The De Vere Royal Bath Hotel was the first hotel in Bournemouth, with a commanding position on the East Cliff. The hotel opened on Queen Victoria's coronation day in June 1838 and since then has entertained countless distinguished visitors. Royal visitors include the Prince of Wales in 1856, the King and Queen of Sweden, and Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III. Disraeli and Gladstone, political rivals of the 19th Century also stayed here. The hotel has luxurious and spacious guest bedrooms to suit all needs, tastes and desires.