Dorset Guides: What to See in Poole

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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.

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.

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.

Five Memorable Date Ideas in Poole for Couples

Activities & Sports » GET ACTIVE: Things To Do

Five Memorable Date Ideas in Poole for Couples

Looking for memorable date ideas and things to do for couples in Poole? Discover five varied experiences for two, from exploring Brownsea Island and cruising across Poole Harbour at sunset to wandering through Compton Acres, learning a watersport at Sandbanks and enjoying an evening performance at Lighthouse Poole. Whether planning a romantic weekend, first date or relaxed day out, these Poole couple activities offer scenery, adventure and quality time together.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.