The Ultimate Guide to a Bournemouth Summer Staycation

Still opting for an alternative summer holiday that is much closer to home?

A holiday that brings with it all the delights of being abroad, such as the weather, activities,

beaches, and booze but with less of the hassle of airport security,

overpacking, delays and long check in ques.

With this in mind, we have put together an abundance of reasons as to why we believe that

a summer holiday staycation in Bournemouth is the next best thing.

Whether you are a couple, family, adrenaline junkie, historian etc, we have something for

everyone.

 

Water Based Activities

Power Boating:

H20 Powerboat Experience offer skippered powerboat tours around Bournemouth, Poole Harbour, and the Jurassic coast.

They allow you to take in the landscapes and views at whatever pace you would like.

From couples to families to a group of friends, what a great way to explore.

Check out their website here for more details: https://www.h2opowerboatexperience.co.uk

Fly Boarding:

Not quite adrenaline junkie enough for you? Try out Aquatic Jetpacks.

A unique flyboarding experiences so you can fulfil your childhood dream to fly!!

https://www.aquaticjetpacks.com/

Jet Skiing:

How about a ride on a Jet Ski?

Sandbanks Jet Ski Company offer instructor led tours to keep you and your group entertained.

Why not hit the water with them for a great day out and those all-important Instagram shots! Check out there website here: https://www.sandbanksjetskicompany.co.uk/

Or for a little bit of everything:

Why not check out The Watersports Academy in Sandbanks.

They offer an array of activities from Kite Surfing to Paddle Boarding to Kayaking to Sailing and all under one roof.

Explore Poole harbour and conquer the waters with full tuition and lessons available for beginners. Check them out here: https://thewatersportsacademy.com/

 

In the Air Activities

Test your nerves and height fears by visiting Go Ape @ Moors Valley!

With Treetop Challenge, Treetop Adventure+, Forest Segway and Nets Adventure, all thrill-seeking, family entertainment boxes are firmly ticked.

Push yourself on the Challenge course which will take you 11-metres skywards and features a massive 166-metre zip wire.

Whilst the Adventure+ course boasts narrow crossings, suspended walkways and tree-high platforms.

We have also got an hour of challenging woodland trails if you’re up for exploring on our all-terrain Segway’s. Visit; https://goape.co.uk/ for more details.

 

What a better way to ‘fly’ into Bournemouth than on a zip wire!

The PierZip is the world’s first pier to shore zip wire, boasting a 250-metre dual zip wire.

The dual zip line means you can ride with family & friends and challenge them to race to the shore!

Launching from the Zip Tower platform 25mtrs above the sea, thrill-seekers race out and “zip surf” 250 meters over the top of the waves to land on the beach.

A truly unique and unforgettable experience and a wonderful way to experience the amazing, panoramic view of Bournemouth and its stunning coastline! https://rockreef.co.uk/

 

Historian

If you’re into aircrafts and wanting to step into a pilot’s shoes for the day, then this is the museum for you!

Bournemouth Aviation Museum is different to other Museums, it offers a “hands-on” experience.

Visitors of all ages are encouraged to

 

climb into the aircrafts. Imagine what it is like to be a pilot! Check out; http://www.aviation-museum.co.uk/ for more details.

 

Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum; Check out the Museum based in the last Victorian house to be left in England! https://russellcotes.com/

 

How about a visit to the National Trust’s Kingston Lacy?

An elegant 17^th Century Italian styled country mansion set in attractive formal gardens with extensive parkland to explore. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy

 

 

Want to step back in time? How about exploring Bovington Tank Museum, Home to the world’s best

collection of tanks and the Tiger 131 – the world’s only running Tiger Tank.

You may even be in with the chance of seeing a tank in action. https://tankmuseum.org/

 

Animal Lovers

 

Channel your inner Nemo and go marvel at fascinating creatures from above and below the waves!

Come face to face with sharks

 

, turtles, stingrays, a crocodile, jellyfish, clownfish, and the very cute otter family at the Bournemouth Oceanarium. https://www.oceanarium.co.uk/

 

 

Why not try Farmer Palmers, a farm with a difference? Not only do they offer the typical farm animals that you can handle

 

or feed, but they also have an array of other activities including a sand and water play area, a trim trail, tractor rides,

bouncy castle, go-karts, indoor soft play, a barn full of tunnels and slides amongst hay bales and the list goes on. https://farmerpalmers.co.uk/

 

Do you find Alpacas adorable? How about the opportunity to take them for a walk or getting up close and personal and helping to feed them?

Hope Farm Alpaca Rescue offer just that. https://hope-farm-alpaca-rescue.business.site/

 

You could take a walk or a cycle, following the trails through the New Forest and incorporate a visit to the New Forest

Reptile Centre while you are there. Here, they help protect rare snakes and lizards and encourage the re-introduction

of these animals across the country. Check out the website for opening times and location: https://www.forestryengland.uk/new-forest-reptile-centre

 

Bournemouth Town Centre

Summer Live is a free event for all ages.

Bournemouth town centre offers visitors a wide variety of shops, restaurants, bars and the award winning gardens.

Summer Live is located in Bournemouth Square.

• Live music every day
• Visit the huts for gifts and goodies to purchase
• Kate and the team will be creating Henna body art
• Watch our resident artist at the weekends
• Enjoy the outdoor ‘Garden Bar’ plus delicious food available from Larry’s Snack Shack
• Traders include beach themed jewellery, cool sunglasses, wooden gifts, fashion hats and beautiful gem stones.

