Best places to stay in Poole
Haven Hotel
161 Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, BH13 7QL
Sitting on the tip of Sandbanks, this elegant four-star seafront hotel enjoys direct access to seven miles of sandy beach and features incredible views across the water. Relax in the outdoor pool, with its enviable ocean panorama, or head inside to the hydrotherapy pool.
The Houseboat
77 Lake Drive, Hamworthy, Poole, BH15 4LR
This truly unique accommodation, overlooking Poole Harbour, is designed to look like the hull of two boats. Its open-plan layout has won awards for its design, including the Stephen Lawrence Prize for architecture, and sleeps 10 – perfect for an unforgettable family holiday.
Longthorns Farm
Longthorns, Wareham, BH20 6HH
Glamping in Dorset has never been easier at Longthorns Farm, with tipis, shepherd’s huts and eco-pods all available to book. You’re just 20 minutes from the centre of Poole and close to the Jurassic Coast. Monkey World is also next door and there are alpacas living on the land.
Best places to eat in Poole
Rick Stein, Sandbanks
10-14 Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, BH13 7QB
Sample the finest seafood dishes at Rick Stein, Sandbanks, as you take in the panoramic views of Poole Harbour. Choose from starters such as crab, mussels and oysters. Then, for the main course, savour Indonesian seafood curry or their famous lobster thermidor.
Rockfish Seafood Restaurant
9 The Quay, Poole, BH15 1HJ
Fresh seafood is on the menu at this spacious, atmospheric restaurant, situated in an old pottery building in Pool Quay. The locally sourced fish, some of which has been caught that day on Rockfish’s own boat, can be cooked to order and served with sides, including curried mushy peas.
Branksome Beach Restaurant
Pinecliff Road, Branksome Chine, Poole, BH13 6LP
The sea provides the exquisite backdrop to this beachfront restaurant and terrace. Tuck into fresh seafood and seasonal specials, all of which is sourced locally. Salmon, sea bass and haddock are all on the menu, alongside delectable burgers and chicken dishes.
Best things to do in and around Poole
Brownsea Island
Brownsea Island Ferries kiosk, Poole Quay, Poole, BH15 1HJ
This unspoilt, National Trust-owned island is known as the birthplace of scouting – and it’s situated in the heart of Poole Harbour. Park your hire car and take the ferry from Poole Quay to see if you can spot the rare red squirrels that call this island wildlife sanctuary home.
Sandbanks Beach
Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, BH13 7QF
Sandbanks is home to one of the UK’s best beaches and has been awarded the iconic Blue Flag award for over 30 consecutive years. Soak up the sun while strolling along the golden sands or experience the thrill of the water sports, such as paddle boarding and windsurfing.
Jurassic Coast
Old Harry Rocks, Swanage, BH19 3AU
Old Harry’s Rock, which can be found just the other side of Poole Harbour, marks the start of the Jurassic Coast. From here, the World Heritage Site continues for 95 miles to Exmouth in Devon. Park your hire car and experience breathtaking views as you wander along the coastal path.