6 new businesses coming to Bournemouth town centre

Bournemouth’s town centre is buzzing with new developments! From high-end restaurants to student accommodation, here are seven reasons to get excited about what’s opening soon:

The Ivy

One of the most anticipated openings is the prestigious London-based restaurant chain, The Ivy. Set to open before Christmas, the elegant eatery is recruiting for 120 positions. The Ivy will offer everything from breakfast to late-night cocktails, with space for 208 guests inside and an outdoor terrace for 50. 

The Botanist

Another stylish restaurant, The Botanist, is on its way to Bournemouth. Known for its nature-inspired theme, The Botanist will feature a restored sun terrace and outdoor dining space. The fit-out begins later this year, with the restaurant expected to open next year, bringing 80 new jobs to the area. 

Revival Wellness Café

Set to open in the autumn, Revival Wellness Café will be more than just a place to grab a coffee. Located on Old Christchurch Road, it aims to offer a calming retreat from the hustle and bustle, focusing on wellbeing. With a design influenced by cities like Dubai, Paris, and London, it promises an elegant atmosphere along with organic, health-focused dishes.

Student flats

Bournemouth is set to welcome thousands of new student residents with the redevelopment of the former House of Fraser site on Old Christchurch Road. The new building, named Bright House, will feature 129 premium en-suite student rooms, ready by September 2024. The ground floor will also offer 10 new commercial units, expected to open in early 2025.

JD Gyms

Fitness enthusiasts will soon have a new place to work out when JD Gyms opens in the former Wilko unit at Richmond Gardens Shopping Centre. While the gym was initially expected to launch in 2023, it’s now scheduled to open in early 2025. Expect a state-of-the-art facility with top-tier equipment, from free weights to cardio machines, and even a dedicated glute zone.

New tapas restaurant

A new tapas restaurant is set to bring Mediterranean flavours to Richmond Hill. The vacant unit next to Wildwood is being transformed, with plans for late-night refreshments and daily alcohol service. While there’s no official opening date yet, work is already underway, so keep an eye on this spot for delicious tapas soon.

Picture credit: The Ivy Collection