Local Area
On your doorstep....
In and around Poole, Dorset
There are so many things to see and do in Poole, the choice is endless.
Treat yourself to a cruise around Poole Harbour or test your skills on a stand-up paddle board, take a walk around the elegant Old Town and modern Quayside, check out the super yachts (home of the Sunseeker!), or escape the hustle and bustle with a day out at Upton Country Park.
Poole is famous for it's wonderful golden sandy beaches, but it's not all about soaking up the summer sun - Poole really is a destination for all seasons.
The Beach
Sandbanks beaches are the jewel of Poole’s crown. Relax on Poole’s three miles of award-winning Blue Flag beaches which are simply breath-taking at any time of year. With miles of beautiful golden sand, clean waters, facilities for children and a long promenade close to the sand all the way to Bournemouth, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here at Sandbanks.
The Kids
Designed specifically with under 8 year olds in mind, Farmer Palmers on the outskirts of Poole is filled with fun things to do, play areas, animal feeding and of course lots of space for the kiddies to run around and burn off some energy.
The Parks
Poole Park is a short walking distance from the town centre and includes tennis courts, a bowling green, outdoor play areas and a fitness trail.
The Kitchen (lakeside restaurant) is the perfect location for a light bite, coffee and cake, or refreshments on the terrace. With stunning views across Poole Park’s saltwater lake and further onto Sandbanks and the harbour, The Kitchen is a breathtaking location.
Upton Country Park
There’s something for everyone at Upton Country Park. Marvel at the grand Grade II* listed Georgian Mansion House, enjoy the wildlife along the shoreline, allow the children to blow off steam at Spurrier’s Play Park or with a ball game on the front lawn, enjoy our regular activities and events – or simply find a quiet spot to admire the amazing horticulture and beautiful botanical Walled Garden.
The Harbour
Immerse yourself in Poole Harbour, the second largest natural harbour in the world. A harbour cruise is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery of Poole’s eight unique islands, including Brownsea Island.
Brownsea Island
Grab your binoculars and explore all that the National Trust’s Brownsea Island has to offer, you may even spot the elusive Red Squirrel or the amazing array of birdlife on route.
Famous for being the birthplace of the Scouting and Guide movement which all started with Lord Baden-Powell's experimental camp on the island in 1907. Scouts and Guides still visit from all over the world to camp on the site where it all began.
If you're a Famous Five fan, you may think that Brownsea Island reminds you of one of the islands in Enid Blyton's books. And you'd be correct, because it was the inspiration for ''Whispering Island and 'Keep Away Island' which featured in a couple of her books. In Enid’s time, Brownsea Island was owned by the very reclusive Mrs Bonham-Christie, who would not tolerate visitors. Now, the Island is open to everyone but you will need to catch a boat to the Island from Sandbanks or Poole Quay.
The RNLI
Discover the history of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution RNLI
Poole is home to the RNLI. See how volunteer crews and lifeguards from all over the UK and Ireland are trained with a behind-the-scenes tour of the RNLI college including their world-class Sea Survival centre, which hosts the wave tank and Lifeboat simulator.
The Quay and historic Old Town
Stroll along the quayside, see the luxury Sunseeker yachts across the water and relax in one the traditional pubs or stylish cafes. Check out the impressive Twin Sales Bridge, - The bridge got its name Twin Sails due to the sail-like appearance of the triangular lifting leaves.
Visit Poole Museum (free entry) and Tourist Information Centre to pick up one of the historic trails, then head to the beautiful Old Town to discover all about Poole’s past.
And when you’ve done all of this, there is only one more visit you’ll want to make …
The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a hugely diverse and beautiful landscape underpinned by incredible geology of global importance. In 2001 it was inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for the outstanding universal value of its rocks, fossils and landforms. It remains England’s only natural World Heritage Site.
The Jurassic Coast begins at Orcombe Point in Exmouth, Devon, and continues for 95 miles to Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage, Dorset. This span takes in four distinct geographic regions – East Devon, West Dorset, Weymouth & Portland and Purbeck – each containing their own iconic towns, villages and natural landscapes.
And when you’ve done all of this, there is only one more visit you’ll want to make …
The Wine
Did you know that Dorset is becoming known for it's vineyards? Take a fascinating tour with the owners of English Oak Vineyard followed by wine tasting of their award winning produce.
Further Recommendations
Poole is such an exciting holiday location, we definitely recommend staying for a while so you can enjoy all Poole has to offer!
For all the information you need to plan a Poole holiday, please visit Poole Tourism's official website or sign up for the latest destination and event news and special offers.