You’ll find plenty of things to do in Bournemouth, whatever the weather. Visit top Bournemouth attractions like Bournemouth Pier or experience its top-rated activities like sailing around Poole Harbour. Bargain hunters won’t want to miss shopping in Bournemouth while couples and families alike can enjoy Bournemouth's culture. Check out the best places to eat in Bournemouth and get a taste of the local food, before experiencing some exciting Bournemouth nightlife. Getting around Bournemouth couldn't be easier however you choose to travel, and you can rest easy knowing you've enjoyed all of Bournemouth's entertainment before heading back to your hotel in Bournemouth for a great night’s sleep on a super comfy bed.
Nightlife in Bournemouth
Bars
Raving reviews credit Be at One Cocktail Bar as the top bar in Bournemouth – and it’s not hard to see why. Perfect for a cosy catch-up or for boogying the night away, the layout of (easily bookable) booths and bar stools offers a friendly atmosphere. In a handy location at the edge of Bournemouth Square, they have happy hours till 7pm, friendly staff and great music throughout the night. Our only warning: there’s no way that you’ll be able to stop at just one of their amazing cocktails!
Another place for great cocktails, as well as specialist whiskies, is Smokin’ Aces, an atmospheric bar with red leather sofas, walls of whisky and lots of exposed brick. Just over a 10-minute walk from our Central Bournemouth hotel, it’s right in the centre of the action. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re a rock music fan – they put on a great range of live sets and DJs too. They offer cocktail masterclasses and bespoke flight tastings if you fancy a treat. Although a chilled-out spot for a drink in the early evening, it certainly livens up if you stick around!
If wine and cheese sound like the perfect recipe for a great night (how can you disagree?), head to Renoufs Cheese and Wine Bar, less than a 10-minute walk from our Bournemouth West Cliff hotel. You’ll be here a while if you attempt to get through the whole drinks menu; with over 200 amazing wines, as well as a selection of gins and beer options, there’s something for everyone. Huge platters and nibbling dishes are perfect to pair with your wine, each with a cheese and charcuterie selection, chutneys, hummus, pâtés and more. Reserve a table if you’d like to save a spot for the popular Monday quiz night.
To appreciate the town’s beautiful coastal location, where better to enjoy your drinks than overlooking Bournemouth Beach itself? Aruba offers a touch of the Caribbean in Bournemouth, with a selection of Dominican and Jamaican rums, sunny cocktails and all the jerk chicken you could ever wish for. Enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner on the terrace overlooking the beach, from slow-cooked goat curry to handmade pizzas and fresh fish, or join them for one of their live music events, themed nights and food festivals, bringing a bit of reggae to Bournemouth!
Renoufs
Renoufs Wine Bar
Halo
Pubs
If you’re looking for somewhere with bags of character and an impressive selection of ales, ciders and meads, Paul the landlord will welcome you with open arms to The Firkin Shed micropub. A hidden gem within the Boscombe suburb of Bournemouth, it’s always packed with locals and is one of those places where you’ll end up chatting with everyone. It’s not to be missed!
Visit the experts at Brewhouse & Kitchen for their craft beers made at their on-site microbrewery, great selection of food and cosy atmosphere. Beer is used in many of their recipes and there’s a recommended pint to pair with every single item on the menu. Join their head brewer for an experience day if you’re interested in the process, or just sit back and enjoy the results whatever the weather, by the cosy fire or in the beer garden complete with beach huts.
Traditional British watering houses to add to your pub crawl list include The Four Horsemen, with a great Sunday roast and craft ales, and the dog-friendly but child-free Goat & Tricycle, the perfect spot for a relaxed drink and great pub grub.
Clubs
The Old Fire Station is a buzzing venue that hosts regular Student Union club nights, yet also puts on a variety of gigs and live music nights whatever your taste. Located in the Grade II listed former fire station and just a few minutes’ walk from our Bournemouth East Cliff hotel, head there if you’re looking for chart-toppers and R&B, tribute bands and indie favourites. They’ve hosted the likes of Dizzee Rascal, Craig Richards and Bloc Party, and there are plenty of late-night food options nearby if you need some sustenance!
Halo is a unique club housed in a former church on Exeter Road. Expect R&B floor-fillers and popular party anthems, with packed balconies that overlook the dancefloor and plenty of shooting cannons to add to the atmosphere. Another option is Cameo, offering regular comedy nights as well as guest DJs and a variety of music across the bustling club complex that’s the largest in the south of England. Whether it’s chart classics, underground tunes or retro cheesy pop songs that float your boat, you’ll be sure to dance the night away across the four different rooms.