This coastal town in Dorset has Europe's largest natural harbor and a long history of maritime trade. Sandy beaches and a 19th-century lighthouse draw visitors to its waterfront.
Poole sits along the Dorset coast, where you'll find Europe's largest natural harbor and the golden sands of Sandbanks Beach. Walk through streets dating back to the 1400s in the Old Town, watch red squirrels scampering through pine trees on Brownsea Island, or catch a theatre performance at the Lighthouse arts centre. At the working quay, fishing boats unload their daily catch while tall ships dock alongside modern yachts.
Exploring Poole's Natural Harbor
The natural harbor covers 25 square miles (65 square km) and includes eight islands. Take a boat trip from Poole Quay to see salt marshes and mudflats where migrating birds feed. Learn windsurfing in the calm, shallow waters, or join a sailing class - local water sports centers teach more than 25 different activities. Sign up for a guided fishing trip and catch mackerel, bass, or plaice.
Beaches and Sandbanks Peninsula
Four main beaches stretch along 3 miles (4.8 km) of Poole Bay: Sandbanks, Shore Road, Canford Cliffs Chine, and Branksome Chine. The clean golden sand and clear water at Sandbanks maintain Blue Flag certification year after year. The peninsula has become one of the most expensive coastal areas in the world, ranking fourth globally for land prices.
Life Along Poole Quay
Walk along the waterfront to see Georgian warehouses converted into apartments next to 15th-century buildings. Stop to examine Sea Music, a metal sculpture by Sir Anthony Caro, and find the bronze statue of Robert Baden-Powell marking the Scout Movement's birth on Brownsea Island. Watch fishing boats arrive with their catch or see tall ships dock throughout the year.
Arts and Entertainment at the Lighthouse
Visit multiple venues within the Lighthouse complex: a concert hall, studio, theatre, cinema, and art galleries. See contemporary photography exhibitions and digital art installations. Check the schedule for live music performances, theatre productions, and cultural events happening during your stay.
Exploring Brownsea Island
Take a 20-minute ferry ride to Brownsea Island, the harbor's largest island. Walk the National Trust nature trails to spot red squirrels in their natural habitat and watch birds from the viewing hides. Visit the site of the world's first Scout camp, marked by a commemorative stone and information panels.
Getting Around
Catch the Purbeck Breezer buses to travel between different areas of Poole - in summer, ride the open-top buses for harbor views. Walk between the three main shopping areas: the Dolphin Shopping Centre, High Street, and Poole Quay take about 20 minutes to connect. Direct trains run to London Waterloo from Poole station. Drive to Poole via the M3/M27 from the east or A35 from the west.
