When people think of Bournemouth, they often imagine golden sands, a lively pier, and classic seaside resorts. But beyond the sunbathing crowds and the postcard views lies a quieter, more mysterious side — and staying at The Hermitage Hotel gives you a front-row seat to that lesser‑known charm.
Between the Beach and the Town
The Hermitage sits opposite the Bournemouth International Centre, with the sea on one side and the town’s theatres and gardens on the other. After a recent refresh, the hotel feels light and modern without losing its easygoing character. There are a little over 70 rooms, some with big bay windows that open straight onto sea views — the kind of place where the sound of the tide sneaks into your sleep.
Food and Atmosphere
The hotel has two very different spots to eat. Hardy’s, which holds an AA Rosette, leans into careful, modern British cooking. NEO, by contrast, is more relaxed — part brasserie, part cocktail bar, with a wall of glass looking out toward the beach. It’s easy to slip from dinner to drinks while watching the sky fade into the water.
Corners of Bournemouth You Might Miss
- The Gardens: From the Hermitage you can walk straight into Bournemouth’s Lower, Central and Upper Gardens. They’re not just flowerbeds — there are quiet benches by the river and even a street-art gallery hidden under a bridge.
- The Colosseum Cinema: Tucked under an old arcade, this tiny cinema feels more like someone’s lounge than a theatre. A good place when you want to dodge blockbusters.
- Boscombe’s Vintage Shops: Ten minutes east you’ll find second-hand book cafés, antique stores and retro boutiques — a welcome change of pace from the seafront.
- Durley Chine: A quieter stretch of beach where locals slip away for space. On a clear day you can make out Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight.
- Brownsea Island: A short boat ride takes you into another world: red squirrels, woodland trails and a shoreline that feels far from town life.
Why the Hermitage Stands Out
What’s unusual here is the mix: you can step out to a show at the Pavilion or into the gardens, then walk back under the stars and be at the beach in minutes. For a beach hotel in Bournemouth, that blend of town and sea feels rare. Guests often mention the simple pleasure of waking up, pulling back the curtains, and hearing the sea before the day even begins.
It’s not a place that shouts for attention. The Hermitage works best if you slow down — stay an extra morning, wander through the gardens before breakfast, or take the detour into Boscombe’s vintage streets. That’s when Bournemouth shows its quieter side.
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