The area - Westbourne and Beyond

Westbourne is a charming Victorian suburb of Bournemouth, perfect for those seeking a unique shopping experience away from the typical high street chains. This bustling urban village is brimming with independent shops, quirky boutiques, cozy bars, and a variety of restaurants, making it a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.

Just under a mile from Westbourne lies a stunning 7-mile stretch of award-winning beaches, from Hengistbury Head to Sandbanks in Poole. A leisurely walk through the picturesque Alum Chine woodland takes you directly to Alum Chine Beach. This Blue Flag beach offers breathtaking views over the Solent and across to the Purbeck Hills, known for its pristine sand and environmentally friendly status.

Despite being close to this lively village, RL Stevenson Avenue is a surprisingly peaceful street. At the bottom of the avenue, you'll find Skerryvore, once the home of famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. It was here that he penned classics such as The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde and Kidnapped. Though the house was sadly destroyed during World War II, the site and surrounding grounds are still worth exploring! Hydeaway was inspired by Stevenson’s literary works and the history surrounding this special area.

If you follow the road to the left, you'll soon reach the scenic Alum Chine, a woodland path that winds its way down to the beach. While the red squirrels that once called this area home are no longer around, you can still spot them on nearby Brownsea Island!