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Summary of reviewsPark Central Hotel in Bournemouth garners widespread acclaim for its prime location, exceptional dining, comfortable rooms and diligent staff, placing it as a top choice for visitors. The hotel's standout feature is its outstanding location, strategically positioned near the beach, the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) and the town centre. This makes it ideal for beach lovers, event attendees and those wishing to explore local attractions, restaurants, shops and vibrant nightlife on foot.
Guests frequently highlight the fantastic views from the hotel, particularly the stunning sea vistas available from several rooms. The proximity to the sandy shores and picturesque promenade, combined with easy access to entertainment options and public transport, enhances the guest experience significantly.
The hotel's breakfast service receives accolades for its quality, variety and flavor with freshly cooked meals and a full English breakfast earning particular praise. Dinner at the on-site Crab Restaurant is also highly recommended, especially for seafood lovers. The restaurant's ambiance, delicious food and attentive service contribute to a memorable dining experience.
The rooms at Park Central Hotel are generally well-received for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Guests appreciate the quiet atmosphere, modern amenities and fantastic sea views offered by some rooms. While there are occasional remarks about dated decor and the need for modernization, the hotel's overall cleanliness and functionality make it a pleasant place to stay.
The staff at Park Central Hotel are consistently praised for their exceptional service, friendliness and professionalism. Reception and restaurant staff receive particular commendation for their attentiveness and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure guest satisfaction.
While the free WiFi service is appreciated, some guests report inconsistent performance, particularly in certain rooms. Improvements in signal strength and security could enhance the overall experience.
The hotel's location near the beach is frequently mentioned as a significant advantage, making it an excellent choice for guests looking to enjoy scenic coastal views and leisurely walks along the seafront. However, parking can be a mixed experience due to costs and limited onsite spaces, though the availability of discounted nearby parking is a plus.
Park Central Hotel is also noted for being family-friendly, offering family rooms and activities for children, along with accommodating staff who cater to the needs of families with young children. Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as discomforting beds for children, the hotel's clean facilities, exceptional staff and strategic location make it a favorable choice for families seeking an enjoyable stay.
In summary, Park Central Hotel's prime beachfront location, excellent dining options, comfortable rooms and outstanding staff service combine to create a highly recommended stay for visitors to Bournemouth. Its strategic placement near the beach, BIC and nightlife adds to its appeal, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for all types of travelers. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near The Beach
Situated in Bournemouth City Centre, this hotel is near the beach, making it a convenient choice for beachgoers.
Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel is family friendly.
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Located on Exeter Road, this hotel is centrally located to many nightlife options. Its location provides easy access to the town's bars, clubs, and restaurants. Its central location makes it easy to explore the nightlife.
Business Hotel
Provides standard hotel services suitable for business travel. Offers a central location and essential amenities.
Accessible Hotel
Park Central Hotel offers wheelchair access and rooms/facilities for disabled guests. The hotel has an elevator and wheelchair-accessible facilities available in public areas.
4-Star Hotel
Park Central Hotel is known for its central location and award-winning seafood. It offers individually styled rooms and friendly, attentive staff, ensuring a high-quality stay.
Boutique-style Hotel
Room Types
Classic Double RoomStylish, modern room with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and toiletries.
Classic Double Room with Sea ViewStylish, modern room with views of the coastline, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and toiletries.
Signature Double RoomWith a king-size bed, luxury linens, a seating area and fluffy bathrobes.
Classic Single RoomThis stylish bedroom has a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and toiletries.
Classic Twin RoomStylish bedroom with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and toiletries. Some also enjoy views of the coastline.
Executive Double RoomThis room is equipped with an en suite bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a work desk.
Guest Reviews
8.2
Very Good
Location
Located in Bournemouth, Park Central Hotel receives high praise for its outstanding location, making it a strategically ideal spot for various activities and attractions. A recurring highlight in guest reviews is the hotel's close proximity to the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), perfect for those attending events or conferences there. Guests appreciate the convenience of having the BIC right across the road, ensuring a stress-free commute to and from events.
