How To Survive Your Christmas Works Party in Bournemouth

How To Survive Your Christmas Works Party

How To Survive Your Christmas Works Party in Bournemouth
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

Top Tips To Survive Your Christmas Works Party in Bournemouth
What’s happening in Bournemouth this Christmas
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.

Christmas Markets in Bournemouth
 (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 Riviera Hotel Bournemouth near Poole

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

Christmas parties in Bournemouth

Christmas Parties at the Riviera Hotel in Bournemouth

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 £34 per person. You can also pre-order bottles of wine or prosecco to save money on drinks.

Christmas parties in bournemouth

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.

Family Holidays Bournemouth By Beach

October Half Term 2024

 

Have you booked your October 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☎

Hotel Breaks Bournemouth with Games Room & Pool

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.

 

Hotel Restaurant Kids Friendly Bournemouth

 

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!

Alum Chine Play Park Near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

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.

Bournemouth Pier Amusements

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

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

National Trust's 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 Oceanariumhttps://www.oceanarium.co.uk/

Bournemouth Oceanarium

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

Visit Brownsea Island near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Discover Dorset

Stay At Riviera Hotel & Discover Dorset

With its perfect mix of history, countryside and coastline there are miles of scenery
to explore and activities to do appealing to holiday makers with a variety of interests.

A lover of long walks and orienteering expeditions?
Why not walk the Jurassic Coast and witness the array of wildlife, dramatic cliff-tops and stunning landscape for yourself. We’ve put together a few local walks for you to take advantage of. Check them out here or download the PDF version.

Want to get away to a seaside haven?
Dorset provides an array of blue-flagged beaches –  ideal for relaxing in the sunshine,
taking up your preferred water sport or simply building a sandcastle with the ones you love.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed escape away, why not head inland
and discover Dorset’s wealth of historic castles, fantastic houses and impeccably kept gardens.
Take a stroll through beautifully quaint villages and seaside towns offering an array of eateries for you to try the fresh local produce in the presence of incredible views.

With something for everyone, we have put together a list of the MUST DO’s in Dorset
to keep you entertained while your away in this beautiful location.

 

Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island & Sandbanks

Visit Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island & Sandbanks

Why not take a trip to Poole Quay and Old Town,
both steeped in history and offering attractions to suit all interests.
Poole Quay is the gateway to the stunning harbour and islands making it the best place to take breakfast, lunch or dinner whilst watching ships, fishing boats or luxury Sunseeker yachts as they enter and leave the bay.

Also a short walk from Poole Quay is Poole Park and The Ark,
offering a wide variety of activities from water sports on the lake to crazy golf,
ice skating and 3 levels of soft play with slides, tunnels and interactive zones.

From Poole Quay, voyage across the water with City Cruises,
taking in Europe’s largest natural harbour dotted with tiny islands.
Stop off at the National Trust’s Brownsea Island, home of the scouting movement.
This wildlife haven, is free of traffic and easily walk-able – spot red squirrels and migrating birds or take a picnic and find your own beach cove for a quiet afternoon away.

If a relaxing boat trip isn’t your cup of tea why not take to the shallow waters of Poole Harbour & Sandbanks and try out one of over 25 water based
activities they have to offer at The Watersports Academy. Whether its windsurfing, sailing, paddle boarding or fishing for your own dinner on a chartered boat trip, you’re sure to have fun.
Sandbanks, known as one of the most expensive places in the world to live, also offers fantastic, wide sandy beaches and lots of sophisticated cafes and eateries to stop off and take in the gorgeous views.

Just a short drive from Sandbanks is Compton Acres,
one of the finest privately-owned and important ornamental gardens in England.
Explore over ten acres of stunning individual gardens displaying exquisite plants from all over the world, browse the treasures in the Gifted Moment store offering excellent shopping opportunities of
Dorset-made goods or attend one of the many events held all year round
from Sculpture Trails, Wine Tasting and more.

Studland & Swanage

Visit Studland & Swanage

Take the old-fashioned chain ferry across the mouth of Poole Harbour from Sandbanks
(either on foot, by car or by bus) and enjoy Studland Bay.
Famous for its sand dunes, heathland and nature reserve, it makes a wonderful day out.
Walk through paths of wild garlic to the iconic Old Harry Rocks enjoying fabulous coastal views, peering down at smugglers’ coves and looking back at the Bournemouth Coast.

