Kensington Hotel, Bournemouth ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Kensington Hotel Bournemouth Beach photo

Kensington Hotel Bournemouth Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

18 Durley Chine Road, Bournemouth, United Kingdom, BH2 5LE

Close to the beach

Guest rating

5.1

5.3

/10

1.7

2.4

Loved by Kensington Hotel guests

Reasonable price
Free parking
Ideal location
Clean room
Friendly staff
Secure place

"The family room was very spacious bathroom was very clean and ended up staying another night with the family and the staff were really friendly loved it."

Shanara from United Kingdom

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"I liked that the family room could fit all my family comfortably."

Monique from United Kingdom

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"5 mins walk to the beach and all shops, great location."

mandlg40 from United Kingdom

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4-star family-friendly retreat in Bournemouth

Location

Kensington Hotel occupies a prime seafront location in Bournemouth, just steps away from the beach and the vibrant town center. The hotel is within walking distance to several attractions, including the Bournemouth International Centre and the Oceanarium. Accessible by public transport, the hotel is positioned for easy exploration of the local area.

Rooms

The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including family-friendly rooms with sea views and spacious family suites. Each room includes a private bathroom and essential amenities for comfort. Some rooms boast balconies that allow guests to enjoy the coastal scenery.

Dining

Kensington Hotel features a dedicated restaurant serving a selection of meals throughout the day, catering to a range of dietary preferences. Guests can also unwind at the hotel bar, which provides a wide variety of beverages. Breakfast is available each morning, offering both continental and cooked options.

Wellness

The hotel includes a fitness center equipped with modern exercise machines for guests wishing to maintain an active lifestyle. Additionally, there are wellness offerings such as sauna access, promoting relaxation after a day of activities. Spa services are available to enhance the overall guest experience.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The hotel's family accommodations are complemented by amenities geared towards children, including a play area for younger guests. Special children's menus are offered at the restaurant to cater to kids. Additionally, the hotel provides family activities aimed at enhancing the overall experience for all ages.

Highlights

Location: Seafront location, close to local attractions

Rooms: Family-friendly rooms with sea views

Dining: Dedicated restaurant with children's menus

Wellness: Fitness center & sauna access

“Kensington Hotel positions itself well for those prioritizing location and budget in Bournemouth. While some elements appear quite basic, the reported attentiveness of the staff stands out positively. If you're looking for a no-frills base and value a friendly welcome, this might suit your needs.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Very good

7.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Parking was included, which was great. Finding a space was usually possible most days. Very convenient!

Oliver from England

Review on

Room FeaturesWarm bedding

The bedding was warm and clean, and the beds were very comfy for a good night's sleep.

Emily from Canada

Review on

BedroomSpacious Rooms

The family rooms were spacious and comfortable. Great for accommodating larger groups and families.

Ricardo from Spain

Review on

BathroomGood Shower

The shower was good, with plenty of hot water for a refreshing experience after a day out.

Sarah from Australia

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Select your room type

Kensington Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Twin Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Double Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Triple Room

3 persons

175 sq. feet

1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Family Room

4 persons

220 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

Kensington Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

No smoking on site
Free parking
No pets allowed
Security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Housekeeping
Laundry

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Kensington Hotel Location

18 Durley Chine Road, Bournemouth, United Kingdom, BH2 5LE

Map view

18 Durley Chine Road, Bournemouth, United Kingdom, BH2 5LE

City landmarks

Beach

Bournemouth Beach

3000 ft

Harbour

Bournemouth Pier

3000 ft

Aquarium

Oceanarium

3000 ft

Gallery

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

1.0 mi

Parking area

Bournemouth International Centre

3000 ft

Garden

Lower Gardens

3000 ft

Church

St Peter's Church

3000 ft

Square

The Square

3000 ft

Gallery

Westover Gallery

3000 ft

Theatre

Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre

1.0 mi

Park

Bournemouth Parks

3000 ft

Landmark

Central Gardens

3000 ft

Landmark

Westbourne

3100 ft

Landmark

Upside Down House

3000 ft

Landmark

West Cliff Lift

3000 ft

Gallery

Gallery 65

4000 ft

Landmark

Bournemouth Observation Wheel

3100 ft

Casino

Grosvenor Casino Bournemouth

1.0 mi

Park

Meyrick Park

1.4 mi

Mall

BH2 Leisure Complex

2300 ft

Church

St Stephen's Church

2700 ft

Landmark

Lollipops Play Cafe Bournemouth

3100 ft

Night club

Halo Nightclub

2100 ft

Mosque

Bournemouth Islamic Centre & Central Mosque

2500 ft

Landmark

Argyll Gardens

2400 ft

Church

St Andrews United Reformed Church

2300 ft

Landmark

Durley Chine Beach

2900 ft

Beach

Middle Chine

3100 ft

Beach

Alum Chine Beach

5000 ft

Nearby

Amusement Park

Treehouse Family Play

900 ft

Restaurants

Steam Vintage Tea Rooms

1500 ft

47 Poole Hill

Jungle Cafe Bournemouth

1000 ft

51A West Hill Road

Olive Cafe

1400 ft

50A Poole Hill

Casa GourMex Mexican Restaurant

1300 ft

29 Poole Hill

Southbourne Fried Chicken

1700 ft

118 Seabourne Rd

Omelettos

1700 ft

31B The Triangle 31B the Triangle

Pondok Falafel And Juice

1800 ft

25 The Triangle

Espresso Kitchen

2000 ft

69 Commercial Road

Tealith Bubble Tea

1900 ft

83 Commercial Road

Subway

1900 ft

83 Commercial Road

The Hop Inn

1700 ft

6 West Cliff Road

KFC

2000 ft

59-61 Commercial Road Units 7-8 The Triangle

Explore Bournemouth

Bournemouth Beach

11 minutes' walk

A stunning stretch of sandy shore, perfect for sunbathing and beach activities. Ideal for families and solo travelers alike.

