About Poole

This historic port town sits on the banks of Europe’s largest natural harbour, making it an irresistible playground for watersports. Cruise, sail, kayak or kitesurf from the bustling harbour to explore its glistening island-studded waters.

The largest of the islands, Brownsea, is a wildlife sanctuary and certainly worth an up-close visit. Reachable by ferry, it feels a world away from the bustle of everyday life. Explore the marshlands, lagoons and woodlands here and you’ll spot a host of migrating birds, deer and maybe even red squirrels. There’s history too, with links to Vikings, pirates and even the Scout Movement.

Back on the mainland, Poole’s many attractions, fine restaurants and speciality shops await. The town’s Lighthouse Arts Centre is the largest outside of London, with a concert hall, theatre, cinema and galleries. While nearby Sandbanks has one of the country’s finest Blue Flag beaches, which provides some terrific views alongside classic seaside fun.

 

boats moored within a calm harbour at Poole

Our Favourite Things to Do in Poole

  • Watersports in the huge harbour
  • The Lighthouse Arts Centre
  • Activities in Poole Park
  • Idyllic Brownsea Island
  • Sandbanks Beach

Find the perfect holiday in Dorset

Search for your holiday by region and make a booking with our intuitive search feature. The easy way to search for your holiday park if Dorset is the holiday setting for you. With our user friendly map display, you can simply pick the park that’s right for you. From the leafy countryside setting of Sanford, the woodland walks of Warmwell, to the Jurassic Coast of West Bay, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking—a holiday remember.

Need inspiration? Visit our local attractions page for Dorset.

The limestone arch at Durdle Door Beach