For more information.

 

We hope you have an amazing time in Bournemouth 🙂

From Austen to Wodehouse, Blyton to Hardy, Dorset’s stunning countryside has

inspired some of Britain’s most prominent literary names with its scenic, almost

ineffable landscapes igniting the imagination which has affected these authors

in various ways. Take a stroll with us (in no particular order) as we lead you through

a literature lover’s guide to discovering these authors’ works and all the pleasures

Dorset has.

 

Jane Austen

 

 

Persuasion:  This historic title takes place around the Lyme Regis area which

many call “Pearl of Dorset” but more commonly known as Jurassic Coast which

is also a world heritage site and the title itself is Austen’s final novel which was

published shortly after her death in 1817. Austen visited Lyme Regis in 1803 and

1804, having stayed for weeks throughout that time which were later the setting

for the book. The popularity of this title led to an overflow of fans to the town in

which many of the events take place. Why not immerse yourself in the footsteps

of Austen and take a walk on the Cobb, have a weekend trip or drive along the Coast

where you can still find pre-historic fossils along the way to experience what she did

which left such a lasting impression that it was captured so eloquently within her

final novel.

 

Thomas Hardy 

 

 

Tess of the D’Urbervilles:  Initially this appeared as a censored and serialised version

which was published by the British illustrated newspaper (The Graphic) in 1891;

and later in book form which spanned three volumes. For many, this novel

represented Hardy’s literary/fictional masterpiece which challenged the sexual

morals of the Victorian era. All of Hardy’s novels are inspired by the South and

South West areas of England which he named Wessex, after the medieval

Anglo-Saxon kingdom that existed in this area of England prior to the unification

of Athelstan. The Vale of Blackmore, is also the main setting for Tess  and is a

short stones’ throw away from Stonehenge. Tess herself is seen as a representation

of nature and her affiliation with animals throughout the novel which impressed

and fascinated the reader of the “idea” or representation of the South and how

it inspired the events that took place. Like many before and after Hardy, the

beauty of the South is ideally conveyed and reinforces the plots of the novels.

www.dolesashfarm.co.uk offers self catering accommodation in the heart of

Dorset and features as Flintcomb Ash in Tess of the D’urbervilles.

 

Enid Blyton

 

 

Famous Five:  “The Famous Five” is a series of children’s novels written by author

Enid Blyton who went by the name of Mary Pollock within some of her published

works. The novels feature the adventures of a group of young children and their

dog and typically find themselves stumbling upon an adventure which usually

involves criminals and treasure. Oftentimes, these excursions they find themselves

in are close to Georgina/George’s family home which is based in Dorset. Regardless

of the book, many times the settings themselves take place in rural areas which

were directly inspired by the area of Dorset. Though there was only originally going

to be six/eight within the series, the popularity and sales of the books grew

tremendously to the point that in the end, twenty-one “Famous Five” novels were

written as well as several television and film adaptations based on the novels. Enid

Blyton is considered to be one of the world’s best selling authors since the 1930s

having sold in excess of 600 million copies. This series of books itself will capture

the imagination in what it was like as a child to discover idealistic, remote locations

such as these which made reading these books engaging, leaving the reader to

reminisce on the days we all had a group of friends with a dog having your own

adventures. For those wishing to really re-live the days of childhood, why not follow

in the footsteps of the famous five by visiting the iconic locations written within the

book such as Kirrin Castle, Corfe Castle, idealistic seaside town of Swanage, then

onto Brownsea Island, in Poole harbour which is accessible by ferry and then end

the day with an excursion onto Bournemouth located five miles from Poole harbour.

 

PG Wodehouse

 

 

Love among the chickens:  Is a novel by Wodehouse and was first published in June

of 1906 and is the only novel to feature the recurring character of Stanley

Featherstonehaugh Ukridge who otherwise is confined to short stories. The plot

focuses on Jeremy Garnet who decides to leave London for a time to focus on his

next book, but is interrupted by the arrival of his friend Ukridge accompanied by

his wife Millie who then explains a business proposal involving producing hens’

eggs on a farm in Dorset and invite Garnet by enticing him of the idea of golf and

plenty of sea-bathing. Though somewhat bizarre, the novel effortlessly displays

the serene landscapes afforded by Dorset and transition to sandy beaches and

warm sunny days.  Wodehouse’s work has gained in popularity since his death,

and many of his works have been adapted for television and film and as of 2015,

his works are sited in the Oxford English Dictionary with over 1,700 quotes. Today,

his legacy is commemorated with a memorial stone in Westminster Abbey which

is open to the public. Additionally, if it is golf that you are fancying, Dorset offers great

golf courses throughout the area such as Isle of Purbeck, Lyme Regis, Remedy Oak

and Bridport & West Dorset Golf Club.

 

Thomas Edward Lawrence/Lawrence of Arabia 

 

 

T.E. Lawrence who is globally better known as Lawrence of Arabia (autobiography

written by Jeremy Wilson about Lawrence who helped lead the Arab Revolt against

the Ottoman empire during WWI), was a British archaeologist, army officer, diplomat

and writer. Lawrence published three major texts in his lifetime. The most significant

was his account of the Arab Revolt in Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Homer’s Odyssey and

The Forest Giant. Shortly after his military career ended, Lawrence settled by

Wareham, Dorset in a cottage named Clouds Hill. Shortly thereafter, he was fatally

injured in an accident on his Brough Superior (motorcycle) near his cottage and

died six days later. Today Lawrence is buried in the separate burial ground of

St. Nicholas’ Church, Moreton which is nestled in between Weymouth and Corfe

Castle and a short drive away to the sandy beaches of Bournemouth. Both where

he is interred as well as his cottage are open to the public and receive numerous

visitors throughout the year to pay their respects Lawrence who himself had a

prolific life with the accomplishments he garnered throughout his lifetime.