Bournemouth Pier

11 minutes' walk

Home to amusement rides and eateries, this iconic pier is a hub of activity with beautiful ocean views.

Oceanarium

11 minutes' walk

An engaging marine life experience showcasing diverse aquatic species, perfect for families and marine enthusiasts.

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

3 minutes' drive

A cultural gem featuring extensive art collections and stunning views over the coast. Admission free on select days.

Treehouse Family Play

4 minutes' walk

An exciting indoor play area for children, great for families seeking a fun day. Day passes available on-site.

Biking along the Coastal Path

5 minutes' walk

Scenic biking trail offering stunning sea views, ideal for adventurous travelers. Bike rentals available nearby.

Relaxing at Tropical Gardens

20 minutes' walk

A peaceful garden retreat featuring lush flora, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls amidst nature.

Steam Vintage Tea Rooms

6 minutes' walk

Charming tea room specializing in traditional afternoon tea. Vegan options available; reservations recommended.

Casa GourMex Mexican Restaurant

5 minutes' walk

Lively atmosphere with authentic Mexican dishes. Known for flavorful tacos and signature margaritas; vegetarian choices available.

Olive Cafe

5 minutes' walk

Cosy café offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Famous for their breakfast and brunch options; gluten-free choices available.

Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre

3 minutes' drive

A historic theater hosting a variety of performances, including musicals and comedy nights. Check schedule for family-friendly shows.

Westover Gallery

11 minutes' walk

An art gallery showcasing local talent and rotating exhibitions. Great for art lovers looking to immerse in Bournemouth's culture.

The Square

11 minutes' walk

A vibrant area hosting events, live music, and festivals, ideal for evening strolls and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Getting around

City Centre

Bournemouth8 min · 2000 ft

Airports

Bournemouth (BOH)17 min · 7.0 mi

Southampton (SOU)83 min · 34.0 mi

Train

Bournemouth Central Station24 min · 1.2 mi

Bus

Bus stop11 min · 3000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 03:00-21:00

Check-out

from 08:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 2.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2011

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Kensington Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests commonly appreciate the convenient location, finding it within walking distance to the beach and local amenities. Many have enjoyed the spacious rooms and comfortable beds; Onsite parking is often highlighted as a plus, saving time and adding convenience to the stay.

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Review score

Based on 362 verified reviews

4.4/10

Guest rating

25%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.1/10

Location

7.6/10

Facilities

5.5/10

Cleanliness

5.8/10

Pros

Friendly receptionist

Comfy beds

Good value

Clean location

Cons

No door lock

Yellow stains

based on 182 reviews

2.5/5

Juliet from United Kingdom

Couple

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 21, 2026

9/10

a tender escape

comfy bedlovely decorgreat attentiveness

The bed was comfy, promising sweet dreams. the room itself had lovely decor. the staff showed great attentiveness. It really seemed like they cared about our comfort.

0 Helpful

connor from canada

Family with children

double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 06, 2026

9/10

comfy bedonsite parking

my room offered a comfy bed. i found onsite parking very convenient, and it saved me time.

the shower was a bit compact.

0 Helpful

Tony from Australia

Single

Double Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 05, 2025

9.0/10

Solid stay!

friendly staffclean roomcomfortable bedgreat location

The staff were friendly. They accommodated my needs. The room was clean. It was close to the beach. The hotel had everything I needed. The bed was comfortable. The room had a shower.

The lift has not worked for a while.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel features a small gym. It includes two treadmills and three stationary bikes. The breakfast area offers a selection of cereals, fruits, and pastries each morning. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises.

Service

9/10

Staff members were always available at reception. They answered questions about local attractions. They provided extra towels upon request. The check-in process was simple. I had no problems .

Location

10/10

The hotel is a short walk from the seafront promenade. Several restaurants and shops are nearby. A bus stop directly outside the hotel offers transport to other parts of the area. The location WAS excellent!!!

0 Helpful

Victor from Canada

Single

double room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: September 09, 2025

8.7/10

surprising value near the beach

spacious roomcomfortable nightbeach proximityfriendly staff

the room was spacious and clean. the bed provided a comfortable night's sleep, which i greatly appreciated after a long day of travel. the hotel is conveniently located close to the beach and local shops. the staff were friendly and always ready to assist with any questions i had.

the television remote was missing its battery cover, a minor inconvenience really.

Dining

9/10

i found the breakfast area clean and well kept. they offered a selection of cereals, pastries, and fruit juice each morning. it's a good way to start the day before heading out to explore.

Service

8/10

the reception staff were very helpful with directions. they provided useful information on local attractions. they also quickly addressed a minor issue with the room's lighting, which i appreciated.

Location

9/10

the hotel is located within a ten minute walk to the beach. there are many shops and restaurants nearby. it's easy to explore the area on foot from this convenient spot.

0 Helpful