The Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel

We had a chilled, lovely weekend over two nights and really enjoyed our stay. The room was very clean and well presented, and we used the hotel’s pool and gym. The spa felt a little tired, and the steam room was temperamental, but the price for the facilities made that okay. Bournemouth and the nice restaurants at Southourne are within walking distance. Thanks, we’ll be back.

Lunch was a real highlight of our half spa day. I had fish and chips, piping hot and served in good time, and my boyfriend really enjoyed his burger. We’d both read complaints about slow service and cold or bland food, but our meal was very enjoyable. We paid £80 for the day and still had to buy drinks separately. I think the package should include at least a soft drink, tea or coffee. Charging extra for sides and desserts makes sense. The pool and hot tub weren’t too busy, though the walls looked a bit run down and could use a spruce-up. There weren’t lounge chairs, only small plastic ones, but we lay down in the aromatherapy room, so it didn’t affect our day. In the ladies’ changing room, space was tight, with just one shower, two private changing areas, two toilets and tiny lockers that weren’t enough for the guests. I had to leave without showering because there was a queue. Better changing facilities would make it feel more relaxing and luxurious. We visited on Saturday, January 10th. Before booking, I’d worried after reading mixed reviews, especially the negative comments about the spa, but I’m glad we came. We found free roadside parking, a friendly receptionist directed us downstairs, and another nice man showed us around. We didn’t need robes, so skipped the £9 charge. The sauna room was still closed. I knew from reading online, but it would be helpful to tell people when they book, as I heard some guests complaining. I’d return for another relaxing local day out.

Josh F and Sophia on reception deserve recognition for how helpful they were on the phone today. I asked around 20 questions, and nothing was too much trouble. They turned something really stressful into something I’m looking forward to. I’m hopeful the hotel stay will go well too, but even if it doesn’t, these two have still earned praise. Staff like them are an asset to any hotel. They deserve a pay rise and bonus. Thank you both for all your help and advice.

Jackie gave me the best deep muscle shoulder massage I’ve had, and I’ve had many over the years. I have a torn rotator cuff and constant pain; after I told her, she suggested working on my shoulder. She was friendly, professional and incredibly talented. My only regret is booking 25 minutes instead of 90. Jackie, thank you. I had the first pain-free night I can remember. Management, she’s an incredible asset, and whatever you pay her isn’t enough. My wife and I booked a night at West Cliff Hotel and Spa as a treat after a stressful time. The hotel was clean and crisp, and the staff who greeted us were lovely and efficient. The room was great, but the faulty lock meant it was easy to leave the door unlocked. I told reception, and I’m sure they fixed it quickly. The spa was clean, warm and not too busy. The next morning, though, the aromatherapy room was too hot, and the tiled seats were so hot we couldn’t sit on them. We saw others unable to use the room too. I also had a foot massage the next day, my first, and the heated mitts were incredible. We ate at the restaurant that evening and the following morning. The food was excellent, and prices for both food and drinks were pleasantly reasonable. West Cliff exceeded our expectations. We’ll be back.