 

John Fowles

 

 

The French Lieutenant’s Woman:  Set in the mid-nineteenth century, the novel’s

protagonist Sarah Woodruff, lives in the coastal town of Lyme Regis as a disgraced

woman abandoned by a French ship’s officer who had returned to France and married.

This novel gained notoriety due to is writing structure. Though more popular now in

film and television, the book’s style of writing ends up bringing the reader into the

book as a character themselves with the possibility of the protagonist having

multiple endings. Again set in the historic Dorset area, this novel embodies the

simplicity of coastal/scenic living.

Mary Shelley

 

 

Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus:  Is a novel written by English author

Mary Shelley; which ultimately is what she is most known for through the numerous

adaptations her novel brought about through print, television and cinema.

Though she is most known for Frankenstein, Shelley was an accomplished author

with various other works that are now being given acclaim for her literary style.

She also edited and promoted the works of her husband, romantic poet and

philosopher Percy Bysshe Shelley. Though not native or having lived in Dorset,

her son Sir Percy Florence Shelley, bought Boscombe Cottage, which he had

built in 1801 and intended to turn it into a home for his mother; unfortunately,

Mary died from a brain tumour in 1851 prior to the completion of the home.

Mary Shelley wanted to be buried with her parents, so her son had their coffins

exhumed and placed in a family plot at St. Peter’s Church in Bournemouth. An

interesting fact about Shelley, after her husband Percy Shelley died from drowning

and his body cremated, she decided to keep his heart in a silken shroud and it

is rumoured that she carried it with her nearly everywhere for years. Today you

can visited her burial site with the cemetery being open to the public and

afterwards can cross the street to eat, drink or dance at a pub named after her or

walk a few minutes further to reach Bournemouth beach and pier.

Whether taking a drive along the Jurassic Coast or opening a hen farm business,

what these famous writers all have in common are the portrayal of one of the best

areas of the UK that anyone would be thrilled to visit whether it be to have an

adventure, road-trip or have a holiday.

 

If you would like to find out more about these authors’ works’, the areas of Dorset

or just take a gander at scenic postcard like shots, feel free to hit the links below.

 

 

 

 

https://www.visit-dorset.com/explore

https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/

https://www.oxforddnb.com/view/10.1093/ref:odnb/9780198614128.001.0001/odnb-9780198614128-e-25311

https://www.biography.com/writer/jane-austen

https://www.bl.uk/people/thomas-hardy

https://www.enidblytonsociety.co.uk/

http://www.wodehouse.co.uk/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/lawrence_te.shtml

https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Fowles

https://discoverdorset.co.uk/

 

 

 

Come soak up the sun by the sea!

The tans will fade but the memories will last forever, why not spend your Summer with us at the Riviera Hotel?

No need to go abroad when you have the beach at your doors.

 

 

The perfect family staycation!

Bournemouth is an ideal location for family holidays and Alum Chine makes

it even better. Alum Chine is famous for its Blue Flag, Award-winning sandy

beach, its beautiful wooded valley of the Chine spanned by a splendid and

excitingly bouncy Suspension Bridge and its Green Flag award-winning

Alum Chine Tropical Gardens.

 

 

Alum Chine is close to the chic shopping arcade and eateries of Westbourne

and is a mere 20 minute stroll along the prom to Bournemouth Pier and town

centre in one direction – or to the famous Sandbanks and Poole Harbour in

the other. In the Bournemouth direction alone, there are 7 miles of golden

sands and blue sea and in the summer months you can even take a trip on

the Bournemouth land train.

 

 

The Chine – which is just a minute’s walk from the Riviera – is a great place to

explore, climb trees or make camps and the area offers lots of opportunity for

healthy outdoor fun. Branksome Dene Chine is just as close to the Riviera and

offers similar adventure and interest.

 

 

The Riviera is wonderfully situated for the Chines and is conveniently centrally

located between Bournemouth and Poole for all the other activities and

attractions that both towns have to offer.

 

 

To make your life easier and to travel that bit lighter – We can supply cots and

highchairs and have a limited amount of toddler steps, toddler bed guards and

toilet seats available. Plus children under 3 go FREE when staying with their

parents . Just ask our reception team for more details.

 

 

Take a dip in our indoor pool or soak up the sun on our loungers in our garden or,

if you’d prefer something more active, our studio gym can help burn off extra energy.

 

 

Holiday Entertainment at The Riviera Hotel

Board Games:

Fancy challenging the family? Enjoy an evening of competitive fun with an

array of classic games available for all ages. Please see our Reception Team

for more information

 

 

Scavenger Hunt:

A special treat for the kids! We will be offering a FREE scavenger hunt.

Take it to our reception team on completion to win a prize!!

 

 

Alum Chine Play Space

Located a short walk from the hotel, the play space was inspired around a

treasure island and features several adventurous play equipment.  A great

place for your children to burn some energy off and get some fresh air!

 

 

Events/Attractions in the surrounding areas in Bournemouth

Pier Amusements – open 7 days a week

The Family Entertainment Centre is located at the entrance of Bournemouth Pier.

Here you will find a wide range of entertainment machines and amusements,

and all the most up-to-date videos and prizes.

