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Incredible birds eye shot of Sandbanks and the surrounding areas in Poole
You are here: Home > Inspire Me > Itineraries > Autumn top 10 things to do in Poole
Wind down this autumn by relaxing on a long weekend in Poole. With seaside and countryside and a range of hotels to suit all budgets, there is something for all tastes. Discover a great base for your next Dorset adventure on our accommodation page.
Enjoy a perfect autumn day enjoying the sights and delights of Brownsea Island. Red squirrel spotting is a must! Brownsea Island is one of the few places left in England where you can see the native red squirrel. Autumn is the perfect time to see them on the ground and scurrying on low branches. Whilst on the island, enjoy a woodland walk, meander along the water’s edge and afterwards sit back and relax in the café. Do check opening dates and times in advance – pre-booking is advised.
There’s no better place to have a date with nature than Dorset. See an incredible range of birds busy on the water in Poole Harbour during the winter months. Poole Park is an ideal place to take a bird-spotting stroll.
Poole, with its rich history, could be one of the most haunted places in Dorset – but why not make the most of the extra activities for families at this time of year. Visit our Halloween in Poole page to see what’s on near you.
Why not delve further into the history of the town by following the Cockle Trail! Before you go, download the trail leaflet. On this one-hour self-guided walk follow the brass plaques in the pavement, highlighting the beautiful, historic buildings and landmarks that make up Poole Old Town and Quayside.
Summer may be over, but there’s no better place to experience the pure bustling joy of Poole than at the Quay. Enjoy an alfresco drink at one of the historic pubs. Take in the stunning views as you stroll along the Quay and blow away the cobwebs! As well as a great variety of eateries, Poole Quay and the Old High Street behind is home to some great shopping and also Poole Museum.
Just Off Poole Quay, Poole Museum is open all year and entry is free. This is a great place for families to visit with a range of interactive, hands-on displays and exhibitions plus events taking place throughout the year. This autumn visit the Birds of Poole Harbour Gallery takeover! A team of wildlife experts will be setting up their temporary HQ in Poole Museum’s exhibition galleries until the springtime, sharing their knowledge of birds as well as offering a range of programmed talks and tours.
Enjoy one of Poole’s five individual and unique beaches in the quieter periods to take in the beautiful views and stunning coastal scenery including Sandbanks, winner of more Blue Flags than any other UK beach resort. A stop at Sandbanks Beach Café or Branksome Beach restaurant at Branksome Chine Beach is a must for afternoon tea or a heavenly hot chocolate. If you are looking for a Fine Dining option take a look at Rick Stein Sandbanks or the FJB Hotels Collection.
On the outskirts of Poole, Compton Acres is famous for their 10 acres of beautiful gardens. The grand Italian Garden has a large formal pond with foundations, statues and colourful bedding. See the waterfalls in the natural Wooded Valley and visit the Bog Garden which is a haven for wildlife. Follow paths and bridges across the Rock and Water Garden for a spectacular view across the harbour.
Brighten your day with the superb autumn colours at Upton Country Park. There is so much for all the family with seasonal activities, the Gallery Upstairs and Spurrier’s Play Park. You’ll also find plenty of wide-open space to discover and the tea rooms offer delicious light snacks and refreshments, just next to the delightful walled garden.
Did you know that Poole loves cyclists! With over 50 miles of cycle network and 28 miles of path away from traffic, Poole has many leisure cycle routes in pleasant green areas and cycle paths by the sea. Why not discover the Poole Heritage Cycle Route circular route which starts/ends at Upton Country Park. Look out for the penny-farthing signs along the route between the park and Poole Town Centre.
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