Poole, Dorset

Poole is located centrally along the south coast of England. It lies within an area known as the south-east Dorset conurbation and has a population of just over 139,000. The population of the entire conurbation is more than 400,000.

Poole is famous for its International ferry terminal with regular cross channel ferries departing during the day. Poole Harbour is essentially a drowned river valley. It was formed, along with Poole Bay, when a rising sea broke through the chalk ridge which had then connected Old Harry Rocks in Studland Bay with the Needles in the Isle of Wight. Geologists believe that this large river flowed eastwards from the Dartmoor region in Devon, carrying with it the massive deposits of flint, gravel and clay which are to be seen all the way to Hampshire. The Harbour as we know it was formed at the end of the last Ice Age around 7,000 years ago. Since then mudflats and salt marshes have developed, adding to the uniqueness of this beautiful Harbour.

Since being declared a Borough in 1342 Poole has continued to grow in both size and wealth, and was renowned for its smuggling activities in the 18th century - notably the famous raid on the Customs House in 1747 which ended in murder and execution. Modern history shows Poole to be an important landmark during the Second World War being the third largest embarkation point for the D-Day landings and afterwards as a base for supplies to the allied forces in Europe.

Today Poole's international import and export links continue to contribute to the economic success of the town although Poole no longer relies solely on the port as its main source of wealth. Tourism is Poole is now a major player in the town's wealth. Research carried out in 1995 revealed 441,000 staying visitors during the year and 3,763,000 day trippers.

There are a number of beaches situated at Poole making it very popular for summer holidays and day trips. Sandbanks beach has been a holder of the European Blue Flag for a record 12 years. The beach is of the finest quality with fine golden sand. The beach meets all of the European standards and in 1994 was the only beach to be awarded 100% by the Tidy Britain Group. The water is clean and safe. The beach slowly and gradually slopes away, ensuring it is safe for even the smallest of children. There are Lifeguards on duty ( 1 May - 30 Sept.) and there is also a First Aid post if you should have an accident.

There are number of attractions in around Poole to suit all age groups. Brownsea Island is a beautiful 500 acre island, managed by the National Trust, in the middle of Poole Harbour. You can catch a ferry to the Island from Poole Quay, Bournemouth Pier or from Swanage. You will discover the peace, tranquility and wonderful relaxed atmosphere of the Island once you start to explore. You can follow the nature and explorer trails around the Island, enjoying the wonderful views of Poole Harbour, or you can find one of the safe, quiet beaches for a quick swim or paddle.

Some of the finest gardens in Europe can be found at Compton Acres in Poole. There are many gardens of distinct and very seperate styles. The most famous garden is the Japanese Garden, which is reputed to be the only completely genuine Japanese Garden in Europe, with Japanese experts being brought over to construct the Garden. There is also an Italian Garden, the Palm Court, Woodland Walk and Glen, Rock and Water Gardens, Heather Dell, Garden of Memory and herbaceous borders.

Numerous other attractions include Splashdown (a water slide experience featutring some of the largest and fastest water rides in the UK), Tower Park (Indoor play world for children, UCI 10 screen cinema, Megabowl, Gala bingo club, Quasar and Amusement & Slot arcade) and Dolphin Swimming Pool.

With so many of your favourite shops and stores all conveniently located, the Dolphin Shopping Centre in the heart of Poole offers everything you might need for an enjoyable day out from just a gift or memento, to a full day's shopping expedition! When shopping is complete the Dolphin Shopping Centre offers a choice of refreshment and dining venues catering for every taste.

Poole also makes an ideal base to visit other surrounding towns and villages such as Dorchester, Weymouth and Bournemouth.

Whatever you are looking for, you will find it in Poole.

There are a number of ways to get to Poole making it very easily accessible from wherever you are travelling.

If you are travelling by car, take the M5 motorway to Junction 25. For detailed information on the route from this junction to Poole plan your journey using the RAC route planner in advance - use the RAC link below to plan your journey now.

Alternatively use may wish to take the train. South West Trains operate a fast and frequent service from London Waterloo to Poole daily throughout the year. Virgin Trains offer fast and frequent services from all major UK destinations to Bournemouth daily throughout the year. Connections are then available from Bournemouth to Poole.

You may wish to travel to Poole by coach. A number of independent operators operate coach services to Poole especially during the summer season. National Express operate direct coach services to Poole throughout the year.

If you wish to make enquiries now with certain operators please use the links provided.