Cultural, Arts & Exhibitions in Poole

The Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts, is a major cultural venue in the South West, known for its diverse program across cinema, theatre, music, dance, and visual arts.

Picture this: the sun's casting golden ripples across Poole Harbour, the air's filled with the rumble of perfectly tuned engines, and Poole Quay is transformed into a glorious showcase of gleaming chrome and polished paintwork. Welcome to Bike Night – where petrolheads and curious onlookers alike gather for one of Dorset's most beloved weekly rituals.

Arts by the Sea Festival is Bournemouth's annual celebration of art, culture and people, normally held at the end of September. Enjoy a weekend of festivity in the centre of Bournemouth including amazing parades, colourful live music, imaginative installations and fun for all ages! Find out more about this year’s artists, performances and events.

This literary love-in promises to be absolutely scrumptious for anyone with even the tiniest flutter in their heart for romance writing. Whether you're penning steamy contemporary romances, crafting historical bodice-rippers, or exploring the gentler waters of sweet romance, this festival is your golden ticket to the publishing world's most coveted secrets.

Picture this: you're wandering through cobblestone streets where victory rolls catch the morning light, the sound of Glenn Miller drifts from every corner, and classic cars gleam like jewels against the backdrop of Poole's historic quayside. Poole Goes Vintage transforms Poole's historic heart into a living, breathing tribute to the golden age of the 1940s through 1960s.

Every year, Poole hosts the two-day Magic of Thailand Festival, which introduces the lively customs and culture of Thailand to Dorset's Harbourside Park. Over the course of the weekend, guests can savour real Thai food, peruse a vibrant Thai market with produce, arts, and crafts, and take in cultural activities like Muay Thai boxing demonstrations and traditional performance. Traditional Thai massages are offered for relaxation, and family-friendly entertainment is guaranteed in the dedicated children's play area.