For beach lovers, the hotel is a mere few minutes' walk from the beautiful Bournemouth beach, offering easy access to the sandy shores and the picturesque promenade. The central location also places guests near the pier, local gardens and bustling town centre, making it an excellent base for exploring the area's many attractions on foot.
In addition to its prime position near the waterfront, the hotel's strategic placement ensures easy access to numerous restaurants, shops and entertainment options, which is particularly beneficial for those looking to enjoy Bournemouth's vibrant nightlife and dining scene. Many reviews also mention the convenient access to public transport, enhancing the ease of travel within the city.
Guests frequently describe the views from the hotel as fantastic with several rooms offering stunning sea views, adding to the overall charm and appeal of their stay. The combination of a central, beachfront location and superb views from the rooms underscores why Park Central Hotel is a favored choice for visitors to Bournemouth.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at the Park Central Hotel receives high praise for its quality, variety and overall taste. Guests frequently describe the breakfast as excellent, fantastic and delicious with many appreciating the freshly cooked meals and generous portions. The inclusion of a full English breakfast is particularly highlighted as a wonderful option and the cooked-to-order service enhances the dining experience.
Many reviewers commend the hotel for offering a great selection, including hot and cold options, cereals, juices and fruits. The frequent replenishment and prompt service have contributed to consistently positive feedback. Some guests even mentioned that the breakfast was a highlight of their stay, citing the food’s quality and taste as standout features.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive comments, a few reviews mention areas for improvement. Some guests found the breakfast options to be limited or repetitive and felt that the quality could be more consistent. There were occasional remarks about the breakfast being a bit bland, cold or disorganized and some noted the lack of explanation about how breakfast was served.
Overall, the Park Central Hotel's breakfast is highly recommended for its excellent quality and variety, making it a worthwhile part of the hotel stay experience.
Dinner
The dining experience at Park Central Hotel receives primarily positive feedback from guests, particularly highlighting the hotel's on-site Crab Restaurant. Guests consistently praise the quality and taste of the seafood, describing it as delicious, impeccable and cooked to perfection. Many reviewers commend the varied and hearty seafood menu, noting standout dishes such as the sea bream and crab. The ambiance of the restaurant is appreciated for being modern, clean and relaxing with attentive and friendly staff adding to the overall pleasant dining experience.
Though the dinner service occasionally faced criticisms for being overpriced or slow, most reviews indicate a high level of satisfaction with both the food and the service. The Crab Restaurant is particularly noted for its exceptional evening meals and excellent service, making it a favorite among many patrons. With positive mentions of both breakfast and evening meals, it’s clear that the restaurant's quality holds up throughout the day, supplemented by a stylish setting and great cocktails.
Overall, the Park Central Hotel’s dining options, especially the Crab Restaurant, come highly recommended, particularly for seafood lovers seeking a memorable meal.
Rooms
The Park Central Hotel offers a range of rooms that cater to different preferences, albeit with a few inconsistencies. Many guests were pleased with the quiet atmosphere and the surprisingly large room sizes. Spacious rooms with modern facilities and excellent sea views were frequently mentioned. Upgrades to larger or sea view rooms were a pleasant surprise for several guests, enhancing their stay experience.
Cleanliness and comfort were commonly highlighted with rooms described as very clean and comfortable, providing a good night’s rest. Beds were comfortable and some rooms offered additional amenities such as a sitting area, storage and a view of the beach or pier. The overall cleanliness, spaciousness and functionality of the rooms received positive remarks, making for an enjoyable stay for many guests.
However, the hotel does face a number of criticisms related to its dated decor and furniture with some rooms needing modernisation and maintenance. The older, worn-out look of the rooms, along with issues like small or cramped showers, outdated fixtures and occasional noise from outside or within the hotel, detracted from some guests' experiences. Room temperature and ventilation also posed problems with some rooms being too hot or poorly insulated against external noise.
