A new hospitality venue says its blend of dining, drinking, entertainment and wellness activities is bringing something new to the sector – and proving a hit.
Rockwater Village opened its doors for business at Branksome Chine last September.
During the day, visitors can enjoy yoga, fitness classes and coffee catch-ups with dining from breakfast to evening from Michelin-trained chefs.
At night, an events programme moves the relaxed daytime vibe up a gear.
It’s already featured intimate gigs from high-profile names such as Fatboy Slim and James Bay.
Rockwater says its approach to hospitality services and wellness initiatives has proved popular with hundreds of people every month taking part in a variety of wellbeing-focused events.
The venue’s winter timetable of classes includes several Pilates and yoga sessions on its roof terrace each week as well as early morning swim clubs.
A partnership with Bournemouth-based Who Dares Gyms has brought bootcamps and run clubs to the seafront, too.
Rockwater has also selected local experts to run regular workshops and classes for both Open Water members and the public on a ticketed basis.
They include Cassey Lee, a Poole-based personal trainer.
She leads Rockwater classes including a ‘Reset and Detox’ afternoon which provides attendees with a reset for mind and body.
Other local practioners, Ellie Loves and Joe Aston, facilitate ‘So Talk’, a safe space for attendees to chat and listen with no boundaries, themes, or judgment.
Luke Davis, Rockwater’s CEO, said: “Having been around the hospitality industry for many years, I’ve seen first-hand how venues can become a hub for the community and a second home for many patrons.
“There are plenty of night-time venues that provide a luxury dining and social atmosphere for customers, and plenty of coffee shops and social clubs that are great places to unwind during the daytime.
“At Rockwater, we are doing something new and different by providing all these things and more to customers, all packaged into one scenic setting where groups can truly connect and enjoy together from dusk till dawn.
“We’re setting a new trend in hospitality by creating a space where our guests can pursue their personal ambitions, whether those are wellbeing led, socially, or from a working perspective, so it’s great to see so many customers already embracing the Rockwater Life.
“We want to take things even further in 2024, so we will be investing at least £250,000 into Rockwater’s wellness initiatives over the course of the year.
“Through Rockwater, I set out to create a luxurious environment that captured the spirit of a private members’ club, but which was accessible to and inclusive for the whole community.
“Wellness is at the heart of the beachside lifestyle, and by creating a welcoming concept which brings together people to eat, drink, connect, play, and be inspired, we’ve set a clear benchmark for the future of the industry.”
Branksome is the second Rockwater. The first was in Hove, Sussex, and a third is planned for Sandbanks later this year.
- More information on Rockwater Village and Open Water Membership can be found here.