Follow the roads from Studland in to the seaside town of Swanage,
situated at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site. Swanage is a traditional seaside resort with a long promenade and plenty of interesting shops. Try travelling back in time on the steam railway, take a stroll along Swanage Pier while taking in its Victorian heritage or visit the Durlston Country Park
nature reserve soaking up its stunning views and an array of wildlife while setting out on one of its many marked trails and coastal walks.

Corfe Castle

Visit Corfe Castle

This pretty old village, with a National Trust shop, lies at the foot of dramatic castle ruins.
Originally built by William the Conqueror on a natural hill, Corfe Castle’s purpose was to guard the principal route through the Purbeck Hills, where Purbeck marble was once quarried. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner for families to discover.
As well as a castle visit, Corfe is also home to a unique range of independent shops,
the Corfe Castle Town trust museum and separate information centre, the Purbeck mine museum, the model village and it is the connecting town for the Swanage Steam railway.

Jurassic Coast

Visit Jurassic Coast

This World Heritage Coastline spans 95 miles and is a “must see” when in Dorset.
Visit Lulworth Cove, Kimmeridge, Ringstead Bay, Durdle Door, or Worbarrow Bay with its deserted village of Tyneham.
Explore rock pools, hunt for fossils, enjoy the walking paths or just sit back and experience some of the country’s most stunning scenery, from sweeping beaches, dramatic cliffs, blustery headlands and sheltered coves.
It’s a geologists dream and a photographer’s haven.
Fancy a long walk? Try tackling a section of the beautiful Dorset Coastal Path
(you’ll need six days to walk its entirety – it’s 86 miles from Poole Harbour in the east to Lyme Regis in the west!)
Along the way, you’ll uncover many fascinating stories: the ‘walk through time’ – an exceptional record of the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods of the Earth’s history; stories of farming, fishing, quarrying, smuggling, of war and fortification; and spot some of Dorset’s wonderful wildlife along the way.

Wimborne

Visit Wimborne

Wimborne Minster and the surrounding area offer fun for all ages,
from high adrenaline activities to more gentle pursuits, from nature based attractions to unique heritage sites.

Visit Moors Valley and follow their outdoor play trails, hire a bike and test yourself
on their varying ability cycle paths or take a trip on the narrow gauge steam railway.
Why not live life adventurously and explore the park from a monkey’s perspective!
Go Ape are an outdoor activities company offering tree top walks, forest Segway tours,
tree top junior adventures and zip wires to all ages.

Other activities in the area include Honeybrook Farm,
Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park & Rescue Centre and Green Cottage Riding Centre.

Explore the extensive grounds of Kingston Lacy House & Gardens:
Owned by the National Trust, this 17th Century mansion contains an outstanding collection of paintings and other works of art. The house and gardens are set in a wooded park with attractive walks, covering over 43 acres and feature restored Japanese Gardens, a Victorian Fernery and Formal Gardens.
Located on the Kingston Lacy estate is the Badbury Ring’s (an Iron Age hill fort),
so you can go and fly your kite from the highest height.

Take a trip to Knoll Gardens and witness the breeze blow through the stunning
ornamental grasses which the four acre of gardens are famous for and learn how to bring the wow factor to your own garden.

Located in Wimborne town centre is the Priest’s House Museum & Garden,
delve in to the town’s archaeology and discover hidden gems that have been found in the area. Enjoy the town and its more recent history from a different perspective at the Wimborne Model Village or imagine the roar of water and the grind of mill stone at the White Mill.

Hengistbury Head and Christchurch

Visit Hengistbury Head and Christchurch

Hengistbury Head is a dramatic headland to the south of Christchurch Harbour.
It is an outstanding site for wildlife and archaeology and offers beautiful beaches and views across the New Forest, Isle of Wight and Purbecks. Access is easy for all ages and abilities.
There is a Land Train (great fun for both young and old!) linking to Mudeford with its colourful beach huts and beach café, ferries to Christchurch, as well as a summer bus service to Bournemouth.
A perfect day out – you are in the countryside but still close to the town!

