About
Poole Harbour, one of the world’s largest natural harbours, spans 39 km² on Dorset’s south coast and lures visitors with its iconic sandbanks, pristine blue‑flag beaches and dramatic Jurassic coastline. The sheltered waters provide an unrivalled playground for sailing, wind‑surfing, kitesurfing and kayaking, while the extensive mudflats and salt marshes create a haven for birdwatchers, with the Ramsar‑designated wetlands attracting species from ospreys to common shelduck. Brownsea Island, a National Trust nature reserve, offers scenic trails and the birthplace of the scouting movement, and the historic man‑made Holes Bay hosts the RNLI training school. Beyond the water, the town’s rich maritime heritage shines at Poole Quay, where the Grade I listed Customs House and the Harbour Museum narrate centuries of seafaring life, and the world‑famous Lighthouse Arts Centre presents contemporary art and music. Poole Harbour Trails weave through dunes, hedgerows and coastal villages, offering unforgettable walks for families, history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Highlights
- Brownsea Island
- Ramsar Wetland
- Holes Bay
- Sandbanks
- Marinas and Yacht Clubs
- Osprey Nesting