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Poole (/ p uː l / ⓘ) is a coastal town and seaport on the south coast of England in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole unitary authority area in Dorset, England. The town is 21 miles (34 km) east of Dorchester and adjoins Bournemouth to the east.
Discover Poole, a maritime town in Dorset with golden sands, ancient history and Jurassic Coast views. Find things to do, events, accommodation, food and drink, and more on the official Poole Tourism website.
- 15 Things to Do in Poole
- Things to Do with Kids in Poole
- Things to Do in Poole For Adults
- Poole Festival Dates For Your Diary
- Where to Stay in Poole
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1. Poole Habour
Poole Harbour is often called the largest natural harbour in the world, although that claim seems to be a little debated. Whether or not it’s truly the largest, we can agree that the harbour is seriously big! The harbour spans an area of around 36 km2(14 sq mi) and is lined with various marinas and beaches, as well as protected wetlands, stunning coastal walks, and rich, unspoilt woodland. There are even several islands dotted throughout the harbour. There’s a lot to see and do in and around...
2. Sandbanks Beach
A small peninsula jutting out into Poole Harbour from neighbouring Bournemouth, Sandbanks is famous as the “most expensive seaside in the world”. The waterfront mansions have such high price tags that this is one of the priciest places to live on that planet! And you can see why, as you walk along the stunning white sand beach which skirts the edges of this picturesque peninsula. Admire the yachts in the marina and the striking mansions on “Millionaires Row” (Sandbanks Street). Spend the day...
3. Poole Park
One of my favourite things to do in Poole is to visit the town’s vast harbourside park. Poole Park is a sprawling green space on the edge of the town, covering some 110 acres with parks, gardens, a saltwater lagoon, and some beautiful lakes. There are two massive play areas for the kids, as well as crazy golf, a bowling green, and pedalo hire! It’s the perfect place to take the kids, but adults will also love long walks along the harbour or through the picturesque gardens.
1. Splashdown Water Park
I’ve already mentioned Tower Park as one of the best things to do in Poole. Splashdown is one of the main attractions there, and it’s a brilliant family day out! It’s an indoor waterpark with flumes, slides, and other water rides. From slow-paced tyre waterslides to more intense flumes, there’s something for everyone and loads of fun rides to try. I’ve always been a big fan of the “infinity bowl” slide, in which you spiral around a giant bowl before dropping into the water below!
2. Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park
One of the best family days out near Poole is Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park. This sprawling park has been a hit with my family since my little brothers were small, and it’s gotten even bigger and better in recent years! You can get a brilliant glimpse of life on a working farm, with loadsof opportunities to get up close to various farm animals. The list of animal activities includes pig exercising, goat feeding, and deer feeding! As well as the brilliant animal activities, there are plenty of oth...
3. Monkey World
Monkey World is one of the most popular family-friendly days out in Dorset.This is not a zoo, but a primate and ape rescue centre.They’ve rescued chimps, monkeys, and apes from all over the world – saving them from things like the illegal pet trade, tourist photo props, and circuses. Many are rehabilitated into the wild, but when it’s not possible, they stay at the centre living in spacious, thoughtfully designed enclosures. So guests can visit and get some up-close encounters with a wide ran...
1. Take a “Booze” Cruise
Fancy something a bit different? One of the best things to do in Poole for grown-ups has to be the special ticketed cruises run by Dorset Cruises. They offer a fabulous range of themed cruises in Poole Harbour,including Afternoon High Tea, Reggae & Rum, Champagne & Oysters, even a Dorset Black Cow Vodka Cruise. My personal choice would be the Artisan Gin Tasting cruise (from £45pp). These special, ticketed events include food and drink, and some even have live music. Perfect for an unusual ac...
2. English Oak Vineyard
There are several amazing Dorset vineyards dotted around the county, producing some delicious English Wines. And English Oak Vineyard, just outside of Poole, is one of the best. This is a 23-acre family-run boutique vineyardwith a picturesque 17th-century farmhouse and 23,000 vines, all surrounded by the majestic oaks which inspired the winery’s name. During summer, you can visit for a tour and tasting – starting from £20 per person. Private tours can also be arranged.
3. Sandbanks Brewery
Sandbanks Brewery is a small, local brewery producing a range of beers using local ingredients. They have an onsite taproom which you can visit to try the range and chat with the staff for more info about production! RELATED POST: 15 Brilliant Dorset Breweries to Visit
Throughout the year, Poole always hosts a fantastic array of festivals and eventsto keep locals and visitors busy. Poole Quay For My Car – a unique, themed car event every Friday evening throughout August. 4 August – 25 Aug 2023 SandFest at Sandbanks – boutique beach festival with DJ’s and live acts as well as funky food stalls and fully licensed b...
I’ll compile a more succinct list of places to stay in Poole in a separate blog post, so for now here’s a map to quickly search all available accommodations in the area.
Discover the best attractions and activities in Poole, a historic town with the largest natural harbour in the world. Explore the islands, beaches, parks, museums, and more in this comprehensive guide by a local expert.
Poole is a popular tourist destination in Dorset, offering Europe's largest natural harbour, award winning blue flag beaches, watersports, historic attractions and events. Explore Poole's quayside, old town, parks, islands and nearby Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Things to Do in Poole, England: See Tripadvisor's 121,205 traveler reviews and photos of Poole tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July. We have reviews of the best places to see in Poole. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Jan 3, 2024 · Discover the best activities and attractions in Poole, the gateway to the Jurassic Coast. Enjoy stunning beaches, a historic harbour, a vibrant arts scene, and more in this sunny seaside town.
Discover the best things to do in Poole, from beaches and harbour to museums and parks. Find family fun, history and culture, group friendly activities and more in this beautiful coastal town.
