Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour which includes a river or creek and heritage architecture
Poole Harbour featuring a bay or harbour as well as a small group of people
Poole Harbour as well as a small group of people
Poole Harbour featuring a river or creek
Poole Harbour showing heritage architecture


Visit a forested part of this harbour’s archipelago after strolling along the charming promenade full of restaurants, pubs and boutiques.

Poole Harbour is a large natural bay with several small islands in the southern part of the city. It has an intriguing history, with its shores having been inhabited for thousands of years. A boat from the Iron Age was discovered here. Watch the lifting of Poole Bridge, built in 1927 and spanning the waterway between the harbour and Holes Bay.

Ride a ferry to Brownsea Island to see its woodland and picturesque nature trails. Camp in the Outdoor Centre and learn about the history of Scouts and their connection to this particular island. Brownsea Castle and St. Mary’s Church are among the cultural highlights. Take photos of other forested parts of the archipelago, including Long Island, Furzey Island and Green Island. The islets are known for preservation of the rare red squirrel.

The harbour and its archipelago have many fascinating birds. Bring binoculars to search the water and the sky for the pied avocet, common shelduck and black-tailed godwit.

Discover various private marinas around the harbour to look at the yachts and sport boats. Many sites around the bay offer watersport activities and lessons. Practice kite surfing, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing.

Dine at one of many pubs and restaurants facing the water. Purchase souvenirs from the shops.

Learn about the 2,300-year-old Poole Logboat, which was excavated here and now displayed in the nearby Poole Museum along with other nautically themed items.

The harbour’s water is surprisingly shallow. This site played an important role in the Romans conquest of southern England. More recently, it was a major port. Its principal role now is passenger transportation.

Poole Harbour is south of the city centre. Ferries depart from the quay beside Poole Museum with another stop near Poole Yacht Club. The harbour is served by Upton Lake and exits into the English Channel in the southeast. Regular ferries take passengers to the various islands and the northern coast of France. Find parking, for a fee, behind the harbour.

Plan a trip to see Poole Harbour

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Holiday Inn Express Poole by IHG

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Antelope Hotel by Greene King Inns

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The Merchant House

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Harbourside House - 3 Bed, 2 Bath & Parking

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Things to do near Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour offers a variety of activities for visitors, including relaxing spa treatments and refreshing swimming opportunities. Adventure seekers can explore the nearby scout camp, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to engage in exciting activities. With its stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere, Poole Harbour is an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Shopping

The nearest shopping venue is Castle Point Shopping Centre, located 4.3km away, offering a variety of shops and a lively atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting New Forest Cider, situated 8.7km from Poole Harbour, where you can find unique local products.

Recreation

Meyrick Park Golf Course offers a tranquil outdoor setting for golf enthusiasts, just 2.5km from Poole Harbour, perfect for a relaxing day on the greens. Poole Stadium, located 435m away, provides vibrant sports vibes, while Coastal Activity Park, 3.7km away, is ideal for wellness and relaxation activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrills at Splashdown Waterpark, located 1.9km from Poole Harbour, where you can enjoy a variety of water rides and family fun. For a different adventure, head to Altitude High Ropes Adventure, 4.3km away, for ziplining and outdoor excitement amidst stunning views.

Nightlife

In Poole Harbour, Tower Park offers an exciting arcade adventure zone with a family-friendly atmosphere, while Giggles, located nearby, provides a similar thrilling experience. For a more relaxed evening, Cineworld Poole is perfect for catching the latest films in a romantic setting.

Find the best attractions near Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour offers a delightful mix of attractions, including beautiful beaches, modern educational institutions, and urban parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the scenic coastal experience. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach or explore the vibrant city atmosphere, Poole Harbour has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to discover the charm of this picturesque destination during your stay.

  • Bournemouth Beach: A stunning stretch of golden sand, Bournemouth Beach offers a quintessential seaside experience. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, take a dip in the sea, or relax on the beach while soaking up the sun. With plenty of beachside cafes and amusements, it's perfect for a family day out.
  • Bournemouth International Centre: This modern venue is the hub for conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment. With its impressive facilities, it draws in business travellers and event-goers alike. Whether attending a conference or a concert, the vibrant atmosphere and state-of-the-art amenities enhance every experience.
  • Poole Quay: Just a stone’s throw from Poole Harbour, Poole Quay is a lively marina filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions. Enjoy water sports, take a boat trip, or simply stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the adventure and outdoor vibes.

Best time to go to Poole Harbour

The best time to visit Poole Harbour is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.6°F (12.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September59.7°F (15.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Poole Harbour

To save money during your visit to Poole Harbour, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February and November when accommodation is cheaper. Book your stay for Tuesday, the least expensive day, and use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels by sorting prices. You can also combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. For free activities, explore the scenic harbour and nearby parks. Finally, consider public transport options like buses and ferries, which are often more economical than taxis.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Poole Harbour are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Poole Harbour is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Poole Harbour is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money by combining your hotel reservation in Poole Harbour with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.