The Suncliff Hotel

British seaside hotels have a tendency to be a bit stuck in the past, and that's certainly the case in many dated and worn areas of The Suncliff. Nevertheless, its sea-facing spaces and access to amenities at neighboring hotels give it a resort feel. Cracked-leather and chipped-wood furnishings in the lounge is lackluster, as is evening entertainment, but the significant older crowd here tend to like it. The traditional British pub is smarter, with trompe l'oeil wallpaper and tufted leather seating that extends to a huge protected conservatory. It overlooks the sea, as do outdoor terraces. Guests feel this property is a good value, particularly considering resort-wide access.

The hotel is a little isolated from Bournemouth's main buzz, although gorgeous beaches here are a bonus, and shores are reached by a zig-zag cliff path across the street. Bournemouth's main attractions are within an 18-minute walk, although a handy bus stops right outside. Buses run to Bournemouth Beach and Pier, and event venue Bournemouth International Centre, plus Grosvenor Casino, The Pavilion Theatre, and Old Christchurch Road, which forms the main drag; journeys take a maximum of 15 minutes. This beachfront town is relaxed, and an ideal choice for a taste of seaside atmosphere -- British style. Bournemouth train station is a 16-minute walk. The nearest Bournemouth Airport is a 15-minute drive, or one hour by public transport. Parking is free but limited. 

Rooms come in many categories, ranging from "Crash Pad" Singles, to Family and Penthouse units. They're mostly drab, with peach or (slightly livelier) blue-patterned wallpapers, worn woods, and tired-looking fabrics, although it's worth the upgrade for ocean-facing views. Some rooms have uninspiring views of parking lots or brick walls, and if you're noise-sensitive, it's best to avoid rooms near the bar. Amenities include phones, desks (except for some Singles), flat-screen TVs with Freeview channels, kettles for tea- and coffee-making, and hairdryers. Wi-Fi is free, but the signal is weak. No mini-fridges, safes, or AC are provided, although fans combat summer heat. Family rooms add sofa beds. Suite-like Penthouses are done in contemporary monochromes, and these rooms have gorgeous black marble bathrooms. Most bathrooms are dreary though, and water pressure in showers or shower/tub combos can be unsteady. Towels and toiletries are provided. Larger rooms can be fitted with cribs. 

The Suncliff offers a good range of features, particularly with the access to neighboring properties, but some come at a fee. The Overcliff Pub serves all-day salads and bespoke burgers alongside well-priced drinks, plus it has a pool table (fee for use). Evening quiz nights and singing in lounges are old-fashioned, as is fare at The Atlantis Restaurant. At a fee, breakfasts here offer cooked and continental options. The indoor pool is dim and not very welcoming, and the plastic-covered sofas surrounding it could use an update, but it's heated and a good size. Two outdoor pools next door are free to use. The gym's cardio and weight machines are old. Squash and indoor games facilities are available for fees. The complex has meeting rooms. Pets up to a certain weight are welcome for a fee. Parking is free, as is Wi-Fi throughout.