Poole is not a city known for its great nightlife, in many ways, it’s a city meant for the day. But that’s okay, because that fits in quite nicely with the family-friendly reputation it has built for itself.
Indeed, most of the best parts of Poole are things that both young and old can enjoy and that the family as a unit will enjoy experiencing together.
You can start your visit of Poole in almost any section of the city and find something to do.
One place to start is the Poole Lighthouse Arts Center, this arts center is the largest in the UK outside of London. It has a 1500 seat concert hall, a 669 seat theatre, a 150 seat studio, 105 seat cinema, a large photography and digital art gallery, an image lab, and a restaurant. So enjoy the art and then have something to eat.
Or you could wait and eat at Poole Park, where you’re welcome to picnic. Poole Park offers a little something for anybody in the family, there are ducks and swans to feed and a miniature railway for the kids.
Adults, meanwhile, can watch the model racing yachts or cricket, and they can spend some time looking at the formal flower beds. There’s also crazy golf and tennis for all ages. Plus there’s a whole lot more. And speaking of golf, the top Crazy Golf course on England’s South Coast is found in Poole, just on Banks Road.
While you’re enjoying the outdoors, don’t forget to stop by the many beaches Poole has to offer. Indeed, you’ll find five kilometres of beach within three miles of the town center, stretching all along the Sandbanks. This is considered one of the UK’s best beaches, having won a European Blue Flag Award.
Even the museums and galleries in Poole say “family friendly.” For instance, you’ll find the Purbeck Toy & Musical Box Museum here, and you’ll find in there just what you’d expect, a history of some unique toys and music boxes.
Also, located within some historic buildings over on Poole Quay is the Waterfront Museum. The building itself is attractive, and inside you’ll see Poole’s history traced back through to the times of ancient Rome and of the Iron Age.
And if you’re more into art, the Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum features numerous art styles from European artists.
Shopping in Poole takes place in three distinct shopping areas, each having its own unique and individual characteristics.
One of the primary shopping spots is the Poole Shopping Centre, Dorset’s largest indoor shopping centre.
It has more than 100 individual stores, meaning there’s something for everyone.
There’s everything from clothing at Next or La Senza and food at Thornton’s and Cornish Bakehouse.
Another great shopping experience can be found at Old Town, which boasts dozens of individual boutiques containing books, clothing, candles, novelties, and more.
There are loads of markets in Poole, and they are largely respected, even revered by the locals. The foods found at these markets are fresh and loaded with flavor.
When the activity is done for the day, take the whole family to one of Poole’s great family restaurants. One popular destination is Christians Bistro on the High Street. Not only is the food great and affordable, but most seats have a nice view out onto the scenic streets.
Loch Fyne Poole Restaurant is a bit more expensive, and falls under the category of fine dining. But the meals and especially the desserts are worth it. Another good fine dining experience can e found at West Cliff, located on Durley Road South.
Prefer something with an Asian flare? The Thai Restaurant is just what its name suggests, outstanding Thai food, it has a calm, inviting feeling inside, and the food is unforgettable.
Storm Fish has the best seafood in Poole, their hallmark is fresh fish, fresh because it changes daily or weekly (It just depends on what the local fisherman has caught). The homemade dishes and desserts are absolutely exquisite. One favorite is the herb / rustic bread.
Low-key yet enjoyable and memorable: that’s what you’ll find throughout Poole, in its scenic wonders, its shopping areas, its museums, and its restaurants.
But it’s something that you’re family will probably remember as one of their more enjoyable vacations.