Local Area

Ask anyone about where the best place to go on the South Coast for the sun and sea is, and most people will answer Bournemouth. However, located just next door is one of the world’s largest natural harbours, said to be second only to Sydney’s in size. Poole Harbour is a wealth of exciting opportunities for water sports enthusiasts to engage in their favourite pastime activities.

From recreational sailing to adrenaline-fuelled water sports, Poole Harbour offers a safe haven thanks to its sheltered waters which are extensive in scope. The scenery is a sight to behold with various mudflats and salt marches dotted about for water-goers to enjoy. Such areas are of great ecological value for feeding and roosting birds and are sure to provide much in the way of visual appeal to those visiting Poole Harbour.

Our historic quayside and beautiful harbour sit right next to one of the finest beaches in all of England as well as not one, but three World Heritage Sites. Visitors to Poole Harbour are just a short distance from the Jurassic Coast, Stonehenge and the City of Bath.

Described as the “Cote d’Azur of the South Coast”, Poole is a town that is renowned for its prestigious reputation. Water sports enthusiasts and celebrities alike frequent these waters looking to partake in thrill-seeking activities. But that’s not all as Poole is also home to a unique mixture of:

• History
• Attractions
• Beaches
• Shopping
• Nightlife

In Poole, visitors experience some of the most gorgeous award-winning beaches that the UK has to offer. Golden sands and an azure blue sea are a welcome sight for those looking to soak up the sun. Venture a little further, and there’s the bustling Poole Quay which is home to many attractions, restaurants and a range of visiting vessels. Here visitors will find that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Poole Harbour, of course, puts visitors within striking distance of the delightful Brownsea Island Nature Reserve which is run by the Dorset National Trust. This can be reached via a leisurely boat cruise that departs directly from the quayside. Brownsea Island is home to the elusive Red Squirrel, once a native of the UK mainland, as well as wild peacocks that can be found roaming freely.

Travel a short distance from Poole Harbour by car, and holidaymakers will arrive at Tower Park – a large entertainment venue that is home to a wide assortment of attractions. There’s a 10-screen Cineworld cinema complex, Splashdown indoor water park, Mega Bowl and Buzz Bingo for visitors to enjoy.

For visitors to Poole Harbour who enjoy spending a day exploring and admiring beautifully manicured gardens, Compton Acres Gardens is a must-see attraction. Reputed to be the finest in Europe, visitors can discover tranquil surroundings while they take a relaxing stroll through this wooded wonderland. The perfect place for peaceful contemplation.

For the kids, there’s Monkey World which lies on the outer skirts of Poole. Monkey World plays host to the largest group of chimpanzees outside of Africa.

Situated just a short leisurely drive from Poole Harbour is the Dolphin Shopping Centre. Here there is a wide selection of shops under one roof with big names and an extensive range of products to choose from. The Dolphin Shopping Centre is located opposite the Lighthouse which just happens to be Poole’s centre for the Arts. This is an ideal stop for those who wish to experience a little culture from theatre and cinema to concerts and more.

Of course, no trip to Poole would be complete without indulging in one of the many delightful eateries that are dotted about. From restaurants and bars to cafés and coffee shops, visitors will discover delicious traditional fayre in waterside pubs; many of which specialise in seafood. Or perhaps continental cuisine and a la carte menus are the order of the day. Whatever visitors desire, they’ll find it and more in and around the old town.

For any inquiries regarding forthcoming events in Poole, click on www.pooletourism.com or phone 01202 253 253. To find out more about one of the world’s largest harbours, second only to Sydney, call Poole Harbour Commissioners on 01202 440220.