Tucked onto Alumhurst Road in the heart of Westbourne, The Libertine is the kind of neighbourhood gastropub that fills up with locals and beach-goers alike. It pairs proper pub comfort with a kitchen that takes its food seriously. Reopened by Young's after a refurbishment, it has settled quickly into village life.
The food
The menu leans into freshly prepared British pub cooking that changes with the seasons. Steaks and homemade pizzas are the dishes people tend to return for, and the Sunday roast, built around seasonal cuts and vegetables, is treated as the highlight of the week. Mornings bring a full cooked breakfast, including the hearty Libertine Full English and a vegetarian Allotment option, while lighter choices such as sandwiches, a children's menu and desserts round things out.
Behind the bar there's plenty to explore. An ever-rotating list of cask ales, craft beers and ciders sits alongside the pub's own Libertine Gold, plus a considered wine list and a run of cocktails that shift with the seasons, including summer spritzes. There's a decent selection of no and low-alcohol drinks too, so everyone in the group is looked after.
The setting
Inside, the mood is warm and unpretentious, with cosy, characterful corners that reward settling in for the afternoon. It works equally well for a quiet pint, a long lunch or a celebration with friends. Screens dotted around the pub show live sport across the week, making it a natural gathering point on match days without overwhelming the rest of the room.
When the weather turns kind, there's outdoor seating to make the most of, and the pub is happy to welcome dogs. For bigger occasions, a separate space is available for private hire, and the team also handles events and gatherings, from birthdays to weddings.
Where it is
The Libertine is right in the middle of Westbourne, one of the more characterful corners of Bournemouth, with its Victorian arcade, independent shops and easy-going cafe culture on the doorstep. Alum Chine and the seafront are only a short stroll away, so a visit slots neatly into a day by the coast. It's an easy walk from the village centre, with local bus routes and on-street parking close by.
Good to know
Booking through the website is sensible for Sunday lunches, weekends and larger tables, though walk-ins are welcome when there's room. Menus and opening hours can shift with the seasons, so it's worth checking the website for the latest before you set out. Dogs are welcome, there's a children's menu for younger guests, and outdoor seating comes into its own in warmer months. For a celebration, ask about private hire and events.
It's one of many places worth knowing about across the town, so pair a visit with the rest of our food and drink guide and a wander through Westbourne. For current menus, live sport listings, private hire and to book a table, contact The Libertine directly.