Sip a [insert name of your favourite cocktail] whilst drinking in the views across Bournemouth’s rooftops and the coastline beyond, from the highest cocktail bar in the South West.

Come to the Level8ight Sky Bar, on the 8th floor of the Bournemouth Hilton and open to non-residents, for their incredible range of cocktails, wines and spirits, and rather special afternoon tea.

The modern, minimal interior with contemporary furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows is offset by the glam chandeliers running above the long bar. The terrace is pretty cool, too.

In terms of cocktails and gin combos, they offer all the classics and their own original and signature concoctions. Starting with an Above the Clouds (gin, lychee liqueur, lemon, cranberry, raspberry, mint, maplesyrup and rosewater) seems apt.

Afternoon teas – finger sarnies, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, sweet treats like lemon drizzle, Bakewell tart, raspberry and white chocolate delice and an opera espresso mousse – and throw in a glass of Prosecco or Champers (and why wouldn’t you?)

Cocktails and spirit master classes if you want to learn how to shake your own.

 

Photos © 2020 Hilton