With two rivers to walk or boat down, two historic quays to discover and
two historic castles to explore, Christchurch is an ideal holiday playground.
The historic Priory Church and Castle ruins help give an old world charm to the bustling town centre with its range of independent shops, high street stores and regular markets. Visit the clifftop grounds and delight in the buildings and interiors of Highcliffe Castle or use your imagination to bring back to life Christchurch Castle from its ruins. You can also take in the collections and exhibitions of this historical town at the Red House Museum and Garden.

The New Forest

Lots to do in the New Forest

Right on Christchurch’s door step is the New Forest, a great place for the whole family
to get out and get some fresh air. Take a scenic drive through the New Forest to Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway.  Covering over 200 acres, the gardens hold the famous Rothschild collection of azaleas, camellias & rhododendrons.
To make the most of the day, visit Buckler’s Hard, a picturesque 18th century traffic-free village on the banks of the Beaulieu River. Buckler’s Hard is a little over two miles from its sister attraction of Beaulieu, another pretty village where visitors can tour the National Motor Museum as well as Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey.
Head in to Burley, hire a bike and tackle the different cycle paths available to follow, stopping in the suggested pubs on the way. A great place to relax and enjoy a picnic in the sunshine or take the dogs for a walk.

Dorset Villages

Many picturesque Dorset villages to visit

There are so many picturesque Dorset villages from Milton Abbas,
with its row of thatched houses, Beaminster with its fine medieval church with a 16th century tower to the pretty village of Cerne Abbas with its famous giant on the hill.
The quaint village of Moreton is famous as the final resting place of “Lawrence of Arabia”, and has an 18th Century church with stunning stained engraved glass windows. The result, especially on a sunny day, is a spectacle worth seeing.

In the village of Higher Bockhampton you can visit Thomas Hardy’s cottage,
owned by the National Trust, and walk in Hardy’s footsteps on some lovely trails surrounding the cottage.

Visit the small market town of Shaftesbury, the home of gold hill, made famous by the Hovis advert.
Athlehampton House & Gardens is a quintessential manor house with a labyrinth of gardens each with their own theme. Water forms the recurring feature with fountains, pools and the River Piddle on its doorstep.

Use The Rivera as a base while you Discover Dorset!

The Riviera Hotel in Alum Chine, Bournemouth, Dorset

We are very fortunate to be within easy striking distance of a marvellous selection
of beautiful and fascinating Dorset destinations. Whatever your interests, we guarantee you will enjoy yourself
to the full with a wide range of places and attractions available, and their all at our door step!

Stay with us on our Discover Dorset package and enjoy Dorset cream tea on arrival,
a full English breakfast each morning and dinner every evening using some of the finest Dorset produce.
We will even provide you with a suggested itinerary of where to go, what to see and what to do!

Just £69pppn

Stay 4 nights or more and we may even upgrade you to a sea facing room with
private balcony if available.

Booking is simple- Just click here and select your dates!

dorset hotel

A Selection of Local Gardens and National Trust Sites to visit this Summer

Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life?
How about taking a stroll through an array of secluded gardens and flowery meadows?
Maybe you would prefer to take a walk-through time and explore and learn the history of
some of Dorset’s most famous castles and hidden gems. If that isn’t your cup of tea, how
about a walk along the many ancient coastlines, blue flag beaches or a visit to a secluded
island. With all this wonderful weather we have been having, all are perfect opportunities
to get your fix of fresh air and to enjoy the great outdoors:-

National Trust Sites near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth
Kingston Lacy
Visit Kingston Lacy near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Courtesy of: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy

An Italian palace in the heart of the Dorset Countryside home
to one of Dorset’s most powerful families, the Bankes.

Bask in the beauty of one of the largest private collection of
paintings in Britain or discover the treasures of Egypt roaming one of the largest displays of
Egyptian relics in the UK. Look up at beautifully restored ceiling fresco, see one of the last
surviving ‘tent rooms’ or spot the keys to Corfe Castle over the mantelpiece and read up on the
History of the Bankes family over the last 400 years.

Set on 8,500 acres of estate there is loads to explore outside
as well. From Iron Age forts, to colourful heathland, water meadows and even a Roman road.
Take a summer picnic and sprawl across the south lawn or let the children run wild in the
nearby play areas. Have a wander around the Japanese Garden, complete with authentic tea house
or take a sheltered walk through the surrounding woodland. You can even take home some
inspirational tips on how to maintain the perfect vegetable garden!

