Nestled on the picturesque shores of Dorset, Poole is a vibrant coastal town renowned for its stunning beaches, bustling marina, and charming Old Town. Whether you’re seeking a romantic seaside escape or a fun-filled family vacation, holiday homes in Poole offer a perfect base to explore this enchanting location.
Poole boasts an array of award-winning beaches, including the iconic Blue Flag-awarded Sandbanks, known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in sailing, windsurfing, or kayaking in the sheltered waters of Poole Harbour, while nature lovers will delight in the RSPB Arne nature reserve, a haven for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Our selection of holiday homes in Poole caters to every taste and budget, from cozy apartments overlooking the harbour to spacious family-friendly houses with private gardens. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the charming shops, restaurants, and cafes of Poole’s Old Town, or embark on a leisurely boat trip to the historic Brownsea Island, home to a diverse array of wildlife.
Holiday Homes Poole
Discover the perfect coastal retreat in Poole with our selection of holiday homes.
- Stunning beaches
- Vibrant marina
- Charming Old Town
- Water sports paradise
- RSPB Arne nature reserve
- Award-winning restaurants
- Historic Brownsea Island
- Cozy to spacious options
From romantic getaways to family vacations, our holiday homes offer a perfect base to explore Poole’s many attractions.
Stunning beaches
Poole boasts an array of award-winning beaches, offering something for every taste. The iconic Blue Flag-awarded Sandbanks is a must-visit, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and panoramic views across Poole Harbour. Whether you prefer sunbathing, swimming, or building sandcastles, Sandbanks is the perfect spot to embrace the coastal lifestyle.
For those seeking a more secluded beach experience, the nearby Shell Bay is a hidden gem. Nestled amidst towering pine trees, this sheltered cove offers calm waters ideal for paddling and kayaking. The beach is also a popular spot for dog walking, so you can bring your furry friend along for a day of seaside fun.
If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline. The path leads to the picturesque Studland Bay, a National Trust beach renowned for its pristine sands and turquoise waters. Studland Bay is also home to the charming village of Studland, where you can find a selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
No matter what your beach preferences, Poole has something to offer. With its stunning beaches, sheltered coves, and scenic coastal walks, Poole is the perfect destination for a memorable seaside escape.
Vibrant marina
Poole’s vibrant marina is a bustling hub of activity, offering a wide range of attractions and amenities for visitors to enjoy. The marina is home to over 500 berths, accommodating a variety of boats and yachts, from luxury cruisers to traditional sailing vessels.
Stroll along the marina’s promenade and admire the impressive boats, or stop for a bite to eat at one of the many waterfront restaurants and cafes. The marina is also a popular spot for shopping, with a variety of boutiques and gift shops offering a range of goods, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and homewares.
For those who enjoy getting out on the water, the marina offers a variety of boat trips and water sports activities. You can take a leisurely cruise around Poole Harbour, go sailing, or try your hand at windsurfing or kayaking. The marina also has a dedicated sailing school, where you can learn to sail or improve your skills.
Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the atmosphere, or enjoy a range of activities on the water, Poole’s vibrant marina has something to offer everyone.
Charming Old Town
Poole’s Old Town is a delightful labyrinth of narrow streets and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past. The area is home to a variety of independent shops, galleries, and cafes, as well as a number of historic landmarks.
One of the most popular attractions in the Old Town is Poole Museum, which tells the story of Poole from its humble beginnings as a small fishing port to its development into a thriving maritime and trading centre. The museum houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits that showcase the town’s history, including a replica of the famous Poole pinnace, a type of sailing ship that was once used to transport goods around the world.
Another must-visit in the Old Town is the RNLI Lifeboat Station, which is home to the oldest lifeboat in the world, the Alfred Corry. The lifeboat was launched in 1894 and saved over 100 lives during its time in service. Today, the lifeboat station is a museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the RNLI and the brave men and women who have served as lifeboat crews.
For those who enjoy shopping, the Old Town offers a variety of independent shops and boutiques, selling everything from clothing and accessories to homewares and gifts. There are also a number of art galleries in the Old Town, showcasing the work of local artists.
