Ever since my dad and I drove around Ireland on that unforgettable road trip I’ve been desperate to take a trip away with my mum, but, well, life kind of kept getting in the way. It has taken a little longer than planned (plus an extra joining the crew with little Everleigh now on board) but we managed to align our diaries and pack the car for a mum-daughter-granddaughter mini break.
Three nights. Three females. Three cities.
First up, Bournemouth…
Where To Stay
Our home for the night was the four star Hermitage Hotel. The location could not have been better with views of the big wheel, a pebble’s throw from the sandy beach and stunning gardens that take you into town. We were lucky enough to try out the new luxury suites which gave us more than enough space for three! I loved the decor as did Everleigh who was delighted to have space to crawl and explore after being in her car seat for the journey here. Despite being so close to the action we all slept really well, breakfast also didn’t disappoint in the airy dining hall either.
I love the cute yellow taxis around here
The self-contained suite has a kitchenette, fluffy bathrobes and a balcony perfect for sundowners
I slept like a log
Excited to explore her home for the night
Views of the big wheel and even a sea view!
What To Do
With three generations on this trip it was important to see what would appeal to all of us and Bournemouth certainly delivered.
I got my shopping fix at the large Primark in town (and also managed to pick up some fresh tasty dishes at a food festival taking place). We walked through the lush gardens that link the beach to the town centre, soaking up the atmosphere of sunbathers and office workers grabbing a few rays. There’s a table tennis, aviary, and pitch and putt here too if you’re feeling a little more active.
Poor child laden down with my shopping bags!
I can never resist a food festival!
This would be the cutest spot for a day date
But, the real treat had to be the beach. We picked up keys for one of the council owned beach huts which, although a little basic on the inside, are perfect for storing your bits and bobs or using it as a space to de-sand yourself. It’s also against the law* to spend a day at the beach and not have a Mr Whippy. Once this had been ticked off we went for a paddle, which was Everleigh’s first taste of the sea - she was a lot more cautious than I expected - and preferred to eat the sand instead of play in it. It’s a start I guess!
*My personal law.
You can see why it wins best British beach time and time again!
Mum taking a break on a deckchair from the beach hut
Oh I do like to be beside the seaside
She wasn’t sure about the waves between her bare toes!
If the weather is not on your side then there’s lots of indoor activities here too. We spent time mooching about at the Russell-Coates Art Gallery And Museum. Because of the design of the house (and the expensive items in there) it’s not suitable for pushchairs so we placed Everleigh in a baby carrier (we borrowed a friend’s one which is v.similar to this one). However, I was still having heart palpitations as her octopus arms kept reaching out tempted by all the shiny things. A visit here is best for adults or older children I think.
Once outside in the impeccable gardens she could roam (crawl) free as mum got rose garden envy and I calmed down a little, relieved that nothing got broken!
The Victorian seaside villa filled with art is gorgeous both inside and out!
The stunning rose bushes lining the path smelt divine
Watch those tiny starfish hands wanting to grab everything
A perfect place for art lovers to explore
View from one of the bedrooms- jealous much?
Where To Eat
If you’re after a cheap and cheerful light bite or cup of coffee and a slice of cake then the Prom Cafe has you covered. Everleigh certainly gave it her seal of approval. I’ve never seen an ice cream get demolished so quickly!
Lunch at the Prom Cafe
She already has a sweet tooth!
If you prefer to push that boat out and spoil yourself (you’re on your holidays so why not!) then book a table at the glass beacon Neo Restaurant. Luckily for us this was right next door to our hotel. The best views are from the top floor, which we got to enjoy after a helpful waiter carried Everleigh’s pushchair up the stairs so we could sit looking out of the gleaming glass onto the wheel and seafront. The food did not disappoint either!
Neo restaurant
I went for roast on the bone halibut which melted on the tongue
Managed to find room for the strawberry and cream mousse
Such a lovely view!
The lentil croquette was a hit with my vegetarian mum
I have to admit that I previously thought Bournemouth had a bit of a fuddy-duddy reputation but I was so happy to be proved wrong. It was the perfect seaside escape for all ages with soft sandy beaches to rival anywhere in the Med and many trendy bars and restaurants to suit all budgets. I’ll certainly come back when Everleigh gets a little older for a proper British beach break!
Thanks to Tourism South East for supporting this trip. All views are 100% my own.
