Captain's Club Hotel, Christchurch, Dorset, England - Explore & Book

"Christchurch is a great destination for a UK holiday, thanks to its beautiful sandy beaches, its proximity to Europe's largest natural harbour at Poole, and the attractions of Bournemouth and the New Forest nearby. It’s always been popular, but while it was home to a Pontin's Holiday Resort until the early 1990s, you'll now find something altogether more stylish. This modern, nautical building of wood panelling, aquamarine port holes and swathes of glass is a destination in its own right. Housing a luxurious spa, a lively bar popular with locals, and an atmospheric restaurant serving great seafood, we soon fell into holiday mode. Sipping champagne on the terrace, overlooking a river dotted with sailing boats and swans, it felt like the perfect spot for a short break. And thankfully, there was not a Pontin's blue coat in sight. Highs Fantastic location: picturesque, popular, and perfect for pottering about the park and taking the ferry to nearby beachesA luxurious spa with a hydrotherapy pool; we booked in for a massage during our visit and couldn’t recommend it highly enoughAll rooms have river views and a sunny evening on the riverfront terrace calls for cocktailsA creative dinner menu and wine list; afternoon teas are also a highlight (pre-booking is essential)Families will feel right at home in the 2- and 3-bedroom suites Lows In summer, noise carries from the terrace to the rooms above. However, diners must move indoors at 11pm, and, let's face it, you'll probably be down there with themThe function spaces regularly host events, making it a touch more corporate than most i-escape offeringsThe interior design is cool and calming, but not cutting-edge The air con unit can be heard from certain roomsBook ahead for the popular spa and restaurant" - Emma Taylor