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This coastal town in Dorset is known for its sandy beaches and natural harbour, making it the perfect location for a short break with the whole family or a couple’s getaway. Situated between Dorchester and Bournemouth, there’s plenty to explore in this stunning part of the South West.
If you’re looking for things to do in Poole, we’ve got plenty of recommendations, including the best restaurants, attractions and beaches. Plus, you can save money on dining out and visiting top attractions with SWR Rewards. Our guide to visiting Poole will also help you discover how to get around on local bus and train networks, so you can start planning your trip today.
Travelling to Poole
With regular services departing from stations including London Waterloo and Weymouth, it’s easy to get to Poole for a weekend seaside retreat. Poole train station is conveniently located in the heart of the town, so you can start exploring as soon as you arrive.
What better way to start your time in Poole than with a hearty breakfast at Custom House Café? Located in a stunning Georgian building within Poole’s old town, guests can enjoy spectacular views across the harbour. This popular all-day eatery serves typical breakfast dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, from full English breakfasts to eggs, toast and pastries. The café is a 13-minute walk from the station, so make this the first stop on your itinerary to fuel up for a busy day ahead.
Poole has been known for its thriving shipping industry since medieval times and was one of the busiest ports in the UK during the eighteenth century. If you want to discover more about maritime history, visit Poole Museum, just around the corner from Custom House Café. The exhibition explores the history of Poole and its harbour, from prehistoric times to the present day.
Price range: Free
Grab lunch at Ginali’s
87 High Street, Poole BH15 1AH
After a morning spent along the quayside, it’s time for a wander through the old town, where you’ll find Ginali's. This popular Italian restaurant is situated in a historic building with a stunning courtyard, making it the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing. Expect typical Italian fare like pasta, pizza and salads, served in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Dorset boasts some of the best beaches in the South West, many of which have been awarded Blue Flag status. Sandbanks beach is situated on a peninsula just five miles southeast of Poole town centre and is one of the most popular in the area.
To get to Sandbanks, hop on the number 60 bus. This service departs regularly from Poole town centre, so you can head straight to the beach after lunch. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and you get to gaze at some glorious coastal views along the way.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or enjoy various activities, from watersports to volleyball and mini golf. There’s also a children’s play area and several cafés and shops where you can grab a drink or treat yourself to an ice cream.
After a leisurely afternoon at the beach, it’s time to head for dinner. Hop on the bus back to Poole bus station, then walk for 13 minutes to Rockfish on the quayside. This award-winning restaurant serves some of the best seafood in the South West, with a daily changing menu of freshly-caught fish from the Dorset and Devon coast.
Price range: ££
Relax and unwind in one of Poole’s hotels
There are plenty of places to rest and relax in Poole before your next adventure begins! For a couple’s retreat, check in at the boutique Hotel du Vin in Poole’s old town. Or venture further out to Harbour Heights Hotel, just a six-minute walk from the beach. Planning a weekend break to Poole on a budget? Try the Antelope by Greene King Inns, located right in the heart of the town centre.
Located in Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island offers stunning views across the water to the Dorset coast and the Purbeck Hills. Ferries run between Poole Quay and the island, so it’s the perfect way to spend a morning.
The island is a haven for wildlife, boasting woodland, heathland and a lagoon. You may even get the chance to spot the rare red squirrel alongside many birds and other species. With plenty of trails to explore, a natural play area, and special events during the school holidays, this is a fun day out for all the family.
Once you’ve explored Brownsea Island, it’s time to hop on the ferry back to Poole, where you can head straight for The Poole Arms, opposite the ferry terminal. Here you can enjoy a meal at the oldest pub on Poole Quay, known for its delicious seafood.
Price range: ££
Spend an afternoon on the quayside
After lunch, hire bikes or stroll along the quayside to Baiter Park, around 15 minutes away on foot. En route, you’ll pass Anthony Caro’s Sea Music sculpture, many boats in the harbour and the RNLI Lifeboat Museum. Once you arrive at Baiter Park, the long stretch of promenade offers panoramic views across Poole Harbour.
Travelling with kids? Spend an hour or two crabbing on the quayside instead. If it’s an adults-only weekend, get back out on the water and make the most of SWR Rewards with this fantastic afternoon tea cruise aboard the Dorset Queen.
Get fish and chips at Lakeside
Lifeboat Quay, Poole BH15 1LS
What better way to end your trip to Poole than sampling some of the best fish and chips in the South West at Lakeside? This restaurant overlooks Upton Lake, a 14-minute walk from Poole Quay, making it a beautiful spot for an evening meal. When you’re ready to head home after dinner, it’s only a six-minute stroll to the station.
Price range: ££
Travel home with South Western Railway
After a fun-filled 48 hours in Poole, you can sit back and relax on South Western Railway’s services. Find the right train tickets for your journey and discover the different ticket types available. Looking to save even more? Check out Railcards and discounts for additional offers.
