Shopping in Westbourne, Dorset

Westbourne Arcade, a Grade II-listed Victorian covered arcade built in 1884-1885, connects Poole Road and Seamoor Road, providing a unique shopping experience with quirky gift shops, boutiques, cafes, and the UK’s smallest cinema, Bournemouth Colosseum, with 19 seats.

Popular shops include Attico, offering art, cards, and quirky items like Jellycat and Steiff Bears; Westbourne Bookshop, an independent bookstore since 1994 stocking new books, jigsaws, toys, and cards with rapid ordering; Don Strike Music Shop, a historic shop since the 1920s for musical instruments; Courtenay’s Fine Art for art lovers; and Renoufs Pantry with over 200 cheese varieties.

For fashion and accessories, Lonah Designer Boutique, established in 2003, specializes in women’s fashion to boost confidence. ROSE the store provides bohemian-inspired fashion and lifestyle goods for a relaxed shopping experience. House of Heels offers stylish women’s footwear from brands like Caprice and Tamaris, open Monday to Saturday. Mint Tea Boutique is known for trendy clothing and accessories.

Specialty and sustainable shopping includes Almond & Co, a plastic-free shop for everyday items, and The Pet Shop Guys for pet supplies. Numerous “posh” charity shops offer bargains and unique finds. For daily needs, Marks & Spencer Simply Food, Tesco Express in a former Methodist Church, Iceland, and Central Express Convenience Store are available.

Other independent shops include Gallery 65 for unique art, Individual Interior Design for high-end interiors, and Jewel Vintage for jewellery and vintage gifts in the arcade.

The shopping experience in Westbourne has a cosmopolitan yet village-like feel, with young professionals, families, and retirees creating a lively buzz. Its compact layout is easy to explore on foot, and the arcade’s Gothic architecture adds charm.