Bar So is a multi-level late-night venue located within the Grade II listed Royal Exeter Hotel on Exeter Road in Bournemouth town centre. It offers a mix of relaxed cocktail sipping and lively club dancing under one roof. The atmosphere evolves through the evening, from a calm terrace bar to a vibrant dancefloor with DJs playing house, R&B and party classics.
This page covers Bar So’s drinks and layout, its central location, practical details for visiting, and the type of night out it suits.
What drinks does Bar So serve
Cocktails are the main focus at Bar So. The upstairs bar features an extensive cocktail menu alongside premium spirits and champagne, designed for guests who prefer a quieter, sociable setting. This area also has outdoor terraces where drinks can be enjoyed in the afternoon sun or during warmer evenings.
Downstairs, the venue shifts to a club environment with bottle service and celebration packages available. VIP tables here cater to birthdays and larger groups, offering a reserved space within the lively dance area. During the warmer months, the upstairs bar occasionally serves food, but the venue primarily centres on drinks and nightlife rather than full meals. It is advisable to check Bar So’s website for current food service availability.
How is Bar So laid out
Bar So’s layout spans several floors, creating distinct zones for different moods. The upstairs cocktail bar is bright and sociable, with seating areas and outdoor terraces. This part suits those looking for a relaxed start to the evening or a quieter drink between dancing.
The downstairs area is a darker, club-style space with a large dancefloor and resident DJs. Lighting and sound systems are designed to create an immersive party atmosphere once the music begins. VIP areas are integrated here for private groups. Midweek, the venue hosts dance classes, offering a different experience earlier in the week before the weekend club nights.
Where is Bar So located
Bar So is situated on Exeter Road, in the heart of Bournemouth’s town centre. It lies within easy walking distance of key landmarks such as The Square, the Lower Gardens, and the seafront near Bournemouth Pier. This central location makes it convenient to combine a visit to Bar So with dining or sightseeing in the area.
Most town-centre hotels are within a 10 to 15-minute walk, allowing for easy access on foot. The railway and bus stations are approximately 15 minutes away by foot, and several public car parks are located nearby on surrounding streets. For a broader selection of places to eat and drink close to Bar So, see the food and drink guide.
What to know before visiting Bar So
Bar So operates as an over-18s venue, catering mainly to adults seeking a lively nightlife experience. It is popular with couples, friends, and groups rather than families. The venue generally opens on weekend nights, though opening hours vary by season and special events. Confirm current times on Bar So’s official website before planning your visit.
VIP tables and bottle-service packages are available and recommended to book in advance for celebrations or larger parties. The venue also offers private hire options for exclusive events. Entry usually requires standard club dress code and age verification.
Getting to Bar So is straightforward: it is walkable from the town centre and seafront, with public transport stops and car parks nearby. The venue’s location within the Royal Exeter Hotel also makes it easy to combine with a stay at one of the town’s hotels.
How Bar So fits into Bournemouth nightlife
Bar So is one of Bournemouth’s established late-night venues, known for its combination of cocktail bar and club spaces. It complements other nightlife options in the town centre, such as the nearby Slug & Lettuce and Bar Republiq, offering a venue that transitions from relaxed drinks to a full club experience.
For those interested in live music and alternative scenes, venues like Bear's Bar & Venue provide a different atmosphere. Bar So’s multi-level layout and outdoor terraces give it a distinctive place in Bournemouth’s evening entertainment landscape.
Getting to Bar So from Bournemouth station
Bournemouth railway station is about a 15-minute walk from Bar So. From the station, head north along Holdenhurst Road, then turn left onto Exeter Road. The route is mostly flat and well signposted, passing through the town centre. Bus services also run frequently between the station and central Bournemouth, with stops close to Exeter Road.
For those arriving by car, public car parks such as the Central Car Park on Exeter Road and the nearby Lansdowne Car Park offer parking within a short walk of the venue. Check local parking charges and restrictions on the BCP Council website.
Costs and entry at Bar So
Entry to Bar So typically involves a cover charge on weekend nights, which varies depending on the event and time of arrival. Bottle service and VIP tables carry additional costs, with packages priced according to group size and drink selection. Drinks prices reflect the premium nature of the cocktails and spirits on offer, with cocktails generally ranging from £8 to £12.
Bar So does not operate as a restaurant, so food costs are not a regular consideration. For a full list of prices and any special offers, consult Bar So’s official website or contact the venue directly.
Who enjoys a night at Bar So
Bar So suits adults looking for a versatile night out in Bournemouth town centre. It appeals to those who want to start with cocktails in a relaxed setting before moving to a lively club atmosphere. The venue is popular with groups celebrating birthdays or special occasions, thanks to its VIP areas and bottle service.
It is less suited to families or those seeking a quiet evening, as the venue’s primary focus is nightlife and dancing. The over-18s policy and dress code ensure a mature crowd. Bar So is a key part of Bournemouth’s nightlife for visitors and locals who want a venue that offers both social drinking and a proper club experience.
For a broader view of Bournemouth’s nightlife options, see the things to do section.