 

 

Rock Reef:

Rock Reef – An all-weather Indoor Activity Attraction for the whole family located

at the end of Bournemouth Pier, includes 28 Clip’n’Climb fun-themed indoor

climbing walls providing challenges for all the family. Other activities to include

a Vertical Slide Drop, a ‘Leap of Faith’ jumping challenge, a High Line high ropes

aerial obstacle course and the Pier Cave which is a 65-linear metre indoor fun

cave experience.

For the thrill-seekers, be brave and enjoy their awesome Pier Zip- the world’s

first pier-to-shore zip wire, a unique and unforgettable experience.

 

 

Farmer Palmers:

Located in Dorset, farmer palmers is designed for young children and families,

it’s the perfect place to explore! A fun-filled day out to the beautiful Dorset

countryside. Parents will be pleased to know their priority is to provide excitement

and entertainment in a safe and welcoming environment.

Check out their half term events: https://www.farmerpalmers.co.uk/events/may-half-term/

 

 

Bournemouth Oceanarium

Voyage into the depths of our watery world and see stunning sharks, striking stingrays,

a magnificent Loggerhead turtle and otterly adorable otters! Not forgetting the

cunning croc, menacing piranhas, colourful clownfish, eerie eels and our very cute

colony of Humboldt penguins!

To complement your marine adventure, refuel in the newly refurbished Offshore

Café and finish your visit by discovering The Cove Gift Shop, where you can

purchase unique gifts and souvenirs.

 

 

Keep up to date with all the latest news from Bournemouth and Poole by heading over to the local websites.

Are you recently engaged?

Looking for a beautiful venue for your wedding far enough
from the hustle and bustle of Bournemouth but close enough to the beach
to capture some perfect pictures on your special day?

Exclusively situated in the beautifully wooded area of Alum Chine,
with panoramic sea views across Bournemouth Bay, near Poole, and just a short walk from the award-winning seven
mile stretch of sandy beach, the hotel is in a fantastic location.

At the Riviera Hotel we have the style and expertise to make
your special day unforgettable. Our role is to provide you with an attentive professional team
who understand that you deserve every detail to be perfect. Your big day will be just as
you imagined it.

Starting with the Civil Ceremony/Partnership.
Our hotel offers two licensed ceremony rooms, each full of warmth, character and natural day light:

The Conservatory Restaurant: The larger of the two rooms with
 beautiful sea views. Perfect for larger weddings, it can accommodate up to 190 guests

The Britannic Suite: Tastefully decorated, the Britannic suite is ideal for intimate 
weddings suitable for up to 70 guests

The civil ceremony usually lasts around 30 minutes, depending upon your requirements and
if you choose to hold your ceremony at the Riviera hotel, it is your responsibility to book
the registrar. All ceremonies can be enhanced with your own music selections and readings,
however it is always best to check with the registrar for guidelines in place.

Once the ceremony is complete, all will be escorted in to our main bar
while the wedding breakfast room is set up. This gives time for all those important pictures to be taken
on the beach or in the alum chine gardens if requested. Once set up, guests will then be directed in
to the wedding breakfast.

Any decorations provided by the Bride and Groom will be set up by the
hotel staff on the day and utilised throughout the day. Coloured chair sashes can be provided by the
hotel at an additional cost.

The Riviera Hotel offers three set wedding packages or you can
simply build your own.

The Riviera Signature Package

Arrival drinks reception of: Buck’s fizz,
Pimms and lemonade or Summer/Winter punch

3 course wedding breakfast meal

1 Glass of wine with the meal

1 Glass of bubbly for the toast

Bridal suite for the Bride and Groom (inc breakfast)

Complimentary Chair Covers (sash 50p)

The Riviera Classic Package

Arrival drinks reception of: Buck’s fizz,
Pimms and lemonade or Summer/Winter punch

3 course wedding breakfast meal

1 Glass of wine with the meal

1 Glass of bubbly for the toast

Evening Function Suite with Private Bar

Classic Evening Buffet (6 options) 

Bridal suite for the Bride and Groom (inc breakfast)

Complementary Chair Covers (sash 50p)

The Riviera Elegant Package

 Arrival drinks reception of Bucks fizz,
Pimms and lemonade, Prosecco, or Pink Cava
Canapés (choice of three)

3 course wedding breakfast meal

2 Glasses of wine with the meal

1 Glass of bubbly for the toast

Evening Function Suite with Private Bar

Classic Evening Buffet (7 options) 

Complimentary Chair Covers (sash 50p)

Mirror centrepieces with tea lights

Complimentary Use of the Cake Stand & Knife

Complementary Dinner on your 1st Wedding Anniversary

Bridal suite for the Bride and Groom (inc breakfast)

All day guests will have the evening buffet included when choosing the Classic or Elegant Package.
Additional guests can be added at a cost.

Looking for something a bit different????

May be you are looking for an alternative to the standard three course wedding breakfast,
something a bit more relaxed?

Enjoy an intimate tea party vibe with our quintessentially English afternoon tea package for 50 guests including:

Afternoon Tea Package

Red Carpet

Welcome Cocktail and Nibbles

Traditional Afternoon Tea

Flute of Prosecco

Bridal Suite for the Bride & Groom with Breakfast

Maybe you don’t want to hold the whole wedding with us. Perhaps you are getting married abroad but
would like a party so you can celebrate once you are back with your friends and family at home?
Maybe you have booked to have a small ceremony elsewhere and would like to have a larger evening
reception but have not yet found a venue?

