East Sussex-based Rockwater has confirmed its third venture will open at the former Sandbanks Beach Cafe off Banks Road. 

It will be the largest restaurant in the company’s portfolio – Rockwater also has a restaurant in Branksome and another in Hove. 

Bosses at the firm, which also offers £1,000-a-year membership, have said the Sandbanks restaurant marks a “key milestone” in the business and Poole. 

Luke Davis, founder and chief executive of Rockwater, said he is “incredibly excited” to open the third Rockwater venue in spring 2025. 

Inside Rockwater in Branksome (Image: China Cooper)

He added: “Sandbanks will be our flagship venue that will set a new standard for luxury coastal hospitality in the UK. Rockwater is more than just a venue, it’s a lifestyle. 

“Just as we have achieved in Branksome and Hove, our Sandbanks site will become a sought-after destination in the local area and hub for the community.  

“Under our roof, guests will enjoy everything from beachside gourmet dining to wellness classes and live music, bringing a hospitality experience that’s aligned with Sandbanks’ prestigious reputation.” 

At £1,000 for an annual membership, Rockwater provides its guests with access to several events, including small concerts with high-profile musicians such as Fatboy Slim and James Bay. 

The new venue will have infrastructure to produce bread, pastries and sauces for both Poole-based restaurants. 

Rockwater founder Luke Davis

A spokesman for Rockwater added: “Positioned on the prestigious Sandbanks peninsula with panoramic views across the Jurassic Coast, the venue will be spread across two floors with an outdoor terrace.  

“Rockwater will serve as a year-round hub for dining, socialising, wellness activities, and entertainment. 

“The picturesque views are central to Rockwater’s unique food and drink offer that will boast two dining concepts under one roof.  

“A fine dining experience will deliver a Mayfair-quality menu by the beach and a British-style open flame cookery area will serve large cuts of fresh fish and meat.  

“A high-end cocktail bar, incorporating a retractable roof, will be located on the top floor offering amazing sea views.” 

Rockwater was founded in Brighton and Hove and eventually expanded to the Branksome site at the former café in 2022. 

Construction work on the Sandbanks site started late last year after a lengthy planning application process. 

It had to be redesigned due to nesting lizards in sand dunes which Mr Davis jokingly dubbed ‘Lizard-gate’. 

Despite the Branksome site garnering objections, there were no such concerns raised by residents, councillors or official consultees over Sandbanks.