Despite these shortcomings, the hotel's prime location and views were often praised, making it a suitable choice for those prioritising space, cleanliness and a picturesque setting. Families, couples and solo travelers might find satisfactory accommodations here, particularly in the more updated and well-maintained rooms. Regular upgrades and continued focus on room quality could further enhance guest satisfaction at the Park Central Hotel.
Beds
The consensus on the Park Central Hotel's beds is notably mixed but leans towards positive experiences. Guests repeatedly highlighted the beds as being very comfortable with many praising their size, noting them to be clean and well-maintained. There were mentions of soft, cozy pillows and mattresses, which contributed to a restful sleep for numerous patrons.
However, some guests found the beds either too firm or too soft, leading to discomfort. Occasional feedback suggested certain beds being noisy, creaky and occasionally stained. A few beds were described as small and inadequate for providing sufficient support, leading to back discomfort for some visitors.
Despite these occasional issues, the overall sentiment indicates that many found the beds at Park Central Hotel to be highly comfortable, contributing positively to their stay.
Cleanliness
The Park Central Hotel has garnered extensive praise for its cleanliness. Guest reviews highlight the immaculate state of the rooms and bathrooms, often described as spotless, tidy and well-maintained. Common areas and the overall property also reflect a high standard of cleanliness, contributing to a very clean and comfortable environment for guests. The staff's eagerness to maintain this cleanliness and their friendly demeanor further enhance the guest experience. While a few negative comments exist about specific issues like dust or occasional neglect in communal dining areas, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction with the hotel's upkeep. The hotel’s dedication to cleanliness and attentive service makes it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a pristine stay.
Staff
The staff at Park Central Hotel are a standout feature, consistently praised for their exceptional service. The receptionists garner special mention for their friendliness and efficiency, making guests feel welcome from the moment they arrive. Many reviewers highlight the helpfulness and professionalism of the staff, describing them as attentive and always willing to go the extra mile.
The restaurant staff also receive high marks for their professionalism and courteous demeanor, contributing to an overall positive dining experience. Housekeeping is noted for being efficient and thorough, ensuring that rooms and common areas are kept in excellent condition.
Reviewers frequently underline the staff’s politeness and cordiality with many mentioning that nothing is too much trouble for them. Specific staff members, like Alice at reception, are singled out for their exemplary service and guests appreciate the personalized touches, such as arranging birthday cakes or accommodating special requests.
Overall, the staff at Park Central Hotel are characterized as friendly, welcoming and exceptionally helpful, significantly enhancing the guest experience and making the hotel a pleasant place to stay.
Wi-Fi
Park Central Hotel offers a mixed experience when it comes to their WiFi service. Many guests appreciated the availability of free WiFi, noting that it was often fast and reliable. Some even mentioned very fast and good clean WiFi, which allowed them to stay connected without interruption. However, there were several reviews indicating that the WiFi could be hit or miss. Some visitors experienced very weak signals, dead spots and an overall fair or poor WiFi performance, particularly in specific rooms like room 303. Streaming services and Zoom meetings could be challenging due to these issues. There's a consensus that while the hotel does offer WiFi, the overall experience could benefit from improvements, particularly in terms of security and signal strength throughout the property.
Beach
Park Central Hotel boasts an enviable location for beach lovers, consistently praised for its close proximity to the sea. Guests repeatedly mention how convenient and accessible the beach is from the hotel, often taking just a few minutes' walk. The beachfront location is ideal for those wishing to enjoy scenic coastal views with some rooms offering spectacular vistas directly over the beach and pier.
Furthermore, the hotel's vicinity to the beach makes it an excellent choice for leisurely strolls along the seafront with many reviewers highlighting the gorgeous sandy shores and the beautiful seafront promenade. Its central location also ensures that guests have easy access not only to the beach but also to shops, restaurants and other local attractions. This strategic placement right by the beach and near town amenities enhances the overall experience for visitors seeking both relaxation and accessibility.
