Poole is home to Europe’s largest natural harbour, with must visit highlights including a historic quayside, a quaint old town, glorious parks and gardens and beautiful beaches including the world famous, Sandbanks beach.
A water sports-lover’s haven amid rolling Purbeck hills you are sure to be refreshed and revived after your visit.
Poole’s historic quayside is filled with the daily hustle and bustle of a working quay. Enjoy some alfresco refreshments and explore the independent, unique shops dotted along the waterfront and lower high street.
Rich in history, there’s many a maritime tale to tell! Poole Tourist Information Centre is a great starting point to help you plan your perfect day out in Poole. From there take the self-guided Cockle Trail walk or the multimedia Poole Trail to bring the towns rich pirate and merchant’s history to life.
The harbour offers a stunning backdrop to the town of Poole and the gateway to incredible wildlife, countryside and watersports. The largest of the eight harbour islands is Brownsea Island. Owned by the National Trust, it is just a 20 min ferry journey from Poole Quay. If you wish to venture further afield, regular trips are run from Poole Quay with Coastal Cruises, along the Wareham River and to Swanage.
When visiting Poole you will find a whole host of attractions and activities to enjoy including Upton Country Park, the Home of Upton House and 160 acres of parkland, shoreline & formal estate gardens.
The food & drink scene is renowned for its seafood - the “catch of the day” is a highlight on many menus.
With a good range of accommodation from B&Bs and guesthouses to four-star luxury, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets.
Poole is the backdrop to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast and close to the Majestic New Forest National Park . You can also explore other areas of Dorset whilst staying in Poole
For travel infromation visit our transport page
We look forward to welcoming you to the Coast with the Most!
Poole is centrally located on the south coast and serviced by good road links. Easily accessible via the M3/M27 from the East and via the A35 from the West.
Poole train station offers excellent links across the country, with services to London Waterloo regularly throughout the day. It also offers strong transport links via Poole Ferry port, nearby Bournemouth Airport, coach, bus and taxi.
City Cruises Poole operates daily from Poole Quay. Our summer cruises include – Harbour…
The Lighthouse is a unique building as it is the only multi-space venue with four…
Home to 160 acres of parkland, shoreline & formal estate gardens, Upton Country Park…