Why not check out our Twilight Package for 70 guests:

Red Carpet

Glass of Prosecco and Nibbles

Either a 6 item finger buffet, build a burger or fish and chips

DJ & Disco

Cake stand and knife

Bridal suite for the bride and groom (including breakfast)

Seen a package you like but not interested in all it provides? We would be very happy to put
together a bespoke package for you catering to all your needs.
If you are a couple dreaming of hosting your wedding in a venue which will provide memories
for you to cherish forever,

the Riviera Hotel is the venue for you!!

Click here to view our brochure with prices

If you are lucky enough to have some time off over Easter this year, there are

a variety of things happening in Dorset to keep you occupied.

 

A great venue offering Easter filled activities come rain or shine,

Rock Reef has the parents covered for Easter this year. Go on an

adventure through the pier caves, slide down their vertical drop slide

or enjoy a climb on one of the array of clips and climb walls, the

fun never stops!! 

 

Enjoy a fun-filled guided paddle with New Forest Activities, along the Beaulieu

River in stable ‘Canadian style’ canoes. Hunt for chocolate eggs along the

riverside, a Easter hunt with a difference!! A scenic, active and enjoyable

activity for everyone to join in with.  23rd – 12th April 2024

 

Join in the Easter fun at Kingston Lacy this Spring.

Explore the grounds and complete the 10 activities along the way.

A tasty prize awaits at the end! Taking place between 28th – 14th April

 

Keep an eye out for the hidden eggs on your travels with Swanage Railway!!

Start your egg-stravaganza by collecting a form with your tickets at any

booking office. Then it’s over to you to spot the missing eggs during your journey.

Take your completed form to the stall at Swanage station to claim your free prize.

Book online

Fancy an Easter Egg hunt? From the 29th – 3rd April, head to Upton Country

Park, pick up a sheet from their welcome desk, find the coloured eggs, secure

the magic word and retrieve your prize!

 

 

Easter Sunday Lunch – Sunday 31st March 2024

This year the Riviera will also be bringing back their very popular Easter Sunday Lunch. 

Join us for a seasonal Easter Sunday Lunch in our Cunarder Restaurant including activities for the kids

2 Courses  Adult: £22PP & Child £11PP

3 Courses Adult: £25PP & Child £12.50PP

Click Here to view our menu

Please call our reception team on 01202 763653 if you would like to book 

 

Why not book a break here at The Riv for you and your family this Easter?

Bournemouth is an ideal location for family holidays and Alum Chine makes it

even better. Alum Chine is famous for its Blue Flag, Award-winning sandy

beach, its beautiful wooded valley of the Chine spanned by a splendid and

excitingly bouncy Suspension Bridge and its Green Flag award-winning

Alum Chine Tropical Gardens.

 

Alum Chine is close to the chic shopping arcade and eateries of Westbourne and

is a mere 20 minute stroll along the prom to Bournemouth Pier and town centre

in one direction – or to the famous Sandbanks and Poole Harbour in the other.

In the Bournemouth direction alone, there are 7 miles of golden sands and blue

sea and in the summer months you can even take a trip on the Bournemouth land train.

The Chine – which is just a minute’s walk from the Riviera – is a great place

to explore, climb trees or make camps and the area offers lots of opportunity

for healthy outdoor fun. Branksome Dene Chine is just as close to the Riviera

and offers similar adventure and interest.

 

The Riviera is wonderfully situated for the Chines and is conveniently centrally

located between Bournemouth and Poole for all the other activities and

attractions that both towns have to offer.

We offer a variety of family rooms sleeping from 3 – 5 people. We also have

interconnecting rooms available if you want that bit more space! To make your

life easier and to travel that bit lighter – We can supply cots and highchairs and

have a limited amount of toddler steps, toddler bed guards and toilet seats

available. Plus children under 3 go FREE when staying with their parents .

Just ask our reception team for more details.

 

With our large indoor pool, spa bath, free Wi-Fi and

Children’s Games Room including:

a Pool Table,
Table Tennis Table,
Air Hockey Table,
Board Games and more….

There is always plenty to do around the hotel – which is why we can count five

generations of some families returning to the Riviera year after year.

While you’re visiting us… If you enjoy taking in all the beautiful views around Dorset why not visit some of these wonderful places:

Durdle door is one of the most photographed and iconic landmarks in Dorset.

It is located within Lulworth Estate, which is part of South Dorset, and is also

part of the Jurassic Coast.

Durdle Door’s beautiful limestone arch was formed from powerful waves that

eroded the rock forming a hole in the middle.

When you are looking out to the sea, you will see the beach to the right, with

access to the pebble and shingle beach via a path and steps.

The New Forest is a unique destination, offering charm and natural beauty.

Back in 2005 The New Forest became a national park and was once a royal

hunting ground for William the Conqueror.

It covers an area of 566 square kilometres; made up of luscious woodland,

heathlands, and river valleys.

Today, deer, ponies and cattle roam free in these heaths and woodlands,

offering pure tranquillity for walking, cycling and horse riding.

Lyme Regis boasts breath-taking scenery and a special appeal, making it a

sparkling resort for all seasons.

Whatever your age and whatever the time of year, you can be sure to find

something to delight and entertain you.

Escape the bustle of Lyme and step back in time to explore the Town Mill.

Nestling around this cobbled courtyard, its restored mill buildings house.

The picturesque and tranquil Lyme Regis is a great place to discover a lot you

didn’t know about the UK’s heritage.