Parking
Park Central Hotel offers a range of parking options, though the experiences vary. Many reviews highlight the convenience and availability of parking, both onsite and in nearby facilities. Guests appreciated ample parking spaces, secure parking and discounted rates at a car park just across the road. Onsite parking is noted to be good with facilities to accommodate long vehicles and even an underground option.
However, the cost of parking is a common concern. Several reviews mentioned the daily fee of £14 as being too high and the fact that parking is not free. There are also comments about the limited number of onsite spaces, making it necessary to use offsite parking options like the nearby BIC car park, which is often described as convenient but better suited for small cars.
For those with accessibility needs, parking for disabled guests is available and secure parking options are appreciated. The hotel's arrangement for discounted parking at the adjacent car park is a plus, but it's worth noting that the lack of free parking and the additional costs might be a drawback for some. Despite some logistical challenges and costs, the overall consensus suggests that the parking facilities, while not perfect, are generally adequate and convenient.
Family
Park Central Hotel presents itself as a prime destination for family stays, drawing positive feedback for its family-oriented services and amenities. The hotel is described as excellent for families of any age, being particularly family-friendly and perfect for family visits. Noteworthy mentions include the availability of family rooms which are spacious and comfortable, catering well to families of varying sizes.
The activities for children are a highlight with plenty of options to keep the little ones entertained. Onsite children's activities and an excellent play area ensure that young guests have ample opportunities for fun. Moreover, the dining area accommodates children well, further supporting the family-oriented atmosphere.
Guests appreciate the accommodating staff who go out of their way to assist families, especially those with small children. Instances of kindness include preparing special meals and accommodating room upgrades. The hotel also appears to take feedback seriously, as there were reports of the hotel replacing some beds to improve comfort.
However, some mixed reviews suggest areas for improvement. Issues such as discomforting children's beds and the lack of necessary facilities for toddlers indicate that while many families have a positive experience, there are areas where the hotel could enhance its offerings to ensure the highest level of comfort and convenience for all family members.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the hotel's clean facilities, friendly staff and superb location near the beach make it a favorable choice for families looking to enjoy a pleasant and engaging stay. The convenience and value for money further solidify Park Central Hotel as a family-friendly destination worth considering.
Nightlife
The Park Central Hotel boasts a central location with prime access to vibrant nightlife, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local club and bar scene. Situated close to numerous nightclubs, pubs and bars, guests can easily explore the lively surroundings and enjoy the late-night entertainment options. Concert-goers will appreciate the hotel's proximity to the BIC, making it a convenient stay for events.
However, the hotel's central location does come with a downside—night-time noise. Many reviews point out the loud music and revelry that continue into the early hours, sometimes as late as 4 am. This can be disturbing for light sleepers with some guests noting the need for earplugs, which are thoughtfully provided by the hotel. Some adjacent clubs and bars contribute to the noise level, causing disruptions that some guests might find inconvenient.
Despite the noise, the overall sentiment towards the nightlife experience around the Park Central Hotel remains positive. The friendly bar staff and the vibrant atmosphere ensure that those looking for an energetic night out won't be disappointed. The lively surroundings promise an exciting stay for nightlife enthusiasts, though it may not be the best choice for those seeking a quieter retreat.
4 Star
Park Central Hotel has sparked mixed feelings regarding its four-star rating. While the hotel outwardly markets itself as a four-star establishment, numerous guests have remarked that it feels more in line with a three-star experience. Expectations for a higher standard, especially in terms of food variety and breakfast quality, were not always met. Some visitors found the breakfast offerings and overall quality below the four-star benchmark they anticipated.
Despite these criticisms, there are notable positives. The hotel provides excellent value for money and many were pleased with the comfortable and spacious rooms. The location of the hotel is considered fantastic and the staff, especially those at reception, received high praise for their helpful and efficient service. The amenities and services largely align with four-star standards and the decor, though slightly outdated, did not significantly detract from the overall experience.