Water sports paradise
Poole is a water sports paradise, offering a wide range of activities for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
- Sailing
Poole Harbour is a popular destination for sailing, with a variety of sailing clubs and schools offering lessons and boat hire. The harbour is well-protected from the open sea, making it ideal for beginners to learn to sail in a safe and controlled environment.
- Windsurfing
Poole Harbour is also a great spot for windsurfing, with a number of beaches offering ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. The harbour is sheltered from the worst of the wind and waves, but there are also areas with more challenging conditions for those who are looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience.
- Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore Poole Harbour and the surrounding coastline. There are a number of kayak hire companies in Poole, and you can choose to paddle around the harbour, or take a longer trip to explore the nearby islands and nature reserves.
- Stand-up paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding is a relatively new water sport that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s a great way to get a full-body workout while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Poole Harbour. There are a number of SUP hire companies in Poole, and you can choose to paddle around the harbour, or take a longer trip to explore the nearby islands and nature reserves.
No matter what your level of experience, Poole has something to offer water sports enthusiasts. With its sheltered harbour, miles of coastline, and variety of water sports activities, Poole is the perfect place to enjoy a fun and active holiday on the water.
RSPB Arne nature reserve
Arne is a stunning nature reserve located just a short drive from Poole. It is managed by the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 200 species of birds.
- Birdwatching
Arne is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a variety of habitats to explore, including heathland, woodland, and saltmarsh. The reserve is particularly well-known for its wintering wildfowl, including wigeon, teal, and shoveler. In the summer months, the reserve is home to a variety of breeding birds, including nightingales, woodpeckers, and hobbies.
- Walking
Arne is criss-crossed by a network of walking trails, making it a great place to explore on foot. The trails range in length and difficulty, so there is something for everyone. The trails take you through a variety of habitats, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
- Wildlife photography
Arne is a great place to practice wildlife photography. The reserve is home to a variety of photogenic wildlife, including birds, deer, and reptiles. There are a number of hides and viewing platforms around the reserve, which provide excellent opportunities to get close to the wildlife without disturbing it.
- Wild swimming
Arne is home to a number of freshwater lakes and pools, which are perfect for a refreshing swim. The water is clean and clear, and there are plenty of spots to swim, sunbathe, and picnic.
RSPB Arne nature reserve is a great place to visit for a day trip or a longer stay. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from birdwatching and walking to wildlife photography and wild swimming.
Award-winning restaurants
Poole is home to a number of award-winning restaurants, offering a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic meal for two or a family-friendly dining experience, Poole has something to suit every taste and budget.
One of Poole’s most celebrated restaurants is Rick Stein’s Sandbanks, which has been awarded a Michelin star for its seafood cuisine. The restaurant is located on the waterfront in Sandbanks, and offers stunning views of Poole Harbour. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, shellfish, and seafood platters.
Another popular restaurant in Poole is The Boathouse, which is located on the edge of Poole Park. The restaurant offers a modern British menu, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Boathouse has been awarded two AA rosettes for its food, and has also been featured in the Michelin Guide.
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, Poole has a number of great pubs and cafes to choose from. The Old Granary is a traditional pub located in the heart of Poole Old Town. The pub serves a variety of classic British dishes, as well as a selection of real ales and craft beers.
Historic Brownsea Island
Brownsea Island is a small island located in Poole Harbour. It is owned by the National Trust and is open to the public. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including red squirrels, sika deer, and a variety of bird species. Brownsea Island is also home to a number of historic buildings, including Brownsea Castle and the ruins of a Benedictine abbey.
Brownsea Island has a long and fascinating history. It is thought that the island was first settled by humans in the Neolithic period. The island was later home to a Benedictine abbey, which was founded in the 11th century. The abbey was dissolved in the 16th century, and the island was later used as a military base and a quarantine station.
In the 19th century, Brownsea Island was purchased by Mary Russell Mitford, a famous writer and poet. Mitford transformed the island into a beautiful garden, and she also introduced a number of exotic animals to the island, including peacocks and wallabies.
Brownsea Island is a great place to visit for a day trip or a longer stay. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from walking and cycling to birdwatching and wildlife spotting. You can also visit the island’s historic buildings, or simply relax on one of the island’s many beaches.
