Hermitage Hotel Oceana Collection

We’ll definitely come back. The location is spot on, a stone’s throw from the winter gardens and the BIC, and near both the town and beaches. The buffet breakfast was included, had a good selection and was nice. Our room was clean and modern, with a glimpse of the sea, while other people in our group had a poor view of the rear of the building across the corridor. Hotel parking costs £14 and spaces are limited, though there’s more parking nearby at the BIC.

The atmosphere won me over, and I’d gladly come back even though the rooms have their flaws. They’re old, small and not especially inviting in a modern way. Still, the hotel has a charm that’s hard to explain, and I can’t point to particular things as highlights. It’s a classic British place, just right for someone who values character and soul more than sterile modern luxury.

We had a lovely, light room and the staff were friendly. Parking was easy, right outside reception. We went for afternoon tea with Groupon, and it was very good value: a soft scone each, finger sandwiches, little cake squares and a glass of prosecco.

The spacious suite I was given was comfortable, though there were a few small things missing. It was one of the rooms numbered in the 700s, but the view was just the back yards of nearby buildings. The hotel’s common areas looked battered, worn and in places not very clean. The old Victorian building has creaky floors and stairs, which adds to its old English feel, and checking in was easy and friendly. It’s near the town and Bournemouth seafront, handy for a short break. There’s a small snack menu. I tried a sandwich, which was thoroughly underwhelming. Breakfast was a sorry affair, with a small selection of hot food in a lidded warming tray and a sparse cold selection. The dining room also serves breakfast, but the meal felt minimal and thrown together, just a bit sad. The staff were nice. If you want to avoid a large chain, this might suit, but the food and drink could be better and the cleaning needs more attention.