Weymouth hotels, United Kingdom

Best places to stay in Weymouth

Weymouth's town center is quite compact, making it easy to stay close to all the essential seaside experiences – the harbor, restaurants, attractions, shops, and of course, the sandy beach. For a prime location, consider staying between the esplanade and the harbor. Most of the properties along the promenade are accommodations that guarantee sea views with the beach just steps away. You'll also find plenty of bed and breakfasts in the Park District, located between the station and the promenade. The area from Greenhill to the SeaLife Center is popular with families, featuring a kids' paddling pool, sandpit area, mini-golf, go-karts, and a land train. It's also near the Lodmoor RSPB birdwatching and wetlands area. The beach at this end is rocky, extending to Overcombe and Bowleaze, but remains a favorite for families, locals, and visitors alike. Watersport enthusiasts will enjoy the Overcombe end for kitesurfing or windsurfing, though there’s limited accommodation there. Alternatively, stay across the harbor on the 'north quay' side, offering boutique accommodations and unique local eateries.

Family-friendly accommodations in Weymouth

Traveling to Weymouth with kids? You'll likely want to be as close to the beach as possible. Weymouth boasts a large, sheltered beach safe for swimming, with the 'sandy end' extending from the Pavilion to the Pier Bandstand, complete with lifeguards during summer. From here towards the SeaLife Center, the beach transitions to pebbles, shingle, and sand with some lifeguard coverage in the summer. The Greenhill area is a favorite among local families. The Premier Inn Weymouth Seafront hotel is ideally situated for the family-friendly Greenhill area of the beach, just steps from both the shore and a family-friendly pub. The beach here offers excellent facilities, plus attractions like the SeaLife Center, mini-golf, the country park, and more, including a small, shallow pool and sandpit for young children.

Finding budget-friendly hotels in Weymouth

For affordable accommodations, budget chains are often unbeatable. The Premier Inn Weymouth hotel keeps rates low (usually around $50 per night) by being set back from the beach and main town area. Conveniently located next to Weymouth Park & Ride, it's easy to find, with ample parking and a direct bus into town and the seafront in under 30 minutes. It's also close to supermarkets and amenities, with an on-site restaurant. If you prefer to be amid the action, the Cumberland Hotel is just steps from the sandy beach and a three-minute walk from the station, offering rooms around $100 per night. This classic, family-run B&B features Cozy Doubles, Doubles, Family, and King-Size rooms, many offering sea views, all newly redecorated for a comfortable, modern feel. Enjoy a full English breakfast each morning before heading to the beach.

Accommodations for solo travelers

As a solo traveler to this charming coastal town, consider indulging in some luxury that doesn't break the bank. No.98 Boutique Hotel is located just off the promenade, near popular restaurants and a short three-minute walk from the train station, ideal for a car-free getaway. It offers stylish, simple, bright accommodations with elegant decor and a personal touch, with rooms under $180 per night. Gloucester House is similarly priced and nearby, facing the promenade. The chic en-suite rooms have large windows and some come with seafront balconies, perfect for enjoying the view, and there's even a compact single room option for solo travelers.

The 10 must-sees of Weymouth

• The Blue Flag beach, with its traditional attractions and charming esplanade, is a must-see.

• The amusements are a seaside staple, with several spots to try your luck on penny machines, claw machines, and indoor games. At Alexandra Gardens, you can ride the carousel and enjoy other attractions too.

• Visit the harbor for a pint and a bite to eat; it’s the most recently redeveloped area in town, and the pedestrian-friendly streets are bustling on a sunny day. You can watch local fishermen unload their catch, start a boat ride here, and see the LifeBoat.

• Walk to the Stone Pier and the Nothe Fort through some of the most historic parts of town; many people fish or drop crab lines off the piers here.

• Visit Castle Cove and Sandsfoot Gardens for a more off-the-beaten-path beach experience.

• Explore Portland. This small island is connected to Weymouth by a permanent causeway and offers a fascinating history, a picturesque red-and-white lighthouse, and its own coast path. You might be lucky enough to spot dolphins off the island. It’s also a popular climbing destination with former quarries open for public exploration.

• Visit RSPB sites Radipole Lake and Lodmoor to see a plethora of local birdlife.

• Explore the SeaLife Center. At Lodmoor Country Park, you’ll also find Sandworld, go-karts, a miniature railway, and mini golf.

• Hike the south-west coast path. The Jurassic Coast stretches for miles in either direction from Weymouth, crisscrossed by many beautiful walking routes—the most famous of which, the South-West Coast Path, is a pilgrimage for serious hikers. The entire coastline here is spectacular and is accessible directly from Weymouth with no need for a car.

• Bennetts Water Gardens has been in Weymouth for decades. It’s a beautiful yet secluded Japanese-inspired garden with an impressive waterlily collection, a glasshouse, and a plant nursery.

Close to Weymouth, just short drives along the coast, you’ll also find Abbotsbury, West Bay, Burton Bradstock, and Seatown—all incredibly popular with tourists from far and wide. Heading west, you can easily visit more stunning coastal beauty spots like Osmington, Durdle Door, and Lulworth Cove.

Party and nightlife in Weymouth

Weymouth, with its charming coastline and vibrant cultural scene, offers a dynamic nightlife that caters to all preferences. From lively nightclubs and bars to traditional pubs and unique party spots, here's your guide to the best night out in this seaside town.

Nightclubs

• Boombox at Dusk: The heart of Weymouth's nightlife beats at Boombox, a two-floor club occupying the space of the former Dusk nightclub. Open from 11 PM to 5 AM on selected days, it features a lively mix of R&B, hip hop, garage, and bashment. It's a must-visit for those looking to dance the night away.

