Visiting Poole

(Poole, England)

Poole is a seaside town located in the county of Dorset on the south coast of England. The eastern side of Poole borders the bigger city of Bournemouth. Poole has many features that are popular with tourists such as the natural attraction of Poole Harbour and the beaches on the Sandbanks Peninsula, with their Mediterranean atmosphere.

Poole's history has its roots as a bustling medieval port. Nowadays, tourists to the area are mainly attracted by the fine golden sand on one of the best stretches of beach in England, three miles in length.

Visiting Poole: Places to Visit

• Join one of the guided walking tours of Poole for a fascinating insight into the town's historic past, landmarks and popular attractions. The Poole Tourist Information Centre can give you advice on booking a tour
• Take a stroll along the exciting Poole Quay. As one of the most popular entertainment areas in Poole, you can choose a restaurant, café or pub to enjoy the afternoon or evening views of the boats in the harbour
• Take a short trip on a ferry from Poole Quay to the National Trust nature reserve at Brownsea Island. Many types of wildlife live on the 500-acre island, with some of the most interesting animals being peacocks, red squirrels and a large bird population
• Visit the Poole Waterfront Museum and Poole Local History Centre, situated close to the quayside. These historic buildings house exhibits from Roman times and the Studland Bay Wreck
• Study the fantastic artworks on show at The Poole Lighthouse on Kingland road. This modern gallery features exhibitions from digital artists and displays of contemporary photography
• Take a trip to Mannings Heath, on the outskirts of Poole, for the attractions on offer at Tower Park Leisure Complex. A large range of activities can be enjoyed at the entertainment centre including ice skating, swimming at Poole Splashdown, watching films at the cinema, playing games at the amusement arcades and ten-pin bowling
• Visit the Poole Study Gallery for a chance to view a major collection of art from the mid-20th century. Some of the more important works of art on show here include works by Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore
• Relax on the Sandbanks Peninsula on some of the best golden sand the English coastline has to offer. This three-mile stretch of beach can get busy between May and September
• Visit Bournemouth for the city's many superb attractions. The Bournemouth Oceanarium on Westbeach promenade is a family favourite that features sharks, a viewing tunnel under an aquarium and an amazing array of fish.
• Take time out to visit the award-winning Poole Park on Parkstone Road. Apart from viewing the fantastic flowers and gardens, the many activities on offer here include a lakeside café, bowling, tennis, golf and children's area