Top Poole Art & Culture

Discover Poole's historic Old Town and learn about its long and interesting history on a guided tour. Visit lanes that were once piers, look behind the High Street facades, and find the curly Cod. Starting at 19 High Street, your guided walking tour will help you imagine Poole in the centuries gone by. Poole was 'founded' in 1248 when Sir William Longspee sold the land to the citizens to fund his costs for a Crusade from which he never returned. But, Poole has a much longer history that stretches back to the Iron Age and it also has Roman connections. Your will learn how Poole's coastline has been reclaimed, where the town was attacked by the Spanish looking for the pirate Harry Paye, how Codfish from Newfoundland paid for one of Poole's transformations, and where the smuggling tunnels still exist. The main tour takes two hours at a slow walking pace and is on mostly level pavement. It is all wheelchair accessible. A shorter tour is available on request.

Set sail on a memorable birdwatching cruise along the stunning Jurassic Coast, departing from Poole Quay or Swanage Pier. Led by expert guides, this cruise takes you to Dancing Ledge, a prime spot for observing fascinating seabird colonies. Enjoy the comfort of open-air viewing decks or relax in the indoor saloon with a licensed bar. Perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers alike, this cruise provides a unique opportunity to witness some of the UK’s most spectacular wildlife up close. - Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on departure point - Departures from Poole Quay or Swanage Pier during the puffin nesting season - Live commentary and refreshments available on board - Limited spaces, so advance booking is recommended