- : BCP Tourism
Explore Poole
Harbour Days, Beach Walks & Seaside Stories
Tucked into Dorset’s southern coast, Poole blends a rich maritime history with contemporary coastal living. Home to Europe’s largest natural harbour, the town offers a unique mix of waterfront adventure, golden beaches, and old-world charm.
Whether you’re tracing the shoreline on a paddleboard or exploring centuries-old streets, Poole makes it easy to slow down and stay curious.
Boats, Beaches & Brownsea Escapes
Poole is defined by its water — from its vast harbour to the award-winning beaches lining its edge. Sandbanks, with it’s beautiful golden sands, luxury homes, and upscale lifestyle, is often the first stop. You can read more about Poole’s beaches here, including quieter spots for families or windsurfing favourites.
Just across the water lies Brownsea Island, a National Trust gem home to red squirrels, woodland trails and wildlife hides. Accessible by boat, it’s a tranquil world away from the bustle of the quay.
For a front-row view of harbour life, spend a few hours on Poole Quay. Watch fishing boats unload their catch, admire luxury yachts, and soak up the waterfront atmosphere.
Waterparks, Ferries & Festival Vibes
Families are well-catered for, with plenty of outdoorsy and wet-weather options. Splashdown, a short drive from the harbour, offers a full range of waterslides and flumes for all ages.
During summer, Poole Quay becomes a lively stage for Bike Nights and street entertainment. The Poole Harbour Festival and Seafood & Sounds events blend music, food and local flair, often spilling out onto the promenade with pop-up bars and stalls.
Sea on the Plate
Seafood takes centre stage in Poole’s kitchens. Along the quay, Poole Arms stands out for its green tiled front and traditional menu, while Rockfish and the Guildhall Tavern offer everything from grilled local catch to Provençal classics. Over in Sandbanks, Rick Stein’s waterfront restaurant is known for combining Cornish flair with Dorset views.
For a more relaxed bite, head to one of the many harbour-side cafés or tucked-away pubs, where menus often follow the seasons and feature everything from local crab and wild venison to fresh vegetables grown just up the road.
Stay Beside the Sea or Under the Stars
Poole’s accommodation options suit a wide range of visitors. The Sandbanks Hotel offers direct beach access and sweeping views across the bay. Nearby, Harbour Heights balances boutique comfort with prime sunset watching.
Places to stay come in all shapes, sizes and budgets. Sandbanks Hotel gives you a front-row seat on the beach, while Harbour Heights mixes boutique comfort with big-sky views. Head just a little further inland and you’ll find peaceful B&Bs, countryside cabins and glamping spots where shepherd’s huts glow softly under the stars.