Things to do in Poole

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Poole

Types of activities

Where to stay

Poole travel guide

Brownsea Castle which includes heritage architecture

Brownsea Island showing heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

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What to do in Poole

Popular places to visit

Poole Harbour

Visit a forested part of this harbor’s archipelago after strolling along the charming promenade full of restaurants, pubs and boutiques.

Sandbanks Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Sandbanks Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Sandbanks. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its lively bars.

Poole Quay

Explore the waterfront in Poole with a trip to Poole Quay. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this family-friendly area.

Brownsea Castle

Ride a ferry to a forested island. Observe colorful peacocks and playful red squirrels beside this grand castle from the 1500s.

Compton Acres

The fine historic gardens of late Victorian mixed style were set up in the early 20th century. Peruse the range of exotic sections remaining today.

Poole Park

After visiting Poole Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Poole. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Poole Museum

Learn the story of Poole and its harbor from interesting items, such as the Iron Age boat kept in this restored Victorian depository.

Lighthouse, Poole's Centre for the Arts

You can enjoy a show at Lighthouse, Poole's Centre for the Arts during your trip to Poole. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

RNLI College

Enjoy the student vibe at RNLI College as part of your travels around Poole. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Areas of Poole

Parkstone

Are you interested in stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife and luxurious spas? A visit to Parkstone might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Splashdown Waterpark and Tower Park.

Oakdale

While Oakdale isn't home to many top sights, Lighthouse, Poole's Centre for the Arts and Poole Harbour are some notable places to visit nearby.

Poole Old Town

Visitors to Poole Old Town rave about its stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife and luxurious spas. You might also want to make some time to see Scaplen’s Court Museum or Poole Museum while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Lilliput

When in Lilliput, you can plan a visit to Compton Acres and Sandbanks Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Bournemouth

Swanage

Durdle Door featuring a bay or harbour, rocky coastline and a sunset

Wareham

Corfe Mullen

Compton Acres showing heritage architecture and a park

Canford Cliffs

Arne

Lytchett Matravers

Frequently asked questions

Is Poole worth visiting?

Famous for its cycling and underwater activities, discovering cool things to do in Poole is easy. Don't forget to add Sandbanks Beach to your itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Poole?

Sandbanks Beach and Swanage Beach are two excellent places to start your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Poole while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Poole?

Don't leave without exploring Sandbanks Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Poole.

Is three days enough to stay in Poole?

Three days will give you time to check out some popular city attractions, including Sandbanks Beach, Wimborne Minster and Studland Beach and Nature Reserve. The average stay in Poole is two days. If you have the urge to extend your getaway, Southampton isn't far away.

Is Poole a walkable city?

With exciting neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Poole is a good destination to discover on foot. Enjoy wandering between Sandbanks Beach and Brownsea Castle. Then take a stroll around Poole Old Town, located 0.16 kilometres from the centre, and Oakdale, which is about 2 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Poole with kids?

If you're searching for tours and attractions for all the family, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Poole with kids.

What to do in Poole for adults?

Rockley Sands Beach and Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum are just a couple of the things to do in Poole. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Poole?

In Poole, Sandbanks Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Poole.

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