Last month I was invited to an event at one of Bournemouth’s latest hotels. The £60 million Hilton, that now takes a place on Bournemouth’s seafront skyline, has been receiving rave reviews since its opening last December. Despite its regular outdoor appearance, its innovative interiors have caused a stir due to its slightly secretive designer. The look and feel of the Hilton is fashionably modern, with creative wall art, bright fabrics and quirky furnishings. If you are familiar with the top fashion brand, you can’t help but recognise his signature style throughout – pastel palettes and grey tones with a splash of colour – that have been combined with Bournemouth’s beach personality.
The large reception and waiting area is generously refreshing with glass walls and an open staircase to the next floor. I particularly loved the little touches including the seagull lighting and ‘ding dong’ wall behind the concierge desk.
The rest of the 14 storeys are filled with spacious rooms and suites, each consistent in décor. I was pleasantly surprised with the bright interiors of my guest room, decorated with cool blue tones and contemporary furnishings. Despite a rather boring apartment block view, with the netting curtains drawn it was a perfect seafront themed stay.
The bathroom was filled with everything a lady might need with simple grey walls contrasting to the geometric décor. The rest of the facilities were as expected, but with a fashion designer twist – I couldn’t help but take a picture of the lit up iron and glittery iron board!
The lift area décor on each floor was perhaps my favourite. I love a ‘bringing the outdoors in’ theme and the horse wallpaper combined with green park benches, a traditional street lamp and green turf-like carpet was a very stylish place to pause before exploring the rest of the hotel.
Each floor was unique in decor. The meeting space filled with vintage phone artwork and downstairs, a wall of metallic wind spinners.
eforea Spa and Health Club carries on the quirky designer theme. The walls are covered with vintage swimming trunks, makeup boxes and magazine adverts whilst the reception sits behind an antique apothecary cabinet.
Although I didn’t use the spa, I was given a in-depth tour around the 20-meter indoor pool, fitness space and indulgent salon, a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
Apart from its designer style, the Hilton’s best selling point is its Level8ight Sky Bar overlooking Bournemouth and the English Channel.
The interior is incredibly spacious opening out onto an outdoor terrace. We were served an exclusive cocktail with hints of coconut, blue caraco, lime and lychee. Topped with candyfloss garnish, it was a naughty taste of funfair flavours! I later enjoyed a lavender and orange scented cocktail from their very creative menu.
For breakfast the next morning, I headed downstairs to Schpoons and Forx, a vibrant restaurant by Saturday Kitchen chef Matt Tebbutt. The theming takes on from its name, with bent cutlery and decorated utensils adorning every wall. I loved the modern vibe of the restaurant, a lively spot for dinner or breakfast.
The buffet was spread around the feature fireplace, with classic hot food and continental options. I resisted a Nutella muffin (complete with a free takeaway recipe) but filled myself up for the day with a full English, breakfast tea and fresh smoothie.
I had a wonderful stay at the Hilton Bournemouth and would really recommend it to anyone who is looking for a fun seaside getaway or quirky addition to a business trip.
