About The Vault Nightclub Bournemouth
The Vault Nightclub is a multi-level dance and live music venue tucked into a historic former bank at 39 Poole Hill in Bournemouth (BH2 5PW). Housed in a Grade II-listed stone building dating from around 1900 , the club retains its distinguished Edwardian facade while offering a modern interior. With three floors and two bars, it can accommodate large crowds (the venue advertises up to “700 people” across all levels ) and is known for its mix of sleek design and vintage charm. In fact, one reviewer describes walking through heavy oak doors into The Vault’s dimly lit interior as stepping into a 1920s speakeasy, complete with velvet drapes and crystal chandeliers . This unique blend of old-world style and cutting-edge clubbing makes The Vault stand out in Bournemouth’s nightlife scene. Originally a staple of town for live events, it actually closed in 2017 and remained dark for several years until a recent renaissance. After nearly a decade of silence, local press celebrated its 2025 revival as a “major revival” of Bournemouth’s live music scene . Today The Vault bills itself as “Bournemouth’s favourite … nightclub” , hosting both headline DJs and themed parties that draw crowds from across the region.
Events and Programming
The Vault’s calendar is packed with club nights, dance parties and occasional live shows. Regular events span a wide range of genres – house and chart DJs, drum & bass, jungle and garage nights, indie dance events and R&B parties all find a place here . A concrete example is the weekly “House Party Mondays,” marketed as “Bournemouth’s Funnest Night Out” with multiple rooms of music, games and giveaways . Genre-specific nights also appear on the schedule: on one weekend a “Island Ting (Amapiano)” event was booked, and an R&B Mania festival ran as an early-evening special . Local fans often see lineups featuring UK bass and garage DJs – for instance, night listings from late 2022 included drum’n’bass acts like DJ Guv, Azza and Macky Gee , as well as house and urban DJs on other nights. Student-friendly themes are popular too: Wanderlog notes that The Vault hosts “student-friendly events such as Messy Mondays” alongside its pro-level sets . In 2025 the venue even branched into rock, relaunching with an indie headliner: UK band Coach Party was announced to play the official reopening show on 23 September 2025 . Booked.it likewise bills The Vault as both a “nightclub” and “live music venue” in a refurbished bank . In short, the programming is eclectic by design – from pumping club DJs to occasional live bands, and many themed parties in between – making The Vault a go-to for diverse crowds. Typical ticket prices vary: small club nights might be £5–15 on the door, while bigger acts run around the low teens (for example, the Coach Party gig was listed at £12 ). Events often sell out early, so promoters recommend buying tickets in advance when possible.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for The Vault’s public nights are usually sold online or via event partners, with some availability at the door (if not sold out). Official announcements and local gig guides will list ticket links, and the club may sell passes on its website or social media. High-profile headliners often go on sale weeks (or months) in advance, so it’s wise to grab tickets early. As an example, the live show mentioned above was advertised through a promoter at a fixed price of £12 . Many house and dance nights also have guestlists or pre-sale deals for students or advance buyers. There is no standard walk-up box office on site – most sales are digital – so keep an eye on local listings or the venue’s calendar. On the night of an event, doors typically open around 10:00pm for club nights (closing around 4am), though special concerts like the Coach Party show opened earlier at 7:00pm for an 18+ audience . Best practice: arrive before 11pm if you want to skip crowds, or pre-book a VIP booth if available.
Seating and Layout
The Vault’s layout spans three floors of varied space. On the ground level (main floor), the “Depository” room is largely an open dance floor with five booth areas and adjoining tables along the edges . This is where you’ll find the main bar and DJ stage; capacity here is about 350 people for a standing crowd. Upstairs on the first floor is a more intimate “Cocktail Lounge” (also called LVL1), which has booth seating and seating clusters for around 125 guests . The second-floor “Attic” is smaller again (about 125 capacity) with a few private booths and a dedicated second bar . In practice, most patrons stand and mingle, with the booths often reserved as VIP tables for groups. For the best views, being on the main floor near the DJ or stage puts you front-and-center, but booth tables on the sides offer a comfortable perch with a view of the crowd . The first-floor lounge overlooks the ground floor without a physical balcony, so sound carries upward – it’s ideal if you prefer a slightly quieter vantage. The upstairs Attic is very much a chillout setting; there’s minimal view of the stage unless you lean over. Acoustically, the venue is equipped with a high-end Void Acoustics sound system throughout , giving clear bass and clarity on every level. One thing to note: the first-floor men’s restroom has four urinals and two stalls, and the women’s has three cubicles , so facilities should accommodate most crowds. Also, a disabled-accessible toilet is on the ground floor (though only the ground level is accessible without stairs).
