Discover five Poole pubs worth visiting, from historic inns overlooking the harbour to stylish gastropubs, neighbourhood favourites and relaxed venues close to the beach. Rather than ranking them from “best” to worst, this guide highlights what makes each pub different, whether we are searching for fresh seafood on Poole Quay, a generous Sunday roast, a sunny garden, live entertainment or somewhere welcoming for the whole family.
31st July 2026
Poole has no shortage of pubs, but choosing where to go depends on the kind of experience we want. Some are rooted in the maritime history of the Old Town, while others are designed for long lunches, family meals or drinks in the garden.
These five Poole pubs have been selected because each offers a distinct reason to visit.
Few pubs are as closely connected to Poole’s history as the Poole Arms. The family-run pub dates back to 1635 and describes itself as the oldest pub on Poole Quay, making it an appropriate place to begin exploring the town’s maritime character.
Its green-tiled exterior is one of the most recognisable sights on the quay, while the compact interior feels more like a traditional drinking house than a large modern restaurant. The menu places particular emphasis on fresh fish and seafood, fitting naturally with the pub’s harbour setting.
This is somewhere to choose when we want atmosphere rather than an enormous dining room. A table near the front places us close to the activity of the quay, with boats, visitors and waterfront events passing outside.
One important detail for families is that the Poole Arms does not admit under-18s because of its licensing conditions. It is therefore better suited to adults meeting for seafood, local beer or an evening drink.
Worth visiting for: Historic character, seafood and an unmistakably Poole setting.
A little further along Poole Quay, the Portsmouth Hoy offers another historic waterfront experience, but with a slightly more relaxed, family-friendly character.
The pub overlooks Poole Harbour and is known for its atmospheric maritime interior, harbour views and position at the centre of the quayside. Its food offering combines seafood with familiar pub classics, making it useful when a group wants varied choices rather than an entirely fish-focused menu.
The setting is a major part of its appeal. We can stop here before a harbour cruise, return after a trip to Brownsea Island or use it as the final point of a walk through Poole Old Town.
Children and dogs are welcomed, and the pub serves Badger beers alongside its food menu. This makes it a more flexible choice for mixed groups than some of the smaller traditional pubs nearby.
Worth visiting for: Harbour views, maritime atmosphere and a meal during a day on Poole Quay.
The Britannia brings a more contemporary gastropub experience to Ashley Cross.
Its interior combines the comfort of a neighbourhood pub with a polished restaurant feel, but the garden is one of its strongest features. The colourful outdoor area includes stylish seating, an outside bar and an open fireplace, creating a space suited to both summer drinks and cooler evenings.
Food is treated as more than an accompaniment to a pint. The kitchen works with seasonal menus, placing an emphasis on fresh produce and dishes that change throughout the year. Sunday lunch is also given its own dedicated service, making the pub a useful choice for a more leisurely weekend meal.
The Britannia is dog-friendly and even offers dedicated options for four-legged visitors, alongside water bowls and treats. Its Ashley Cross location also makes it easy to continue the evening at the area’s surrounding bars and restaurants.
Worth visiting for: Seasonal food, a stylish garden and a sociable Ashley Cross atmosphere.
The Grasshopper is difficult to overlook. The large Parkstone pub occupies a historic building once known as the Half Way House Hotel because of its position between Poole and Bournemouth.
Inside, reclaimed pieces from a former Victorian brewery sit alongside exposed brickwork and more modern design. One of its most distinctive details is a fireplace created using vintage copper beer kettles, giving the pub character beyond a standard refurbishment.
The food ranges from lighter lunches and familiar pub dishes to seasonal specials and Sunday roasts. Its size and varied seating areas make it particularly practical for family gatherings, groups and occasions when several generations are dining together. Children’s meals and activity packs are available, while dogs are also welcome.
During July and August, the pub currently runs live outdoor music on Friday evenings, adding another reason to visit during the summer.
Worth visiting for: Characterful interiors, family meals and relaxed summer evenings.
Tucked away in Hamworthy, the Yachtsman offers a quieter alternative to the busier pubs around Poole Quay and Ashley Cross.
The pub is located a short distance from Hamworthy Park and beach, making it a convenient stop after a coastal walk, family afternoon or visit to the park. Hall & Woodhouse describes it as a family-friendly town pub, with traditional features including flagstone flooring and rustic oak beams.
Its large garden and relaxed atmosphere make it particularly appealing during warmer weather. The pub also runs regular entertainment and seasonal events, with its current programme including live music, themed festivals and music-based bingo.
Breakfast is served on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings, while the main food menu is available throughout the week. That wider timetable makes the Yachtsman useful for everything from a weekend breakfast to an evening meal after exploring Hamworthy.
Worth visiting for: A relaxed local atmosphere, family-friendly dining and its proximity to Hamworthy Beach.
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