Three Days of Coastal Fun in Poole
Discover seaside bliss in Poole, United Kingdom.
22 April 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
As a tourist, a visit to Poole will be a delightful coastal experience with stunning views from Poole Harbour. The area is home to several historic sites, including the 15th-century Scaplen's Court and Brownsea Island's stunning wildlife. Visitors can also indulge in water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat trips, experience seafood cuisine, and shop local arts and crafts at Poole Quay.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check into the Haven Hotel, a luxurious waterfront property with panoramic views of Poole Bay
- Head to the iconic Poole Quay and take a stroll along the pier, sampling fresh fish and chips from Fred's Chippy
- Catch some sun and sand at Sandbanks Beach, one of the UK's most beautiful stretches of coastline
- Indulge in some retail therapy at the Dolphin Shopping Centre, home to a wide variety of shops and eateries
- Take a sunset cruise along the harbour, admiring the breathtaking views of Poole's picturesque coastline
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Quay Cafe, a charming eatery housed in a former fisherman's cottage
- Explore the historic ruins of Corfe Castle, a medieval fortress set against the stunning backdrop of the Purbeck Hills
- Visit Brownsea Island, a nature reserve that's home to rare red squirrels and a large population of peacocks
- Take a break for lunch at the Sandbanks Yacht Company, a stylish waterfront eatery with a diverse menu to suit all tastes
- Spend the afternoon at the Poole Harbour Seal Cruise, where you'll get up close and personal with these adorable marine mammals
- Enjoy a leisurely brunch at the South Deep Cafe, a trendy spot noted for their delicious vegetarian and vegan offerings
- Take a stroll through the historic Old Town, where the cobbled streets are lined with charming independent shops and galleries
- Tour the Blue Pool, a natural beauty spot with crystal clear waters in shades of blue and green
- Grab a late lunch at the Stable Pizza, a hip eatery known for their artisanal pizzas and locally sourced ingredients
- Wrap up the day with a performance at the Lighthouse Theatre, a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a wide variety of cultural events.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Poole, United Kingdom by plane is to fly into Bournemouth Airport and take a taxi or bus to Poole. Bournemouth Airport offers flights from various European destinations.
Car
Driving to Poole, United Kingdom is a good option if you have a car or are renting one. The most direct route is to take the M3 and M27, which will take you to Poole via the A31. The journey takes just over 2 hours.
Train
There are several trains that run to Poole, United Kingdom. The best option is to take the South Western Railway from London Waterloo to Poole Train Station. The journey takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
Boat
The best way to get to Poole, United Kingdom by boat is to take the ferry from St Malo in France to Poole. Brittany Ferries offer daily sailings, and the journey takes around 4 hours. From the ferry port, you can take a taxi or bus to get to Poole town center.
Bus
Traveling by bus is a cost-effective way to get to Poole, United Kingdom. The best way is to take the National Express from London Victoria Coach Station to Poole. The journey takes about 3 hours and includes comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi.