The Ultimate 5-Day Poole Adventure
Experience the beauty of coastal living in Poole, where adventure awaits.
22 April 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
As a tourist in Poole, United Kingdom, you can expect a memorable trip, exploring scenic beaches and picturesque views while enjoying the fresh, inviting atmosphere. The Poole Harbour is one of the main attractions, offering a variety of water sports and activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking and boating. Take a stroll in the historic Old Town, where you can visit the Poole Museum and admire the beautiful architecture of the area.
Travel plan
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- Check into Harbour Heights Hotel, overlooking the sea
- Take a stroll along Poole Quay and admire the historic buildings and boats
- Visit the Poole Museum to learn about the town’s rich history and maritime heritage
- Head to Sandbanks Beach for some relaxing sun and sand time
- Dine at the Cliff Restaurant for sumptuous ocean views and seafood
- Catch the ferry to Brownsea Island, a nature reserve famous for its red squirrels
- Go on a guided wildlife walk and spot birds, deer and other critters
- Return to shore and walk along the Studland Bay Coastal Path
- Relax at the Knoll Beach Café with a cup of tea or ice cream
- Have dinner at Rick Stein Sandbanks, a renowned seafood restaurant
- Rent a bike and cycle along the Castleman Trailway, a scenic route
- Go kayaking or try stand-up paddleboarding in Poole Harbour
- Head to the Parkstone Golf Club for a round of golf
- Visit the West Hants Club for a game of tennis or indoor pool time
- Have dinner at the Guildhall Tavern, a cosy pub serving local ales and gastropub fare
- Spend the morning at the Lighthouse, a performing arts venue with theatre and cinema
- Have lunch at the Thai Tapas Bar, a unique fusion restaurant
- Explore the historic Old Town and its independent shops and boutiques
- Go to Dolphin Shopping Centre for high-street brands and department stores
- Dine at the Guildhall Fish and Chips for a taste of British seaside cuisine
- Book a spa treatment at the Haven Hotel and unwind with a view
- Visit the Compton Acres botanical gardens and admire the flora and fauna
- Have lunch at the Urban Reef, a beach café with captivating views
- Take a final walk on the beach and breathe in the sea air
- Depart Poole with fond memories and plans for your next visit.
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.