Corfe Castle
Visit Corfe Castle near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Courtesy of: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle

A  royal palace and fortress shaped by warfare with 1,000 of years
history to discover from the lives of all who have lived, worked and fought in the castle to
tales of treachery and treason. With many nooks and crannies to explore and a vast amount of
fallen walls and secret places, these castle ruins are captivating for all ages. Admire
breath-taking views of the Purbeck hills and meet many wildlife that have set up home there.

Visit the Model village, step back in time and compare the
castle as it was almost 300 years ago to the ruins that stand before us today.

There is also an array of walks to choose from and regular
activities to join in on or watch such as rein actions of Corfe Castle history , open air
theatre productions, cooking classes etc.

Studland Bay

Knoll Beach and Studland Bay near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Courtesy of: https://www.visit-dorset.com/listing/studland-bay/12721301/

A 4 mile stretch of golden sandy beach with views of both Old
Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight. The perfect location for sandcastle making, water sport
trying and long walks in the dunes or through the designated countryside trails. Studland is home
to an abundance of wildlife from dragonflies and damselflies to sea birds and deer along with a
range of different wild flowers and woodland to explore. For some of the best views of the
heathlands, head to Agglestone, a 400-tonne rock sitting alone on a conical hill. Perfect for
a breath of fresh air.

Brownsea Island
Visit Brownsea Island near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Courtesy of: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/brownsea-island

From the moment you step ashore, Brownsea can feel like a whole other
world with an array of woodland, heathland and a lagoon to explore. With a remarkably varied history,
there is a lot to learn about the islands past residents. From being a hideout for pirates or a
second world war refuge to  being a historical landmark for the Scouting and Guiding movement,
there is a lot to know about the fascinating castaway island.

It is also a unique haven for wildlife, especially the red
squirrel, and their island trails provide a refreshing walk through many habitats home to
all kinds of creatures.

With regular events and activities for both adults and kids
and a visitor centre providing maps and guidebooks to help with your day, Brownsea island
has something for everyone.

 

Compton Acres - Plants & Flowers

Compton Acres
Visit Compton Acres near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Courtesy of: https://www.greatbritishgardens.co.uk/england/item/compton-acres-gardens.html

Acknowledged as one of the finest privately-owned gardens in England,
Compton Acres is well known for its 10 acres of horticultural and ornamental gardens. Each
garden is set to a different theme from Italian to Japanese, Wooded Valley to Rock & Water,
each with their own unique displays of colour, plants, statues, waterfalls & fountains,
trees and shrubs. It’s a great place for a peaceful and relaxing walk, both long and short,
filled with breath taking views and an oasis of natural beauty. There is even a café to stop and
grab a coffee and a bite to eat overlooking the gardens and Poole harbour and their plant centre
allows for you to take some of what is the beauty of Compton Acres home with you.

Lulworth Castle & Park

Visit Lulworth Castle and Park near Riviera Hotel Bourenmouth

Courtesy of: https://www.visit-dorset.com/listing/lulworth-castle-%26-park/15549301/

The most beautiful castle in the South, steeped in history. Follow in
the footsteps of kings and queens as you take a walk around the Castle grounds, stand at the top of
the tower admiring the views or explore the rooms and background of the castle itself. With extensive
parkland, woodland walks, a children’s play area, animal farm and an array of garden games to keep you
busy, Its great for a family day out. Why not bring a picnic or come for a walk with the dog? You
could even visit the castle tearooms and feast on a selection of homemade cakes or enjoy a cream tea.

Upton Country Park
Upton Country Park near Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Courtesy of: https://uptoncountrypark.com/

An award-winning park and Poole’s main attraction whatever the
season. Its ideal for a leisurely stroll or cycle ride with many mapped out routes through woodland
and countryside you can follow. You could even take a Segway tour as a more exciting way of getting
around. There’s an abundance of wildlife, gardens and plants to explore and a woodland play trail
for the kids. There’s an art gallery above the tea rooms displaying the works of many local
professional artists and knowledgeable guided tours of the ground floor rooms of Upton House
are available.

