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REVIEW: We tried out Bournemouth's Christmas domes - here's why they're worth it

REVIEW: We tried out Bournemouth's Christmas domes - here's why they're worth it <i>(Image: Christmas domes)</i>
REVIEW: We tried out Bournemouth's Christmas domes - here's why they're worth it (Image: Christmas domes)

On a cold and windy night in November, where else would you want to be than in a snug Christmas Dome overlooking Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland?

Well, you might want to be on a warm beach in the Bahamas but in lieu of that, this was a pretty good second place.

Back for a second year, the festive venture is even bigger than last year, with a special games area including table football, shuffleboard and giant Jenga and air hockey added to the mix now.

Bournemouth Echo:
Bournemouth Echo:

Making the most of the festive atmosphere, we arrived at the terrace after walking through Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens from the Square, where the market and lights are in full swing.

Read more: Food and drink prices at Bournemouth's Christmas market

For a Tuesday night, the gardens were busy – with queues for the ice skating rink and families having pictures taken by the incredible Christmas Tree Wonderland features.

The domes

Arriving at our dome, we were greeted by friendly staff who showed us in, and explained the deals to us.

Afraid you’re going to be cold? The domes are heated, and after a mulled wine (insert drink of choice here), you won’t feel in the least bit chilly.

Bournemouth Echo: The Christmas Domes at the Pavilion terrace
Bournemouth Echo: The Christmas Domes at the Pavilion terrace

The Christmas Domes at the Pavilion terrace (Image: Christmas Domes)

When you book, the deal is two pizzas, and six drinks in total. This can be mulled wine, pints of Amstel lager or a bottle of prosecco – plus an hour and a half to drink and eat it all.

Read more: Bournemouth's Christmas Tree Wonderland - what you need to know

Staff at the Apres Terrace are so friendly – nothing is too much trouble for them.

Food and drink arrive quickly, and it was delicious.

The pizzas by local favourites, El Murrino are piping hot and handmade – worth booking a dome for alone. There’s LOADS of options for fussy eaters too!

Bournemouth Echo: Pizza by El Murrino at Bournemouth Christmas Domes
Bournemouth Echo: Pizza by El Murrino at Bournemouth Christmas Domes

Pizza by El Murrino at Bournemouth Christmas Domes (Image: Christmas Domes)

My mulled wine – first of the season – was deliciously spiced and ready to drink. It immediately got me humming some Christmas favourites which were playing in the background.

If you’re planning on making a day of the market and shopping and want somewhere festive to sit, slightly out of the way of the hustle and bustle of the Square, this is just perfect for making a some time to catch up with family or friends.

Apres Bar

A slightly competitive group – well I am – it was then games time in the Apres Bar which is brand new for 2022.

A fully-covered bar area, complete with ski gondolas and VIP booth seating, street food and games – you just know this area is going to be packed out during December.

Bournemouth Echo: Apres Bar at Pavilion Terrace
Bournemouth Echo: Apres Bar at Pavilion Terrace

Apres Bar at Pavilion Terrace (Image: Apres Bar)

We tried our hands at shuffleboard – it’s strangely addictive. And there are other options as well for people to fall out with their loved ones over.

Read more: Christmas markets to find within an hour's drive of Bournemouth

The bar includes all your festive favourites including mulled wine, hot chocolate and much, much more.

Food ranges from Street Kings burgers including brie and bacon, pulled pork and a festive burger, with loaded fries, brie bites and pigs in blankets to much on while you’re waiting for pizza.

Bournemouth Echo: Shuffleboard wars
Bournemouth Echo: Shuffleboard wars

Shuffleboard wars (Image: Newsquest)

And there is a full list of events happening from quiz nights to live music.

Even if you don’t fancy visiting the markets, this is the perfect interlude to see the town’s lights and feel festive.

One dome for an hour and a half, two pizzas, and six drinks is £70 (less than £12 per person).

You can book here