In conclusion, the service and facilities of Park Central Hotel do demonstrate elements of a four-star establishment, yet there are several areas where improvements could elevate the guest experience to truly meet four-star expectations.
Business
Park Central Hotel is a favored destination for business travelers due to its strategic central location and proximity to BIC and local parks. This hotel features a large conference center and a variety of well-equipped meeting rooms, ideal for hosting business events. The onsite conference facilities have been highlighted for their adequacy and convenience.
The business center within the hotel is also well-equipped, providing useful amenities for professionals on the go. Guests have noted the usefulness of the office areas within their rooms, making it easier to handle business tasks privately. In addition, the hotel staff has been praised for their efficiency and professionalism, catering specifically to the needs of business travelers.
Parking arrangements are efficient and late check-in has been facilitated smoothly, further enhancing the convenience for business guests. Overall, Park Central Hotel appears to be a reliable choice for those seeking a business-friendly environment equipped with the necessary facilities and services for professional activities.
Accessible
The Park Central Hotel demonstrates commendable accessibility features for guests with disabilities. The hotel offers direct access for mobility scooters and provides ample disabled parking spaces. Guests have praised the availability of handicap accessible rooms, including those on the ground floor equipped with large televisions and rooms designed for wheelchair access. Additionally, the hotel provides easy lift access and good disabled facilities.
Guests have found the property very accessible for wheelchair users and commented on the ease of access throughout the hotel. The hotel's location also benefits those with mobility issues, being close to the beach, town center and bus stops, making it very convenient. Specifically, the proximity to the BIC (Bournemouth International Centre) is mentioned as particularly favorable.
Significant mention is made of the friendly and accommodating staff, who exhibited extraordinary consideration for guests using wheelchairs. However, there were minor drawbacks noted, such as difficulty maneuvering vehicles in the forecourt area and the occasional request for an accessible walk-in shower that was unmet.
Overall, Park Central Hotel is highly regarded for its good parking options, multiple accessible rooms and general suitability for wheelchair users and elderly guests. Despite a few logistical challenges, the hotel's efforts to cater to disabled guests make it a recommended stay for those seeking comfort and accessibility.
Boutique-Style
Park Central Hotel has received numerous praises for its impeccable boutique style and charm. Guests have described it as a lovely boutique hotel with a quaint and charming atmosphere. The hotel stands out with beautiful decorations and a uniquely stylish design, creating an ambiance that is both cozy and inviting. Visitors have appreciated the charming decor and the unique style that gives each room its own character.
The hotel's boutique feel is further enhanced by its beautifully laid out spaces and lovely touches throughout the premises. Despite some mentions of the hotel being clean but slightly tired, the overall experience remains positive due to its stylish layout and boutique design.
Guests have also highlighted the wonderful and fabulous staff, who contribute significantly to the welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Overall, Park Central Hotel is celebrated for its charming boutique character and the distinctive touch it brings to every stay.
Luxury
The Park Central Hotel offers a luxurious experience characterized by its upgraded rooms, immaculately clean environment and beautiful decor. Guests laud the hotel's pristine cleanliness and the overall standard of its furnishings, which contribute to its luxury feel. The location is described as beautiful and luxurious, adding to the appeal of the stay. The hotel features a high-class restaurant that serves delicious meals, including seafood breakfasts with lobster and poached eggs, in a stylishly laid out boutique setting.
The service is frequently highlighted as luxurious and wonderful, enhancing the overall experience. Specific amenities such as beautifully chosen toiletries and the opportunity to leisurely enjoy mornings add lovely touches to the stay. While some reviews mention a lack of certain luxury facilities, the upgraded rooms, stylish hotel layout and extraordinary fish restaurant are consistently praised. Overall, Park Central Hotel is recognized as a good luxury hotel offering a cozy atmosphere in a brilliant location.
No, Park Central Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Park Central Hotel.
No, Park Central Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Park Central Hotel.