If you’re looking for things to do in Poole this year, then keep reading for plenty of ideas!
There are plenty of things to do in Poole, and this list should give you loads of ideas. It’s such a fun place for a day out! Poole is a beautiful place, and it sees a whole host of visitors each year.
If you’re new to the area, you might be wondering what the best things to do in Poole are. Well, that’s where we come in!
To help you bulk out your itinerary of things to do in Poole, we’ve created a shortlist of 15 things to do in Poole that will have your days full to the brim with fun!
With everything from trips to waterparks to visiting country manors, our list is sure to have plenty of things that you’ll enjoy.
So, without further ado, let’s check out the top 25 things to do in Poole that are sure to get you pumped up for your trip to Dorset!
Splashdown
If you’re a family looking for things to do in Poole, then Splashdown will tick all your boxes!
If the kids need to blow off steam, then you should consider paying a visit to Poole’s very own waterpark: Splashdown.
Having opened in 1990, Splashdown is now one of the most popular things to do in Poole.
With 8 indoor water slides and 5 outside rides, it’s the perfect place for youngsters and their families to enjoy a proper day out!
Explore Poole Harbour
Next on my list of things to do in Poole, it’s the harbour. Poole Harbour is one of the area’s top draws.
If you didn’t know, Poole Harbour is the second largest natural harbour in the world, so if you want to tick something monumental off your list then be sure to check it out!
Usually packed with cargo ships and ferries, this harbour is an incredibly impressive place to visit.
So, whether you fancy hopping a ferry to check out the harbour in all its glory or would prefer a nature walk around the area, the possibilities are endless.
This is a classic choice for things to do in Poole, and will always make the list.
Compton Acres
Compton Acres is next on my list of things to do in Poole. It is a privately owned property, but it’s open for public viewing.
If you’re a fan of natural beauty and stunning formal gardens, then you absolutely need to add Compton Acres to your list of things to do in Poole.
Though there are five sub-gardens, one of the main draws is the Japanese Garden.
Packed with stone and bronze art that has stood in the garden since the 1920s, it’s a glorious step back in time that needs to be experienced!
Brownsea Island
Known as the largest of the islands in Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island should absolutely be on your list of great things to do in Poole.
As much of the island is fully open to the public, it’s an ideal place to partake in nature walks, bike rides, and the like!
However, it’s not just exercise that you can do here – there is also a great deal of wildlife to be spotted too!
So be sure to keep an eye out for interesting critters on your way around the island, this is definitely an option for things to do in Poole for animal lovers too.
Finally, be sure to head to the cliff tops to get the best views of Poole. Trust us, it’s well worth the trek.
Upton Country Park
Upton Country Park is a beautiful grade II listed area in Poole that we highly recommend visiting and it’s next on my list of things to do in Poole.
Not only is the giant Georgian mansion a massive draw, but it’s also home to an awesome walled garden, splash fountain, woodland trail, and even quaint tearooms!
So, whether you prefer an indulgent afternoon tea or just want to experience how the other half lives, a visit to Upton Country Park promises to be a great day out for all and should definitely be on your list of things to do in Poole.
Poole Museum
Another top option for things to do in Poole is the Poole Museum.
With plenty to see over four flours, the galleries here cover the history of Poole from the prehistoric period to 21st Century!
If you’re interested in maritime history, then be sure to check out the dedicated area in the museum to Poole’s community spirit.
If you’re visiting at the right time, then you might even get a chance to catch one of the temporary exhibits too.
Poole Quay
One of the most relaxing things to do in Poole is visiting its Poole quayside. If you fancy playing eye-spy with the kids, then this is a great place to do so!
Just don’t be surprised when the most common answer is ‘a luxury yacht’!
If you have time, you might also want to check out Poole’s nearby historic Old Town. It’s full of beautiful spots that are well worth the detour from the quay.
Tower Park Leisure Complex
Tower Park is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking to fill an afternoon with kids. It’s a great choice for things to do in Poole with a family or kids.
Packed with soft play areas, a great waterpark, and endless great restaurants, it’s a one-stop shop for activities. If you fancy it, why not watch one of the latest movie releases at their massive cinema?
Sandbanks Beach
Sandbanks Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Britain, and we can easily see why…
So it makes our list of things to do in Poole Not only are its golden sands and sparkling seas breathtaking, but you can even play a round of mini-golf while you’re here!
If you fancy a more adrenaline-fueled day out, then you should take some watersports equipment out on the water – come on, you know you want to! If you get peckish during the day, there are plenty of local restaurants and cafés that you can pop into for a bite to eat too. Score!
Definitely, a top choice for things to do in Poole.
Corfe Castle
Located just over 10 miles from the harbour lies Corfe Castle, and it’s next on my list of things to do in Poole.
Though this site may not look like much now, it was once a major fortress in the area!
A visit to Corfe Castle is one of Poole’s most historical things to do, so we highly recommend that you see it if you’re even remotely interested in British history!
Read more: The best castles in England to visit this year
Take a boat trip
If you’re looking for things to do in Poole that involve the ocean… then taking a boat trip should be part of your itinerary.