Getting There and Parking
The Vault sits on Poole Hill just north of Bournemouth’s triangle district. For drivers, the nearest major car park is the multi-storey on Avenue Road (just a couple of minutes’ walk downhill) . There is very limited street parking on Poole Hill itself, mostly short-term bays directly in front. Nearby public parking and RidePark apps often use the Avenue Road car park as the go-to for this area. Bournemouth railway station is roughly 1.2 miles away – about a 20-minute walk downhill – and several bus lines run within a minute of the club. In fact, the “West Cliff / Poole Hill” bus stop is right on Poole Hill, served by Morebus routes N1, N2, 16, 18, 20, 36 and U4 . (Notably, the late-night N1 and N2 routes continue running past midnight from Bournemouth centre to Poole, which is convenient for after-club travel.) For those coming by coach or taxi, simply use 39 Poole Hill – most drop-offs can be done right outside the entrance. Ride-sharing apps or local cabs will also know Poole Hill as a landmark; there is usually a short queuing layby or taxi rank on Bath Road nearby. Because it’s in town, walking is an easy option too: if you’re staying in the city centre, The Vault is just a brief walk north of Westover Road and the triangle of restaurants (roughly 5–10 minutes). Late at night, expect to take a night bus or taxi back as footpaths can be quiet. In summary, most visitors arrive by car (with parking at Avenue Rd) or by Morebus public transit (Poole Hill stop), and a short taxi ride to/from Bournemouth train station or Seafront.
Inside the Venue
On entering The Vault, you’ll pass the doorman/barrier and step into a low-lit, high-ceilinged room with brick and wood accents. Expect staff checking IDs (no entry under 18 ) and your ticket or guestlist. A bag search may be conducted for security. The atmosphere is dark and clubby – heavy drapes, mood lighting, and disco-style color washes are typical. The ground floor bar stocks a range of beers, spirits and cocktails, aligning with the venue’s speakeasy vibe. In fact, reviews note the bartenders craft elaborate drinks: “Whether it’s a classic Martini or a Vault-special cocktail, the beverages are crafted to perfection” . In practice you’ll find both classic cocktails and house specials on the menu, plus straightforward highballs and shots. Light snacks (like pizza or platters) are sometimes offered on busy nights, though the focus is on the bar. The staff tend to wear smart or themed attire, contributing to the immersive feel . The venue has a cloakroom for coats and bags (for a small fee), otherwise anticipate storing jackets at your table or on rails by the wall. Free Wi-Fi is not guaranteed, so mobile data is safest for apps and digital tickets. Each floor has restrooms: besides the first-floor WCs already mentioned, there is also a small men’s/women’s restroom near the ground bar. Given the old building’s layout there are no pillars or overhangs to obstruct sightlines on the main floor – the DJs are fully in view. Do note there is no smoking inside (UK law), but there is space outside the front door and on Poole Hill where guests can step out for a cigarette (with no cover charge to re-enter). Overall, The Vault’s interior is designed for dancing and socialising – expect a tight crowd on busy nights, with loud music and energetic lighting on the dance floor, and more mellow chat in the booth areas.
Nearby Amenities
The Vault is surrounded by plenty of pre- and post-show options typical of central Bournemouth. On Poole Hill itself and side streets you’ll find pubs like The Goat & Tricycle and The Zinc within steps – handy for a casual drink before or after the club. A short walk downhill brings you to Bournemouth’s famous “restaurant row” along Old Christchurch Road, where international cuisines (Italian, Indian, Thai, Chinese, etc.) abound. For pre-show dinner one popular route is straight down Bath Road into the Triangle; there are burger joints, pizza places and cafes such as Annie’s Burger Shack or Kong (depending on your taste) within 5–10 minutes. If you prefer sit-down dining, the Westover Road area (the main shopping triangle) is under a 5-minute walk away and has bistros and chain restaurants (Wagamama, Pizza Express, etc.). As for transportation, the street outside and the Avenue Road car park often have black cabs waiting. If you’re staying overnight in Bournemouth, the Hilton Bournemouth (Westover Road) and several budget hotels (Travelodge, Premier Inn) are also very close, making The Vault an easy late-night destination. After hours, note that bus services (N1/N2) will drop back near the Triangle – or several taxi stands line Westover Road. Private cars can park in the Tower Park car park or drop off at Poole Hill which is lightly policed late at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Vault’s standout characteristic is its fusion of history and nightlife. Few clubs in the South Coast region occupy a genuine bank vault building, and this gives the venue a storybook allure. Patrons often comment on the nostalgic decor and atmosphere – one write-up even describes the interior as a “journey to a different time” with speakeasy glamour . This emphasis on theming is not just for show: regular themed parties (from Wall Street stock-market nights to masquerade balls) truly set it apart. For example, one Wall Street-themed event had drink prices “rising and falling on the big screen in real time” as part of a mock stock market game . Musically, the venue’s willingness to mix live bands with club DJs creates a community vibe – the comeback by indie-rockers Coach Party was framed as a cultural moment for the town . Indeed, local media noted that The Vault’s relaunch “isn’t just another show” but “a signal that Bournemouth’s independent music venues are ready to rise again” . That says a lot about its role: it has long been a springboard for underground and student scenes, yet now it is stepping into the spotlight. The staff and regulars further this special feel: reviewers mention a friendly, well-dressed team and patrons who embrace the club’s vintage-casual vibe . In short, The Vault is special because it blends old-school elegance with modern party energy. It has seen masquerade balls, electro-swing nights, poetry readings and more , making it a cultural hub. Whether you’re after a banging DJ set or a classy cocktail experience, The Vault aims to offer memories beyond a typical night out.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: The Vault is strictly 18+ . Valid photo ID (passport, driving licence) will be checked, so bring one or you won’t be admitted. Note: under-21 or student fare discounts may exist for some club nights, so a student card is useful.