• The Closet: Renowned as Weymouth’s premier LGBTQ+ venue, The Closet provides an inclusive atmosphere with a calendar full of events like drag shows, themed nights, and DJ sets, ensuring a fun-filled night for everyone.

Concert halls and live music

Weymouth is home to a wide range of venues offering live music to suit all musical tastes. From rock and pop to jazz and classical, the town's concert halls and pubs frequently host live performances, making it easy to find a spot where you can enjoy live music along with your drinks.

Secret party spots

While Weymouth is full of well-known venues, it also boasts several hidden gems where locals and in-the-know visitors go to enjoy a more intimate or unique nightlife experience. Places like Drift Micro Bar offer an alternative vibe with a smaller, cozier setting perfect for those who enjoy craft beers and unique cocktails.

Best neighborhoods for going out

• The Harbor: The scenic backdrop of Weymouth Harbor is not just for daytime; by night, it transforms into a lively area filled with pubs, bars, and restaurants catering to all preferences. Whether you're looking for a quiet pub to enjoy a conversation or a bustling bar with live music, the Harbor area has it all.

• St Thomas Street: This is the go-to area for partygoers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene. Lined with a variety of bars and clubs, St Thomas Street is where you'll find the heart of Weymouth's party scene, buzzing with energy until the early hours.

Weymouth's nightlife is rich and varied, ensuring there's something for everyone, whether you're looking to party until dawn or enjoy a relaxed evening with friends. With its array of nightclubs, concert venues, secret spots, and lively neighborhoods, Weymouth promises unforgettable nights out for all who visit.

Shopping in Weymouth

Weymouth, a charming coastal town in Dorset, England, offers a unique shopping experience that blends the traditional with the modern. Whether you're after the latest fashion trends, distinctive crafts, or fresh local produce, Weymouth has something for everyone.

Trendy shopping area

St Mary Street is the heart of Weymouth's shopping scene, featuring a variety of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes. This pedestrian-friendly street, stretching from The Esplanade to the harbor, is ideal for a relaxing day of shopping and dining.

Budget-friendly shopping

For wallet-friendly options, New Bond Street is home to stores like TK Maxx, where you can score designer brands at discounted prices. It’s also a great spot to pick up beauty products and household essentials.

Craft shops

Weymouth is sprinkled with craft shops offering a wide array of handmade goods. Local favorites like Craftlines and The Weymouth Shop provide everything from art supplies to locally themed souvenirs.

Markets in Weymouth

Traditional markets

Weymouth Market runs every Thursday in the Swannery Car Park during the warmer months, offering a variety of fresh produce, fish, meat, and gifts.

Local weekly farmers markets

While specific weekly farmers markets aren't highlighted, Weymouth Market offers a similar experience with its range of local produce.

Trendy markets

For a modern market feel, Weymouth's various craft and gift shops occasionally host pop-up events showcasing the work of local artists and makers.

Flea markets

Weymouth brims with places to hunt for treasures. The car boot sales accompanying the traditional market are perfect for those aiming to find unique items at bargain prices.

Where to buy holiday souvenirs

The Bridge Fair Trade Shop by the picturesque harbor offers a range of fair trade and ethical gifts, perfect for taking a piece of Weymouth back home.

Shopping malls

While Weymouth leans towards street-side shopping and independent stores, Jubilee Close Retail Park offers a more traditional shopping mall experience with a selection of essential shops and fast-food outlets.

Weymouth's diverse shopping options cater to all kinds of tastes and budgets, from trendy boutiques and traditional markets to craft shops and shopping malls. Each shopping area has its own unique charm, ensuring a memorable shopping experience in this beautiful seaside town.

Spa hotels in Weymouth

The Best Western Hotel Rembrandt is favored by families and business travelers, thanks to its in-house leisure center featuring a spacious heated swimming pool, spa bath, sauna, steam room, and gym facilities. The spa offers a full menu of facials, massages, and beauty treatments, all at very reasonable prices. You can choose from a variety of room configurations for families, including Family, Triple, and Quad setups, as well as single, double, and deluxe upgraded rooms. The restaurant offers a buffet breakfast, à la carte lunch and dinner, and a popular Sunday carvery. It’s also less than a ten-minute walk from the esplanade, Greenhill Beach, and all the seafront restaurants.

Exceptional hotels

Hotels in Weymouth don’t get much more historic than this 19th-century Victorian gem, with a stunning red-and-white facade facing the Blue Flag beach. The Royal Hotel boasts a grand interior, with a sea-facing restaurant and original features like sweeping staircases, high ceilings, and wrought-iron balconies overlooking the beach. While some of the interior is a bit dated, it remains charming, and the rooms are updated, sleek, and simple, with all the facilities you need. You can choose from double, deluxe, and single rooms, with some of the best being the upper-floor doubles with a sea-view bay window and balcony.

Luxury hotels

Just a few miles outside of Weymouth, you'll discover a quaint village with a storied past. Moonfleet Manor, a luxurious family hotel, has its fair share of intriguing smuggling history. Today, you won’t find any contraband trading hands here, but you will find an atmosphere of serenity and a true family focus, where kids stay free when sharing a room with adults. There’s a splendid spa, indoor pool, and a full treatment menu, including mini-treatments for kids. Other kid-friendly features include soft play, a skittle alley, and mini golf, as well as the Ofsted-registered Four Bears Den childcare service. The rooms are contemporary chic, decorated in calming colors with fabulous bathrooms and delightful views across the fleet. Situated on the popular southwest coast path, it’s also a dog-friendly venue.