as your travel date approaches. For even better chances to snag a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers. This way, you're more likely to catch fantastic savings!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Bournemouth.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Bournemouth usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses, trains, taxis, and ferries to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Bournemouth and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Bournemouth

Here are some popular dishes in Bournemouth, England, United Kingdom:

• Fish and Chips: A quintessential British dish, fish and chips features crispy battered fish, typically cod or haddock, paired with golden, thick-cut fries. Served with malt vinegar and tartar sauce, it's often enjoyed at seaside pubs, making it a popular choice for tourists seeking a casual yet iconic culinary experience in Bournemouth.
• Dorset Apple Cake: This delightful dessert showcases the region's famed apples, often served warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a dollop of clotted cream. The cake is moist and flavorful, reflecting local baking traditions and is perfect for a cozy afternoon tea experience in one of Bournemouth's charming cafés.
• Roast Beef: A classic Sunday roast, roast beef is often served with Yorkshire pudding, roasted vegetables, and rich gravy. It's a beloved dish that brings families and friends together, making for a heartwarming meal in local pubs and restaurants.

Best time to go to Bournemouth

Bournemouth experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 43.2°F (6.2°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 62.4°F (16.9°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Bournemouth are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.