Dress Code: Generally smart-casual. Trainers and jeans are often allowed, but avoid very casual sports gear or beachwear. The venue markets a “dressed-up” vibe , so dress more like you would for a nice bar or lounge. If you want VIP table service, booking in advance is recommended, as “the VIP area is limited” and requires reservations .
Entry & Re-Entry: Doors open late; for club nights this is usually 10pm. If arriving after midnight, expect queues outside on big nights. Ticket or guestlist payment is at the entrance. The club rarely allows re-entry - once you leave the building, you generally cannot come back in that night.
Bags & Security: A security check at the door is standard. Large backpacks or stiff luggage may be refused. Limit what you bring – wallets, phones, and small purses are fine. A free coat check may be provided, or you can hang jackets near your table.
Sound & Sight: The Vault is very loud when DJs are on. If you have sensitive ears, plugs are a good idea. If hearing-impaired, consider sitting at one of the booth tables further from the speakers. There is no specific “bad spot”, but near the corners can be less bass-heavy, whereas center floor is the main dance area with full volume.
Accessibility: There is a wheelchair-accessible restroom on the ground floor . However, note that the actual dance floors are on higher levels accessible only by stairs. If you require step-free access to be in the DJ area, call ahead to ask about accommodations. Hearing loops are unlikely, so noise levels could be a barrier.
What to Bring: Cash (there is usually a card machine at the bar, but small back-up cash is helpful for taxis or tips). A credit/debit card for drinks is fine. A charging cable might be useful if you plan to use mobile payment apps or need a charge overnight.
Don’t Bring: Weapons (including pocket knives) or anything illegal. Also avoid professional camera rigs – if you want photos, a phone or small point-and-shoot is okay, but expect some lighting flashes and lots of people around. Flash photography is frowned upon during DJ sets.
Plan Your Evening: On busy nights, arrive before 11pm or after 1am to avoid the heaviest crowds. If you’re planning a big group outing, book a table or booth in advance (info is on the venue site). Local students often use priority booking or guestlist via partner promoters. Check online event listings a few days in advance for any changes (holiday hours, special events, etc.).
Nearby Transport: After the club closes, buses run 24/7 on Poole Hill (the N1/N2 night buses). If those are too late, walking back toward the Triangle gives more taxis and eventually buses along Westover Road. A short cab ride (or cycle if you use dockless bikes) gets you almost anywhere in Bournemouth. Always plan how to get home – for example, the station is not far, but the closest night bus stops are on Poole Hill itself.
Local Culture: The Vault often has a friendly, community feel. Regulars sometimes line up together for big events, so don’t hesitate to chat. Tipping isn’t required but appreciated. The staff aim for a welcoming atmosphere – it’s common to hear "enjoy yourself!" as you enter. Remember it’s a nightlife venue, so be respectful to others (esp. in queues and on stairs). Everyone is there to have fun, so relax and enjoy the mix of retro charm and modern beats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of The Vault Nightclub Bournemouth?
The Vault's address is 39 Poole Hill, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5PW. It’s just off the main Triangle area, on the hill that leads toward the coast. The entrance faces Poole Hill directly. The club is located in a former bank building (the historic Auction House) a short walk north of Bournemouth’s Westover Road and Old Christchurch Road.
How many people can The Vault hold?
Overall capacity is around 600–700 people across all floors. The main ground-floor dance room (the “Depository”) holds roughly 350 people . The upper Cocktail Lounge and Attic each accommodate about 125 people . These numbers include both standing and seated guests, so for a sold-out club night expect about 600 in total.
What type of music and events can I expect at The Vault?