Cozy to spacious options
Our selection of holiday homes in Poole caters to every taste and budget, from cozy apartments overlooking the harbour to spacious family-friendly houses with private gardens.
- Cozy apartments
Our cozy apartments are perfect for couples or small families. They are typically located in the heart of Poole, close to all the shops, restaurants, and attractions. Many of our apartments have balconies or patios, so you can enjoy the views of the harbour or the town.
- Spacious family-friendly houses
Our spacious family-friendly houses are perfect for larger families or groups of friends. They typically have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as a fully-equipped kitchen and a living room. Many of our family-friendly houses have private gardens, so you can enjoy the outdoors without even leaving your property.
- Luxury waterfront properties
Our luxury waterfront properties are perfect for those who want to experience the ultimate in luxury and comfort. They typically have stunning views of the harbour, and many of them have private pools and hot tubs. Our luxury waterfront properties are the perfect place to relax and unwind in style.
- Pet-friendly properties
We also have a number of pet-friendly properties available, so you can bring your furry friend along on your holiday. Our pet-friendly properties typically have enclosed gardens or patios, so your pet can enjoy the outdoors safely.
No matter what your needs, we have a holiday home in Poole that is perfect for you. Browse our selection of properties today and start planning your dream holiday.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about holiday homes in Poole:
Question 1: What is the best time of year to visit Poole?
Answer 1: Poole is a great place to visit all year round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you are looking for a quieter and more peaceful holiday, you may want to consider visiting in the shoulder months (April to May and September to October), when the weather is still mild but there are fewer tourists.
Question 2: What are the most popular things to do in Poole?
Answer 2: Poole is a great place to enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing. There are also a number of historical and cultural attractions in Poole, such as Poole Museum, the RNLI Lifeboat Station, and Brownsea Island.
Question 3: What is the best way to get to Poole?
Answer 3: Poole is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. The nearest train station is Poole railway station, which is located in the town centre. There are also a number of bus services that run to Poole from surrounding towns and cities.
Question 4: Where can I find the best restaurants in Poole?
Answer 4: Poole is home to a number of award-winning restaurants, including Rick Stein’s Sandbanks and The Boathouse. You can also find a variety of other restaurants serving a range of cuisines, from traditional British fare to international dishes.
Question 5: Are there any pet-friendly holiday homes in Poole?
Answer 5: Yes, there are a number of pet-friendly holiday homes available in Poole. Many of these properties have enclosed gardens or patios, so your pet can enjoy the outdoors safely.
Question 6: How much does it cost to rent a holiday home in Poole?
Answer 6: The cost of renting a holiday home in Poole varies depending on the size, location, and time of year. However, you can expect to pay around £100 per night for a one-bedroom apartment and £200 per night for a three-bedroom house.
We hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your holiday in Poole:
Book early to get the best deals
Poole is a popular holiday destination, so it is important to book your accommodation early, especially if you are travelling during the peak season. By booking early, you will have a wider choice of properties to choose from and you are more likely to get a good deal.
Consider your budget
Holiday homes in Poole vary in price, so it is important to consider your budget before you start looking. There are a number of affordable options available, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a holiday in Poole.
Choose the right location
Poole is a large town, so it is important to choose the right location for your holiday home. If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing holiday, you may want to consider staying in one of the quieter neighbourhoods, such as Sandbanks or Canford Cliffs. If you are looking for a more lively holiday, you may want to consider staying in the town centre, where you will be close to all the shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Make the most of the outdoors
Poole is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, so make sure you make the most of it during your holiday. There are a number of beautiful beaches in Poole, as well as plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and sailing. You can also visit Brownsea Island, which is a great place to spot wildlife and learn about the island’s history.
We hope these tips have been helpful. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Conclusion
Poole is a great place to enjoy a holiday, with something to offer everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an active outdoor holiday, or a cultural city break, Poole has it all.
Our selection of holiday homes in Poole caters to every taste and budget, from cozy apartments overlooking the harbour to spacious family-friendly houses with private gardens. We also have a number of pet-friendly properties available, so you can bring your furry friend along on your holiday.
No matter what your needs, we have a holiday home in Poole that is perfect for you. Browse our selection of properties today and start planning your dream holiday.
