Nearest train station: Poole (POO)
Poole, coupled with its neighbouring town Bournemouth, forms a large urban settlement along the southern coast. Boasting a population of about 300,000, Poole offers the perfect blend of seaside resort living, bustling city life, and industrial activity centred around its prominent container port and docks. Despite its size and urban development, the life of Poole is still deeply rooted in its beautiful beaches and seafront area.
Whether you're looking for luxurious hotels, cosy cottages, or charming guest houses, Poole has a wide array of accommodation options to suit various budgets and tastes. Discover the perfect stay for your Poole holiday.
Historically, Poole was a medieval port resting on the expansive, shallow anchorage of Poole Harbour. Today, remnants of its rich history are visible in the old town, home to the old custom house and several age-old inns. While the modern town's High Street areas might seem typical, Poole's main lure is its extensive sandy beach that extends all the way to Bournemouth. The beach's Sandbanks area is a hub for water sports including sailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, and water skiing. Fishing enthusiasts will also find the area interesting with fishing trips available from the quay.
Poole is easily accessible by road from various directions: the A31 from the east via Southampton, the A35 from the west via Dorchester, and the A350 from the north via Shaftesbury. For international visitors, Bournemouth Airport serves a range of international routes. In addition, ferry connections from Poole Quay to France, Spain, and the Channel Islands are operated by Brittany and Condor ferry companies.