4 Day Fun Guide to Poole, UK
Discover the seaside charm of Poole, where history, natural beauty, and entertainment meet.
03 May 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
A trip to Poole, United Kingdom as a tourist offers a perfect combination of nature and culture. Visitors can explore the stunning beaches and countryside, walk along the charming quay, and visit the iconic Poole Harbour. The town also boasts several museums, galleries, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a quintessential English experience.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into Haven Hotel, a luxurious four-star hotel with stunning panoramic views of the sea
- Visit Sandbanks Beach, one of the best beaches in the UK, for a relaxing morning swim
- Have lunch at The Guildhall Tavern, a historic bistro known for their delicious seafood dishes
- Take a stroll along the Poole Harbour before heading to Branksome Beach for an evening BBQ feast at Rick Stein's Sandbanks restaurant
- End the evening with a drink at the recently renovated Banana Wharf and take in the views of Poole Quay
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast on the terrace of Harbour Heights Hotel, overlooking the ocean
- Take a ferry to Brownsea Island, a haven for wildlife and home to the red squirrel
- Walk through the peaceful woodland and keep an eye out for rare birds like the Dartford warbler
- Recharge with a light lunch at The Villano Café, a cosy independent café on Poole Quay
- Visit the Poole Museum, which showcases the fascinating history of the town and its connection to the sea
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Patisserie Mark Bennett for some of the best cakes in town
- Start the day with an adrenaline rush at the RockReef indoor adventure park with fun activities such as Clip'n'Climb, Highline and leap of faith climbing activities
- For lunch, stop by Lighthouse Café for a delicious burger or a classic afternoon tea
- Visit the nearby Bournemouth Aviation Museum to get close to aircrafts and learn about aviation history
- Watch the evening sun set over the coastline with a dinner at The Jetty restaurant, Harbour Heights Hotel with a great view of Old Harry rocks
- End the day with a few drinks and live music at Brewhouse & Kitchen, a hotspot for craft beer lovers
- Take a short walk to Poole's busy high street for some shopping. Start off at Beales Department Store for clothes and home decorations, follow by Dolls House Boutique and explore several unique artisan shops
- For lunch, visit the urban-chic Café Rouge Bistro for a mouth-watering French meal
- Visit Poole Pottery, known for making beautiful ceramics since 1873, and watch artisans at work
- End the trip with a visit to Crafted Guild on Poole Quay, a stylish, modern gallery selling gorgeous art and illustrations
- Celebrate the trip's memories with a delicious gelato from Sprinkles Gelato before returning to Haven Hotel.
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.