Places to Visit Around & in Poole

Discover the best Places to Visit on Day Trips in and around Poole. From the legendary Stonehenge, to Dorset's own Durdle Door, there are plenty of beautiful sites to explore. 

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Hengistbury Head Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Hengistbury Head Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

Discover everything you need to know about visiting Hengistbury Head, including walking routes, beaches, wildlife, parking, the land train and nearby attractions in Christchurch, Dorset.

My Experience Visiting Compton Acres

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

My Experience Visiting Compton Acres

Discover Compton Acres in Poole, one of Dorset’s most beautiful ornamental gardens near Bournemouth. Explore themed gardens including Italian, Japanese and woodland valley landscapes, perfect for peaceful walks, photography and family days out. A must-visit attraction for anyone searching for things to do in Poole or gardens in Dorset.

Tower Park Poole: Things to Do, Restaurants, Parking & Visitor Guide

Activities & Sports » GET ACTIVE: Things To Do

Tower Park Poole: Things to Do, Restaurants, Parking & Visitor Guide

Plan your visit to Tower Park in Poole with our guide to its attractions, cinema, restaurants, parking and visitor facilities. The entertainment complex is home to Splashdown Waterpark, Lemur Landings, Hollywood Bowl, Vue cinema, Buzz Bingo, PureGym and a wide choice of places to eat and drink. With free onsite parking and entertainment for children and adults, Tower Park is one of the most convenient places in Poole for an all-weather family day out or evening with friends.

Hamworthy Park: Beach, Paddling Pool, Parking & Visitor Guide

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

Hamworthy Park: Beach, Paddling Pool, Parking & Visitor Guide

Plan a visit to Hamworthy Park in Poole with essential information on parking, facilities, accessibility, the children’s paddling pool, play area, beach and dog-friendly areas. Set beside Poole Harbour, the park offers large open lawns, harbour views, a seasonal paddling pool, fitness equipment, refreshments and access to watersports. With a year-round dog-friendly beach and family facilities, Hamworthy Park is a useful free destination for relaxed outdoor days in Poole.

Why Upton Country Park Should Be on Your Dorset Bucket List

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

Why Upton Country Park Should Be on Your Dorset Bucket List

Discover why Upton Country Park deserves a place on your Dorset bucket list. Set on the edge of Poole Harbour, this beautiful 160-acre country park combines historic gardens, peaceful woodland walks, open parkland and the elegant Upton House to create one of Dorset's most rewarding free days out. Whether you're visiting with family, enjoying a scenic dog walk or simply looking to unwind in nature, Upton Country Park offers something special in every season.

Compton Acres Poole

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

Compton Acres Poole

Compton Acres are one of the UK’s finest privately owned historic gardens located in Canford Cliffs in Poole,Dorset. Compton Acres is made up of five distinctly beautiful gardens, from the Italian to the Wooded Valley, Rock & Water, Heather and Japanese Gardens. The gardens are open all year round with many rare, colourful and interesting plant species on show through all seasons. Providing a truly special and unique experience, you can also visit their bright and airy Cafe & Tearooms, dedicated Plant Centre and adjoining Gift Shop.

THE NICI Becomes Bournemouth’s First Five-Star AA Hotel in 26 Years

Accommodation - Places to Stay

THE NICI Becomes Bournemouth’s First Five-Star AA Hotel in 26 Years

THE NICI has been awarded Five AA Stars, becoming Bournemouth’s first five-star hotel in 26 years and marking a major milestone for the town’s luxury tourism scene.

5 of the Best Things to Do in Poole

Activities & Sports » GET ACTIVE: Things To Do

5 of the Best Things to Do in Poole

Looking for the best things to do in Poole? Beyond its famous harbour and golden beaches, the town offers wildlife-filled islands, historic streets, ornamental gardens, watersports, family attractions and memorable experiences found nowhere else in Dorset. Whether we are crossing the water to Brownsea Island, exploring Poole’s maritime past or discovering a quieter stretch of coastline, these are some of the best ways to experience Poole.

Poole Old Lifeboat Museum: Opening Times, Admission & Visitor Guide

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Museums

Poole Old Lifeboat Museum: Opening Times, Admission & Visitor Guide

Discover Poole Old Lifeboat Museum on Poole Quay, a free RNLI museum exploring the town’s lifesaving history from 1865 to the present day. Housed inside Poole’s former lifeboat station, the museum features the historic Thomas Kirk Wright lifeboat, displays about past and present RNLI crews and an onsite RNLI shop. Find current opening times, admission information, contact details, parking and everything you need to know before visiting this historic Poole attraction.

Dorset Cruises Poole: Boat Trips, Prices & Visitor Guide

Activities & Sports » Sailing & Boats » Boats Trips & Excursions

Dorset Cruises Poole: Boat Trips, Prices & Visitor Guide

Discover Dorset Cruises in Poole with essential information on boat trips, prices, private charters, food and drink and departures from Poole Quay. Cruises take place aboard the historic Dorset Queen, a restored vintage motor yacht offering themed experiences including fish and chips, afternoon tea, gin and jazz, Wareham trips and special events. With onboard bars and views across Poole Harbour, Dorset Cruises combines sightseeing with food, drink and entertainment for a more experience-led day on the water.

Branksome Chine Beach: Parking, Facilities & Visitor Guide

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Branksome Chine Beach: Parking, Facilities & Visitor Guide

Plan a visit to Branksome Chine Beach in Poole with essential information on parking, facilities, accessibility, lifeguards, dog restrictions and places to eat. This popular Blue Flag beach offers golden sand, a promenade, accessible beach facilities and seasonal RNLI lifeguards, with Rockwater Branksome providing beachfront food and drink overlooking the sea. Discover everything you need to know before visiting Branksome Chine, whether you are planning a family beach day, coastal walk or morning beside the water.

Greenslade Pleasure Boats Poole: Cruises, Prices & Visitor Guide

Activities & Sports » Sailing & Boats » Boats Trips & Excursions

Greenslade Pleasure Boats Poole: Cruises, Prices & Visitor Guide

Discover Greenslade Pleasure Boats in Poole with essential information on cruises, ferry routes, prices, departure points and booking. This family-run Poole Quay company has operated boat trips since 1970, with current sailings including Poole Harbour and Sandbanks cruises, Brownsea Island ferries, Wareham River trips and wildlife cruises with Birds of Poole Harbour. Whether you want a short sightseeing cruise or a longer day on the water, Greenslade offers several ways to explore Poole Harbour and Dorset’s coastline.

Free Things to Do in Poole This Summer

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Seasonal Activities » Summer Things To Do

Free Things to Do in Poole This Summer

Enjoy summer in Poole without spending a fortune with these free activities, attractions and seasonal events. From swimming at Sandbanks and exploring the gardens and woodland of Upton Country Park to joining outdoor yoga, uncovering Poole’s maritime history and watching fireworks over the harbour, there are plenty of affordable ways to make the most of the town. These varied ideas include options for families, couples, walkers and anyone looking for a memorable day out on a budget.

Sandbanks Beach | Beaches, Family Days Out & Things to Do in Poole

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Sandbanks Beach | Beaches, Family Days Out & Things to Do in Poole

Plan your visit to Sandbanks Beach in Poole with essential information on parking, facilities, accessibility, lifeguards, dog restrictions and things to do. This popular Blue Flag beach on the Sandbanks peninsula is ideal for families, swimmers and visitors looking for one of the best beaches in Poole. Discover everything you need to know before visiting Sandbanks Beach, including nearby amenities, seasonal facilities and practical tips for a day by the coast.

Poole Park: Things to Do, Parking, Facilities & Visitor Guide

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

Poole Park: Things to Do, Parking, Facilities & Visitor Guide

Discover everything you need to know before visiting Poole Park, including parking, facilities, accessibility, food and drink, children’s play areas, Poole Park Railway and activities around the boating lake. Located close to Poole town centre, this popular free attraction is ideal for family days out, walks, picnics and outdoor activities. Find essential visitor information, practical tips and details of what you can see and do at Poole Park.

Poole Harbour in Dorset

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Beaches & Coves

Poole Harbour in Dorset

Discover Poole Harbour, one of Dorset's most iconic natural attractions and the largest natural harbour in Europe. From scenic waterfront walks and unforgettable boat trips to watersports, wildlife and stunning views across Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour offers something for every visitor. Whether you're planning a family day out, a coastal adventure or simply looking to relax by the water, this guide includes everything you need to plan your visit.

Upton Country Park Poole | Visitor Guide

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Parks & Gardens

Upton Country Park Poole | Visitor Guide

Plan your visit to Upton Country Park in Poole, one of Dorset's most popular free attractions. Explore 160 acres of award-winning gardens, woodland trails, Poole Harbour views and the historic Upton House. With family-friendly play areas, dog-friendly walks, seasonal events, accessible facilities and a welcoming café, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing day out near Poole and Bournemouth.

Brownsea Island Dorset - The Ultimate Guide

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Nature & Countryside

Brownsea Island Dorset - The Ultimate Guide

Plan your visit to Brownsea Island, one of Dorset's most extraordinary National Trust destinations. Discover peaceful woodland walks, rare red squirrels, spectacular wildlife, family-friendly adventures and breathtaking views across Poole Harbour. From ferry information and opening times to facilities, accessibility and visitor tips, this guide has everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable day on one of Dorset's most iconic islands.

A Winter Visit to Upton Country Park

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Best Places to Visit

A Winter Visit to Upton Country Park

Enjoy a winter visit to Upton Country Park near Poole and Bournemouth. Discover our experience, what to expect in winter, how to get there, parking details and why it’s a perfect seasonal walk.

Exploring Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court: Maritime Museum, Gallery and Cultural Centre

Visitor & Tourism Guide » Museums

Exploring Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court: Maritime Museum, Gallery and Cultural Centre

Plan your visit to Poole Museum & Scaplen's Court, one of Dorset's most fascinating heritage attractions. Explore interactive exhibitions, beautifully restored medieval buildings, peaceful historic gardens and the rich maritime story of Poole, all just moments from Poole Quay. Whether you're interested in local history, architecture or looking for a free family-friendly attraction, this visitor guide includes everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit.