Poole Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Poole with our comprehensive guide to the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Poole

Located in the West Country of England, Poole is a beautiful coastal town in Dorset known for its natural beauty, rich history, and bustling harbor. The town is situated on a large natural harbor that opens to the English Channel and is home to several beautiful beaches, picturesque parks, and historic buildings that make it a perfect holiday destination. Whether visiting with family or friends, Poole has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Poole

There are plenty of places to explore and discover in Poole, including beaches, museums, galleries, parks, and more. Here are some must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Poole has a rich history that can be experienced by visiting some of its many museums and historical sites, including:

  • Poole Museum: A great place to start your tour of Poole, this museum houses exhibits that showcase the town’s history and heritage.

  • Poole Old Town: Featuring architecture from the 18th century, Poole Old Town is a charming area to wander around and explore.

  • Scaplen’s Court: This is a medieval house that had been inhabited from the 15th century until the late 20th century, so it gives a great glimpse of life in Poole throughout the ages.

Natural Attractions of Poole: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Poole is blessed with natural beauty, and visitors can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities in this idyllic town, such as:

  • Beaches: Poole Harbour is home to stunning beaches like Sandbanks, Bournemouth Beach, and Studland Beach. Sandbanks Beach, in particular, is known for its fine, golden sand, and crystal-clear waters.

  • Brownsea Island: Situated in Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is the largest island within the harbor, and it is a nature reserve that protects rare wildlife, flora, and fauna.

  • Poole Park: This is a great place to visit for picnics and outdoor activities like mini-golf, tennis, and cycling. There are also children’s play areas, a boating lake, and an ice rink during winter.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Poole

If you want to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of Poole or get your adrenaline pumping, the following trails should be on your itinerary:

  • Holes Bay Path: A scenic, off-road trail that runs along Holes Bay, offering stunning views of the harbor.

  • Studland and Godlingston Heath: This is an exceptional site for wildlife and features a variety of hiking trails that showcase the heath’s diverse habitats and scenery.

  • Purbeck Way: This path is a 10-mile trail that takes you through the stunning rolling hills of the Purbeck countryside.

Best Things to Do in Poole: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Poole, from water sports to shopping. Some top recommendations:

  • Poole Harbour Cruise: A great way to experience the beauty of the harbor is to take a boat tour. This tour offers an excellent introduction to Poole Harbor and includes a chance to see the famous Jurassic Coast.

  • Watersports: Poole is a perfect place for water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. You can easily rent equipment locally or take lessons.

  • Poole Pottery: If you are interested in art and history, a visit to Poole Pottery is a must. It’s an excellent place to learn about the town’s art and ceramic making traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Poole

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week in Poole:

Day Activity
Day 1 Poole Museum and Brownsea Island trip
Day 2 Beach day: Sandbanks or Bournemouth Beach
Day 3 Watersports: paddleboarding or kayaking
Day 4 Nature walks: Studland and Godlingston Heath
Day 5 Poole Park activities: mini-golf, boating, and cycling
Day 6 Boat tour to the Jurassic coast
Day 7 Shopping in Poole Old Town or Arts and crafts in Poole Pottery

Food and Drink Scene of Poole

Poole is a culinary paradise and provides a wide range of traditional and contemporary British cuisines, coupled with some of the freshest seafood you will ever taste. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poole Bay Crab: Fresh crab, often caught from the harbor. A must-try seafood dish.

  • Dorset apple cake: A traditional British cake made with flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, butter, and chunks of apples. A delicious treat.

  • Dorset blue cheese: A tangy, crumbly cheese made from locally sourced milk. Perfect for cheese and wine evenings.

Local Beverages

  • Dorset Ale: A must-try local beverage, with delicious flavors and a rich color. You can find it in many of the town’s local pubs.

  • Dorset Cider: Made from the locally grown apples. It’s a refreshing drink and the perfect pairing with seafood dishes.

Where to Stay in Poole: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Poole has plenty of accommodation options for visitors, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some recommendations are:

  • Harbour Heights: A luxury, boutique hotel near Sandbanks Beach with a great view of Poole Harbour.

  • Salterns Harbourside Hotel: A lovely hotel with a stunning view of the marina and the harbor.

  • The Antelope Inn: A cozy and comfortable pub that offers affordable accommodation options in the heart of Poole.

What to Buy in Poole: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Poole offers a fantastic shopping experience with plenty of boutiques, markets, and shops that sell souvenirs and handcrafted items. Here are some must-buys:

  • Poole Pottery: A quintessential souvenir from Poole is a beautiful piece of pottery that represents the town’s art and heritage.

  • Dorset Fudge: This sweet treat is made from locally sourced milk and is a favorite among visitors.

  • Fresh seafood: The harbor is home to some of the freshest seafood in the UK, making it a perfect souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Poole

Poole is a friendly and welcoming town with many cultural traditions. The people of this town are proud of its history and heritage and often embrace traditional festivities and customs. Here are a few worth noting:

  • Folk Festival: Poole hosts an annual folk festival where music and dance are showcased from different countries worldwide.

  • St. George’s Day: April 23 is celebrated as St. George’s Day, with parades and events held to honor the patron saint of England.

Best Time to Visit Poole

The best time to visit Poole is during summer, between June and September. The weather is mild and perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, visitors should note that as this is a prime tourist season, accommodation prices can be higher than usual.

Do’s and Don’ts of Poole

Here are some do’s and don’ts to remember in Poole:

Do:

  • Visit Poole’s beaches: Sandbanks and Studland Beach are some of the best beaches in the UK.

  • Explore the harbor: Take a boat tour or just walk along the harbor. You’ll see boats, wildlife, and more.

  • Try the seafood: Poole harbor is home to some of the freshest seafood in the UK.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Poole is known for its clean, pristine environment. Visitors are encouraged to take care of the town and its natural beauty.

  • Ignore safety warnings: While enjoying the beaches, visitors should listen to safety warnings, especially around beach waters.

Safety and Health

Safety in Poole

Poole is a safe and friendly town, and visitors typically have no need to worry about safety issues. However, visitors should take heed of safety warnings at all times.

Health in Poole

Health care facilities in Poole are exceptional, and visitors can access both public and private health care while in the town. It’s recommended that visitors should have travel insurance during their visit to Poole.

Getting to Poole: Transportation Options and Logistics

Traveling to Poole is easier than you think, with several transport options available:

  • By Air: The nearest airport to Poole is Bournemouth International Airport, located just a few miles away from the town, with well-connected flights from throughout Europe.

  • By Train: Poole has a well-connected train station that links the town to major cities in the country like London, Manchester, and Southampton.

  • By Road: Poole is accessible by road, with the M27 and the A31 to the northeast and the A35 to the southwest connecting it to major cities and towns in the region.

How to Get Around in Poole

If you’re planning to stay in Poole, it’s recommended to explore the town on foot or by bicycle as it’s a smaller town with plenty of pedestrian-friendly paths and some excellent cycle lanes. Alternatively, visitors can also take local buses, trains, or taxis to get around.

Where to Go Next from Poole: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are some amazing destinations nearby that make excellent excursions from Poole:

  • Bournemouth: A vibrant coastal town, just a short drive or train ride from Poole, renowned for its sandy beaches and multiple gardens.

  • Corfe Castle: Located just 6 miles west of Poole, the castle is an iconic survivor of the English Civil War and is a must-visit for all history lovers.

Conclusion

Poole is a unique, vibrant town that offers something for everyone, and whether you’re interested in historical architecture, natural beauty, culinary delights, or outdoor activities, you will find that Poole has plenty to offer. So, plan your next trip to this beautiful town and get ready for a memorable holiday experience.

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