Welcome to the Russell-Cotes: House Gallery Garden – One of the most fascinating historic houses in England. The Russell-Cotes was the home of two Victorian collectors and travel enthusiasts, Sir Merton and Lady Annie Russell-Cotes.

There is a regular programme of exhibitions featuring both art and artefacts from the Russell-Cotes own extensive collections, and talks, tours and events take place throughout the year. See the website for full details, visit russellcotes.com.

For many years I had it in mind that someday I would build a house after my own heart, as an offering of love and affection to my wife.
Merton Russell-Cotes

In 1901, Merton gave his wife Annie a dream house on a cliff-top, overlooking the sea. It was an extraordinary birthday present – lavish splendid, and with a touch of fantasy.
They filled this exotic seaside villa with beautiful objects from their travels across the world, and lined the walls with a remarkable collection of British art, creating a unique atmosphere in a most dramatic setting.

Then they sealed it in time and gave it to the future…

The main hall has a remarkable collection of high Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite art, including many works by women artists. Other rooms house souvenirs from the couple’s travels, with works from Russia, Australia, New Zealand and the world-renowned Japanese collection. With stunning views, a serene cliff-top garden and stylish café, Merton’s extravagant gift to his wife is one of Bournemouth’s most intriguing visitor attractions.


Additional information:
Access: the entrance is via a steep slope. Electric scooters must be outside, however a manual wheelchair is available. All parts of the building can be reached by lift, except the upper floor.

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Facilities

Opening Times

Guide Prices

Road Directions

Sat nav: BH1 3AA

From London: Take the M25, M3, M27 and A31 to Ringwood. From Ringwood follow the A338 (Wessex Way) to Bournemouth.

From the North & West: Head to the A31/A338 Ashley Heath junction just outside Ringwood and take the A338 (Wessex Way) to Bournemouth.

From the A338 (Wessex Way): Turn onto the A35 (St Paul’s Road). At the roundabout take the third exit (B3066) along Holdenhurst Road. Keep following the signs for the B3066, which will lead on to Bath Road.

The closest car park is Bath Road South. There is also parking available on the cliff top and alternative car parks nearby.

Public Transport Directions

By Foot

The Russell-Cotes is on the East Cliff Promenade, just two minutes walk from Bournemouth Pier and ten minutes walk from the town centre.

By Bike

There are bicycle-racks on the East Cliff Promenade next to the Russell-Cotes entrance. Bicycles are not allowed in to the house’s historic garden.

By Bus

The house is situated on the main bus routes with services provided by Wilts & Dorset Buses, which run from the Travel Interchange every three to four minutes. The journey takes about five minutes.The bus stop for Wilts & Dorset Buses: M1 and 13 is on Westover Road by the Bournemouth Pavilion.

By Rail

The Russell-Cotes is 1.2 miles from Bournemouth Railway Station (approximately 20 minutes walk). Busses run from the station to Bath Road. For train timetable information visit www.nationalrail.co.uk.