Slug & Lettuce is a big, sociable cocktail bar near the top of the town centre, on Richmond Hill. It belongs to a national chain and makes no secret of it — this is a place built for groups, brunches and big weekend nights rather than a quiet corner with a book. Taken on those terms it does the job well, and for anyone staying centrally it is an easy option when the plan involves a crowd.
The bar
The room is large and geared toward volume — shared tables, a long cocktail list, and screens showing whatever sport is on. Cocktail deals rotate through the week and bottomless brunch is one of the regular fixtures, which is what draws the weekend groups. It is loud and lively when busy, in the way the format is designed to be.
The drink and food
Cocktails are the point, from the deal menu to the full list, with the usual bar food alongside. Vegan and vegetarian options are marked on the menu. Because the deals and the brunch offering change, the bar’s own site is the reliable source for what is running when you visit.
Where it is
You will find it at 12 Richmond Hill, near the top of the town centre and a short walk from Bournemouth Square, the Lower Gardens and the seafront beyond. It is central enough to fold into an evening that started or will end elsewhere in town, and most town-centre and West Cliff accommodation is within walking distance.
Good to know
Book ahead for bottomless brunch and for weekend evenings, when it fills with groups and celebrations. There is outdoor seating for the warmer days, and the bar is listed as dog-friendly, though it is worth checking before arriving with one on a busy night. For a quieter drink nearby, The Goat and Tricycle is the characterful alternative; the food and drink guide has the wider picture.