If you’re in the area, then you’ll absolutely want to take a trip out on the water if you can. Though you might not be able to head out on a luxury yacht, you can hire a boat or head on a ferry if you wish to!
This might not be quite as glamourous, but we promise that you’ll see everything you need to see on a great ferry ride. Be sure to keep an eye out for some local wildlife as you circle Poole’s waters!
It’s a classic choice for things to do in Poole, who doesn’t love a boat ride?
The Guildhall Tavern
How could I write a list of things to do in Poole – without including a few places to eat? My suggestion for places to eat in Poole, is The Guildhall Tavern.
It’s a sophisticated restaurant serving (unsurprisingly) amazing and delicious sea food. This is a place you simply have to try if you’re in the area!
Scalpen’s Court Museum
Another great museum in Poole is Scalpen’s Court Museum, and it’s next on this list of things to do in Poole.
This is technically a subsection of the Poole Museum, but it focuses on life in Poole between the 15th and 19th centuries.
Here you’ll be able to see interesting artefacts from Poole’s past and understand how the area came to be! Cool, right?!
Shell Bay
Next up on my list of things to do in Poole, it’s Shell Bay. Located across the harbour from Sandbanks Beach is Shell Bay.
Though you do have to get a ferry from the harbour to check this out, we think that it’s well worth adding to your list of things to do!
Not only is there plenty of undisturbed vegetation and heath to enjoy, but it’s just a lovely spot that allows you to forget all your troubles. Ah, peace and quiet.
Old Lifeboat Museum
If you’ve interested in lifeboats and the navy, then the old lifeboat museum is next on my list of things to do in Poole.
If you haven’t had enough of museums yet, then you’ll want to see the Old Lifeboat Museum.
This is no longer a functioning lifeboat station, so it’s been turned into an awesome museum that allows visitors to learn all about these vessels.
If you’re interested, the RNLI also runs a great shop in the boathouse, so it’s a great way to help a worthwhile charity too!
The Poole Arms
For some classic pub food, the Poole Arms is a great pub to check out, and it has to make my list of things to do in Poole.
This is the perfect place to refuel after a long day of sightseeing!
Poole Park
Poole Park is next on my list of things to do in Poole – it’s a beautiful park and it’s a perfect place for a scenic afternoon walk or a cute picnic!
Or if you just want a nice break from the city, this is where you should head to!
Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park
The next suggestion on our list of things to do in Poole is the Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park. It’s a bit of a tongue-twister, but this amazing little farm is an amazing thing to do in Poole if you’re travelling with the family.
Featuring everything from goat feeding to cow milking, this farm is an awesome way to teach the kids about farm life without the mucky stuff.
Branksome Chine Beach
For those looking for beautiful beaches in Poole to add to their itinerary of things to do in Poole… then Branksome Chine Beach is going to be a must-visit.
Expect a lovely sandy beach, lovely clean water and amenities close by too!
South West Coast Path
If you fancy taking a hike, or exploring the local scenery and wildlife… then the South West Coast Path is well worth a visit!
Pack some good walking boots or trainers, wait for some lovely weather, and head out there with your camera to take some amazing photos!
This is a perfect option for things to do in Poole, especially in beautiful weather.
The Project Climbing Centre
If you’re looking for things to do in Poole in the rain… then The Project Climbing Centre is a perfect choice.
Climbing is a great way to keep fit and exercise, but it’s also a pretty awesome activity for families and couples alike.
It’s one of those great options for things to do in Poole on an overcast or rainy day… Because this is the UK (and it has been known to rain here occasionally!).
National Trust – Kingston Lacy
Next up on my list of things to do in Poole – it’s the National Trust property called Kingston Lacy.
Kingston Lacy is a beautiful property that oozes history and elegance, and it’s a wonderful place to visit and enjoy strolling around.
The house was built between 1663 and 1665 by Ralph Bankes, and it’s a beautiful building that looks like it has been lifting right out of a movie set!
Wimborne Model Town & Gardens
If you’re a fan of model towns and gardens, then the Wimborne Model Town & Gardens is only a short drive from Poole and is a really lovely option for things to do in Poole.
It’s a scale model of the town in the 1950s, so there’s plenty to admire and look at.
Oriel On The Quay
Another great place to eat on this list of things to do in Poole! Oriel On The Quay is another amazing restaurant in Poole that you should try and try if you’re in the area.
My recommendation would be to try the mussels, as it seems to be what they’re famous for!
Snowtrax Alpine Activity Centre & Snowsports
OK, next on my list of things to do in Poole, it’s something for the outdoorsy types! No matter what time of year, if you fancy doing some alpine / winter sports (like sledging and skiing) this is the place to visit!
It’s so much fun here, and it’s a great activity place to visit with kids and teenagers too!
I hope this list of things to do in Poole has been helpful and given you loads of ideas!
Hopefully you’re feeling excited about your trip to Poole and all the amazing things to do in Poole and in the surrounding areas! Have fun, enjoy the beaches, and fingers crossed for sunshine!
If you’re planning more UK travel this year, you might want to check out these blog posts too!
Read more: 35 fun things to do in Somerset
Read more: Top 20 things to do in Eastbourne this summer
Read more: 26 fun things to do in North Devon
Read more: 25 great things to do in Portsmouth