The Vault hosts a wide variety of nightclubs and live events. Most nights feature DJs spinning genres like house, drum & bass, jungle, garage, hip hop and R&B . There are also themed parties (for example, an R&B festival or Amapiano night) and occasional live music gigs. For example, in 2025 indie rock band Coach Party played the reopening show . In short, look for DJ-led dance nights throughout the week and special one-off concerts or themes on weekends, catering to both mainstream and underground tastes.
Where can I buy tickets and how much are they?
Tickets are generally sold online through the club’s official site or through partner event platforms. There is no physical box office on site, so plan ahead. Prices depend on the event: small club nights might be around £5–10 on the door, and bigger acts or peak parties may be £10–£15 in advance. As an example, the Coach Party show in 2025 was £12 . If tickets remain on the day, you can often buy on arrival, but popular nights may sell out so it’s safest to get tickets early.
What is the seating and layout like inside The Vault?
The Vault is mostly a standing-room club with socially clustered seating. The ground floor has an open dance area with booth seating along the sides . The first floor lounge has sofa booths and tables for groups, and the upper “Attic” level is small with only a couple of booth tables . Best views of the DJs are on the ground floor near the speaker decks; the booths give some elevation but don’t directly face the stage. Because it’s a former bank hall, ceilings are high and sight lines are clear – pillars and posts do not block the floor. Overall, expect a traditional club layout: main dance floor below, quieter lounge above.
Is The Vault wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The ground floor and entry area are level, and there is a fully equipped disabled-access toilet on the ground floor . However, the main club rooms (dance floor on ground level and bar seating) are all accessible without steps. The higher floors (first-floor and second-floor levels) can only be reached by stairs, so a wheelchair user would only use the ground level. If you require full mobility access, it’s best to call ahead, but ground-level access is generally straightforward.
What are the parking options near The Vault?
Street parking is very limited on Poole Hill itself. The closest and most convenient option is the Avenue Road multi-storey car park (BCP Council), which is just a 2-minute walk downhill and offers all-day and evening rates. A property listing even notes a major council car-park about 100m away from the venue . If that fills up, other town centre car parks (e.g. Old Christchurch Road or River Street car parks) are a short taxi ride or additional 5–10 minute walk. On-street parking on Poole Hill is pay-and-display for short windows (just outside the club), but space is scarce on busy nights.
Which public transport routes serve The Vault?
The bus stop “West Cliff / Poole Hill (W-bound)” is right in front of the club. It is served by multiple Morebus routes, including services to Poole, Castlepoint and Southbourne. Notably, the number N1 and N2 night buses run along Poole Hill into the early morning . Regular day buses like the 16, 18, 20 and U4 also stop here . Bournemouth railway station is about 1.2 miles away (roughly a 5-minute drive), and frequent buses and taxis connect the station to central Bournemouth. In short, you can easily reach The Vault by riding any Poole-Bournemouth route, or by walking downhill a bit from the Triangle bus hub.
What are The Vault’s door entry policies?
The Vault enforces a strict 18-plus policy . Expect a quick ID check at the door every time. Security will refuse entry to anyone under 18 or without valid photo ID. The dress code is smart-casual – think tidy club or bar attire . Trainers and casual jeans are usually okay, but beachwear or sports loungewear might be turned away. Once you enter, you generally cannot re-enter if you leave, so plan accordingly. Bags may be searched, and large backpacks or suitcases are discouraged. In short, come prepared with ID, a sober ticket/guest list, and dress to impress.
Are drinks and food available at The Vault?
Yes, The Vault has full bar service. The ground and first floors each have cocktail bars serving beer, wine, spirits and house cocktails. Mixologists often offer creative cocktails (one review boasted that their mixologists craft “classics or Vault-specials…to perfection” ). Expect standard club prices – roughly £4–6 for a beer or soda, £8–10 for cocktails, and spirits by the glass. Some light snacks (like aperitif platters or pizza slices) may be available on busy nights, but there’s no full kitchen menu. Outside food and drink are not allowed. If you want a full meal, plan to eat before arriving at one of the adjacent restaurants on Poole Hill or nearby Christchurch Road.
What makes The Vault different from other Bournemouth clubs?
Its building and atmosphere. The Vault occupies an old Grade II listed bank, so the setting is inherently unique – you get a sense of history walking into a former vault hall. The decor leans into that retro vibe: dim lighting, exposed brick and vintage touches make it feel like a high-end speakeasy. Themed nights also set it apart – for example, they’ve run stock-market parties where drink prices flash like ticker tape , masquerade balls and jazz-swing nights . Culturally, it carries a legacy as a long-time local favourite (even during its previous incarnation as “The Winchester”). Its 2025 reopening was cheered as a “signal” for Bournemouth’s music community . In practice, artists and audiences love it for its sound system (Void speakers) and intimate size, which brings both the energy of a big club and the closeness of a small concert hall.
