10 Best Things to Do in Poole, Dorset

Poole is a quaint coastal town on the southern coast of England that has a rich history and many outdoor attractions to enjoy. Famous for its impressively large harbour, Poole has served as an important trading seaport throughout the years and was also a major departing point for the Normandy landings.

Today, the town is quietly pleasant during the winter months and really comes to life in the summer. Visitors come from far and wide to experience water sports in the harbour, visit the pretty beaches and enjoy the quaint British-seaside vibes on the waterfront. As for the dining scene, seafood is the order of the day, beautifully fresh thanks to Poole’s coastal location. Below are some highlights you shouldn’t miss on your visit to this pretty town, which many refer to as ‘the jewel of Dorset’.

What are the best things to do in Poole?

1. Poole Harbour

Take a walk along the waterfront

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Poole Harbour is undoubtedly the biggest attraction in town. This impressively large natural harbour was once one of the most important seaports for trading in Europe. While trade has declined, the port is still busy, and ferries run between here and Cherbourg in France.

The Harbour is home to numerous islands, the largest being Brownsea. In the summer the waters turn a beautiful shade of blue more commonly found in southern Europe than off the coast of England. Poole Harbour is an excellent spot for windsurfing, and there are many other water sports on offer for thrill-seekers including sailing, kayaking and wakeboarding. It’s also possible to go scuba diving and snorkelling.

Posizione: Poole Harbour, Poole, UK

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2. Brownsea Island

Take a boat out to the largest island in the harbour

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Accessible only by boat, Brownsea Island is the largest island in Poole Harbour and a magnet for visitors during the summer months. The scenery on the island is stunning, from rugged rocky beaches to the dramatic Brownsea Castle, which was built by Henry VIII with the aim of protecting Poole Harbour.

Owned by the National Trust, the island is a fantastic place to explore and a great way to do so is by going on a guided walking tour. This is also an interesting way to learn about the history of the island, which was the founding place of the Scout movement.

Posizione: Brownsea Island, Poole BH13 7EE, UK

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3. Old Town Poole

Stroll around the city’s charming historical quarter

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The Old Town is a charming area of Poole, full of cobbled streets and impressive architecture. Pass by merchant terraced houses and be sure to stop by the impressive Guildhall on Market Street.

This area, located a short walk from the Quayside and Harbour, is also home to several excellent restaurants. The Crown Hotel serves fine-dining fare at affordable prices, while the bistro at the Hotel du Vin is the place to go for seasonal French cuisine.

Posizione: Old Town, Strand St, Poole BH15 1RX, UK

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4. Poole Quayside

Browse the independent shops in this stunning location

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A few minutes walk away from Poole Harbour, the Quayside offers perhaps the chicest part of Poole. There are plenty of high-quality restaurants in this area as well as traditional pubs, and also the oldest Italian restaurant in Poole, La Lupa. They serve excellent pizza in the classic Neapolitan style.

The Quayside is a great place to shop away from the high street where you can find several independent shops offering, to give but one example, contemporary works of art.

Posizione: The Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ, UK

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5. Sandbanks Beach

Relax on the beach and take a dip

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Sandbanks Beach is considered to be one of Britain’s prettiest beaches, winning the Blue Flag every year for over 3 decades. The soft yellow sand and the beautiful views out over the swimmable blue water make for an excellent summer’s day out.

There is a play area for children and designated sections of the beach, especially for dogs and barbecues. There is also a water sports area for those wishing to try surfing or kayaking (rentals are available) and there’s also a popular crazy golf site.

Posizione: Sandbanks Beach, Banks Road, BH13 7QQ, UK

Telefono: +44 1202 708181

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6. Hamworthy Park

Enjoy the quaint beach huts

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Hamworthy Park is a beautiful open space just across the water from Poole Harbour. The area was previously an Iron Age fort founded by the Romans as a base for invasion. Travelling just outside of the centre is well worth it for this charming park, loved by locals.

The best time to visit Hamworthy Park, which joins onto Hamworthy beach, is sunset. The park’s vibe is distinctly seaside-esque, with vintage beach huts dotted along the front.

Posizione: Hamworthy Park, Lulworth Avenue, Poole, BH15 4DH, UK

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7. Compton Acres

Take in the lush greenery of these private gardens

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Compton Acres is an absolute must for garden enthusiasts visiting Poole. The grounds contain several beautifully kept gardens, each with a different theme. There is an Italian-style garden as well as a beautiful Japanese garden, which was designed by a Japanese architect.

With an onsite café, bakery and head chef there’s no reason not to spend the whole day wandering around this lush, tranquil paradise and staying just a little longer for a bite to eat.

Posizione: Compton Acres, Canford Cliffs Road, Poole, BH13 7ES, UK

Orario di apertura: April–October from 10 am to 6 pm, November–March from 10 am to 4 pm

Telefono: +44 (0)1202 700 788

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8. Upton Country Park

Explore the woodland in this spectacular park

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Upton Country Park is a haven away from the town. It houses Upton Country House, a Georgian Mansion open to the public on certain days (be sure to check!). Well-informed volunteers give guided tours of the house.

For the more outdoorsy type, the surrounding parkland offers plenty to do. There are trails for walks and cycling, including some that go along the shoreline. One trail, in particular, is designed for children and the Walled Garden is an excellent place to relax and enjoy a picnic.

Posizione: Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, BH17 7BJ, UK

Orario di apertura: October–March from 8 am to 6 pm, April–September from 8 am to 9 pm

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9. Tower Park

Have some fun and grab a bite to eat

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Tower Park is a multi-venue entertainment complex and one of those places for the rainy days that English weather seems to bring around. Offering all manner of entertainment in one location, it would be easy to spend the whole day here with your family and still not have done everything.

There are a water park, cinema and bowling alley to keep yourself entertained, as well as a bingo hall popular with locals. And for afterwards, there are plenty of high-quality chain restaurants onsite – you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Posizione: Tower Park, Yarrow Road, Poole, BH12 4NY, UK

Orario di apertura: Daily 6 am to 12 am (hours for individual shops and restaurants vary)

Telefono: +44 (0)1202 722917

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10. Farmer Palmers Farm Park

Take the children for a fun-filled day out

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Farmer Palmers Farm Park is a firm favourite with families and those visiting with children. Young ones will be delighted to pet the animals, and there are also other animal-based activities and regular events throughout the year.

Getting lost in the maize maze is a fun way to spend an afternoon and there are also trails for those who want to explore the picturesque wider area.

Posizione: Farmer Palmers Farm Park, Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, BH16 6EU, UK

Orario di apertura: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm (varies by season)

Telefono: +44 (0)1202 622 022

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