Sharkey's Sports Bar is a popular venue located on Old Christchurch Road in Bournemouth's East Cliff area, postcode BH1 1JZ. It offers a lively atmosphere focused on sports viewing alongside food and drink options.
This page covers what to expect at Sharkey's Sports Bar, its location and surroundings, the types of events and sports it screens, menu highlights, and how it fits into Bournemouth’s wider food and drink scene. It also guides you on getting there and who the venue suits best.
Where Sharkey's Sports Bar is and what the area is like
Sharkey's Sports Bar sits on Old Christchurch Road, a main thoroughfare running from Bournemouth town centre eastwards towards Boscombe. The East Cliff neighbourhood is a mix of residential streets, local shops, and hospitality venues. The bar is within a 15-minute walk from Bournemouth railway station and just over 10 minutes on foot from the seafront and Bournemouth Beach.
Old Christchurch Road is known for its variety of pubs, bars and eateries, making Sharkey's Sports Bar part of a busy social hub. Nearby landmarks include the historic Bournemouth Gardens to the west and the East Cliff Chine, a wooded ravine leading down to the beach, to the south.
The location benefits from good public transport links with several bus routes running along Old Christchurch Road, connecting to Boscombe, Poole and the town centre. Car parking is limited on the street but public car parks are available within a short walk.
What Sharkey's Sports Bar offers in food, drink and atmosphere
Sharkey's Sports Bar caters primarily to sports fans, providing multiple screens showing live events from football, rugby, cricket, and other major sports. The atmosphere is informal and energetic, with regular crowd gatherings for key matches and tournaments.
The bar serves a range of beers, including local ales and popular lagers, alongside spirits and cocktails. Its menu features classic pub food such as burgers, wings, and sharing platters, designed to complement the viewing experience. Prices are moderate, with main dishes typically around £8 to £15.
The venue often hosts themed nights and special sports events, which can be found on their social media or by contacting the bar directly. The interior includes seating areas arranged to maximise screen visibility, with some tables suitable for groups.
How Sharkey's Sports Bar compares to other Bournemouth sports bars
| Feature | Sharkey's Sports Bar | Other Bournemouth Sports Bars |
|---|---|---|
| Location | East Cliff, Old Christchurch Road | Various locations including town centre and Boscombe |
| Screen coverage | Multiple screens, major sports | Varies; some focus on specific sports or leagues |
| Food menu | Classic pub fare, sharing platters | Ranges from basic snacks to full meals |
| Drink selection | Local ales, lagers, cocktails | Often similar, some with craft beer focus |
| Atmosphere | Lively, informal | Varies from casual to more upmarket |
| Accessibility | Close to station and seafront | Depends on venue location |
Sharkey's is well-suited to those wanting a central, accessible spot with a strong sports focus and a traditional pub menu. Other venues may target niche audiences or offer different cuisines.
Getting to Sharkey's Sports Bar from Bournemouth station and the seafront
From Bournemouth railway station, Sharkey's is approximately a 15-minute walk. Exit the station onto Holdenhurst Road, then turn right onto Old Christchurch Road. Continue east along Old Christchurch Road; the bar is on the left-hand side before reaching the East Cliff Chine.
If arriving from the seafront, such as Bournemouth Pier or the main beach, walk north along Westover Road or East Overcliff Drive, then turn left onto Old Christchurch Road. The walk takes around 10 to 12 minutes.
Several bus routes serve Old Christchurch Road, including numbers 3, 4, and 7, which connect the town centre, Boscombe, and Poole. Buses stop close to Sharkey's, providing an alternative to walking.
When to visit Sharkey's Sports Bar and typical costs
The bar is open daily, with peak times in the evenings and during live sports fixtures. Weekends and match days tend to be busiest, so booking ahead is advisable for larger groups.
Typical main course prices range from £8 to £15, with drinks starting at around £3.50 for a pint of lager or ale. Cocktails and spirits vary between £5 and £8. Happy hour deals and special offers may be available during certain times.
The venue is popular year-round but sees increased footfall during major sporting events such as the Premier League season, Six Nations rugby, and international tournaments.
Who Sharkey's Sports Bar is suitable for
Sharkey's Sports Bar appeals primarily to sports enthusiasts looking for a casual venue to watch live games with friends or fellow fans. It is suitable for groups, couples, and individuals who enjoy a traditional pub environment with a focus on sport.
Families are less common during busy sports events, but the bar is open to all adults and over-18s. The menu and atmosphere are informal rather than fine dining, making it a good choice for relaxed socialising rather than special occasions.
The bar’s location on Old Christchurch Road also makes it convenient for visitors staying nearby or exploring Bournemouth’s East Cliff and seafront areas.
Exploring more food and drink options in Bournemouth
Sharkey's Sports Bar is one of many venues on Old Christchurch Road and across Bournemouth offering diverse dining and drinking experiences. For a broader selection, the food & drink guide covers restaurants, cafes, pubs, and bars throughout the town and seafront.
Nearby areas such as Boscombe and Westbourne provide additional options with different atmospheres and cuisines. For those interested in combining a visit to Sharkey's with other activities, the things to do section offers ideas for attractions, gardens and events.
