Alexander Lodge, Bournemouth, New Forest

Alexander Lodge offers AirBnB-style rooms with self-catering options, including kitchenettes equipped with a coffee machine, refrigerator, and microwave. The Pakenham room includes a private balcony and a walk-in shower with high-quality toiletries. Guests find fresh milk, biscuits, and chilled water in their rooms upon arrival.

A complimentary homemade full English breakfast is served daily, using locally sourced ingredients and featuring James's freshly baked bread. Guests pre-order their breakfast the night before to reduce food waste, and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available every morning. The dining room can also be used for evening takeaways, with fresh coffee and almond milk offered throughout the day.

The property sits an 8-minute walk from Boscombe Beach, with direct access to the sandy shoreline and clifftop promenade. Southbourne high street, a 5-minute walk away, provides independent coffee houses, restaurants, and shops. Bicycle rentals from Beryl allow guests to cycle along the coast to Hengistbury Head and the New Forest.

Alexander Lodge uses refillable toiletries, recycled toilet paper from Who Gives a Crap, and has 'twinned' toilets that fund sanitation projects in developing countries. The breakfast pre-order system minimizes food waste, and the property offers secure bicycle storage to encourage low-carbon travel. Free off-road parking is available for cars, with accessible spaces on site.

Hosts Andi and James provide a booklet with local recommendations for cafes and restaurants, such as Dicky's and Café Riva. Guests can leave orders for breakfast the night before and receive a welcome tray with Lovehearts and humbugs. Special occasions are acknowledged with flowers and a card, and the dining room is open for guests to enjoy takeaways.

Breakfast: Homemade full English with locally sourced ingredients and fresh bread

Rooms: AirBnB-style suites with kitchenettes and private balconies

Sustainability: Refillable toiletries, recycled paper, twinned toilets

Parking: Free off-road parking and secure bicycle storage

Location: 8 min walk to Boscombe Beach and Southbourne high street

Guest service: Pre-order breakfast, welcome tray, and special occasion surprises