One of the most important aspects of the planning process for any business looking to organise a meeting/conference is choosing a venue.

For smaller meetings, a more intimate venue may be best suited for your needs. For larger events, a venue that can offer ample meeting space with breakout

rooms, restaurants, accommodation, outside space and leisure facilities will be better suited.

We have come up with a list of important factors you should be considering when picking your venue

along with questions that you should be asking to marrow down your options and help find the best venue that will suit all you requirements.

Function Room Size

Probably one of the most important factors. Is the function room space going to be big enough for what you need?

To know this, you will need to know how many people will be attending and an idea on the layout of which you would like the meeting to be set up

e.g. Boardroom, Horseshoe etc.

It is always worth asking the the venue for a breakdown on the

layouts they can offer within each function space and the capacities they can hold for each layout.

Packages

Venue meeting package options are an important thing to consider when deciding

on your perfect venue. It’s worth knowing whether your meeting will be a full day

or half a day event before looking.

Will you need to eat throughout the day or want to add in any tea and coffee breaks to split up the day for your attendees?

What packages can the venues offer?

Do they include all refreshments and food options along with function space hire costs?

Can they cater a package to suit your needs?

Overnight Accommodation

Do any of your guests have a long way to travel to come down for the meeting and need a place to stay?

Maybe your meeting or conference is over a few days and everyone will need accommodation.

This is something you will need to check before checking with the venue for the following: Does your venue offer accommodation options?

Is this included within any of the packages provided to make it cheaper for you all?

What other facilities do the venue offer e.g. leisure/gym facilities?

Do they have bedrooms suitable for business guests, offering space to work away from home if required?

Parking

Yep that’s right, parking is always an important factor, especially when looking into

larger scale events with a lot of attendees.

Are there enough spaces for all those attending?

Is the parking free for all your attendees or will they have to pay?

If the car park spaces run out, is there other parking options available within close

distance to the venue chosen and again, are these free?

Internet Access

Do any of the presentations, or information needed during your meeting/conference require you to be online?

If so, does the hotel have WI-FI available?

Is the WI-FI free to use or is there any charge?

Will the WI-FI connection be strong enough for your needs and the amount of attendees that will need to use it?

Equipment Hire

Does the hotel provide projectors and screens, or will you need to bring your own?

Is this included within the package or is there an additional cost for usage?

Can the hotel provide flip-charts and pens? If so, how many do they have

and how many do you need? If they haven’t got enough, can they hire more?

Can the hotel provide extensions cables, or will you need to bring your own?

Can the hotel provide pads and pens, or will you need to bring your own?

 

Why choose the Riviera for your conference venue?

Located in the prestigious Alum Chine, The Riviera is a stylish venue with

elegant interiors. The Riviera boasts five bright, spacious event spaces that

feature natural daylight and air-conditioning with complimentary WIFI.

Our events team will help organise your event, from your initial enquiry to

liaising with our team, to ensure that your event is a great success.

To complement your event, your delegates can relax, unwind and reflect

in our breakout lounge, where they can enjoy refreshment breaks with

nutritious snacks, or enjoy delicious healthy lunches.

A dedicated events coordinator will be assigned to your event and will

assist with the following plus any other reasonable request:

• Take initial enquiry
• Provide full quotation
• Prepare & send contracts
• Liaise with all departments to ensure meeting is a success
• To greet clients on the day of arrival
• To ensure meeting runs smooth
• Contact after the event for any feedback

 

Our Meeting/Conference Packages 

Special Day Delegate Rate – From £28.50 per person

• Room hire

• Equipment (data projector, screen, flipchart & pens)

• Jugs of iced water

• 3 servings of tea/coffee/biscuits

• Sandwich lunch

• High speed Wi-Fi

Day Delegate Rate – From £33.50 per person

All our meeting rooms can be set up for specific requirements depending on occupancy.

Each room will be set to your specification to include comfortable chairs,

glasses and fresh water.

• Room hire
• Equipment (data projector, screen, flip chart & pens)

• Fruit bowl

• Jugs of iced water

• Bacon sandwiches on arrival

• Unlimited tea/coffee/biscuits

• Hot and cold buffet lunch

• Homemade cakes with the afternoon break

• Meeting sweets

• High speed Wi-Fi

Our dedicated and professional team at the hotel, ensure that all events

are hassle free, from the initial enquiry through to the event itself which

is why many companies & associations return to us year after year.

24 Hour Day Delegate Rate – From £99.00 per person

• Room hire

• Equipment (data projector, screen, flip chart & pens)

• Fruit bowl

• Jugs of iced water

• Bacon sandwiches on arrival

• Unlimited tea/coffee/biscuits

• Hot and cold buffet lunch

• Homemade cakes with the afternoon break

• Meeting sweets

• Overnight accommodation

• Full English breakfast

• 3 course dinner

• Access to The Coast Spa, indoor pool & gym

• High speed Wi-Fi

 

Room Hire Only:

Mauretania suite full day – £400.00

Mauretania suite half day – £300.00

Britannic suite full day – £375.00

Britannic suite half day – £275.00

Add tea/coffee/biscuits – £1.95 per person per serving

 

If you are interested in any of the above or would like move information,

please give our events team a call on 01202 763653 or email them on

events@rivierabournemouth.co.uk

 

Have you booked your February Half Term staycation yet?