Durlston Country Park & National Nature Reserve

Durlston Castle and Country Park, Swanage

Courtesy of: https://www.visit-dorset.com/listing/durlston-country-park-national-nature-reserve/14020301/

A mile south of Swanage lies Durlston Country Park, 320 acres of
countryside filled with a diverse selection of wildlife and an array of habitats in which they
breed from sea-cliffs to meadows. Bask in the stunning views, follow the walking trails, look at the
historic Great Globe or explore the renovated Durlston Castle. You can even hire a family explorer
backpack for the kids filled with an array of fun activities. Visit the art gallery with regularly
changing art and exhibitions or grab a hot beverage and a quick lunch from the castles café.

Blue Pool

Blue Pool Waters Edge

Courtesy of: https://bluepooltearooms.co.uk/

If your looking for a place of peace and tranquility, then the Blue Pool
is the place for you. Surrounded by 20 acres of woods and heathland with multiple sandy paths leading
down to the waters edge, the pool itself constantly varies in colour going from green to turquoise.
This makes for some gorgeous pictures. Visitors may even catch a glimpse of some of the landscapes
wildlife including deer, rabbits, badgers, foxes and dragonflies and could even be luck enough to spot
a Dartford Warbler or Green Sand Lizard. There is an array of play areas dotted around for the children
to explore and Magic Fairy Doors and Model Squirrels in trees for the kids to find. All the family
would be entertained.

Kingston Maurward Gardens & Animal Park

Kingston Maurward House

Courtesy of: https://www.dorsetguide.com/kingston-maurward-house/

The contemporary parkland and pleasure gardens were laid out in the
style popularised by Capability Brown (the UK’s most celebrated landscape designer). Simplicity was
the hallmark of the gardens which consisted of rolling turf, carefully placed groups of trees, a lake
and a lakeside temple.

The gardens seen today have survived several periods. Created between
1915 and 1922, the 35-acre formal gardens were set within the existing framework of the 18th
century parklands. More recently, the gardens have been sympathetically restored using photographs from
the 1930’s retaining the best features of the old and adding new ones. They consist of a cornucopia of
small gardens set on an axes, each with their own themes, character, trails, walks and walled gardens.

The animal park is a hit with the kids and home to a interesting selection
of animals including goats, alpacas, miniature Shetland ponies, sheep and more.

family hotel bournemouth

Things to do in and around Bournemouth this Summer

Riviera Hotel by Bournemouth beach ideal for summer holidays
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.

Go Ape @ Moors Valley

 

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

National Trust's 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/

Bournemouth Oceanarium

 

 

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

Cycling in the New Forest

 

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 🙂

Dorset Hotel

Love, Persuasion and Lashings of Ginger Beer: A Literary Guide to Discovering Dorset

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

 

Jane Austen inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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 

 

Thomas Hardy inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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

 

Enid Blyton inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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

 

PG Wodehouse inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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 

 

Thomas Edward Lawrence inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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

 

John Fowles inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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

 

Mary Shelley inspired by Dorset's landscape

 

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.

 

 

 

 

dorset beaches Dorset railways and Corfu CastleDorset beaches

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/

 

 

 

Life’s a Beach… Get yourself some Vitamin Sea!

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.

 

Bournemouth Beach Holidays By The Sea

 

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 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.

 

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.

 

Bournemouth Beach Holidays

 

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.

 

Poole Harbour

 

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.

 

Alum Chine Suspension Bridge

 

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.

Recently Engaged? Our Wedding Venue is by Bournemouth Beach near Poole

Recently Engaged?

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

Beautiful Wedding Venue by Bournemouth Beach - Riviera Hotel

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

Beautiful Wedding Venue in Alum Chine by Bournemouth Beach

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.

Wedding Breakfast & Reception Venue Bournemouth near Poole

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.

Weddings Hotel Rooms Bournemouth near Poole

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

Weddings Afternoon Tea Package in Bournemouth

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)

Wedding Reception Venue in Bournemouth near Poole - Riviera Hotel

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

Easter in Dorset 2024

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.

 

hotels in Bournemouth

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!! 

 

A young girl searching for Easter eggs during New Forest Activities Canoe Easter Egg Hunt

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

 

The history of Kingston Lacy | Dorset | National Trust

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

 

promotional poster for an Easter Egg hunt at Swanage Railway with a cartoon train and a beach to …

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

 
 
Upton Country Park Easter Activity Trail poster with a bunny holding an easter egg
 

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 activities at Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

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?

Easter hotel break in bournemouth with swimming pool

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.