Bournemouth is an ideal location for family holidays and Alum Chine

makes it even better. Alum Chine is close to the chic shopping arcade and

eateries of Westbourne and is a mere 20 minute stroll along the prom to Bournemouth

Pier and town centre in one direction – or to the famous Sandbanks and Poole Harbour

in the other.

 

We offer a variety of family accommodation rooms sleeping from 3 – 5 people.

We also have interconnecting rooms available and kids under three stay FREE!!!

 

We also have an indoor swimming pool and games room, there is always

plenty to do around the hotel!

 

To book, please call our Reception Team on 01202 763653 or
book via our website

Dining in our hotel

 With stunning sea views and only a short stroll to the sandy beaches of Alum

Chine, our Cunarder Conservatory Restaurant in Bournemouth is open every day

for Breakfast and Dinner. The menus are Modern British/European with a focus on

local seasonal produce, fine ingredients and tasty, delicious dishes. We are confident

you will leave us impressed and planning to return.

 

Breakfast is served Monday- Friday 07:30am-10:00am

Saturday & Sunday 08:00am-10:30am

Dinner is served Monday-Sunday 19:00pm-20:45pm

 

The Bridge Bar & Grill – Local bar with lovely views of Alum Chine and

Bournemouth Bay. Enjoy a quiet drink in The Bridge Bar & Grill.  Designed in Art

Deco style, you can sit back and take in the  lovely views over the woods of Alum

Chine and far out to sea.  For informal eating, The Bridge Bar & Grill offers tasty

snacks and light meals including our homemade pizzas.

 

 Dinner in served every evening Monday-Sunday 17:00pm-20:45pm

 

We also offer a children’s menu, which is available in both the restaurant and

The Bridge Bar and Grill.

 

 

Our Top Picks of Bournemouth Attractions

 

Alum Chine Play Space

Located a short walk from the hotel, the play park was inspired around a treasure

island and features a number of adventurous play equipment.  A great place for

your children to burn some energy off and get some fresh air!

Bournemouth Pier

While in Bournemouth why not visit Bournemouth Pier, which offers a wide

variety of indoor and outdoor activities!!

 

Rock Reef – An all-weather Indoor Activity Attraction for the whole family located

at the end of Bournemouth Pier,  includes 28 Clip n Climb fun – themed climbing

walls providing exciting challenges for all the family.  Other activities including a

Vertical Slide Drop, a ‘Leap of Faith’ jumping challenge, a High Line High Ropes

Aerial Obstacle Course and the Pier Cave which is a 65-linear metre indoor fun

cave experience.

 

For the thrill-seekers, be brave and enjoy their awesome Pier Zip – the world’s first

pier-to-shore zip wire, a unique and unforgettable experience.

 

Pier Amusements – A fun filled family day out,  where you will find a wide range of

entertainment machines and amusements.

 

Check out their website for more information and attractions.

Local Attractions

Farmer Palmers –  A massive range of activities, attractions and animal events

for children aged 0-8 years. Families will love the Farmer Palmer’s experience and

make magical memories to last a lifetime!

Click here for tickets.

Tank Museum – Women in Warfare – Explore women’s roles in the military, from nurses

in the trenches, factory workers, and WWII code breakers, to the tank

crews of today.

Click here for tickets

Your office Christmas Party is the time to let your hair down and celebrate the end of a busy year with your friends and colleagues. 
But here are a few top tips to help you relish the night instead of regretting the night!!!

1) Eat a big lunch - There is nothing worse than drinking on
an empty stomach so be sure to pig out all day if you can
and if the party offers food..... take it!

2) If you feel yourself starting to get drunk, STOP, 
have a breather or a glass of water - It isn’t a race and 
you will be more likely to remember the brilliant night 
you had the following morning.  Also makes the hangover 
a lot easier if you are one of the unlucky ones who must 
work the following day. 

3) Now when to go home - starting to feel the effects of 
the alcohol a little bit too much. It’s time to go home. 
Make sure you have a safe way of getting home whether it 
be by bus, taxi or a designated driver/friend or family 
member who is happy to pick you up. 

4) Mingle – Use this opportunity to chat with those who do 
not work in your department or to network and make a good 
impression to those in a higher position.

5) Hit the dance floor - it will keep your mind off drinking 
alcohol and eating too much food and will show your work 
colleagues what a laugh you can be

6) Dress to impress – Whether you are out to dress to impress, 
have a little fun with some costumes or just fancy a 
smart-casual affair all are very welcomed at Christmas parties

What’s happening in Bournemouth this Christmas

So, the Christmas Tree Wonderland opened last weekend and already
 so many people have descended upon Bournemouth to bask in the delights of the entertainment and food the town has to offer.

There is plenty to explore around Christmas Tree Wonderland
 including the Ice Rink with its Moguls Bar where you can 
show off your dancing on ice skills or Bambi on ice for the
 not so steady! There’s the Alpine Christmas Market complete
 with lots of tasty treats for all to indulge in including 
Yorkshire pudding wraps (whoever came up with this idea was
 a genius), Churros, Hog Roasts, Baked Camembert and more… 
And if that’s not enough, how about a Christmas tipple in the 
Alpine Lodge Bar…. Choose from a selection of mulled beverages
 including mulled wine, cider or a personal favourite, the 
mulled toffee apple and rum.

There is also an array of illuminated wonders to guide you through Bournemouth including the tree of light, the Warsaw Tree and 
the stunning steams of light coming from the rockery and 
smugglers cove.


 (image taken from - https://christmastreewonderland.co.uk/gallery)

If that’s not enough, there is also an array of events happening over the festive months. 

What’s happening at the Riviera this Christmas

Our Christmas Party 2023 brochure is now available by clicking here!

Looking to book your office Christmas party 2023 in Bournemouth
 or Poole?

What better place to celebrate the end of a busy year with your friends or colleagues than at The Riviera Hotel Bournemouth.

We offer one of the best and most popular Christmas Party 2023
 deals in Bournemouth and we are passionate about making your
 event a success! 

Christmas Party Nights with DJ until 1am (Fri & Sat) or Midnight (Sun-Thurs) from just £32 per 
person to include:

3 course meal with coffee and mints

Half a bottle of wine per person

Table novelties and decorations

Free party place & free overnight stay with breakfast for any 
organiser booking at least 40 guests.

10% discount on pre-ordered wine

Our Christmas Party Nights are hugely popular- whether you want an exclusive bash with your own theme or a shared event in one of our transformed party venues – let us do the hard work for you!




Christmas Party Lunches available throughout December from just £24pp. Check out the menu here.

Special Bedroom Rates for all Christmas Parties at the Riviera in Bournemouth. Save on taxis and stay the night from just £32pppn!

Accommodation rate Sunday to Thursday £39pppn B&B or £33pppn room only. Friday and Saturday £49pppn B&B or £42pppn room only. Prices based on 2 people sharing. Single supplement applies.

Unable to celebrate your Christmas party in December? Not a problem! Here at The Riviera we can provide amazing Christmas Parties in January!

To book your Christmas party in Bournemouth or for more information call the Events Team on 01202 763653 or e-mail events@rivierabournemouth.co.uk

The Riviera Hotel in Bournemouth is a great place to host your Christmas party. With a variety of party packages to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a festive and fun night out, the Jingle and Mingle Nights package is perfect for you. This package includes a three-course meal, DJ, and disco from just £32 per person. You can also pre-order bottles of wine or prosecco to save money on drinks.

If you’re looking for something more private, the Riviera Hotel also offers a variety of private party packages to create an exclusive event to remember! These packages can be tailored to your specific needs and budget.

No matter what type of party you’re looking for, the Riviera Hotel has you covered. With its friendly staff and festive atmosphere, you’re sure to have a night to remember.

Here are some additional tips for planning your Christmas party at the Riviera Hotel:

– Book early to get the best deals and availability

– Choose a party package that fits your budget and needs.

– Let the hotel know if you have any special requirements, such as dietary restrictions or accessibility needs.

– Arrive early to enjoy a drink at the bar before your meal.

– Don’t forget to dance the night away!

For more options and info find out more here and feel free to contact our team. Wherever you are off to for your Christmas Party, we wish you a very merry time.

Freedom

Staying in a self-catered apartment gives you more flexibility
than other types of holidays. You’re not restricted to certain meal times so you can choose
to eat whenever is best for you and you can do everything at your own pace. If you are a late
riser and prefer to have a lie in you can or you can wake up and get out early – the choice
is yours. You can come and go as you wish. With separate living and bedroom areas it also
means that the adults can watch TV or socialise in the evening while the kids are asleep. You
can also choose to eat as cheaply or extravagantly as you want. There’s no worrying about the
maid coming round early in the morning either unless you choose to have your apartment serviced
during your stay. You’re also more likely to explore your surroundings and get to know the
culture/background of the area you are staying in, rather than restricting yourselves
to the activities in the hotel.

Privacy

For some people, the thought of eating every meal in a busy dining
room with other holidaymakers is the stuff of nightmares. Eating some of your holiday
meals in a quiet, comfortable kitchen and enjoying the tranquility with only your friends and family,
is very appealing to many.

Space

Self-catering properties are usually a lot more spacious than hotel
rooms which is perfect if you are travelling with a large family or group of friends. Most self-catered
apartments also come with a large communal area/living space – great for socialising and getting
everyone together. Travelling on business and need a place to work? Many self-catering apartments
come with a dining table for you to use as a desk and space to spread out rather than trying to
cram all your papers/documents and laptop on to a small desk, dressing table or having to go to the bar or restaurant to do work.

Home from Home

Travelling with young children or have family members with special
dietary requirements? Staying in a self-catered apartment gives you the freedom to buy and cook
whatever you want. You could even save time and pre order your groceries from your favourite
supermarket before you leave home so they arrive at your apartment on the day you check in or you
can bring food with you from home.

Cheaper

Especially if there is a large group of you as you can split the cost
of the accommodation between you all as well as splitting the cost of the weekly shop leaving you
with that extra bit of money to go out for dinner one evening if you wanted too.

The Riviera boasts 12 self-catering apartments providing an excellent
alternative to hotel bedrooms that can sleep from 1 to 6 people. Perfect for groups of friends
or larger families.

These self-catering apartments are in an
ideal location by Bournemouth beach and near Poole. Residents may use all hotel facilities including the bar and restaurants, indoor swimming pool,
spa bath, studio gym, Coast Spa and free WI-FI.

All the apartments offer the comforts of being at home and come with a lounge
with a large flat screen TV, dining area, and kitchen with cooker, microwave and fridge. Free parking is
available on the forecourt and a lift to all floors – although there are 10 steps up to the front door.

On Business in Bournemouth or Poole? Ask us about our special corporate
rates for Apartments. If you are looking for a Autumn Holiday Break then book now as our Apartments are selling out fast!

To book your Bournemouth Self Catering Holiday Apartment please call us now on 01202 763653
or e-mail us info@rivierabournemouth.co.uk – or book on line.